Why a new refrigerator smells bad - and how to get rid of the smell forever

Have you just purchased a new refrigerator, unpacked it, turned it on - and instead of the expected freshness, you felt a persistent chemical or plastic smell? This is a common problem faced by owners of even premium models Liebherr, Samsung or Bosch. In 90% of cases, an unpleasant odor is not associated with defective equipment, but has a logical explanation.

In this article we will analyze in detail all possible reasons the occurrence of odor in a new refrigerator - from factory features to errors during the first start-up. You will learn how to distinguish a normal "smell of newness" from a signal of a malfunction, what materials manufacturers use, and why even environmentally friendly plastic can smell. And most importantly, get step-by-step instructions elimination of odor, tested in practice.

Spoiler: in most cases, the problem is solved in 1-2 days without calling a specialist. But there are nuances that are not written about in the instructions - we will discuss them.

1. Factory materials: why a new refrigerator smells like plastic or chemicals

The main reason for the unpleasant smell in a new refrigerator is the materials used in production. Even if the model is positioned as "eco", it is impossible to completely avoid this process. Here's what exactly can smell: emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from materials used in production. Even if the model is positioned as "eco", it is impossible to completely avoid this process. Here's what it might smell like:

• 🔹 Plastic parts of the inner chamber - shelves, drawers, door seals. Modern manufacturers use food-grade plastic (for example, ABS or polypropylene), but it can still emit an odor for the first 1-2 weeks.
• 🔹 Thermal insulating polyurethane foam - they fill the space between the walls refrigerator. This material smells especially strongly in the first days after unpacking.
• 🔹 Glue and sealantsused to assemble the case. Some brands (for example, Indesit or Atlant) save on environmentally friendly compounds, which enhances the smell.
• 🔹 Protective coatings on metal parts (for example, on a compressor or condenser). They prevent corrosion, but can give a specific “technical” aroma.

The intensity of the odor depends on brand and model. For example, refrigerators with the system undergo additional anti-odor treatment, so they smell less than budget ones. And models with the function Liebherr with the system BioFresh undergo additional anti-odor treatment, so they smell less than budget ones Biryusa or Pozytron. And models with the function No Frost may smell stronger due to the larger number of plastic air ducts.

It is important to understand that the smell of factory materials is not a defect, but the normal process of “weathering”. According to European standards (for example EN 71-9 for household appliances), a slight emission of VOCs is allowed in the first 30 days of operation. However, if the smell is sharp, pungent or does not go away for more than a month, this is a reason to check the refrigerator for defects.

2. Packaging and transportation: hidden sources of odor

Often, an unpleasant odor does not come from the refrigerator itself, but from the materials used during its delivery. Manufacturers and logistics companies save on packaging, so the box may contain:

• 📦 Foam insertsimpregnated with antistatic agents or preservatives. They may smell like a “garage” or diesel fuel.
• 🧴 Protective oils on metal parts (for example, on a compressor). They are applied to prevent corrosion during storage in a warehouse.
• 🚛 Transport filmwhich is used to wrap the refrigerator during transportation. Cheap film can emit the smell of plastic or even gasoline.
• 📄 Paper documentationprinted on low-quality paper with a high adhesive content. Sometimes it smells like printing ink.

Refrigerators that have been stored in a warehouse for a long time or transported in unsealed packaging smell especially strongly. For example, if the equipment was traveling in the same container with chemicals or building materials, it could have absorbed foreign odors.

To check whether the packaging is to blame, perform a simple test: open the refrigerator and sniff outer side of the door (where the transport film was). If the smell there is stronger than inside, the problem is in the packaging materials.

3. Mistakes during the first start: what you could have done wrong

Even if the refrigerator is perfectly packaged and made from environmentally friendly materials, an incorrect first start can cause an odor. Here are the most common errors:

Another typical mistake is use of aggressive detergents during the first wash. For example, if you wipe the shelves with bleach or ammonia, their smell can mix with the factory aroma of plastic and intensify it. For the first wash, only warm water with soda (1 tablespoon per 1 liter) or special products for refrigerators (for example, Topperr 3101).

