The situation when your Hotpoint-Ariston ceases to perform its main function always takes you by surprise. Products begin to deteriorate, and the temperature inside the chambers rises to critical levels. Most often, owners do not notice the problem immediately, since the inertia of heat in a well-insulated housing persists for quite a long time. However, ignoring the first signs of a malfunction can lead to more complex and expensive repairs.
Before calling a technician or starting self-diagnosis, you need to understand what exactly went wrong. Modern models, such as Hotpoint-Ariston, are equipped with complex electronics, but classic mechanical components also play a key role here. In most cases, the reason lies in a violation of the refrigerant circulation or failure of one of the sensors. A careful analysis of the symptoms will help you understand this.
In this article we will look in detail at the main reasons why The refrigerator does not cooland propose an algorithm of actions for each situation. You will learn how to distinguish a banal defrost from a serious compressor breakdown, and you will be able to make an informed decision on further actions.
Primary diagnostics: analysis of the compressor operation
The first thing you need to pay attention to is the sound of the operating unit. If you hear a steady hum, it means compressor it is running and trying to build up pressure in the system. However, the lack of cold when the engine is running may indicate a freon leak or a clogged capillary tube. In this case, the compressor runs idle, overheats and is turned off by the thermal relay.
A completely different picture is observed when the motor is silent. If Hotpoint-Ariston is plugged in, the indicators are on, but the compressor does not start, the problem may be in the start relay or the engine itself. A characteristic click is often heard, followed by silence - this is a sign of an attempt to start and an instant shutdown of the protection.
It is important to check the temperature of the compressor housing. If it is hot but does not start, the piston group may be stuck. A cold motor with the electronics running indicates that the start signal simply does not come from the control module.
⚠️ Attention: Do not touch a hot compressor with your bare hands immediately after operation. The temperature of metal parts can reach 80-90 degrees Celsius, which will lead to burns. Allow the equipment to cool before inspection.
Problems with the No Frost defrost system
Models Hotpoint-Ariston with the system No Frost are subject to specific malfunctions associated with the evaporator. If the fur coat is frozen in the freezer compartment, but the refrigerator compartment is warm, the defrost cycle is most likely broken. Ice blocks the air channels, and cold air physically cannot enter the upper chamber.
Three main elements are responsible for the defrosting process: the evaporator heating element, the defrost sensor and the timer (or electronic module). If the heating element burns out, the ice does not melt and grows layer by layer. Visually this may not be noticeable, since the evaporator is hidden behind the rear plastic panel inside the freezer.
- 🧊 Signs: ice on the back wall, fan hum, lack of cold air flow.
- 🔌 Diagnostics: you need to “ring” the heating element with a multimeter for a break circuit.
- 🌡️ Sensor: a faulty sensor may "think" that there is no ice and not give a command to turn on the heater.
Sometimes the problem is solved by completely defrosting the refrigerator within 24 hours. If after turning it on it works normally, but after a week the situation repeats, it means that one of the elements of the defrosting system has failed and requires replacement.
Hidden cause of ice
Often owners forget to check the drainage hole. If it is clogged with crumbs or ice, the water from the defrost does not go into the tray, but freezes below, forming a giant ice block that blocks the operation of the entire system.
Refrigerant leak and system blockage
If the compressor works almost non-stop, trying to gain temperature, but there is no cold anywhere, it is high probability freon leaks. Modern models Hotpoint-Ariston often use a foamed evaporator located inside the walls of the housing. In case of corrosion or mechanical damage (for example, when trying to pick out ice with a knife), gas comes out.
Another problem with similar symptoms is Clogged capillary tube. Oil and freon circulate in the system, and over time, plugs of paraffins or oil breakdown products may form. This prevents normal refrigerant circulation. Only a master with a pressure gauge can distinguish a leak from a blockage.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Characteristic symptom |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor hot | Freon leak | Works non-stop, condenser is barely warm |
| Compressor is cold | System clogged | Cyclic operation, rare clicks |
| Hissing inside | Depressurization | The sound of gas escaping when turned on |
It is impossible to eliminate a leak or blockage on your own. It requires evacuation of the system, searching for the damage site, soldering and refilling with a new volume of refrigerant. Trying to simply “add gas” without eliminating the cause will only give a short-term effect.
Malfunctions of the thermostat and electronics
In models with mechanical control, thermostatis responsible for the temperature. This is a device that opens the compressor power circuit when the set temperature is reached. If its contacts are stuck in the "open" position, the refrigerator "thinks" that there is already cold and does not turn on.
Electronic models Hotpoint-Ariston are controlled by a module that receives signals from air sensors. If the temperature sensor in the refrigerator compartment is lying (shows that it is -5°C, although in fact it is +15°C), the module will not start the compressor. Often such sensors fail due to oxidation of the contacts or moisture ingress.
Checking the thermostat is possible at home. For mechanical models, you can close the contacts with wires: if the refrigerator starts working, it means the regulator is faulty. Electronic systems require diagnostics with a sensor resistance tester at different temperatures.
☑️ Checking the thermostat
Wear of the sealing rubber
It would seem that a simple rubber strip around the perimeter of the door plays a critical role. If seal the door Hotpoint-Ariston is worn out, cracked or simply does not fit tightly, warm air from the room constantly enters the chamber. The compressor does not have time to cool this volume and wears out, but the temperature still does not drop.
You can check the tightness using a regular sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet with the door around the entire perimeter. If it is pulled out without resistance or with ease, it means that the tightness in this place is broken. Also visually inspect the rubber for cracks, dents and detachments from the body.
Often the problem is solved by thoroughly washing the seal and lubricating it with silicone, which will restore elasticity. In more complex cases, it is necessary to heat the rubber with a hairdryer to restore its shape or completely replace the tape. Ignoring this problem leads to rapid failure of the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use aggressive chemicals or abrasives to clean the seal. This will dry out the rubber and speed up its destruction. Use only warm water and mild soap.
Influence of the external environment and improper use
Sometimes the reason that Hotpoint-Ariston cools poorly lies not in a breakdown, but in operating conditions. If the refrigerator is placed close to a wall or in a niche where the air circulation around the condenser (the grille at the back) is disrupted, the cooling efficiency decreases. The motor overheats and goes into protection.
The temperature in the room also plays a role. Most refrigerators are not designed to operate at temperatures below +5°C or above +35°C. If you take the old unit to an unheated balcony in winter or place it next to the stove in summer, it may not work correctly.
Another factor is overloading the chambers with products. If you put a bucket of hot soup in the refrigerator or filled it to capacity, air circulation is disrupted. In No Frost models, this is especially critical, since the air duct dampers can be blocked by bags.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the refrigerator turn on and then immediately turn off?
This may indicate a malfunction of the compressor start relay, a jammed motor itself, or problems with the electronic control module. Diagnostics of the electrical part is required.
How long should defrosting last?
To completely defrost the ice and evaporate moisture from hard-to-reach places Hotpoint-Ariston it is recommended to keep it turned off with the doors open for at least 24 hours.
Is it possible to use a refrigerator if it is noisy?
If the noise is associated with vibration or fan operation, you can use it regularly. But if the sound has changed dramatically (a knocking or grinding sound has appeared), it is better to turn off the device until the reasons are determined.
Why is it warm in the refrigerator compartment and cold in the freezer?
Most often this is a sign of a malfunction of the defrost system (icing of the evaporator) or a problem with the fan that moves air between the chambers. The air ducts may also be clogged.