How to adjust the temperature in an old Indesit refrigerator: step-by-step guide

Old refrigerators Indesit are real long-livers in the kitchen. Many models released 10-15 years ago still work well, but their temperature control systems often raise questions. If your Indesit refrigerator freezes too much, does not cool enough or behaves unpredictably, the problem most often lies in incorrect thermostat settings or features of a particular model.

Unlike modern “smart” refrigerators with digital displays, old ones Indesit (series C138, B16, T118 and others) were equipped with mechanical regulators - rotary knobs or sliders with a conventional scale from 1 to 5 (less often up to 7). Understanding their work is not as difficult as it seems, but there are nuances: for example, in models produced before 2010, the thermostat scale is often inverted - the higher the number, the warmer it is in the chamber. This feature causes half of the errors during setup.

In this article we will look in detail at:

• 🔍 How the temperature control system works in the old ones Indesit and how it differs from modern models
• ❄️ Optimal temperature conditions for the refrigerator and freezer compartments (taking into account the age of the equipment)
• ⚙️ Step-by-step instructions for setting the thermostat for different series of refrigerators
• ⚠️ Typical mistakes that lead to food overfreezing or insufficient cooling

1. Features of thermostats in old Indesit refrigerators

In models Indesit, released before 2012, two types of thermostats were used:

• 🔄 Mechanical (series K57, K59) - with a rotary handle and a capillary tube that responds to temperature evaporator.
• 📶 Electromechanical (series T118, B16) - combined devices with a sensor and relay that could be calibrated.

The main difference from modern refrigerators — lack of accurate digital indication. The scale on the handle (usually from 1 to 5) does not indicate degrees, but compressor operating intensity. For example:

• 🔹 1 - minimal cooling (the compressor turns on rarely, suitable for winter or cool rooms).
• 🔹 3 - medium mode (recommended for most conditions).
• 🔹 5 —maximum cooling (only needed in hot weather or when loading a large amount of warm food).

⚠️ Attention: In models Indesit C138NF and Indesit B16FN thermostat scale reverse —position "5" corresponds to the highest temperature in the chamber, and “1” is the lowest. This is often confusing when setting up for the first time.

Another feature of the old Indesit — dependence on the ambient temperatures. If the refrigerator is located next to the stove or on the sunny side, the compressor will run longer, even if the regulator is set to "2". In such cases, it is better to select position "3" and monitor the formation of ice in the freezer.

2. Optimal temperature conditions for the old Indesit

Standard temperature values in the refrigerator do not depend on its age, but older models Indesit have less power reserve, so it is important to adhere to the optimal ranges:

In old ones Indesit it is difficult to achieve exact compliance with these values due to:

• 🧊 Uneven distribution of cold (in the upper part of the chamber it is always warmer than at the bottom).
• 🔄 Wear of the door sealwhich leads to cold loss.
• ❄️ Evaporator freezing (requires regular defrosting, otherwise the temperature will “float”).

To check the real temperature, put an outdoor thermometer in a glass of water and leave it on the middle shelf of the refrigerator for 12 hours. If the readings go beyond +3...+5°C, the regulator needs to be adjusted.

3. Step-by-step instructions: how to set the temperature

The setting algorithm depends on the type of thermostat. Let's consider the most common option - a mechanical handle with a scale of 1-5.

Make sure that the refrigerator is not overloaded with food|

Check the tightness of the door (if there are any cracks)|

Turn off the "Super Freeze" mode (if yes)|

Wait until the compressor completes the current cycle (do not adjust during operation)-->

Step 1. Determine the current mode.

• 🔍 Look at what division the knob is on. If you don’t remember the last time you touched it, set it to “3” (middle position).
• 📝 Write down the original position - this will help you return the settings if something goes wrong.

Step 2. Adjusting the temperature.

• 🔹 If in the refrigerator too warm (food spoils, condensation on the walls): turn the knob one division clockwise (toward increasing numbers).
• 🔹 If refrigerator too cold (food freezes, there is ice on the back wall): turn the knob one notch counterclockwise.