Remove all shipping bolts and fastenings|

Wipe the internal surfaces with a soda solution|

Leave the doors open for 4-6 hours for ventilation|

Make sure that the refrigerator is level (check the level)|

Turn on empty for 12-24 hours before loading products -->

If you suspect that the smell appeared due to installation errors, check one more thing: If the refrigerator is located close to furniture or a wall, the air circulation around the compressor is disrupted. This leads to its overheating and the appearance of a burning smell. The optimal distance is distance to the wall. If the refrigerator is placed close to furniture or a wall, air circulation around the compressor is disrupted. This leads to overheating and a burning smell. Optimal distance - 5-10 cm co. on all sides.

4. How to distinguish a normal smell from a defect or malfunction

An unpleasant smell in a new refrigerator is not always a harmless phenomenon. In some cases, it signals an odor. data-i="135">or manufacturing defect or hidden malfunction. Here are alarming signs in which you should contact a service center:

• ⚠️ Smell of burning or burnt plastic - may indicate overheating of the compressor or a short circuit in the electrical wiring. Especially. it is dangerous if the smell appears 1-2 hours after switching on.
• ⚠️ Pungent chemical smell (acetone, solvent) - possible leak of refrigerant (freon) This is not only unpleasant, but also dangerous to health.
• ⚠️ The smell of rotten eggs or hydrogen sulfide —a sign of decomposition of thermal insulation material (polyurethane foam) due to a violation of production technology.
• ⚠️ Metallic smell —may indicate corrosion of internal parts (for example, the evaporator in systems No Frost).

If you smell one of these odors, freon leak is especially dangerous: at high concentrations it can cause dizziness and nausea. In modern refrigerators (for example, immediately unplug the refrigerator and do not turn it on until inspected by a specialist. Freon leakage is especially dangerous: at high concentrations it can cause dizziness and nausea. In modern refrigerators (for example, Samsung RB30A3200SA or LG GC-B247JLVN) use refrigerant R-600a (isobutane), which is flammable under certain conditions.

What to do if you suspect a freon leak?

1. Unplug the refrigerator.

2. Ventilate the room (freon is heavier than air and accumulates below).

3. Do not turn on the equipment until the technician arrives - repairing the refrigerant yourself is dangerous!

4. If the smell is very strong, leave the room and call the gas service. (telephone 104).

How to check whether it is defective? Turn on the refrigerator empty for 24 hours. If the smell not only does not disappear, but also intensifies, this is a reason for warranty repair. According to the Law on the Protection of Consumer Rights (Article 18), you can demand a replacement of the equipment or a refund if the defect appears within 14 days from the date of purchase.

5. Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the smell in a new refrigerator

If you are convinced that the smell is not due to a defect, you can start eliminating it Here proven algorithm, which works in 95% of cases:

1. VentilationLeave the refrigerator open for 12-24 hours in a well-ventilated room. To speed up the process, you can use a fan by directing it into the chamber.
2. Washing with soda solutionWipe all internal surfaces (shelves, drawers, seals) with a food solution. soda (2 tablespoons per 1 liter of warm water). Soda neutralizes chemical odors.
3. Use of natural absorbents. Place on shelves:
   • 🍋 lemon or orange (change every 6 hours)
   • ☕ Ground coffee in an open container
   • 🧂 Salt or sugar (they absorb moisture and odors)
   • 🌿 Bunches of fresh parsley or mint

Activated carbon. Place 10-15 pre-crushed activated carbon tablets in the refrigerator. Change every 2 days.

Special absorbers. Buy an odor absorber for refrigerators (for example, Zepter Bio Fresh or Air Wick). They work on the basis of zeolite or carbon filters.

Acetic. treatmentWipe all surfaces with a solution of vinegar (1:1 with water), then rinse with clean water.

If after these measures the smell remains, try ozonation. Ozone is effective against 99% of odors, including factory ones. You can use a household ozonizer (for example, AirComfort Clean O3-800) or take the refrigerator to a service center where they will carry out professional treatment. The cost of the service is from 1500 to 3000 rubles, depending on the price. region.

For models with the system No Frost (for example, Samsung RB37J5240SA or LG GA-B489YGQL) there is an additional life hack: turn on the function Vacation Mode (if available) for 24 hours. In this mode, the refrigerator operates at minimum power, but actively ventilates the chambers, which speeds up the dissipation of odors.

