The situation when Indesit refrigerator the main chamber ceases to maintain cold, but the freezer compartment continues to operate normally, is one of the most common complaints from the owners of this equipment. This behavior of the unit often confuses the user, as it seems illogical: if the compressor is humming and freezing food at the top or bottom, then why is it warm in the refrigerator compartment? The answer lies in the peculiarities of refrigerant circulation and the design of the No Frost or drip defrosting system that are used in the models Indesit. Understanding the physics of the process will help you quickly navigate possible malfunctions.
The first thing you need to realize is that the cold in the main chamber most often comes from the freezer. If ice forms there, it means that the compressor is working properly, there is freon in the system (at least partially), and the gas compression cycle has started. The problem is localized either in the air supply channels, or in the defrost system, or in a violation of the tightness of the circuit. Diagnostics should start with simple steps that do not require disassembling the case, since in 30% of cases the reason is trivial and lies in improper operation or incorrect settings.
In this article we will analyze in detail the mechanics of two-chamber refrigerators Indesit, analyze typical breakdowns and propose an action algorithm. You will learn how to distinguish a clogged capillary from a thermostat failure, and you will understand when you can handle it yourself, and when calling a technician with a tool for filling with freon is inevitable.
Checking the settings and operating mode
Before you grab tools or look for a service center number, it is necessary to exclude the human factor. Modern and even classic models Indesit equipped with electronics or mechanical regulators that can be easily knocked down by accidental movement. If there is ice in the freezer, but it is warm in the refrigerator, the “Super Freeze” mode may be activated or the temperature balance is off. In some models, during prolonged operation in enhanced mode, the main circuit may be temporarily turned off to give priority cooling to the freezer compartment.
Pay attention to the position of the temperature regulator. In mechanical models, this is a wheel with numbers from 1 to 5 or 7. If it is turned to minimum (1), there may not be enough cold for the main chamber, especially if the room is hot or the door is used frequently. On electronic models with a display, the controller may have failed and the temperature may have been accidentally changed. It's also worth checking to see if the Holiday mode is turned on, which specifically keeps the temperature in the refrigerator compartment high to save energy while the freezer continues to work.
⚠️ Warning: If you change the temperature settings, don't expect instant results. The refrigerator Indesit may need from 2 to 5 hours to stabilize the temperature and reach the set parameters.
Another important aspect is the tightness of the door of the main chamber. If the seal (elastic band) is worn out, dirty, or the door is warped, warm air constantly flows inside. The compressor tries to compensate for the heat by working in the freezer (where losses are lower due to the design), but in the large volume of the refrigerator compartment the cold does not have time to accumulate. Check that the seal is clean and there are no gaps.
Faults in the defrost system (No Frost)
If your Indesit is equipped with a No Frost system, then the most likely reason for the lack of cold in the main chamber when the freezer is running is a malfunction in the evaporator defrost system. The operating principle of such models is that cold air is forced by a fan from the freezer compartment into the refrigerator compartment through special air ducts. If the evaporator in the freezer becomes overgrown with a “coat” of ice, the air channel is blocked, and the cold simply does not reach the upper (or lower) compartment.
Three key elements are responsible for the ice defrosting process: Defrost heating element, defrost thermostat (sensor) and timer (or electronic control module). If any of these components fail, the ice will not melt and will build up and block air circulation. This can be seen visually if you remove the back panel in the freezer: you will see a block of ice that has clogged the radiator.
- ❄️ Defrost heating element - heating element that turns on periodically to melt ice; if it burns out, defrosting does not occur.
- 🌡️ Defrost thermostat is a sensor that opens the heating element circuit when a certain temperature is reached; if it is “stuck”, the heating element will not turn on.
- ⏱️ Defrost timer - a mechanical or electronic device that sets operating cycles; if it breaks down, the refrigerator only works for cooling, forgetting about defrosting.
Diagnostics of these elements requires testing with a multimeter. Owners often notice a problem when ice or water appears on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, and food begins to spoil. In this case, it is required defrosting within 10-12 hours (complete disconnection from the network with the doors open). If, after complete defrosting, the refrigerator began to freeze normally, but after 1-2 weeks the problem repeated itself, the defrosting system is to blame.
Is it possible to drive on ice in the freezer?
It is not recommended to use sharp objects to chip ice. This can damage the evaporator, resulting in a freon leak and costly repairs. It is better to let the ice melt naturally.
Problems with the thermostat and sensors
The thermostat (thermostat) is the “brain” that commands the compressor to turn on or off based on the temperature inside the chambers. In refrigerators Indesit with one compressor, the thermostat usually controls the temperature in the refrigerator compartment. If it is faulty, it may “think” that the chamber is already cold enough and not give the command to start the compressor. However, in the described case (the freezer is freezing), the compressor still works, but perhaps not for long enough to cool a large volume.
In models with electronic control (where there is a display on the door), the role of a mechanical thermostat is performed temperature sensors (NTC thermistors). They are located at different points: in the evaporator, in the refrigerator compartment, in the freezer. If the refrigerator compartment sensor gives incorrect readings (for example, it underestimates the actual temperature), the control module will not start the compressor or will close the air supply damper. This is a common reason why temperature mode is broken in only one compartment.