Step 3. Checking the result.

• ⏳ Wait 6-8 hours (full cooling cycle time).
• 🌡️ Measure the temperature with a thermometer (as described above).
• 🔄 If necessary, repeat the adjustment, but do not change the position of the knob more than 1 division at a time.

For models with separate regulators (for example, Indesit T118):

• 🔧 Upper handle - refrigerator compartment.
• ❄️ Lower handle - freezer chamber.
• 🔄 Carry out the settings separately for each chamber, starting with the refrigerator.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Indesit with a system No Frost (even in older models), after changing the settings, forced defrosting may work. Don’t be alarmed - this is normal if it lasts no more than 30 minutes.

4. Frequent errors when adjusting the temperature

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to the refrigerator not working properly. Here are the most common ones:

• 🔥 Setting the maximum mode ("5") in hot weatherThis leads to non-stop operation of the compressor, overheating. risk of breakage. It is better to select "4" and provide ventilation to the rear wall.
• ❄️ Ignoring evaporator freezing. Ice on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment is a signal that the thermostat is set too “cold” or defrosting is required.
• 🔄 Frequent changes in the position of the knob. The compressor needs time to stabilize the temperature. If you turn the knob every 2 hours, the system will not have time to reach the mode.
• 🚪 Setting the temperature with the door open. This confuses the sensors and leads to false readings.

Another typical problem is mismatch between the modes in the refrigerator and freezer compartments. For example, if the freezer is -24°C, and the refrigerator is +8°C, this is a sign:

• 🔌 Thermostat malfunction (replacement required).
• 🔄 Incorrect distribution refrigerant (in two-compressor models).
• 🧊 Clogged capillary tube (needs repair).

If after all manipulations with the regulator the temperature does not stabilize, check:

• 🔌 The tightness of the door closure (the seal may be interfering or skewed loop).
• 🔊 Fan operation (in models with No Frost its failure leads to uneven cooling).
• ❄️ Condition of the evaporator (a thick layer of ice blocks heat exchange).

What what to do if the thermostat knob does not turn?

If the knob is jammed, do not apply force - this may break the mechanism. First try:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains for 10 minutes (sometimes it helps to reset a jammed thermostat).

2. Gently move the handle left and right without pressing hard.

3. Check if something inside is interfering (for example, a broken thermostat spring).

If all else fails, the thermostat will need to be replaced. In models Indesit this is an inexpensive part (from 800 rubles), but to replace it it is better to call a specialist - soldering work with refrigerant pipes is required.

5. How to extend the life of an old Indesit refrigerator

Correct temperature settings are only part of the care. To ensure that the refrigerator lasts for several more years, follow these tips:

• 🧹 Defrosting: even if the model is with No Frost, turn off the refrigerator once a year and wash it. Manually remove ice from the evaporator (if any).
• 🔧 Cleaning the condenser: dust on the rear grille impairs heat transfer. Vacuum it or wash it carefully with a brush.
• 🚪 Door seal: wipe it with a weak solution of soda and check the tightness of the seal (the sheet of paper should not fall out when the door is closed).
• 📦 Distribution of food: do not put warm foods in the refrigerator and do not stuff it to capacity - this interferes with air circulation.

Pay special attention to the compressor:

• 🔊 If it began to hum loudly or work without stopping, check:
  • 🔌 Mains voltage (low voltage causes the compressor to wear out).
  • 🌡️ Room temperature (if above +30°C, the refrigerator may not cope).
  • 🧊 Refrigerant condition (leak requires refilling).

If your Indesit was produced before 2010, pay attention to oil in the compressor. Over time, it loses its properties, which leads to increased wear. Signs of a problem:

• 🔊 The compressor has become louder, a metallic knock has appeared.
• 🔥 The compressor housing gets very hot (above 70°C).
• ❄️ The refrigerator does not freeze well, despite the correct settings.

In this case, only replacing the compressor or major repairs will help.

