Bosch refrigerator does not cool: reasons and what to do

Have you opened the refrigerator door Boschand inside there is warm air instead of the usual coolness? Or does the freezer thaw and food spoil? The problem when the refrigerator does not cool can be caused by both simple problems (for example, a door that is not tightly closed) and serious breakdowns (freon leakage, compressor failure). In this article we will analyze all possible reasonswhy the refrigerator Bosch stopped freezing, and we will give step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and troubleshooting.

It is important to understand: some breakdowns can be repaired yourself (for example, replacing the seal or defrosting the ice in the drainage), and others require the intervention of a specialist (compressor repair or freon refill). We will help you determine what exactly you are faced with and what to do in each case.

1. Primary diagnostics: what to check first

Before disassembling the refrigerator or calling a technician, do basic checks. In 30% of cases, the problem is solved without repair:

• 🔌 Power: Make sure that the refrigerator is connected to the outlet. Try plugging another device (for example, a table lamp) into the same outlet to check its functionality. If the socket is faulty, the problem is not in the refrigerator.
• 🔄 Defrost button: Some models Bosch (for example, series KGE39... or KGN39...) have a forced defrost button. If it is accidentally pressed, the refrigerator will temporarily turn off cooling.
• 🚪 Door closure tightness: Shine a flashlight inside the refrigerator with the door closed. If light leaks in, the seal is worn out or the door is skewed.
• ❄️ Ice in the freezer: A thick layer of ice on the evaporator blocks air circulation. This is typical for models with the system NoFrostif the defrost heater has failed.

If all of the above is in order, but the refrigerator still does not freeze, proceed to the next sections. Pay special attention to operating sounds compressor: if it does not turn on at all, does not hum or vibrate, the problem is most likely in the electrical part.

2. The compressor does not work: why the refrigerator does not turn on

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator. If it doesn't start, there will be no cooling. The reasons may be different:

• ⚡ Malfunction of the starting relay: The relay is responsible for starting the compressor. When it breaks down, clicks are heard, but the engine does not start. In models Bosch series KSV... the relay often fails due to voltage surges.
• 🔧 Breakage of the compressor winding: If the compressor does not hum and does not heat up, a break is possible. This is a serious breakdown - the motor will need to be replaced.
• 📉 Low voltage in the network: Refrigerators Bosch are sensitive to power surges. If your network is often below 190 V, the compressor may not start.

How to check the compressor:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the back cover (in most models it is secured with latches or screws).
3. Find the compressor (black cylindrical block with tubes).
4. Connect the refrigerator to the network and listen: if the compressor does not hum or vibrate, it is faulty.

3. Freon leak: how to recognize and what to do

Freon is a refrigerant that circulates through the system and provides cooling. If it leaks, the refrigerator stops freezing, but the compressor still works. Signs of a leak:

• ❄️ The refrigerator does not cool, but the compressor runs non-stop.
• 🔥 The condenser (grid on the back wall) does not heat up.
• 💧 Oil on the floor under the refrigerator (if the leak is in compressor).
• 🛠️ In models with NoFrost ice may appear in only one corner of the freezer.

Freon leakage is one of the most difficult breakdowns. Its reasons:

• Corrosion of tubes (especially in old models Bosch before 2015).
• Mechanical damage when moving the refrigerator.
• Defective factory soldering (found in series KGN36... i KGE36...).

It is impossible to fix the leak yourself - special equipment is required for evacuation and refilling of freon. However, you can pre-diagnose the problem:

Check whether the compressor is working. (hums, heats up)

Inspect the back wall for oil stains

Touch the condenser - if it is cold, there is no freon

Shine a flashlight into the freezer: when there is a leak, ice forms unevenly-->

What will happen if you do not repair the leak?

If you ignore the freon leak, the compressor will wear out, trying to create pressure in an empty system. This will lead to its overheating and breakdown in 1-3 months. Repair in this case will cost 2-3 times more than timely refilling.

4. Problems with the thermostat and electronic control unit

The thermostat (or thermostat) is responsible for maintaining the set temperature. In modern models Bosch (series KAN9..., KIN8...) instead of a mechanical thermostat, an electronic sensor is used that transmits signals to the control board. is faulty, the refrigerator may:

• 🥶 Stop turning on at all.
• ❄️ Work without stopping (freezing food).
• 🔄 Turn on and turn off immediately (cyclically).

How to check thermostat:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the thermostat cover (usually located inside the refrigerator compartment, under the plastic panel).
3. Find two wires going to the thermostat and short them together (use a screwdriver with an insulated handle!).
4. If the compressor starts after closing, the thermostat is faulty and requires replacement.

In models with electronic control (for example, Bosch KIN86AF30), the problem may lie in control board. data-i="146">control board

• 📱 The display shows errors (codes E01, E02, E04 —see decoding in the instructions).
• 🔄 The refrigerator reboots spontaneously.
• 🎛️ Not responds to button presses.

5. Clogged capillary tube or filter drier

The capillary tube is a thin channel through which freon enters the evaporator. If it becomes clogged (for example, with oil or moisture particles), the refrigerant cannot circulate and the refrigerator stops cooling. Signs of a blockage:

• 🔄 The compressor works without stopping, but there is no cold.
• 🔥 The condenser (grid at the back) is hot in only one place.
• ❄️ Ice may form in the freezer only in parts evaporator.

