Thermostat TAM 133: which refrigerators are suitable for and how to replace it

Thermostat TAM 133 is one of the most common thermostats for household refrigerators, produced under the brands Danfoss, Ranco and their analogues. This mechanical device is responsible for maintaining the set temperature in the chamber by turning the compressor on and off based on a signal from the sensor. Despite the simple design, wrong choice of thermostat can lead to unstable operation of the refrigerator, freezing of food, or, conversely, insufficient cooling.

In this article we will look at for which brands and models of refrigerators it is intended TAM 133 (and its analogues K59-L1333, Ranco K59), how to distinguish it from other thermostats of the series TAM, and we will also give step-by-step instructions for diagnostics and replacement. We will pay special attention to compatibility with Soviet-made refrigerators (for example, "Minsk", "ZIL", "Oka") and modern budget modelswhere this thermostat is still actively used.

1. Technical characteristics of the thermostat TAM 133

Thermostat TAM 133 refers to mechanical temperature regulators with capillary tube (bellows) filled with refrigerant. Its key parameters:

• 🔹 Temperature adjustment range: from -24°C to +8°C (depending on modification).
• 🔹 Contact type: normally closed (NC) - open when the set temperature is reached.
• 🔹 Voltage: 220–240 V, 50 Hz (suitable for household networks).
• 🔹 Length of the capillary tube: standard - 1.6–2.5 m (may vary among analogues).
• 🔹 Mounting: on screws or latches (depending on the refrigerator model).

Important: TAM 133 often confused with other thermostats of the TAMseries, for example, TAM 125 or TAM 134. The main difference is temperature range and length capillary. For example, TAM 125 designed for lower temperatures (up to -32°C) and used in freezers, and TAM 133 optimized for the main compartments of refrigerators.

2. Compatibility of TAM 133 with refrigerators: table of models

Thermostat TAM 133 was installed on refrigerators Soviet and post-Soviet production, as well as on some budget models of foreign brands. Below is a table of compatibility with the most common brands:

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator was released after 2010, the likelihood of having TAM 133 extremely small - modern models are equipped with electronic thermostats or digitally controlled sensors. Always check with passport data or the markings on the old thermostat!

3. Signs of a malfunctioning thermostat TAM 133

A ​​faulty thermostat manifests itself chaotic behavior of the refrigerator. Here are the key symptoms indicating a breakdown TAM 133:

• ❄️ Continuous operation of the compressor: the motor does not turn off, a “snow coat” forms in the chamber, the food freezes.
• 🔥 Lack of cooling: the compressor does not turn on, the temperature in the chamber rises (even if the thermostat is set to maximum).
• 🔄 Cyclic clicks: frequent clicks of the relay are heard, but the compressor does not start or operates jerkily.
• 🌡️ Temperature discrepancy: for example, when installed on +5°C the chamber holds 0°C or +10°C.

🔧 How to check the thermostat with a multimeter?

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and remove the thermostat (disconnect the capillary and wires).
2. Switch the multimeter to the mode diagnosis (or resistance measurement).
3. At room temperature (~20°C) contacts 3 and 4 (on the thermostat diagram) should be closed (resistance 0 Ohm).
4. Immerse the capillary in cold water (~0°C) - the contacts should open (resistance ∞).

If the contacts do not open/close when changing temperature - the thermostat is faulty. Also check integrity of the capillary tube: kinks or cracks lead to gas leaks and loss of performance.

What to do if the thermostat works, but the refrigerator does not cool?

If the thermostat is working, but the compressor does not start, check:

1. Start-protection relay (a common cause of breakdowns in old refrigerators).

2. Windings compressor (check with a multimeter for an open or short circuit).

3. Freon leak (signs: the compressor works, but does not cool, the condenser is cold).

4. Step-by-step instructions for replacing the thermostat

Replacement TAM 133 does not require special skills, but it is important to observe sequence of actions and safety measures. You will need:

• 🔧 Screwdriver (Phillips/flat).
• 🔌 Multimeter (for check).
• 🧊 A rag and a container to collect condensate.

Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains

Defreeze the chamber (if there is ice)

Take a photo of the wiring diagram

Prepare a new thermostat (check the length of the capillary)

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Step 1. Removing the old thermostat

In most refrigerators TAM 133 located inside camera, behind the plastic panel (next to the temperature control knob). Algorithm:

1. Remove the thermostat handle (pull it towards you or pry it with a screwdriver).
2. Unscrew the panel mounting screws (usually 2-4 pieces).
3. Carefully remove the thermostat without damaging it capillary tube.
4. Disconnect the wires (remember or mark their location!). Remove the capillary tube from the fastenings.

