Why the upper chamber of the Stinol refrigerator does not freeze: a complete analysis of the reasons and solutions

If the upper chamber of your refrigerator Stinol stops freezing, and the lower one is working normally, this is not just an inconvenience, but a signal of a possible serious malfunction. This problem occurs both in older models Stinol-101, Stinol-103and in more modern ones Stinol RTK 2001 or Stinol RF 305. In 70% of cases, thermostat breakdown, refrigerant leak or capillary tube cloggedare to blame, but there are also less obvious reasons - from banal icing of the evaporator to failure of the electronic module.

In this article we will look at all possible causeswhy the upper chamber stopped freezing, and also give step-by-step instructions for diagnostics and repair. You will learn how to check the compressor, thermostat and freon circulation system without special tools, and also when to call a technician. We will pay special attention to models with the No Frost system - they have their own “weak points”, which are rarely written about in standard instructions.

1. Checking obvious reasons: what can be fixed in 5 minutes

Before disassembling the refrigerator or calling a service center, rule out simple problems that do not require repair:

• 🔌 Power and socket: Make sure that the refrigerator is connected to a working outlet. Try plugging in another device (for example, a phone charger) - if it doesn't work, the problem is electrical, not technical. In models Stinol with a display, when the power is turned off, the indication may light up, but the compressor does not start.
• ❄️ Defrost mode: In refrigerators with mechanical control (for example, Stinol-101) could be accidentally activated defrost mode. Check the position of the thermostat knob - it should be between 1 and 7, and not in the position OFF or ∗.
• 📉 Temperature mode: In two-chamber models, the upper chamber may freeze slightly due to incorrect settings. In refrigerators Stinol RTK i RF check whether the mode Super Cool is set for the lower chamber - it takes power from the upper one.
• 🚪 Door closure tightness: If the sealing rubber is torn or deformed, warm air enters the chamber and the compressor cannot cope with the load. Carry out a test with a sheet of paper: close the door on the sheet - if it pulls out easily, the seal needs to be replaced.

If all of the above is in order, but the upper chamber still does not freeze, proceed to diagnosing technical faults.

2. Failure of the thermostat (thermostat): how to check and replace

The thermostat is the “brain” of the refrigerator, which controls the temperature and sends signals to the compressor. In models Stinol it often fails due to power surges or natural wear. Signs of a malfunctioning thermostat:

• 🔄 The compressor turns on for 5-10 seconds and immediately turns off (relay clicks).
• ❄️ The upper chamber is warm, and the lower chamber is at normal temperature (or vice versa).
• 📛 An error flashes on the display (if any) E1, E2 or F2.

To check the thermostat, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and remove the protective casing from the back wall.
2. Find the thermostat - in models Stinol-103 and RTK 2001 it is located next to the evaporator of the upper chamber (plastic box with a tube).
3. Disconnect the terminals and check the resistance with a multimeter in the mode 200 Ohm:
   • At room temperature, the resistance should be 0 Ohm (contacts are closed).
   • If you cool the sensor (for example, put it in the freezer for 10 minutes), the resistance should become infinite (contacts open).

If the thermostat does not respond to temperature changes - it needs to be replaced. For models Stinol thermostats are suitable K-59, TAM-133 or Danfoss 077B6 (check compatibility by refrigerator model).

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

Freon (refrigerant) is the “blood” of the refrigerator, which circulates through the system and removes heat. If it is warm in the upper chamber and the compressor runs without stopping, most likely a problem has occurred freon leak. This is one of the most serious breakdowns that requires professional repair.

Signs of a leak:

• 🔊 The compressor hums constantly, but the upper chamber does not cool.
• 🧊 On the back wall of the refrigerator (in the condenser area) there is no condensation.
• 🛠️ There may be an oily spot at the leak site (freon is mixed with compressor oil).

The most vulnerable places for leaks in refrigerators Stinol:

⚠️ Attention: It is impossible to eliminate a freon leak on your own - this requires special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure gauges) and certified refrigerant. If you suspect a leak, do not turn on the refrigerator this may lead to compressor failure.

What will happen if you ignore a freon leak?

If not eliminate the leak, the compressor will wear out, which will lead to overheating and failure. In some cases, this can cause a short circuit or even a fire. In addition, freon is harmful to the ozone layer - its leakage causes environmental damage.

4. Capillary tube clogged: how to clean the system

The capillary tube is a thin channel through which freon enters the evaporator. Over time, it may become clogged due to:

• 🔥 Oil overheating (deposits are formed).
• 💧 Moisture ingress into the system (ice or corrosion).
• 🛢️ Freon decomposition (in old refrigerators).

Signs of blockage:

• The compressor is running, but the upper chamber is not cooling.
• The condenser (grid at the back) is cold, although it should heat up.
• The temperature in the lower chamber is normal, but not in the upper chamber.

To clean the capillary tube you will need:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and bleed off the freon (only with the help of a technician!).
2. Disconnect the capillary tube from the filter drier.
3. Blow the system with nitrogen under pressure 15–20 atm.
4. Replace the filter drier (required!).
5. Fill in new freon and check the tightness.

⚠️ Attention: Self-cleaning the capillary tube without experience is fraught damage to the evaporator or dirt getting into the compressor. If you are not confident in your skills, entrust this work to a professional.

5. Problems with the compressor: why it doesn’t pump freon

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, which pumps freon throughout the system. If it is broken, the upper chamber will not freeze, even if all other components are working. Main compressor malfunctions:

• 🔌 Break winding (the compressor does not turn on at all).
• 🔄 Interturn closure (the compressor hums, but does not starts).
• 🛠️ Piston jamming (knocks or grinding noises are heard).
• 📉 Reduced performance (the compressor works, but does not create the required pressure).

