The Stinol refrigerator does not freeze, but the freezer works: reasons and what to do

Your refrigerator Stinol stopped cooling the main chamber, but the freezer continues to work as if nothing had happened? This is a common problem that can occur both in older models Stinol-101/103and in more modern ones Stinol 110/116. Most often, the culprit is a malfunction of the refrigerant circulation system, failures in the electronics, or simple freezing of the air ducts. But before calling a technician, you should figure out the possible reasons yourself - many of them can be eliminated without special skills.

In this article we will look in detail at why the refrigerator Stinol doesn’t freeze, but the freezer works, which units are responsible for distributing the cold between the compartments, and what can be done at home. You will also find step-by-step diagnostic instructions, checklists for checking and tips for preventing such failures. If after reading you still have questions, at the end of the article there is a FAQ with answers to typical situations.

1. How the cooling system works in Stinol refrigerators

To understand why the refrigerator Stinol does not cool, but the freezer freezes, you need to understand the principle of its operation. Most models of this brand are used single-circuit cooling system with one compressor and capillary tube for refrigerant distribution. Cold air from the freezer compartment enters the main compartment through special air channelsadjustable damper or fan (in models with No Frost).

If the freezer is working and the refrigerator compartment is warm, the problem lies in one of three key components:

• 🔹 Clogged capillary tube - the refrigerant does not pass into the evaporator of the main chamber.
• 🔹 Faulty damper or fan - cold air does not come from freezers.
• 🔹 Freon leak —the compressor is running, but there is not enough refrigerant to cool both compartments.

In models Stinol s No Frost (for example, Stinol 107 or Stinol 116) often fails defrost timer or evaporator heater, which leads to freezing of the air channels. As a result, the cold stops flowing into the main chamber, although the freezer continues. freeze.

2. Main reasons: why the refrigerator does not freeze, but the freezer works

Let us examine in detail each of the possible reasons why the refrigerator compartment Stinol stopped cooling, but the freezer compartment is functioning normally.

2.1. filter-drier

The capillary tube is a thin copper channel through which the refrigerant enters the evaporator. Over time, it can become clogged with oil decomposition products, moisture or mechanical particles. As a result:

• 🔧 Freon does not pass into the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber.
• 🔧 The compressor works non-stop, trying to “push” the refrigerant.
• 🔧 The freezer freezes because its evaporator receives leftover freon.

Signs of a blockage:

• 📉 Temperature in the refrigerator compartment smoothly rises to room temperature.
• 📉 The compressor almost does not turn off (runs for 20+ minutes without pauses).
• 📉 The condenser (grid on the back wall) remains cold.

2.2. Malfunction of the damper or fan (for models with No Frost)

In refrigerators Stinol with the system No Frost The freezer is supplied to the main chamber through air channel, which opens/closes electromagnetic damper. If it is stuck in the closed position or the drive is broken, the cold stops flowing.

The problem may also be in fan, which drives air through the chambers. If it breaks down:

• 🌀 The freezer freezes, but the cold is not distributed further.
• 🌀 In the refrigerator compartment, the temperature rises to +15...+20°C.
• 🌀 An error may appear on the display (if the model is electronically controlled).

How to check:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and defrost it for 10-12 hours.
2. After turning on, listen: if the fan does not make noise, it means it is not working.
3. Check if ice is blocking the damper (a common problem when the defrosting system is malfunctioning).

2.3 Freon leakage

If there is not enough freon in the system. refrigerant, the compressor physically cannot cool both chambers. The freezer can still maintain the temperature (since its evaporator is closer to the compressor), but the refrigeration chamber cannot. Reasons for the leak:

• 🛠️ Microcracks in the evaporator tubes (often due to corrosion).
• 🛠️ Damage to the circuit when moving the refrigerator.
• 🛠️ Wear of solder joints (in older models).

Signs of a leak:

• ❄️ The compressor works without stopping, but it’s almost cold no.
• ❄️ The condenser (rear grill) is barely warm.
• ❄️ There may be oily spots on the floor under the refrigerator (the refrigerant is mixed with oil).

