Refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston does not work: reasons and what to do

The refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston stopped working, and the ice is melting in the freezer? Or does the unit hum but not cool? Such symptoms are scary, but do not always mean a serious breakdown. In 60% of cases, the problem can be fixed on your own - without calling a technician. The main thing is to correctly diagnose the cause.

We analyzed hundreds of calls to service centers and identified 12 most common reasonswhy refrigerators Ariston (including models Hotpoint-Ariston, Indesit under this brand) fail. The article contains step-by-step instructions table of error codes, checklists for checking and tips on how to avoid repeated breakdowns.

⚠️ Important: If your refrigerator is under warranty, do not disassemble it yourself! This will void the warranty. Contact an authorized service center Hotpoint Ariston.

Why the refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston doesn't turn on at all

If the unit does not respond to the power button and does not show signs of life, the problem most often lies in the electrical part. Go through this algorithm:

1. Check the outlet and power cord

Start with the basics: connect another device (for example, a table lamp) to the outlet. If the lamp does not light up, the problem is in the socket or circuit breaker in the panel. If the outlet is working, inspect the refrigerator cord for:

  • 🔌 Kinks or cracks —especially at the base of the plug and at the entrance to the case.
  • 🔥 Melted areas —a sign of a short circuit.
  • 🐭 Traces from rodents —mice often chew through wires.

⚠️ Attention: If the cord is damaged, do not use twists or electrical tape —it's dangerous! Only replacement with an original cable with the appropriate cross-section (at least 1.5 mm² for refrigerators with a power of up to 200 W).

2. Diagnose the power button

In models Hotpoint Ariston with electronic control (for example, HBM 1182, HBF 1801), the power button may stick or oxidize. Try:

  • 🔊 Press the button several times —sometimes the contacts “stick.”
  • 🧲 Inspect the control panel for moisture (if the refrigerator is in a damp room).
  • 🔧 Remove the top panel cover (with the power off!) and check the button contacts multimeter.
📊 Does your Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator have which controls?
Mechanical (wheel controls)
Electronic (buttons and display)
I don’t know

3. Check the fuse and thermostat

In mechanical models (for example, Hotpoint Ariston BCB 33) it often burns out thermal fuse —it is located next to the compressor. Signs:

  • 🔥 The refrigerator suddenly turned off and does not turn on.
  • 💡 The light inside is on, but the motor does not start.
  • 🕒 After disconnecting from the network for 10–15 minutes, it may earn money for a short time.

To check the fuse, turn off the refrigerator, remove the back cover and inspect the part (usually black or brown with two contacts). Test it with a multimeter - the resistance should be close to 0. If it shows a break, replacement is required.

The refrigerator hums, but does not freeze: reasons and solutions

If the compressor is working (you hear a hum), but the temperature in the chambers does not drop, one of 4 systems is usually to blame:

1. Freon leak

Signs:

  • ❄️ The compressor runs non-stop, but there is no cold.
  • 🔧 Oil stains are visible on the back wall of the refrigerator (freon mixed with oil).
  • 🕳️ There may be corrosion at the location of the leak (usually in the door heating circuit or evaporator).

Fix the leak yourself impossible —a specialist with vacuuming and filling equipment is required. Average repair cost: 5,000–12,000 ₽ (depending on the model and volume of freon).

2. Capillary tube clogged

Capillary is a thin copper tube through which freon enters the evaporator. If it becomes clogged (due to moisture, oil or dirt), the refrigerator stops cooling. Signs:

  • ⏳ The compressor turns on, but after 5-10 seconds it turns off (protection is triggered).
  • 🔥 The compressor housing gets very hot.
  • 🧊 The freezer may not freeze well, but the refrigerator compartment may not cool completely.

To clean the capillary, the master uses a special press or replaces the tube. You cannot do this yourself - there is a risk of damaging the system.

3. Fan malfunction

In models with a system No Frost (for example, Hotpoint Ariston HF 4200) the fan is responsible for air circulation. If it is broken:

  • 🌀 The refrigerator hums, but the air in the chamber does not move.
  • 🥶 The freezer works, but the refrigerator does not (or vice versa).
  • 🔊 When you open the door, you can’t hear the fan noise.

To check the fan:

  1. Unplug the refrigerator.
  2. Remove the back panel in the freezer (usually secured with latches).
  3. Turn the fan blades by hand - they should rotate easily, without squeaking.
  4. Test the winding with a multimeter (resistance should be 200–500 Ohms).

☑️ Checking the fan No Frost

Done: 0 / 4

4. Failure of the temperature sensor

If the sensor (thermistor) transmits incorrect data, the compressor may not turn on or operate chaotically. In refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston sensors are usually located:

  • 🧊 In the freezer compartment (on the evaporator).
  • 🥦 In the refrigerator compartment (on the back wall).
  • 🌡️ In models with electronic control - on the board.

To check:

  1. Find the sensor (usually a small plastic cylinder with two wires).
  2. Disconnect the connector and measure the resistance with a multimeter at room temperature (should be ~5–10 kOhm).
  3. Place sensor into a glass of cold water - the resistance should increase.