Causes of blockage:

• 🛢️ Moisture getting into the system (if the refrigerator was left unplugged for a long time).
• 🔧 Poor quality repairs (if freon was previously charged without vacuuming).
• 🕰️ Natural wear and tear (in refrigerators older than 10 years).

The blockage can only be removed using special equipment. The technician purges the system with nitrogen under pressure or replaces the filter drier. Independent repair is not recommended —without experience, you can damage the tubes.

⚠️ Attention: If you suspect a clogged capillary tube, do not try to “clean” it with wire or other objects. This will damage the tube and leak freon. Contact a specialist with nitrogen purging equipment.

6. Problems with the NoFrost system: why the fan does not work

Refrigerators Bosch with the system NoFrost (series KGN..., KAN...) are equipped with a fan that distributes cold air among the chambers. If the fan breaks, the refrigerator stops cooling, although the compressor is running. Signs:

• 🌀 The refrigerator compartment is warm, and the freezer has a normal temperature.
• 🔇 There is no characteristic fan noise (normally it turns on periodically).
• ❄️ There is a thick layer of ice on the back wall of the freezer (if the heater is broken defrost).

How to check the fan:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove all food from the freezer.
3. Remove the back panel of the freezer (usually secured with screws).
4. Try to turn the fan blades by hand. If they do not rotate or jam, the motor is faulty.

Frequent causes of fan failure:

• 🧊 Icing of the blades (if the defrost heater does not work).
• 🔌 Motor burnout (due to power surges).
• 🐭 Entry of foreign objects (for example, pieces of food).

If the fan does not work due to icing, you can try defrosting the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. If the problem is in the motor, replacement will be required.

7. Drainage system: why the water does not drain and interferes with cooling

In refrigerators Bosch condensation (water formed during operation) flows through the drainage tube into a special tray, where it evaporates. If the drain becomes clogged, water will pool under crisper drawers or freeze in the freezer, blocking air circulation. Signs:

• 💦 A puddle under the refrigerator or at the bottom of the chamber.
• ❄️ Ice in the drainage hole (in the freezer).
• 🌬️ Unpleasant odor due to stagnant water.

How to clean the drain:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Locate the drain hole (usually in the back of the refrigerator, under the vegetable drawers).
3. Use a special brush (included with the refrigerator) or a cocktail straw to clean hole.
4. Rinse the drainage with warm water using a syringe.

If the drainage is frozen in the freezer (relevant for models with NoFrost):

• Defreeze the refrigerator for 12-24 hours.
• After defrosting, clean the hole with wire (be careful not to damage the plastic!).
• Check the operation of the defrost heater - if it is faulty, ice will form again.

8. When to call a specialist: complex breakdowns and their cost

Some breakdowns cannot be repaired yourself. The table below shows problems that require professional repairs. and their approximate cost (price depends on the model and region):

Before calling a technician, check:

• 📋 Refrigerator model (located on the sticker inside or on the back).
• 📝 Exact symptoms (when a problem appears that you have already tried to do it).
• 💰 Cost of diagnostics (in some services it is free for further repairs).

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Bosch is under warranty, do not disassemble it yourself! This will lead to loss of warranty obligations. Contact an authorized service center. The list of centers can be found on the official website. Bosch by model number.

The cost of repairs may vary depending on:

• 📍 Region (in Moscow and St. Petersburg prices are higher than in the regions).
• 🔧 Difficulties breakdowns (replacing the compressor is more expensive than cleaning the drainage).
• 📅 Urgency (a technician on the same day can cost 20-30% more).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about malfunctions of Bosch refrigerators

The Bosch refrigerator does not cool, but the freezer is working. What is the problem?

Most likely, the NoFrost system fan or drainage hole is clogged between the chambers is faulty. In the first case, the fan needs to be replaced, in the second, the drainage needs to be cleaned. Also check if the "Vacation" mode is turned on (Holiday). in which the refrigerator compartment turns off.

The compressor runs without stopping, but the refrigerator does not freeze. What should I do?

This is a sign of one of three problems:

1. Freon leak - refueling required.
2. Clogged capillary tube —need purge with nitrogen.
3. Thermostat malfunction —sensor does not turn off the compressor.

You can check the thermostat yourself (close the contacts). If the compressor does not turn off, call a technician.

The Bosch refrigerator display shows error E01. What does this mean?

Error E01 in refrigerators Bosch indicates problem with the temperature sensor refrigerator compartment Reasons:

• Wire break. sensor.
• Failure of the sensor itself.
• Failure of the control board.

Try to turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes - sometimes this clears the error. If the error remains, a technician needs to diagnose it.

Is it possible to fill the refrigerator with freon yourself? Bosch?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. To refill freon you need:

• Special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauges).
• Knowledge of the type freon (in Bosch is used R600a or R134a).
• Experience in soldering copper tubes (in case of a leak, it is necessary to solder the damage site).

An error during refueling can lead to compressor damage or explosive situation (freon is flammable!). It is better to entrust this to a professional.

Bosch refrigerator is new, but does not cool What. do?

If the refrigerator is new (up to 1 month of operation), check:

• 📄 Correct installation (the distance to the wall should be at least 5 cm).
• 🔌 Mains voltage (should be 220-240 V).
• 📦 Transport bolts (if not removed, the compressor may not start).
• 📋 Operating mode (the mode SuperCoolmay be turned on, which turns off after 6 hours).

If everything is in order, but the refrigerator does not freeze, contact the store for a replacement under warranty. Do not disassemble it yourself!