The situation when Indesit refrigerator stops turning off and buzzes without interruption is familiar to many owners of this equipment. Constant operation of the compressor is not just an annoying noise, but also a direct path to food spoilage due to freezing or, conversely, to defrosting if the system can no longer cope with the load. In addition, the electric meter begins to spin at double speed, which is noticeably reflected in utility bills.
In most cases, the reason lies in a violation of heat exchange or failure of temperature sensors. Indesit is a reliable brand, but even it has weaknesses that appear after several years active exploitation. Understanding exactly how the cooling system works will help you quickly determine whether you can deal with the problem yourself or whether it’s time to call a technician.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main reasons for the uninterrupted operation of the motor, consider typical user mistakes and provide an algorithm of actions when a malfunction is detected. It is important not to ignore the first symptoms, since long-term operation of the compressor for wear and tear can lead to its complete combustion, which is an expensive repair.
Violation of the seal of the chamber and wear of the seal
One of the most commonplace, but common reasons is the loss of tightness of the refrigeration chamber. Rubber seal over time, the door dries out, cracks, or simply becomes deformed, no longer fitting tightly to the body. Through the resulting cracks, warm air from the room constantly flows inside, causing the temperature sensors to signal the need for cooling.
As a result, the compressor works in increased mode, trying to compensate for the heat inflow. If you notice that Indesit refrigerator hums more often than usual, carefully inspect the elastic band around the entire perimeter. Sometimes the problem is solved by simple washing and lubrication with silicone, but in case of physical damage, the element will need to be replaced.
It is also worth checking whether it is preventing the door from closing tightly. This could be dishes that are placed incorrectly on the shelves or even crumbs that have fallen on the seal. The slightest misalignment of the door violates the geometry of the fit, and the cooling system perceives this as an open chamber.
⚠️ Attention: If you find cracks on the seal, do not try to seal them with tape or glue. This is a temporary solution that will damage the thermal insulation even more. A complete replacement of the sealing rubber is required.
To check the tightness, you can use a simple paper sheet. Clamp it with the door in different places around the perimeter. If the sheet is pulled out without resistance, it means that the tightness in this place is broken.
Problems with the thermostat and temperature sensors
The second most common reason for constant operation is a malfunction thermostat or electronic sensor. It is this element that is responsible for turning off the compressor when the set temperature is reached. If the thermostat is “stuck” in the “on” position or transmits incorrect data to the control module, the refrigerator will freeze until the motor breaks down.
In models with mechanical control (Indesit C 130, C 138 and analogs), the thermostat is a device with a capillary tube that is inserted into evaporator Over time, the tube may become dislodged or damaged, and the mechanism itself may lose calibration. In electronic models, control is controlled by sensors that can oxidize or fail.
Symptoms of a thermostat failure are often accompanied by the absence of a click when the refrigerator goes into standby mode. Usually, turning off the motor is accompanied by a characteristic sound, but if it is not there, the problem is almost certainly in the temperature control circuit.
How to check a thermostat with a multimeter?
To check a mechanical thermostat, you need to remove it and “ring” the contacts. In normal condition, the contacts should close. If you place the sensor in a cold place (for example, in a freezer), the contacts should open. If this does not happen, the part is faulty.
It is important to note that in two-compressor models Indesit each chamber has its own thermostat. Therefore, if food freezes in the refrigerator compartment and the motor does not turn off, most likely the problem is in the refrigerator compartment sensor, and not in the general system.
No Frost system malfunctions and freon leaks
Owners of refrigerators with the system No Frost may encounter a situation where the motor runs continuously due to problems with heat removal. If the ventilation ducts are clogged or the fan is faulty, cold air does not circulate through the chamber. The temperature sensor does not detect cooling and keeps the compressor on.
An even more serious problem is refrigerant (freon) leak. This seems illogical: why does the refrigerator run constantly when there is a shortage of freon? The answer is simple: due to a decrease in pressure in the system, the evaporator cannot reach the desired temperature. The sensor “awaits” cold, which is not there, and does not give a command to turn off. The compressor hums, trying to compensate for the lack of refrigerant, but no cold is added.
Signs of a freon leak:
- ❄️ The compressor works without stopping, but the temperature in the chambers is higher than normal.
- 🔥 The condenser (grid at the back) is only partially warm or completely cold.
- 🧊 Ice freezes in the freezer only at the tube entrance or in one corner.
- 🔊 The motor may run louder than usual or with a characteristic gurgling sound.