2.4. Failure of the thermostat or temperature sensor

In refrigerators Stinol responsible for temperature control thermostat (in mechanical models) or temperature sensor (in electronic ones). If they fail, the compressor may:

• 🔘 Not turn on at all (the refrigerator is completely warm).
• 🔘 Work without stopping, but the cold is distributed incorrectly.
• 🔘 Turn on too rarely, not having time to cool the main chamber.

How to check the thermostat:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove the protective casing from the thermostat (usually located next to the adjustment knob).
3. Test the contacts with a tester: at room temperature they should be closed.

2.5. Freezing of the evaporator or air ducts

If the refrigerator Stinol c No Frost has not been defrosted for a long time or has failed defrosting heater, the evaporator is covered with ice. This blocks the air circulation and the cold stops flowing into the main chamber. Signs:

• ❄️ The temperature in the freezer is too low (below -24°C).
• ❄️ The refrigerator compartment is warm, but the compressor works almost constantly.
• ❄️ A thick layer of ice is visible on the back wall of the freezer.

The solution is complete defrosting for 12–24 hours. If the problem recurs, the defrost timer or evaporator heater.

2.6 is faulty. control

In modern models Stinol (for example, Stinol 118) the cold distribution is responsible control board. If it breaks down, failures may occur:

• 📱 The compressor turns on for a short time and immediately turns off.
• 📱 An error flashes on the display (for example, E1 or E2).
• 📱 The fan and damper do not work, although there is power.

It is not recommended to repair the board yourself - diagnostics using an oscilloscope is required. Most often, replacing faulty elements (relays, transistors) or completely replacing the module helps.

2.7. Problems with the door seal

If the rubber seal on the refrigerator door is torn or deformed, warm air constantly penetrates inside the chamber, and the temperature rises. the freezer can work normally, since its door is sealed.

How to check:

• 🔍 Close the door and shine a flashlight along the seal. If light passes through, there is a gap.
• 🔍 Place a sheet of paper between the door and the body. If it is light. is pulled out - the seal does not fit.

What to do if the seal is torn?

If the damage is small (cracks up to 2 cm), you can restore the seal using silicone sealant:

1. seal.

2. Apply a thin layer of sealant to the damaged area.

3. Press the door and leave for 12 hours.

If the seal is severely worn, it must be replaced with a new one (part number for Stinol usually starts with 6000-...).

3. Diagnosis of a malfunction: step-by-step instructions

Before starting repairs, you need to accurately determine the reason why the refrigerator Stinol is not freezing. Below is a checklist for self-diagnosis.

Listen to the compressor: is it running in cycles or without stopping?|Check the temperature in the freezer: if it is below -24°C, there may be a freon leak or freezing of the evaporator|Inspect the refrigerator door seal for damage|Ring the thermostat (for mechanical models)|Defrost the refrigerator for 12+ hours and check if the cold is restored-->

If the problem remains after defrosting, proceed to a deeper diagnosis:

If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better not to risk it and call a specialist. For example, in refrigerators Stinol with a system No Frost replacement of the defrosting heating element without experience can lead to a short circuit.

4. How to fix the problem yourself

Some breakdowns can be fixed without calling a technician. data-i="200">4.1. Defrosting the refrigerator when the evaporator freezes

4.1. Defrosting a refrigerator when the evaporator freezes

If the problem is icing of the evaporator or air channels:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove all food and shelves.
3. Leave the doors open for 12–24 hours (you can speed up the process by placing a container of warm water inside).
4. After defrosting, wipe all surfaces with a dry cloth.
5. Turn on the refrigerator and check if cooling is restored.

If ice appears again after 1–2 weeks, defective defrost heater or timer. In this case, parts will need to be replaced.

4.2. thermostat in mechanical models

To replace the thermostat in refrigerators Stinol 101/103 you will need:

• 🔧 A new thermostat (suitable art. - K-59 or TAM-133).
• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver.
• 🔧 Tester for testing contacts.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the temperature control knob (usually it is secured with latches).
3. Unscrew the thermostat casing and disconnect the wires (remember their location!).
4. Carefully remove the thermostat capillary tube from the housing.
5. Install the new thermostat in the reverse order.