Step 2. Installing a new thermostat

Before installation, check the new one TAM 133 with a multimeter (as described above). Installation occurs in the reverse order:

1. Place the capillary tube into the same fastenings as the old one (do not bend it!).
2. Connect the wires according to the diagram (usually 3 and 4 - compressor contacts, 6 - light bulb cameras).
3. Fix the thermostat on the panel and install it in place.
4. Put on the adjustment knob.

⚠️ Attention: After replacing, do not turn on the refrigerator immediately! Let it stand 10–15 minutes (especially if the capillary was immersed in water for testing). This will prevent false operation of the relay.

5. Analogues of the TAM 133 thermostat: what can be used instead

If the original TAM 133 could not be found, it can be replaced complete analogues with identical characteristics:

🔍 How to choose an analogue?

• 📏 Capillary length must match the original (deviation is acceptable ±10 cm).
• 🔌 Connection diagram: check the location contacts (sometimes different for analogues).
• 🌡️ Temperature range: suitable for the refrigerator compartment -24°C…+8°C, for the freezer you need models with a lower limit -32°C.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use thermostats from washing machines or air conditioners - they are designed for other temperature conditions and voltages!

6. how to avoid them

Inexperienced technicians often make mistakes that lead to repeated breakdown or incorrect operation of the refrigerator. Let's consider typical cases:

• 🔌 Incorrect connection of wires:

  If you mix up the contacts 3 and 4, the compressor will run continuously or not turn on. Always check the connection diagram (usually it is marked on the thermostat body).

• 🧊 Damage to the capillary tube:

  Kinks or creases in the capillary lead to gas leakage loss of sensitivity. The tube cannot be bent at an angle less than 5 cm radius.

• ❄️ Ignoring defrosting:

  If you do not remove the ice from the evaporator before replacing, the new thermostat may operate falsely (due to residual cold) and not turn on the compressor.

• 🔧 Use of incompatible analogues:

  For example, installation TAM 125 (for freezers) instead of TAM 133 will lead to freezing products in the main chamber.

💡 Advice: After replacing the thermostat, turn on the refrigerator in mode maximum cooling (turn the knob to 7 or Max) and check:

• Compressor operating time (should be 10–20 minutes with subsequent shutdown).
• The temperature in the chamber (after 2–3 hours should stabilize at level +4…+6°C).

7. Where to buy a TAM 133 thermostat and how much it costs

The price of TAM 133 varies depending on the manufacturer and region:

• 🏬 Original (Danfoss/Ranco): 1,200–1 800 rub.
• 🏭 Analogs (Orion, Sensata): 800–1,500 rub.
• 🔄 Used (from disassembly): 300–600 rub. (risk of purchasing a faulty part).

🛒 Where to look?

• 🔧 Service centers (for example, for refrigerators Atlant or Minsk).
• 🌍 Online stores: "220 Volt", "AllTools", "AliExpress" (but check the reviews!).
• 🔄 Disassembly of household appliances (cheaper, but without guarantee).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing, check whether the kit is included capillary tube - some sellers offer only the thermostat housing without a bellows!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the TAM 133 thermostat

❓ Is it possible to repair the TAM 133 thermostat or only replacement?

Thermostat TAM 133 — unrepairable part. Its body is sealed, and the capillary tube is filled with special gas under pressure. Any attempts to disassemble will lead to gas leakage and loss of functionality.

❓ Is TAM 133 suitable for a Samsung or LG refrigerator?

No, modern refrigerators Samsung, LG, Bosch and other leading brands are equipped with electronic thermostats or sensors with digital control. TAM 133 mechanical and incompatible with their systems. Such models require original control boards.

❓ How to distinguish TAM 133 from TAM 125 or TAM 134?

Basic differences:

• TAM 125: designed for temperatures up to -32°C (for freezers), the capillary is shorter.
• TAM 133: range -24…+8°C (for refrigerators), capillary length 1.6–2.5 m.
• TAM 134: similar TAM 133, but with a different mount (more often used in refrigerators Stinol).

For the exact model, see case marking (for example, TAM 133-1M or K59-L1333).

❓ What to do if after replacing the thermostat the refrigerator does not turn on?

Check:

1. The correct connection of the wires (contacts 3–4 should go to the compressor).
2. Integrity of the capillary tube (is the bellows bent?).
3. Compressor performance (check the windings with a multimeter).
4. Voltage in the socket (should be 220–240 V).

If everything is in order, but the refrigerator does not work, it is possible that start-up protection relay or the compressor itself is faulty.

❓ Is it possible to temporarily operate the refrigerator without a thermostat?

🚨 Absolutely not! The thermostat protects the compressor from overheating. Without it, the motor will work Continuouslywhich will lead to:

• Burning of the compressor windings.
• Damage start-protection relay.
• Increased power consumption (up to 2-3 times).

In extreme cases, you can temporarily connect the compressor directly (bypassing the thermostat), but not longer than 1-2 hours and under constant control!