A sudden stop of refrigeration equipment always becomes an unpleasant surprise for any home cook. Indesit refrigerator, which has established itself as a reliable and affordable unit, may stop freezing at the most inopportune moment. This causes panic, because food begins to spoil and the usual way of life is disrupted. In such a situation, it is important not to give in to emotions and soberly assess the situation.
Before calling a technician or looking for a new device, it is worth conducting an initial diagnosis. Often the reason lies in trivial things that you can fix yourself in a matter of minutes. However, there are also complex technical faults that require professional intervention. Understanding the principles of operation of the unit will help you quickly navigate the problem.
In this article we will examine in detail the main reasons why Indesit it may fail. We'll look at the symptoms of a variety of problems, from electrical problems to refrigerant leaks. This will allow you to make an informed decision on further actions.
Primary diagnostics: why the compressor does not turn on
The most obvious sign of a malfunction is complete silence or, conversely, a hum without starting the engine. If The refrigerator has stopped freezing, the first thing you need to do is check the presence of voltage in the network. Sometimes the problem lies not in the device itself, but in the outlet or extension cord. Check whether the indicator light is on, if it is provided for in the design of your model.
A frequent reason for the compressor stopping is a malfunction of the start relay. This small element is responsible for starting the engine. If the relay is stuck or burnt out, the engine will not be able to start and you will only hear a short click. In some cases, the relay makes a characteristic crackling sound when trying to start the compressor.
- 🔌 Check the integrity of the power cord and plug.
- 🔌 Make sure that the plug is firmly inserted into the socket.
- 🔌 Try plugging the device into a different socket.
- 🔌 Inspect the contacts for oxidation or carbon deposits.
It is also important to pay attention to the condition of the thermostat. If the control knob is set to "0" or "Off", the compressor will not operate. In older models, mechanical thermostats could simply wear out and stop sending a signal to start. Replacing this element often solves the problem.
Problems with the starting relay and compressor
If the initial check does not produce results, it is worth delving into the technical part. Start relay - this is the key element that provides an impulse to start the motor windings. In refrigerators Indesit induction type relays are often used. Over time, the contacts inside them burn out, and the spring loses its elasticity.
⚠️ Attention: Before removing the start relay, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the mains! Residual voltage may remain inside the relay, and careless handling of electrical components is dangerous.
The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator. If it burns out, you will smell a specific smell of burnt wiring. In this case, the unit stops working completely. However, sometimes the compressor is working fine, but jammed. Attempts to start it in this state can lead to permanent breakdown.
How to check the starting relay yourself?
Remove the relay from the compressor and shake it. If a knock is heard inside, it means the core has collapsed and the relay must be replaced. You can also “ring” the contacts with a multimeter for the presence of resistance.
Replacing a compressor is a complex process that requires special equipment for charging freon. It is extremely difficult to perform this procedure on your own. If the diagnostics showed a motor malfunction, it is better to contact a service center.
Malfunctions of the thermostat and temperature sensors
The thermostat is responsible for maintaining the set temperature inside the chambers. If this element fails, the refrigerator may either work without interruption or not turn on at all. In models with the system No Frost electronic sensors are responsible for the temperature regime.
Symptoms of a thermostat malfunction often manifest themselves in the form of a lack of cold when the compressor is running. The motor hums, but the cooling cycle does not start, since the “brains” of the refrigerator believe that the temperature is normal. In mechanical models, this is solved by replacing the capillary tube of the thermostat.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The refrigerator does not turn on | Faulty thermostat | Replacing the thermostat |
| Continuous operation of the motor | Sticking contacts | Adjustment or replacement |
| Temperature does not hold | Failure calibration | Adjusting or replacing the sensor |
In modern models Indesit with electronic control, a sensor malfunction is often indicated by an error code on the display. This greatly simplifies diagnosis. However, even in this case, it is better to double-check the readings with a multimeter to exclude an error on the control board.
Freon leakage and clogged capillary system
One of the most serious problems is refrigerant leak. Freon circulates in a closed circuit, and if the seal is broken, it evaporates. Without freon, heat exchange is impossible, and the refrigerator stops cooling. A leak can occur due to evaporator corrosion or mechanical damage.
Clogged capillary tube is another reason for cooling to stop. An ice blockage or debris may enter the system. In this case, the compressor works, but freon does not circulate. A characteristic sign is a hot condenser and a cold evaporator.
⚠️ Attention: Freon is a gas that can be dangerous under certain conditions. Do not try to open the circuit yourself or add refrigerant without the appropriate qualifications and equipment.
Diagnosis of a leak is carried out by eliminating and checking the pressure in the system. If you notice oily stains on the floor under the refrigerator or on the pipes in the back, this is a sure sign of a leak. Repair in this case requires soldering the tubes and evacuating the system.
☑️ Signs of a freon leak
Failures in the electronic control module
Modern refrigerators Indesit equipped with sophisticated electronics. Control module controls all processes: from fan operation to defrosting. Power surges in the network often cause failure of the electronic components of the board.
If the module is burned out, the refrigerator may behave unpredictably: turn on and off chaotically, not respond to buttons, or give erroneous readings. In some cases, a reboot helps, but more often it requires replacing the board or resoldering individual elements.
Checking the module requires special knowledge in radio electronics. It is necessary to “ring” the tracks and check the resistor values. If you do not have these skills, it is better not to experiment, so as not to aggravate the situation.
Mechanical damage and wear of seals
Sometimes the reason for this the refrigerator does not maintain the temperaturelies in the banal leakage of the camera. The rubber seal on the door wears out over time, cracks or comes off. Through the resulting cracks, warm air enters inside, and the unit cannot cope with cooling.
You can check the tightness in a simple way: hold a sheet of paper between the door and the body. If the paper falls out or is easily pulled out, the pressure is insufficient. In this case, the seal needs to be replaced or, in some cases, simply corrected.
- 🚪 Inspect the rubber around the entire perimeter of the door.
- 🚪 Check the door hinges for sagging.
- 🚪 Make sure the door closes tightly until it clicks.
- 🚪 Clean the rubber from dirt and grease.
It is also worth checking the condition of the doors for mechanical damage. Dents or distortions may disrupt the fit geometry. In two-chamber models, the problem may be related to the air flow channel between the chambers.
How to restore the elasticity of the elastic?
If the elastic has no breaks, but has become stiff, you can try treating it with silicone grease or heating it with a hairdryer (carefully!) so that it straightens and fits tightly again.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Indesit refrigerator hum but not freeze?
Most often this indicates a faulty start relay or a freon leak. The compressor tries to start, but cannot reach the required speed or there is no refrigerant in the system for heat exchange.
How long does the refrigerator keep cold after shutting down?
In good condition, a closed refrigerator Indesit can keep cold for up to 10-14 hours. If the door is often opened, the time will be reduced to 2-4 hours, depending on the load of products.
Is it possible to repair an Indesit refrigerator with your own hands?
Simple operations, such as replacing a thermostat, relay or seal, are available to a home craftsman. However, repairing the compressor, refilling with freon and soldering require professional equipment and skills.
What to do if water appears in the refrigerator?
Check the drainage hole on the back wall. It could become clogged with ice or debris. Clean it with a special wire or a cotton swab, and the water should go away.