How to check the compressor:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove the back cover.
2. Find the compressor (black “barrel” with tubes).
3. Ring the windings multimeter:
   • The resistance between the terminals C-S (common-start) should be 20–40 Ohm.
   • The resistance between C-R (common-run) — 10–20 Ohm.
   • The resistance between S-R is the sum of the two previous values.

If the resistance is equal to 0 (short circuit) or ∞ (open circuit), the compressor defective.

If the compressor is defective, it must be replaced. Models Stinol . The cost of a new compressor is from 4,000 to 8,000 rubles, plus the work of a master. Secop (Danfoss) NL6, Embraco EG80 or Mitsubishi SR40are suitable for refrigerators

6. Malfunctions of the No Frost system (for the corresponding models)

Refrigerators Stinol with the system No Frost (for example, Stinol NF 320 or Stinol NF 440) have additional components that can fail:

• 🌀 Blower fan: If it is broken, cold air does not enter the upper chamber. Check to see if the blade rotates when you turn on the refrigerator. If not, the motor may break down or the blades may become icy.
• 🔥 defrosting heating element: If it does not work, the evaporator becomes covered with ice and the air does not circulate. You can check the heating element with a multimeter - its resistance should be 20–60 Ohm.
• 📡 Defrost sensor: If it is faulty, the No Frost system does not turn on defrosting, and the evaporator freezes. The sensor is checked in the same way as the thermostat.
• 🛡️ Fuse: In some models it burns out during power surges. It is located next to the heating element and is checked for integrity.

If the upper chamber of the refrigerator No Frost does not freeze, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains for 12-24 hours to make ice has melted.
2. Check the rotation of the fan (when turned on, you should hear a slight hum).
3. If the problem remains after defrosting, check the heating element and defrost sensor.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators No Frost Do not remove ice mechanically from the evaporator - this can damage tubes and cause a freon leak. Defrost only naturally!

7. Failures of the electronic module (for models with a display)

In modern refrigerators Stinol (for example, Stinol RTK 2001 or Stinol RF 305) an electronic unit is responsible for control. If it fails, the upper chamber may stop freezing, although the compressor and fans are working. Signs of a module malfunction:

• 📵 The display does not respond to pressing or shows errors (E3, E4, F5).
• 🔄 The refrigerator turns on/off spontaneously modes.
• 📛 All indicators flash on the display simultaneously.

What can be done:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet for 10-15 minutes (reset settings).
2. If the problem remains after turning it on, check the voltage in the network (should be 220–230 V).
3. If the module is burnt out (blackened elements or a burning smell is visible), it must be replaced. For Stinol blocks EVM-200 or EVM-300.

⚠️ Attentionare suitable: Do not attempt to repair. electronic module on its own - this can lead to short circuit or loss of warranty (if it is still operational).

8. When to call a specialist: prices and repair time

If you have checked all the possible reasons, but the upper chamber is still not freezing, it’s time to contact a specialist. Here are the approximate repair prices refrigerators Stinol (relevant for Moscow and regions):

Before agreeing to repair, please check:

• 🔧 Used whether original spare parts (for example, compressors Secop or Embraco).
• 📋 Is warranty on labor and parts given (minimum 6 months).
• 💰 Is it included diagnostics included in the cost of repair (in some services it is paid separately).

If the refrigerator is older than 10 years, consider buying a new one - repairs may cost half of its cost.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about faults in the upper chamber of the Stinol refrigerator

❓ Why in the refrigerator? Stinol the upper chamber does not freeze, but the lower one works?

This is a typical sign freon leaks in the upper chamber circuit or thermostat breakdown. It is also possible capillary tube cloggedif the system is dual-circuit. In models with No Frost check the fan and Defrosting heating element.

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

No, it dangerous and ineffective without special equipment. To refill freon you need:

• Vacuum pump (to remove moisture from the system).
• Manometer station (for control pressure).
• Refrigerant cylinder (for Stinol usually used R-134a or R-600a).

Incorrect charging can lead to compressor breakdown or repeated leakage.

❓ How often do you need to defrost a Stinol refrigerator with No Frost?

The system No Frost does not require regular defrosting, but once every 6-12 months recommended:

• Turn off the refrigerator for 12-24 hours for preventive maintenance.
• Wipe the seals and the back wall (where the ventilation holes are located).
• Remove dust from the condenser (grid back).

If ice begins to accumulate in the upper chamber, this is a sign of a malfunction of the heating element or defrosting sensor.

❓ How much does it cost to replace a compressor in a Stinol refrigerator?

The cost depends on the model of the compressor and region:

• Compressor: from 4,000 to 8,000 rubles (original Secop or Embraco).
• Master's work: 1,500 - 3,000 rubles.
• Additional: oil change (500–1 000 ₽) and filter drier (500 ₽).

Total: 6,000 - 12,000 rubles. For refrigerators over 10 years old, repair may be unprofitable.

❓ What to do if the Stinol refrigerator does not freeze after moving?

After transportation, the refrigerator must be connected correctly:

1. Wait 4–6 hours before turning on (the oil in the compressor must drain).
2. Make sure that the refrigerator is level (use a level).
3. Check that the circuit tubes are not damaged (especially if the refrigerator was transported lying down).
4. If after turning on the compressor does not start, it is possible breakdown of the start-up relay from vibration.

If the problem does not disappear, call a technician for diagnostics.