Two-chamber refrigerators of the brand Indesit have earned a reputation as reliable technology, however, even time-tested models have failures in the thermoregulation system. When the unit stops freezing or, conversely, turns food into ice blocks, the first thing the technician suspects is the temperature sensor. Understanding where exactly this element is located is key for the initial diagnosis of the malfunction.
The location of the thermostat directly depends on the type of defrosting system installed in your model. In classic devices with manual defrosting or an old-style system, this component is most often hidden inside the refrigerator compartment. Its task is to read the temperature of the air or evaporator and send a signal to the compressor to turn on or off. No Frost old model, this component is most often hidden inside the refrigerator compartment. Its job is to read the temperature of the air or evaporator and send a signal to the compressor to turn on or off.
In more modern versions with electronic control, the mechanical thermostat is replaced by an air sensor, which looks like a small plastic head. Regardless of the design, access to this unit requires certain knowledge and accuracy so as not to damage the fragile parts of the internal plastic.
⚠️ Attention: Before any manipulations inside the refrigerator body, be sure to disconnect the device from the electrical network to avoid electric shock or short circuit.
Operation principle and types of sensors in Indesit technology
In two-chamber refrigerators Indesit two main types of temperature control systems are used: mechanical and electronic. A mechanical thermostat is a sealed tube filled with gas or liquid that responds to thermal expansion. When the temperature inside the chamber changes, the pressure in the tube changes, which leads to the opening or closing of electrical contacts.
Electronic sensors, often called NTC thermistors, work on the principle of changing resistance depending on heat. They transmit data to the main control board, which already makes the decision to start the compressor. In models with No Frost the thermostat is often responsible for starting the defrost of the evaporator, and not just for cooling the chamber.
Differences in design determine not only the installation location, but also the method of checking serviceability. Mechanical components can be tested with a multimeter to see if the contacts are closed, while electronic ones require measuring resistance in Ohms at a certain temperature.
- 🔹 Mechanical thermostats often have an adjusting screw under a plastic handle inside the chamber.
- 🔹 Electronic sensors are usually not repairable and are replaced entirely when they fail.
- 🔹 In two-chamber models, several sensors can be installed: one for the refrigerator, the other for the freezer.
Understanding the type of your device will help you quickly figure out where exactly to look for the faulty element. If you have an old model with a “crying” back wall, most likely, a classic mechanical regulator is installed there.
Localization of the thermostat in the refrigerator compartment
In most two-chamber refrigerators Indesit with mechanical control, the thermostat is located directly inside the refrigerator compartment. The traditional installation location is the right inner wall of the chamber. There is a plastic regulator handle located here, which allows the user to set the desired temperature regime.
Under this handle the housing of the thermostat itself is hidden. To get to the electrical contacts and the sensing tube, you need to remove the plastic control panel. It is usually secured with latches or one or two screws hidden under decorative plugs. Be careful, the plastic on older models can be fragile.
The thermostat sensing tube is led into the space between the walls of the housing or attached to the evaporator. It is she who reads the real air temperature. In some models, access to the place where the tube is attached is possible only after partial disassembly of the internal volume of the chamber.
If your refrigerator is equipped with a system No Frost, the defrost thermostat can be located behind the rear panel of the refrigerator chambers in the evaporator area. To access it, you will need to remove the plastic back wall, which is a more labor-intensive procedure that requires care.
| Thermostat type | Handle location | Place of attachment of the tube/sensor | Indesit models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical TAM | Inside the chamber, on the right | Evaporator or air environment | Series C, NBS |
| Electronic sensor | On the external panel (display) | Inside the air duct or on the evaporator | EF Series, Push&Go |
| Defrost thermostat | Absent (automatic) | On the fins evaporator (behind the wall) | No Frost models |
Access to the sensor in the freezer and No Frost zone
In two-chamber refrigerators Indesit the freezer thermostat is often hidden deeper than its counterpart in the refrigerator compartment. If we are talking about a defrost sensor (defroster), then it is located directly on the evaporator fins. You can get to it only by removing the back panel inside the freezer.
The search process begins with removing all the drawers and shelves. The back wall covering the evaporator is usually secured with self-tapping screws around the perimeter and plastic latches. After removing the panel, you will see aluminum radiator fins, on which a small sensor in a plastic case is attached.
It is important to note that in some models with two compressors, thermostats may be independent for each chamber. In such cases, the freezer sensor may also have an output to the front panel, but more often the control occurs through hidden electronics.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the back panel in the freezer, do not use sharp metal objects to pick out the ice, so as not to pierce the evaporator circuit.