6. When adjustment does not help: signs of failure

If, after all the manipulations with the thermostat, the temperature in the refrigerator does not stabilize, there may be a malfunction. Let's look at typical symptoms and their causes:

Some breakdowns can be diagnosed yourself:

• 🔧 Thermostat: turn off the refrigerator, remove the thermostat cover and check the contacts with a multimeter. At room temperature they should be closed.
• 🔌 Start relay: if the compressor hums but does not start, knock on the relay (sometimes it helps). If it doesn’t work, a replacement is needed.
• 🧲 Door switch: in models with backlight, check whether the light goes out when the door is closed. If not, replace the switch.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Indesit was manufactured before 2005, it may use refrigerant R12, which is prohibited for use in new ones models. If there is a leak, you cannot simply refill it - you will need to replace the compressor and switch to a modern refrigerant (R134a or R600a).

For an accurate diagnosis, it is better to call a specialist, but if you decide to repair it yourself, follow the safety rules:

• ⚡ Unplug the refrigerator before any work.
• 🔧 Do not try to solder pipes without experience - the refrigerant is under pressure!
• 📞 To replace a compressor or thermostat, look for parts with original part numbers (for example, for Indesit C138 a thermostat is suitable 25003900).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about adjusting the temperature in Indesit

🔹 Why does ice form on the back wall of the Indesit refrigerator, even if the thermostat is set to "2"?

This is a typical problem for models with a drip defrosting system (for example, Indesit B16 or C138). Reasons:

• 🔍 The drainage hole is clogged (water does not drain, it freezes).
• 🚪 Frequent opening of the door or loose closing.
• 🌡️ The temperature in the chamber is too low (set the regulator to "3").

Solution: defrost the refrigerator for 12 hours, clean the drainage (you can use a cotton swab) and check the seal.

🔹 Is it possible to use an old Indesit refrigerator on the balcony in winter?

No, if the temperature on the balcony drops below +10°C In frost:

• 🧊 The oil in the compressor thickens, which leads to its breakdown.
• 🔌 The thermostat may not work (designed for positive temperatures).
• 💧 The seal loses elasticity and cracks.

If the balcony is insulated and the temperature does not drop below +5°C, you can operate the refrigerator, but:

• 🔧 Set the regulator to "1" or "2".
• 🔌 Use a voltage stabilizer (in winter there are frequent power surges).

🔹 How to check if the thermostat in the refrigerator is working Indesit?

Simple test without tools:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove all food from the refrigerator compartment.
3. Turn the thermostat knob to maximum ("5").
4. Turn on the refrigerator and listen:
• 🔊 If the compressor starts and runs non-stop, the thermostat is faulty (does not open the contacts).
• 🔇 If the compressor does not turn on, the problem may be in the thermostat, relay or compressor.

For an accurate check, you need to check the contacts with a multimeter.

🔹 Why does the freezer work, but the refrigerator does not?

In single-compressor models Indesit (for example, T118) this sign:

• 🔧 Breakdown magnetic valvethat switches cooling between chambers.
• 🧊 Blockage in capillary system refrigerator cameras.
• 🔌 Malfunctions fan (in models with No Frost).

You can check it yourself:

• 🔊 Fan operation (it should start when the door is open).
• 🧲 Valve (put your hand on the tubes - if one is icy and the other is warm, the valve does not switch).

In most cases, you will need to replace the valve or clean the system.

🔹 How much electricity does an old Indesit refrigerator consume?

Depends on the model and condition of the equipment. Approximate consumption:

• 🔌 Models before 2005 (for example, Indesit C138): 1.5-2 kW/day (energy consumption class D-E).
• 🔌 Models from 2005-2012 (for example, Indesit B16): 1-1.5 kW/day (class C).

For comparison: a modern class refrigerator A++ consumes 0.5-0.8 kW/day.

How to reduce consumption:

• 🌡️ Set the regulator to "2" or "3".
• 🧹 Defrost and clean the condenser regularly.
• 🔌 Use a voltage stabilizer (surges make the compressor work longer).