When choosing household appliances for the kitchen or when trying to independently diagnose a malfunction, the first question that owners have is the configuration of the cooling system. The question of how many compressors are in an Ariston refrigerator does not have a universal answer, since the Italian brand, now part of the Indesit Company concern, produced a wide range of models with different cooling architectures.
Most of the classic models released in the 90s and early 2000s used a c one compressorcircuit, which ensured the operation of both chambers through the distribution system refrigerant. However, more expensive and modern modifications, especially those equipped with a No Frost or Full No Frost system, were often equipped with two separate motors for independent temperature control in the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
Understanding what type of engine is installed in your unit is critical for correct diagnosis of breakdowns and selection of spare parts. If you hear a strange hum or notice that the equipment has stopped freezing, knowing the number of motors will help you quickly navigate the situation before the technician arrives.
Cooling architecture: one or two motors
The technical solution for the number of compressors directly depends on the series of the refrigerator and the year of its manufacture. In older models, such as Ariston RM 115 or Ariston RM 120, engineers used the classic single-circuit system. In this case, one powerful compressor, most often brand Danfoss or Secop, pumps the refrigerant, which sequentially passes through the evaporator of the freezer and then the refrigerator.
The advantage of this scheme is lower energy consumption per unit and lower noise level emitted by one operating unit. However, this design also has a significant drawback: the impossibility of independent temperature control. If you defrost the freezer, you will have to turn off the entire refrigerator, which can lead to spoilage of food in the main chamber.
Two-compressor models, often designated in catalogs as systems Dual Cooling or having separate temperature controllers for each chamber, do not have this drawback. In such refrigerators, for example, in the series Ariston MB 18 or more modern Hotpoint-Ariston labeled FF, each chamber is responsible for its own independent circuit.
This allows:
- 🚀 Independently defrost the freezer compartment, leaving the refrigeration compartment is turned on.
- 🌡️ It is more accurate to maintain the temperature in each compartment without mutual influence.
- ⚡ It is faster to gain cold after loading a large amount of warm products.
- 🔇 Work more quietly in standby mode, since the motors turn on one by one, rather than simultaneously.
⚠️ Attention: You can visually determine the number of compressors by looking at the back wall of a working refrigerator. If you hear a humming noise coming from only one point below, there is most likely only one motor. If sounds come from different corners or operate alternately at different frequencies, the system is double-circuit.
Technical characteristics of Ariston compressors
Compressors installed on refrigerators Aristonare famous for their reliability and maintainability. In most cases, the manufacturer used sealed piston units that do not require maintenance throughout their entire service life. The most common models were from the Danish company Danfoss (now Secop), which are considered the standard of reliability in the budget and mid-range segment.
Engine power directly correlates with the volume of the chambers. For models up to 250 liters, compressors of about 1/5 or 1/4 horsepower were typically used. Larger two-chamber refrigerators required the installation of more efficient motors capable of circulating freon along an elongated circuit.
The table below shows a comparison of the main characteristics of compressors found in various models of the brand:
| Model type | Number of compressors | Refrigerant type | Operating features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single chamber (RM series) | 1 | R12, R134a | Continuous cycle or start-stop |
| Double chamber (old) | 1 | R134a | Single flow switching valve |
| Double-chamber (No Frost) | 2 | R134a, R600a | Independent cooling circuits |
| Side-by-Side | 2 | R134a | High performance |
It is important to note that modern analogues produced under the brand Hotpoint-Aristonoften switch to using inverter compressors. Such engines do not have a rigid on-off cycle, but smoothly regulate power, which significantly extends the service life of the equipment.
How to determine the number of compressors by external signs
If the technical data sheet is lost and the markings on the nameplate are erased, you can determine the number of motors empirically. The easiest way is to visually inspect the back wall. On single compressor models, you will see one black "reservoir" (motor casing) and one condenser (grid or coil). In dual-compressor models, you can often (but not always) notice two motors located next to each other or in different corners of the niche.
The second sign is the presence of two independent temperature controllers inside the refrigeration chamber. If you have a separate handle or electronic control for the freezer and refrigerator, this is 90% likely to indicate the presence of two compressors or a complex system of solenoid valves, characteristic of dual-circuit systems.
Also pay attention to the noise when starting. Single-motor systems produce one powerful burst of sound when turned on. Double-engine engines can hum with different tones, since the motors can have different power and vibration characteristics.
For accurate diagnostics, technicians often use the following methods:
- 🔍 Inspecting the electrical circuit located on the start relay cover.
- 🔊 Listening to the operation of the unit in silence.
- ❄️ Checking the cooling speed of the chambers when switched on separately.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to remove the back panel or compressor casing while the refrigerator is plugged in! This may result in electric shock. Carry out all manipulations only after disconnecting the device from the power supply.