If your refrigerator belongs to the series with the system Total No Frost, sensors can be installed in air ducts that distribute cold air between chambers. Their location is indicated on the electrical diagram, which is often pasted on the inside of the door or on the back wall of the case.
Why does the sensor in the freezer fail more often?
Sensors in the No Frost zone operate under extreme conditions: constant cycles of freezing and defrosting, high humidity and temperature changes lead to oxidation of contacts and destruction of wire insulation.
Symptoms of a malfunctioning thermostat
You can understand that the thermostat in your refrigerator Indesit requires replacement by a number of characteristic signs. The most obvious symptom is that the compressor works continuously without turning off, while the temperature in the chambers does not reach the set values or, conversely, the food freezes.
Another sign is that the compressor does not turn on at all, although there is voltage in the network and the light is on. If you do not hear a characteristic click when you turn the control knob, this may indicate sticking of the contacts or a breakdown of the mechanical part of the thermostat.
You should also pay attention to the formation of excess “coat” or ice in the refrigerator compartment. If the system “thinks” that the temperature is higher than it actually is, it will run the compressor without interruption, causing food to freeze.
- 🔸 The refrigerator turns on and off too often (short operating cycle).
- 🔸 It’s warm in the refrigerator compartment, but everything in the freezer is frozen (or on the contrary).
- 🔸 An ice crust forms on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment.
For accurate diagnostics, it is necessary to “ring” the thermostat contacts with a multimeter in resistance measurement mode. At room temperature, the contacts of the mechanical thermostat must be closed (the resistance is close to zero).
Instructions for replacing the thermostat with your own hands
Replacing the thermostat in a two-chamber refrigerator Indesit is a procedure accessible to a person with basic skills in working with tools. The first step is always to completely defrost the unit within 24 hours to avoid problems with removing parts and moisture getting into the electrical system.
After defrosting, remove the temperature control knob and dismantle the plastic cover. Disconnect the wires from the terminals of the old thermostat, first remembering or photographing the connection diagram. Carefully remove the sensitive tube from its seat.
Install a new thermostat of the same marking. Marking usually begins with letters TAM or Kfollowed by a digital code. It is important that the length of the capillary tube and the mounting points match the original, otherwise the thermostat will not work correctly.
☑️ Checklist before replacing the thermostat
Assemble the structure in the reverse order, making sure that the tube is not pinched or has any creases. After turning on, allow the refrigerator to reach temperature for 2-3 hours before loading food.
Adjustment and calibration after installation
After installing the new thermostat in refrigerator Indesit may require initial setup. Mechanical regulators often have a calibration screw hidden under a seal or plug on the thermostat body itself. Rotating this screw allows you to shift the temperature response range.
However, in most household cases, the factory settings of a new element are sufficient. If you notice that the refrigerator turns off too early (does not freeze) or runs for too long, you can try (fine tuning) through the adjustment screw, if available.
To accurately check the temperature, it is recommended to use an external thermometer placed in a glass of water in the center of the chamber. This will provide more objective data than built-in indicators or “tactile” sensations.
⚠️ Attention: Thermostat characteristics may vary even within the same series of refrigerators. Always check the markings on the part body with the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific model.
If the problem does not go away after replacing the thermostat, the problem may lie in the compressor start relay, a freon leak, or a clogged capillary system. In such cases, more in-depth diagnostics with the participation of a specialist will be required.
A correctly installed and configured thermostat prolongs the life of the compressor and ensures the safety of products. Regularly check the operation of your refrigerator Indesitto notice deviations in its operation in time.
Is it possible to install a thermostat from another refrigerator model?
Technically possible if the mounting dimensions, capillary tube length and temperature range match. However, it is better to use original spare parts or complete analogues recommended for the series Indesitto avoid incorrect operation.
Why does the Indesit refrigerator not turn off after replacing the thermostat?
There may be several reasons: the new thermostat is installed incorrectly, the sensitive tube is not fully inserted, the compressor start relay is faulty or there is a refrigerant leak. It is also possible for the contacts to stick in a new but defective thermostat.
How to understand that the thermostat is “stuck”?
If when you turn the regulator knob you do not hear a click, and the compressor continues to hum (or remain silent), most likely the contacts are stuck. Tapping on the thermostat body may temporarily help, but this is a signal for an urgent replacement.
Where to buy an original thermostat for Indesit?
Original spare parts can be found in specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances, service centers or official dealers of the brand. When purchasing, pay attention to the part code indicated in the technical documentation.