After replacing, turn on the refrigerator and check if cooling has started.

4.3. Cleaning or replacing the fan (for No Frost)

If the fan does not work, but power is supplied to it:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and defrost it.
2. Remove the back panel in the freezer (usually secured with screws).
3. Check whether ice is blocking the blades. If so, remove it.
4. Check the winding. fan tester. The resistance should be 200–500 Ohm.
5. If the fan is faulty, replace it with a new one (article for Stinol — 6000-00012345 or similar).

4.4. data-i="236">If the compressor does not start or turns off after a few seconds, the problem may be

If the compressor does not start or stops after a few seconds, the problem may be start relay. To check it:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
2. Remove the relay from the compressor (usually attached to latches).
3. Shake the relay - if a knock is heard inside, it is faulty.
4. Test the relay coil with a tester. The resistance should be 10-30 Ohms.
5. If the relay is burned out, replace it with a new one (part number - RP4-1 or DANFOSS 103N0010).

5. When you definitely need a technician

Some breakdowns cannot be repaired without special equipment and skills. to a specialist if:

• 🛠️ You suspect freon leak (evacuation and charging of the system is required).
• 🛠️ Faulty electronic control board (you need a soldering iron and an oscilloscope).
• 🛠️ Required replacement compressor (you need special equipment for refilling).
• 🛠️ Detected microcracks in the evaporator (soldering or replacement required).

The cost of repair depends on the type of failure:

When choosing a technician, pay attention to reviews and the availability of a warranty on the work. Poor quality repairs can lead to repeated breakdowns.

6. Prevention: how to prevent breakdowns

To ensure that the refrigerator Stinol serves for a long time and does not break, follow simple rules:

• ❄️ Defrosting: even if you have No Frost, defrost the refrigerator 1-2 times every year.
• 🧹 Cleaning: wipe the seals and rear grille from dust once every 3 months.
• 🔌 Power: use a surge protector to protect against power surges.
• 🚪 Doors: do not leave them open for a long time and check for leaks.
• 📦 Loading: do not put hot foods in the refrigerator and do not overload the shelves.

It is also worth keeping an eye on temperature mode:

• 🌡️ Optimal temperature in the refrigerator compartment: +4…+6°C.
• ❄️ Optimal temperature in the freezer: -18…-20°C.

If the refrigerator begins to make more noise than usual or the compressor turns on too often, this is the first sign of future breakdowns. Do not ignore it!

7. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

The Stinol refrigerator does not freeze, but the freezer works - what to do first?

First defrost the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. If after turning on the problem remains, check:

1. Whether the compressor is working (should be turned off periodically).
2. Is there ice on the back wall of the freezer (a sign of a malfunction of the defrosting system).
3. The integrity of the refrigerator door seal.

If all else fails, call a technician for diagnostics.

Is it possible to fill freon into the Stinol refrigerator yourself?

No. Charging refrigerant requires special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauge station) and skills. Incorrect refilling can lead to damage to the compressor or freon leakage.

Why does the Stinol refrigerator not cool after defrosting?

Possible reasons:

• Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor.
• Failed start relay compressor.
• Occurred freon leak during defrosting (rare, but possible with mechanical damage).

Try turning off the refrigerator for 30 minutes and turning it on again. If it doesn’t help, you need diagnostics.

How much does it cost to repair a Stinol refrigerator if the refrigerator compartment does not work?

The cost depends on the reason:

• 💰 Replacement of the thermostat: 1,500 - 2,500 ₽.
• 💰 Fan replacement: 2,000 – 3,500 ₽.
• 💰 Elimination of freon leakage + refilling: 4,000 – 7,000 ₽.
• 💰 Compressor replacement: 6,000 – 12,000 ₽.

The technician will name the exact price after diagnosis.

Can a Stinol refrigerator not freeze due to a power surge?

Yes. Voltage surges most often damage:

• 🔌 Electronic control board (in modern models).
• 🔌 Compressor (if the surge occurred during its operation).
• 🔌 Starting relay.

To avoid this, use voltage stabilizer or surge filter.