To check a mechanical thermostat, it is often excluded from the circuit by closing the contacts directly. If after this procedure the compressor starts working continuously and freezing both chambers, the thermostat needs to be replaced. In electronic models, diagnostics are carried out by measuring the resistance of the sensor and comparing it with reference values at a specific temperature.
⚠️ Attention: When replacing a thermostat or sensors, it is important to use original spare parts or high-quality analogues with identical characteristics. Installing an unsuitable sensor will lead to incorrect operation of the entire refrigerator Indesit.
Refrigerant leak and system blockage
The situation when the freezer is still freezing (especially at the evaporator), but the refrigerator compartment is warm, classically indicates partial freon leak or clogging of the capillary tube. In the refrigerant circulation system, freon first passes through the freezer (where it releases some of the cold), and then enters the refrigeration circuit. If there is little gas in the system, there is only enough gas for the first stage of the cycle - the freezer. The refrigerant simply does not reach the main compartment in the required quantity or condition.
Clogging of the capillary tube occurs due to moisture entering the system (an ice plug is formed) or due to contamination by wear products of the compressor oils The symptoms are similar to a leak: the compressor runs constantly, trying to get up to temperature, the freezer is too cold, but the refrigerator is warm. A characteristic sign of a blockage may also be that the condenser (grid at the back) is only partially hot or cold.
☑️ Signs of a freon leak
It is impossible to independently eliminate a leak or break through a capillary blockage without special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauge station, burner). This is complex refrigeration equipment repairrequiring sealing of the system, evacuation and accurate charging of refrigerant by weight. Attempts to simply “add freon” without eliminating the cause of the leak will only give a temporary effect.
Ventilation and air distribution
In refrigerators Indesit with a system No Frost or Total No Frost the fan is responsible for moving cold air. It is located in the freezer compartment and blows air through ducts into the refrigerator compartment. If the fan stops, breaks down, or its impeller is jammed with ice, circulation stops. As a result, there is cold in the freezer (since the evaporator is there), but it does not enter the refrigerator.
You can check the operation of the fan by opening the freezer door. In many models, when the door is opened, the fan should stop (the limit switch is activated), but if when the door is closed you do not hear the characteristic air noise or hum of the motor, it may be faulty. It is also worth checking the air duct damper, which regulates the volume of air supplied. If it is stuck in the closed position, the cold will not go away.
Sometimes the problem is solved by simple defrosting if the fan blades are frozen. But if the motor burns out, it will need to be replaced. This is a relatively inexpensive and quick procedure that you can do yourself if you have some electrical wiring skills.
Comparison of symptoms and probable causes
For ease of diagnosis, we have compiled a table that will help compare the observed symptoms with the most likely malfunctions in the equipment Indesit. Remember that only a master can make an accurate diagnosis after opening the case and checking the tools.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Difficulty of repair |
|---|---|---|
| The freezer is freezing, the refrigerator is warm, there is no heat on the back wall ice | Freon leak or capillary blockage | High (needs a technician) |
| There is a coat of ice in the freezer, it’s warm in the refrigerator, the compressor works constantly | Malfunction of the defrost system (heating element, timer, sensor) | Average (you can do it yourself) |
| The refrigerator turns on rarely, the temperature is not enough | The thermostat or temperature sensor is faulty | Average (you can do it yourself) |
| It makes noise, but there is no cold anywhere or only in the freezer | The fan or damper is faulty | Low/Medium |
As can be seen from the table, the most critical and expensive problems to fix are related to the tightness of the circuit. If you suspect a leak (for example, you see a bulging wall inside the chamber or oily spots on the outside of the compressor), it is better not to delay contacting service. Long-term idle operation of the compressor when freon leaks can lead to its combustion, which will significantly increase the cost of repairs.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and location of elements in different models Indesit (BIS, C, DF) may vary. Before purchasing spare parts, be sure to check the model of your refrigerator indicated on the nameplate inside the chamber.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why did the Indesit refrigerator start to freeze after defrosting, but after a week it stopped again?
This is a classic sign of a malfunction of the defrost system. Defrosting removed the ice plug, and the cold entered the chamber again. But since the heating element, timer or defrost sensor did not work, ice accumulated again within a week and blocked the channel. Diagnostics and replacement of elements of the No Frost system are required.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if the upper chamber does not freeze, but the lower one works?
For a short time - yes, so that the food does not disappear. However, prolonged operation in this mode is harmful to the compressor, which may run non-stop while trying to reach temperature. In addition, food in the refrigerator will spoil. It is better to eliminate the cause of the breakdown.
How much does the repair cost if refilling with freon is needed?
The cost consists of the work of the technician, the cost of freon and eliminating the cause of the leak (replacing the sealed evaporator or sealing the tubes). The exact price can only be found out after diagnostics, since the scope of work greatly depends on the location of the leak.
How to understand that the compressor has burned out and not a freon leak?
If the compressor is humming, but does not start (a clicking and humming is heard, then silence) - it may have jammed or burned out. If it works constantly, the body is hot, but there is no cold - most likely there is a leak or a blockage. If the compressor is cold and does not turn on, the problem is in the starting relay or electronics.
Does the filter drier need to be changed during repairs?
Yes, any time the sealed circuit is opened (filling up, repairing a leak, replacing the compressor), the filter drier must be replaced. It absorbs moisture from the system, and when reused, it will not be able to fulfill its function, which will lead to the formation of an ice plug.