Diagnostics of a leak at home is difficult, as it requires special equipment to find the location of the depressurization of the circuit. If you suspect a leak, further operation of the equipment is pointless and dangerous for the compressor.
☑️ Checking the No Frost system
Wear of the compressor and problems with the starting relay
The most expensive malfunction is the wear of itself compressor. If the refrigerator is old, the piston group may have exhausted its service life. In this case, the compressor may hum, but not create enough pressure to circulate freon effectively. It runs idle, overheats and does not turn off.
Often, together with the compressor, it fails starting relay. This device is responsible for starting the engine. If the relay is faulty, it may not open the circuit of the starting winding, which is why the motor continues to work in a stronger mode, which quickly leads to its combustion. Replacing a relay is an inexpensive procedure and can often be solved with your own hands.
Table of main symptoms of malfunctions:
| Symptom | Probable cause | Complexity repair |
|---|---|---|
| The engine hums, but does not start | Faulty starting relay | Low |
| Works constantly, there is no cold | Freon leakage | High |
| Does not turn off, the chamber is too cold | Thermostat is faulty | Medium |
| Humming, body gets hot, poor cooling | Compressor wear | High |
If the compressor is hot to the touch (temperature above 70-80 degrees), this is a sign of overload. In this case, you must immediately disconnect the device from the mains and allow it to cool before continuing the diagnostics.
The influence of external factors and operating errors
Before committing a breakdown, it is worth analyzing the operating conditions. Ambient temperature plays a key role. If the refrigerator Indesit stands next to the battery, stove or in direct sunlight, it will work almost without interruption, especially in the summer. The thermal valve simply does not have time to cool down.
How you load the products is also important. Loading large quantities of warm food or opening the door frequently forces the system to work to its limit. During the hot season, the intervals between compressor starts are naturally shortened.
Improper installation is another factor. If the refrigerator is located close to the wall, the rear grille (condenser) is not blown by air. Heat is not dissipated, efficiency drops, and the motor is forced to work longer to achieve the target temperature.
Recommended conditions for proper operation:
- 🌡️ Room temperature not higher than +30°C (for some models up to +32°C).
- 📏 Distance to the wall at the back - at least 5-7 cm for air circulation.
- ☀️ No direct sunlight or heating devices nearby.
- 🚪 Minimum door opening time when loading food.
Diagnostic algorithm and order action
If you are faced with the problem of constant work, do not panic. Follow the step-by-step plan to localize. First, rule out external factors and simple faults before disassembling complex components.
Start with a visual inspection and listening to the operation of the unit. Pay attention to the nature of the sound: a smooth hum or intermittent, with a metallic clang. Check the temperature of the condenser (grid at the back) - it should be hot evenly, at least 2/3 of the height.
If self-diagnosis does not produce results or you find signs of a freon leak, specialist intervention will be required. Repairing the refrigerant circulation system requires evacuation and charging, which cannot be done without professional equipment.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to solder the refrigerator tubes or open the circuit yourself. Freon can ignite upon contact with an open flame, and incorrect filling will permanently damage the compressor.
Remember that modern refrigerators Indesit equipped with complex electronics. Incorrect diagnosis can lead to replacement of serviceable parts. If you are not confident in your abilities after checking the seal and thermostat, contact the service.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long should an Indesit refrigerator operate normally?
In normal mode, the operating coefficient is about 30-40%. This means that out of one hour the compressor works for 20-25 minutes and rests for 35-40 minutes. In hot weather or when loading warm products, the operating time can increase to 60-70%, but periods of rest should still be present.
Why does the refrigerator hum, but does not freeze after defrosting?
If you defrosted the refrigerator for less than 8-10 hours and turned it on immediately, the oil in the compressor may not return to the crankcase, or there may be air left in the system. It is also possible that during defrosting you damaged the tubes or did not dry the chamber, and moisture entered the system. Let the equipment stand turned off for a few more hours.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it does not turn off?
For a short time - yes, if you are waiting for the technician. Long-term operation (a day or more) will lead to overheating of the compressor windings and its combustion. In this case, repairs will cost much more than timely elimination of the cause (for example, replacing the thermostat or finding a leak).
What does the flashing alarm indicator on Indesit mean?
A flashing indicator (often a red triangle or temperature symbol) signals that the temperature in the chamber has risen above the permissible level. If the compressor is constantly running, this confirms that the system is trying to cool the chamber, but is unable to cope due to a malfunction or leak.