The amount of freon in the refrigerator Stinol: table by model and instructions for checking

Refrigerators Stinol are one of the most common in the post-Soviet space, but even such reliable units have problems with cooling over time. Most often, the reason lies in a leak of freon, a refrigerant that circulates through the system and ensures a low temperature. If your cold temperature has become worse, an uncharacteristic noise has appeared, or the compressor is running non-stop, the first thing you should do is check the amount of freon. But how much should there be in a particular model? Stinol The freezing temperature has become worse, an uncharacteristic noise has appeared, or the compressor is running non-stop, the first thing you should do is check the amount of freon. But how much should there be in a particular model?

In this article you will find accurate data on refilling freon for popular series of refrigerators Stinol (STC, STN, ST, RF), you will learn how to independently determine lack of refrigerant and what to do if its level is critically low. We will also figure out what types of freon are used in different modifications and whether it is possible to replace one type with another without risk to equipment.

Important: information on the amount of freon is relevant for models released before 2026. New refrigerators Stinol (if production resumes) may use other refrigerants - check the data for a specific model in the passport or with service centers.

1. What freon is used in Stinol refrigerators?

Most refrigerators Stinol were produced with two types of refrigerant:

• 🔹 R12 is an outdated freon that was used in models before the 2000s. Today its production is prohibited due to harm to the ozone layer, but it is still found in old units.
• 🔹 R134a is a modern analogue, environmentally friendly. Used in refrigerators Stinol from 2000 to the present.
• 🔹 R600a (isobutane) is a natural refrigerant, which began to be used in the latest series (for example, Stinol STN 165). It is more efficient, but requires caution when refilling due to a fire hazard.

You can determine the type of freon in your refrigerator by nameplate on the compressor (usually it is located at the back, at the bottom). The brand of refrigerant and its quantity in grams are indicated there. If the nameplate is erased or missing, focus on the year of manufacture:

How to find a nameplate with freon data?

Usually a metal plate with information about the refrigerant is attached to the compressor or on the inside of the back wall of the refrigerator. If it is not there, check:

- Device passport (section "Technical Specifications").

- Sticker on the back of the case (may contain the model code and freon type).

- Data on the manufacturer's website (for models before 2010, information may be missing).

Attention! Freon R12 and R134a cannot be mixed - this will lead to compressor failure. If you are not sure about the type of refrigerant, contact a specialist for diagnosis.

2. Table: amount of freon in Stinol refrigerators by model

Below is a summary table with data on freon filling for popular series Stinol. Values are indicated in grams and may vary slightly depending on the modification.

If your model is not in the table, focus on volume of the fridge compartment:

• 📏 Up to 150 l - 80–120 g of freon.
• 📏 150–250 l — 120–180 g.
• 📏 Over 250 l — 180–250 g.

3. How to check the freon level in the refrigerator?

The lack of freon can be determined by indirect signs and direct methods. If you are not a specialist, start with visual diagnostics:

⚠️ Attention! Checking the freon level using a pressure gauge requires experience. Incorrect connection to the system can lead to a leak of all refrigerant or breakdown of the compressor.

Indirect signs of a freon leak:

• ❄️ The refrigerator does not cool or freezes poorly (the temperature in the chambers is higher norms).
• ⏳ The compressor runs without stopping or turns on too often.
• 🔊 A hissing sound has appeared (characteristic of a leak in the tubes).
• 💧 Condensation on the back wall or under the refrigerator (if this is not related to defrosting).
• 🔥 The compressor housing gets very hot (hotter than usual).

Direct check methods:

1. Connecting a pressure gauge to the service port (requires special equipment).
2. Checking the pressure in the system (the norm for R134a: 0–0.5 bar at rest, 4–6 bar during operation).
3. Use a leak detector (electronic or ultrasonic).