Advantages and disadvantages of systems with one and two motors
The choice between models with different numbers of compressors is always a compromise between cost, maintainability and ease of use. Let's look at the pros and cons of each configuration in more detail so that you understand what kind of equipment you are dealing with.
Single-compressor refrigerators Ariston cheaper to produce and purchase. Repairing such a unit is usually cheaper, since only one unit is replaced. However, if a single compressor fails, you are left without cold in all chambers. In addition, such systems are sensitive to temperature imbalances: if the freezer is too cold, the refrigerator compartment may not be cool enough, and vice versa.
Two-compressor systems provide ideal storage conditions. Products in the refrigerator compartment are less weathered, since air flows do not mix with dry air from the freezer. This is especially important for storing vegetables and fruits. However, the cost of such refrigerators is higher, and if one of the motors breaks down, replacement can cost a significant amount.
From an energy efficiency point of view, one powerful compressor can be more economical than two small ones, but only with proper configuration. Two compressors consume more electricity at peak times, but due to precise temperature maintenance and the absence of “idling” operation they can achieve similar performance in the long term.
☑️ Diagnostics of the compressor operation
Typical faults and diagnostics
Regardless of how many compressors are installed in your Ariston refrigerator, they are susceptible to similar types of malfunctions. The most common problem is failure of the start relay. This is a small part that provides an impulse to start the engine. If the refrigerator hums but does not start, or clicks and goes silent, most likely the problem is in the relay.
Another common problem is a refrigerant leak. In this case, the compressor may run continuously, trying to gain temperature, but there will be no cold. An ice “coat” may form on the rear wall in the area of the motor. In two-compressor models, leakage often occurs in hidden foamed parts of the housing, which makes repairs economically impractical.
Signs of a compressor malfunction:
- 🔥 Strong heating of the motor housing (impossible to touch with your hand).
- 🔊 The appearance of knocking sounds, clanging or metallic ringing during operation.
- 💡 Frequent switching on and off (clocking).
- 🧊 Lack of cooling when the motor is running.
It is important to understand that modern compressors, especially inverter ones, are practically beyond repair. They are replaced entirely along with the starting equipment. Older models Danfoss sometimes it is possible to rebuild them by replacing the valve group, but this requires a highly qualified technician.
⚠️ Attention: If you smell burning or see sparking in the compressor area, immediately unplug the refrigerator! Operation of a faulty unit can lead to a short circuit and fire.
Is it possible to replace one compressor with another?
Theoretically it is possible, but strict adherence to power, refrigerant and dimensions is necessary. Installing a more powerful motor will lead to freezing of the evaporator, and a less powerful one will lead to overload and combustion.
The cost of replacement and the feasibility of repairs
The issue of repairing a refrigerator Ariston often depends on the economy. Replacing a compressor is an expensive procedure, including the cost of the unit itself, refrigerant, soldering and vacuuming of the system. On average, replacing one compressor can range from 30% to 60% of the cost of a new refrigerator of the same class.
If one of the two compressors in a dual-circuit system fails, sometimes it makes sense to replace only that one, keeping the second one if it is working. However, if the refrigerator is more than 10-12 years old, the life of the second motor is also coming to an end, and there is a high risk that you will soon have to pay for repairs again.
It is advisable to repair the equipment in the following cases:
- 🛠️ The refrigerator belongs to a premium series or has a unique design.
- 📅 The age of the equipment does not exceed 5-7 years.
- 🔧 The malfunction is localized (for example, the relay has burned out, but the motor itself is intact).
In cases where it is necessary to replace both compressors or repair the housing after a leak, it is often more profitable to consider purchasing a new model. Modern refrigerators have significantly better energy efficiency of class A+, which will allow you to save on electricity.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to install a second compressor on a single-circuit Ariston refrigerator?
Theoretically this is possible, but in practice it is extremely difficult and expensive. It will be necessary to completely redo the tube system, install a second evaporator, change the electrical circuit and housing. The cost of such an upgrade will exceed the price of a new two-compressor refrigerator.
Why does my Ariston refrigerator with one compressor work without interruption?
Continuous operation can be caused by a freon leak, a malfunction of the thermostat, a loose door, or contamination of the condenser at the back. This is also possible if you have just loaded a large amount of warm food.
What is the service life of the compressor in Ariston refrigerators?
The average service life of compressors installed in Ariston equipment is from 10 to 15 years, subject to operating conditions. Models with inverter control can operate for up to 20 years or more.
Does a two-compressor refrigerator hum louder than a single-circuit one?
Not necessarily. Although there are two motors, they work independently and often have less individual power, so the overall noise level may be even lower than that of one powerful motor operating at its maximum.