If the readings do not change, the sensor is faulty. Cost of a new one: 500–1,500 ₽.

Refrigerator error codes Hotpoint Ariston: decoding

In models with a display (for example, Hotpoint Ariston H9 NX, HBF 1802), error codes are displayed when they break down. The table shows the most common ones:

Error code Description Possible cause Solution
F01 Refrigerator compartment temperature sensor error The sensor is faulty or the wire is broken Ring the circuit, replace the sensor
F02 Error in the freezer sensor The sensor is closed or not connected Check the contacts, replace the sensor
F04 Problem with the fan The fan is jammed or the motor is faulty Clean the blades, check the winding
F05 Defrost system error The defrost heating element does not work or timer Replace the heating element or control board
F08 Compressor malfunction Winding break or jamming Replacement of the compressor (requires a specialist)

⚠️ Attention: If on the display The code is lit F08, do not try to force start the compressor —this can lead to a short circuit. Turn off the refrigerator and call a technician.

What to do if the error code flashes and disappears?

This is a sign of a “floating” fault - for example, oxidized contacts or unstable voltage. Try:

1. Turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on again.

2. Check the voltage in the outlet (should be 220–230 V).

3. Inspect the connectors on the control board - if necessary, clean them with alcohol.

The refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston does not freeze, but the light inside is on

If the light in the chamber works, but there is no cooling, the problem is usually in one of 3 systems:

1. Malfunction of the thermostat

The thermostat (or thermostat) is responsible for turning on the compressor. In mechanical models (Hotpoint Ariston BC 33, BCA 184) it is located inside the refrigerator compartment, next to the light bulb. Signs of breakdown:

  • 🔄 The compressor does not turn on at all or works without stopping.
  • 🧊 There is ice in the freezer, and there is heat in the refrigerator.
  • 🔊 Clicks when rotating the thermostat knob (no contacts are closed).

How to check:

  1. Remove the thermostat knob (pull it towards you).
  2. Under it you will see a plastic case with a tube - this is the thermostat siphon.
  3. Disconnect the wires and call contacts 3 and 4 (usually designated in the diagram as COM and NC).
  4. At room temperature, the resistance should be ~0 Ohm. If not, the thermostat is faulty.

2. Board failure controls

In electronic models (Hotpoint Ariston H9 NX, HBF 5200), the “brain” of the refrigerator is the board. It can fail due to:

  • ⚡ Voltage surge.
  • 💧 Moisture ingress (for example, during defrosting).
  • 🔥 Overheating (if the refrigerator is close to the wall).

Symptoms:

  • 📛 Symbols on the display flash randomly or light up ----.
  • 🔄 The refrigerator turns on/off spontaneously.
  • 🎛️ The buttons do not respond or work with a delay.

Independent repair of the board is possible only if you have a soldering iron and a circuit. In most cases, it is easier to replace the module (cost: 3,000–8,000 ₽).

3. system

If the refrigerator does not cool, but the compressor is working, check drainage hole (at the bottom of the rear wall of the refrigerator compartment). If it is clogged:

  • 💦 Water accumulates under the drawers. vegetables.
  • 🧊 Ice forms on the back wall.
  • 🌬️ The air does not circulate and the temperature does not drop.

How to clean:

  1. Unplug the refrigerator.
  2. Remove the bottom shelf and find the hole (usually closed with a plug).
  3. Rinse it with warm water using a syringe or straw.
  4. Blow with compressed air (for example, a bicycle pump).

The refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston turns on and immediately turns off

If the compressor starts for a few seconds and turns off, the reasons may be the following:

1. Malfunction of the start-up relay

The relay is responsible for starting the compressor. If it is broken:

  • 🔊 A click is heard, but the motor does not start.
  • 🕒 After 5-10 seconds, the start attempt is repeated.
  • 🔥 The relay housing is hot to the touch.

How check:

  1. Turn off the refrigerator.
  2. Remove the relay (usually attached to the side of the compressor).
  3. Shake it - if you hear a knock, it means the spring or core has broken off.
  4. Ring with a multimeter contacts 1 and 2 (resistance should be ~20–40 Ohms).

Cost of a new relay: 500–1,500 rubles. Suitable for most models. Hotpoint Ariston i Indesit.

2. Interturn short circuit in the compressor

If the compressor winding is closed, it cannot start normally. Signs:

  • 🔌 When starting, the automatic switch in the control panel is triggered.
  • 🔥 The compressor housing is strong. is heating up.
  • 🛠️ The relay clicks, but the motor does not rotate.

For diagnostics:

  1. Disconnect the wires from the compressor.
  2. Test the windings with a multimeter:
    • Resistance between C (common) and S (starting) — ~20–30 Ohm.
    • Resistance between C and R (working) — ~10–15 Ohm.
    • Resistance between S and R —the sum of the two previous values (~30–45 Ohms).
  • If the readings are different or there is a break, the compressor is faulty.
  • ⚠️ Attention: Replacing a compressor is a complex procedure that requires evacuation of the system and charging with freon. Do not try to do this yourself without experience —the risk of damaging the refrigerator or causing injury.