4. Is it possible to refill freon yourself?

Theoretically, you can refill freon in the refrigerator with your own hands, but in practice it requires Stinol you can do it yourself, but in practice it requires special equipment knowledge. Here's what you'll need:

• 🔧 Refilling kit (gauge manifold, hoses, adapters).
• 🧊 Freon cylinder of the required type (for example, R134a for most models).
• 🔍 Leak detector (to find a leak).
• 🛠 Soldering iron and solder (if you need to solder the tube).

Step-by-step instructions (for experienced users):

If the pressure in the system is below normal, refill:

1. Connect the freon cylinder to manifold.
2. Open the cylinder valve and slowly pump in the refrigerant, monitoring the pressure using the pressure gauge.
3. After filling, check the operation of the refrigerator (the compressor should turn on and cooling should begin).

⚠️ Attention! Freon R600a (isobutane) is explosive! Refilling with such refrigerant should only be carried out by a specialist in a well-ventilated area.

5. What to do if the freon has leaked out completely?

If there is no freon left in the system at all, simple refilling will not help. In this case, it is necessary:

1. Find the leak location (most often this is:
   • 🔧 Soldered seams of the tubes.
   • 🔄 Compressor connections.
   • 🧊 Evaporator (if there is corrosion).

Eliminate leak (solder, replace damaged tube).

Vacuum the system (remove air and moisture using a vacuum pump).

Fill with freon in the required quantity (see table above).

Without vacuuming, the system will work ineffectively, and The compressor will quickly fail. If you do not have a vacuum pump, contact a service center.

6. How much does it cost to refill freon in a Stinol refrigerator?

The cost of refilling depends on the type of freon, the amount of work and the region. In 2026, the average prices are as follows:

• 💰 Leak diagnostics - 500–1000 rubles.
• 💰 Refueling R134a — 1500–2500 rubles. (including work).
• 💰 Refueling R600a — 2000–3500 rub. (due to increased danger).
• 💰 Leak repair + refilling - 3000–6000 rubles.

If the compressor or capillary tube needs to be replaced, the price will increase to 8000–12000 rubles. In some cases, it is cheaper to buy a new refrigerator, especially if the model is outdated (for example, Stinol 101 with freon R12).

You can save if:

• 🔧 Find the leak yourself (using a soap solution or leak detector).
• 🛒 Buy freon and a pressure gauge yourself (but without experience, the risk of error is high).
• 📞 Call a technician at home (cheaper than taking the refrigerator to a service station).

7. Frequently asked questions about freon in Stinol refrigerators

❓ Is it possible to replace R12 with R134a in an old Stinol refrigerator?

Theoretically, yes, but for this you need:

1. Rinse the system from residual oil (different types are used for R12 and R134a).
2. Replace filter drier.
3. Refill 10–15% less than R134athan R12 was (due to different densities).

Without flushing, the compressor may fail after a few months.

❓ How often should you check the freon level?

Under normal conditions, freon does not evaporate. You need to check its level only if there are signs of a leak (see section 3), if the refrigerator is operating stably, it is enough to inspect the back wall for oil stains (a sign of microcracks) once every 1–2 years.

❓ What happens if you refill freon?

Excess freon is as harmful as its lack. Consequences:

• 🔥 Overheating of the compressor (may burn out).
• ❄️ Freezing capillary tube (the refrigerator will freeze slightly).
• 💥 Increasing pressure in the system (risk of pipe rupture).

If after refueling the refrigerator does not work correctly, you need to bleed off the excess freon.

❓ Where to buy freon for the Stinol refrigerator?

Freon is sold in:

• 🏬 Freon and HVAC stores (for example, Holod-Service, Freon-Shop).
• 🛒 Online platforms (Avito, Yula, specialized sites).
• 🔧 Service centers (sometimes they sell small cylinders).

The cost of a cylinder R134a (13.6 kg) is about 3000–4000 rubles. For a one-time refill, you can buy a small cylinder (300–500 g) for 500–800 rub.

❓ Is it possible to use automotive freon for a refrigerator?

No! Automotive freon (for example R134a for air conditioners) contains additives that are incompatible with refrigeration systems. In addition, car cylinders use a different oil. Refilling with such freon will lead to compressor failure.