6. How long does it take for the smell to disappear on its own?

The timing of “weathering” depends on several factors:

• 📅 Brand and model. Premium class refrigerators (for example Liebherr CNef 4815) undergo additional anti-odor treatment, so budget models “smell” for 3-5 days. (for example, Atlant MHM 1842-100) can emit an odor for up to 2-3 weeks.
• 🌡️ Room temperatureIn hot weather (above 25°C), VOCs evaporate faster, but the smell. may seem stronger. At 18-22°C the process is optimal.
• 💨 Ventilation. In a well-ventilated room, the smell disappears 2 times faster.
• 🔄 Intensity of useIf the refrigerator is often opened, the smell disappears. faster due to air circulation.

Here are the approximate dates for different types of odors:

If the smell does not disappear after 30 days, this is a reason to suspect a hidden defect. Contact the service center with a request to carry out diagnostics. By law, the refrigerator is guaranteed. is from 1 to 3 years (depending on the brand), so repairs should be free.

7. Prevention: how to prevent odor in the future

To ensure that your new refrigerator enjoys freshness and not unpleasant odors, follow these rules:

1. Proper unpackingRemove all packaging materials, stickers and protective films. before the first turn on. Wipe the internal surfaces with a dry cloth.
2. First use. Turn on the refrigerator empty for 12-24 hours so that it “ventilates” and reaches the desired temperature.
3. Humidity control. Use desiccant (for example, Silica Gel) or regularly wipe the seals to avoid mold.
4. Regular cleaningWash the refrigerator at least once a month with soda. solution, even if there is no visible contamination.
5. Proper storage of products. Seal products with a strong odor (fish, cheese, onions). Use containers with activated carbon.
6. Checking the seals. months, inspect the rubber seals for cracks or mold. If necessary, treat them with vinegar.

For models with the system No Frost be sure to clean ventilation holes from dust. the appearance of a burning smell. In refrigerators Samsung i LG for this purpose, removable grilles are provided, which can be easily washed under running water.

If you buy a refrigerator "from hand" or transport it yourselfbe sure to:

• 🚚 Transport it only in an upright position. position (slope no more than 40°).
• 🕒 Let the refrigerator sit for 4-6 hours after transportation before turning it on.
• 🔌 Check the voltage in the network - surges can damage the compressor and cause a burning smell.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the smell in a new refrigerator

Is it possible to immediately load food into a new refrigerator if it smells?

No, you should not do this. Even if the smell seems mild, it can be absorbed into the food, especially milk, butter or bread. It is optimal to wait 12-24 hours, after washing the refrigerator with soda and airing it.

Do refrigerator scents (like lemon or vanilla) help?

Flavors only mask the smell, but do not eliminate its cause. Moreover, they can mix with factory VOCs and create an even more unpleasant “cocktail”. It is better to use absorbents (charcoal, soda, zeolite). data-i="263">What to do if the smell appears a week after purchase?

What should I do if the smell appears a week after purchase?

Most likely, the problem is not in the factory materials, but in improper useCheck:

• Do not store unpackaged foods in the refrigerator (especially fish, onions, spices).
• Do not place hot dishes - this provokes the formation of condensation and odors.
• Check that the drainage hole (at the bottom of the back wall) is not clogged.

If the smell is chemical, it may be a freon leak. Unplug the refrigerator immediately and call a technician.

Can the smell in the refrigerator be hazardous to health?

In most cases, the smell of a new refrigerator is not harmful, but there are exceptions:

• 🚨 A sharp chemical smell (acetone, solvent) may indicate a high concentration of VOCs that cause headaches or allergies.
• 🔥 The smell of burning signals that the compressor is overheating - this is a fire hazard.
• ☠️ The smell of rotten eggs (hydrogen sulfide) can be toxic at high concentrations.

If you feel discomfort (dizziness, nausea), ventilate the room and turn off the refrigerator.

How to remove the smell of plastic if the refrigerator is already loaded with food?

In this case, proceed carefully:

1. Take out all the products and pack them tightly (use zip bags or containers).
2. Wash the shelves and drawers with a vinegar solution (1:1), then wipe dry.
3. Place open containers with soda or soda in the corners of the refrigerator charcoal.
4. Leave the refrigerator open for 2-3 hours (place the food in a cooler bag during this time).

Repeat the procedure 2-3 times if the smell does not disappear.