    3. Low voltage in the network

    Compressors Hotpoint Ariston are sensitive to voltage surges If the network is less than 190 V:

    • 🔌 The refrigerator turns on and immediately turns off (protection is triggered).
    • 💡 The light inside is dimly lit.
    • 📉 The voltage indicator may flash on the display.

    Solution:

    • 🔌 Connect the refrigerator through a voltage stabilizer (recommended power: from 500 W).
    • 🏠 Check the voltage in the outlet with a multimeter (should be 220–230 V).
    • ⚡ If the problem is in the network, contact the management company.

    The refrigerator makes a lot of noise or vibrates Hotpoint Ariston makes a lot of noise or vibrates

    Loud operation does not always mean a breakdown. But if the noise appears suddenly, check:

    1. Uneven installation

    If the refrigerator is standing. crooked:

    • 🔧 Vibration is transmitted to the floor and intensifies.
    • 🌀 The compressor runs louder due to the misalignment.
    • 🚪 The door may not close tightly.

    How level:

    1. Use a level to check the horizontal position.
    2. Adjust the front legs (they usually have threads).
    3. If the floor is uneven, place rubber pads under the rear legs.

    2. Suspension wear. compressor

    Over time, the rubber shock absorbers of the compressor lose their elasticity, and it begins to vibrate. Signs:

    • 🔊 The hum intensifies when the compressor starts.
    • 🛠️ If you press the compressor from above with your hand, the noise decreases.

    Solution: replace the shock absorbers (set cost: 300–800 ₽). To do this:

    1. Disconnect the refrigerator.
    2. Unscrew the compressor mounting bolts.
    3. Remove the old shock absorbers and install new.

    3. Touching the fan blades

    In models with No Frost the fan may touch ice or wires. Signs:

    • 🌀 Periodic grinding or knocking.
    • 🧊 The noise increases when the freezer is opened.

    How to fix:

    1. Unplug the refrigerator.
    2. Remove the back panel of the freezer.
    3. Make sure the fan blades are not touching ice or body.
    4. If necessary, defrost the refrigerator (at least 12 hours).

    Prevention of breakdowns: how to extend the life of the refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston

    To avoid costly repairs, follow these rules:

    1. Correct installation

    • 📏 Distance to the wall: at least 5 cm (for circulation) air).
    • ☀️ Protection from direct sunlight —they increase the load on the compressor.
    • 🔌 Separate socket —do not use tees or extension cords.

    2. Regular maintenance

    • ❄️ Defrosting: even in models with No Frost it is recommended to defrost once every 6 months.
    • 🧽 Cleaning: wash the door seals with soapy water (no abrasives!).
    • 🧊 Checking drainage: clean the hole once every 3 months.

    3. Temperature control

    • 🌡️ Optimal temperature: +4°C in the refrigerator compartment, –18°C in the freezer.
    • 🚫 Do not place hot foods! This increases the load on the compressor.
    • 📦 Do not overload the cameras — leave gaps for air circulation.

    4. Protection against power surges

    • Voltage stabilizer (recommended models: Resanta ACH-1000/1-C, Calm IS1000).
    • 🔌 Surge filter - will protect against impulse interference.
    • 🏠 Grounding is a must for safety!

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston

    🔧 Why does the refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston not freeze, but the light is on?

    This is a typical sign of a malfunction thermostat, compressor or freon leaks. Start by checking the thermostat (see section above). If it is working, call a technician to diagnose the compressor and the tightness of the system.

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

    Even in systems No Frost it is recommended to defrost once every 6-12 months. This is necessary for:

    • Removing ice in hidden areas (for example, on the evaporator).
    • Cleaning the drainage system.
    • Checking operation fan.

    To defrost, turn off the refrigerator for 12-24 hours, leave the doors open and wipe all surfaces with a dry cloth.

    💡 Is it possible to fill freon into the refrigerator yourself Hotpoint Ariston?

    No, it is extremely dangerous! To refill freon you need:

    • Special equipment (vacuum pump, pressure manifold).
    • Knowledge of the exact type of freon (usually used Hotpoint Ariston usually used R134a or R600a).
    • Experience in working with refrigeration equipment (risk of burns when contacting freon!).

    Cost of refilling at the service: 3,000–6,000 ₽ (depending on the model and volume of freon).

    🔌 The refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston turns off 5 seconds after turning on. What to do?

    This is a sign of a malfunction start protection relay or compressorFirst check the relay (see section "The refrigerator turns on and turns off immediately"). If the relay is working properly, but the problem remains, most likely the compressor winding has burned out. In this case, the compressor needs to be replaced (cost: 8,000–15,000 ₽ with work). Where to find spare parts for a refrigerator

    🛠️Where to find spare parts for a refrigerator Hotpoint Ariston?

    Original spare parts can be bought:

    • 🏬 In authorized service centers Hotpoint Ariston.
    • 🌍 On spare parts websites: Zapchasti365.ru, RemBitTech.ru, All-Zap.ru.
    • 🛒 In household appliance stores (for example, M.Video, Eldorado — sometimes thermostats, relays, seals are available).

    When purchasing, please specify exact model of the refrigerator (located on the sticker inside the camera or rear).