Have you ever wondered why the refrigerator has side walls that are not always visible when installed? These sidebars are called endsand they play a much more important role than it seems at first glance. The ends of the refrigerator are not just a decorative element, but a functional part of the design, which affects the thermal insulation, stability and even energy efficiency of the device.
In this article we will look in detail at what the end of a refrigerator is, what tasks it performs, what materials it is made from and how to handle it correctly. You will learn why some models have thick ends, while others are almost invisible, how this is related to the cooling system, and what to do if the side panel is damaged. We will also touch upon the issues of installation, repair and selection of a refrigerator, taking into account the features of its end walls.
If you are planning to buy a new refrigerator, repair an old one, or just want to understand the device’s design, this information will be useful. Let's figure it out in order!
What is the end of a refrigerator and where is it located?
The end of a refrigerator is side wall of the casewhich covers the internal structural elements: a thermal insulation layer, refrigerant pipes, electrical wiring and fasteners. Unlike the front and back panels, the ends rarely become the object of attention, as they are usually adjacent to the walls of the kitchen or furniture. However, their role is difficult to overestimate.
The location of the ends depends on the model of the refrigerator:
- 🔹 On free-standing refrigerators, the ends are open and visible from all sides.
- 🔹 In built-in models, the ends are often hidden under decorative panels or furniture facade.
- 🔹 In Side-by-Side (two-door) refrigerators, the end separates the freezer and refrigerator compartments.
It is important to understand that the end is not just a metal or plastic sheet. It consists of several layers:
- External decorative layer (paint, film, stainless steel).
- Thermal insulation material (usually polyurethane foam).
- Internal protective layer (plastic or metal for tightness).
The thickness of the end can vary from 3 to 10 cm depending on the energy efficiency class and type of refrigerator. For example, models with a system No Frost ends are often thicker due to additional air ducts.
Functions of end panels: why are they important?
Many people mistakenly believe that end panels are needed only for aesthetics. In fact, they perform several critical tasks:
| Function | Explanation | Consequences of damage |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal insulation | Prevents the leakage of cold and the penetration of warm air from outside. Particularly important for models with Low Frost. | Increased power consumption, unstable temperature in the chambers. |
| Protection of internal elements | Covers refrigerant tubes, compressor connections and electrical wiring from mechanical damage. | Risk of freon leakage or short circuit closure. |
| Structural stability | Strengthens the body, preventing deformation during movement or vibration (for example, from the operation of a compressor). | Disk of doors, violation of seal tightness. |
| Noise absorption | Absorbs compressor vibrations, reducing noise levels. Relevant for models with inverter compressor. | Increase in operating noise up to 45–50 dB. |
Interesting fact: in premium refrigerators (for example, Liebherr or Smeg) the ends are often made of stainless steel with an antibacterial coating. This not only improves hygiene, but also increases the service life of the device.
If the end is damaged (for example, a dent or crack), this can lead to:
- 🔸 Condensation on the outer walls due to depressurization.
- 🔸 Overheating of the compressor, since it is forced to work longer to maintain the temperature.
- 🔸 Icing in the freezer (if the end next to the evaporator is damaged).
Types of end panels: materials and designs
The ends of refrigerators vary in materials, thickness and even color. The choice depends on the model, brand and price category. Let's consider the main options:
1. Based on the material of the outer layer
- 🔹 Enameled steel this is the most common option. Cheap, but prone to scratches. Used in budget models (Atlant, Biryusa).
- 🔹 Stainless steel - durable, hygienic, but expensive. Typical for the premium segment (Bosch, Samsung).
- 🔹 Plastic - lightweight, but less durable. Often found in compact refrigerators (Midea, Beko).
- 🔹 Glass - used in designer models (for example, Smeg in retro style). Requires careful care.
2. By design
- 🔹 Solid cast —the end is cast together with the body. Reliable, but difficult to repair.
- 🔹 Removable —attached with latches or screws. Convenient for maintenance, but can become loose over time.
- 🔹 Sandwich panels -multilayer ends with enhanced thermal insulation. Used in energy-efficient models (class A+++).
Recently, some manufacturers (for example, LG) have started use vacuum insulation at the ends. This allows you to reduce the thickness of the panels without losing thermal insulation properties, which is important for narrow kitchens.
How to determine the material of the end?
To find out what the end is made of of your refrigerator, look at the markings on the back wall or in the passport. You can also gently tap on the end: metal makes a dull sound, plastic makes a louder sound. If the surface is magnetic, it is steel (enameled or stainless).
The end and installation of the refrigerator: what do you need to know?
When installing the refrigerator, the end panels play a key role. how they are located relative to the walls and furniture depends on the efficiency of the device. Here are the basic rules:
- Gap for ventilation. There must be a gap between the end and the wall at least 5–7 cm (for models with rear ventilation - up to 10 cm. This prevents the compressor from overheating.
- Level leveling. If the refrigerator is not level, the end may be deformed under the weight of the doors, especially on models with French door.
- Protection from moisture. (for example, in the country), metal ends may rust. In this case, it is recommended to use silicone grease for protection.
Particular attention should be paid built-in refrigeratorsTheir ends often come into contact with furniture panels, which can lead to:
- 🔸 Overheatingif there are no ventilation holes.
- 🔸 Accumulation of condensation between the end and the furniture.
- 🔸 Difficulties during repair, since access to the side walls is limited.
☑️ Check before installing the refrigerator
If you install the refrigerator in a niche, make sure that the ends do not touch the walls. To do this, you can use rubber gaskets or special fasteners. Some models (for example, Electrolux) are equipped with adjustable legs, which help to level the body and avoid stress on the end panels.
Damage to the end: causes, consequences and repair
The ends of the refrigerator, despite their strength, can be damaged. Most often this happens due to:
- 🔹 Mechanical shocks during transportation or careless installation.
- 🔹 Corrosion (for metal ends in high humidity conditions).
- 🔹 Deformations due to improper operation (for example, if the refrigerator was in direct sunlight).
- 🔹 Rodents - mice can chew through the thermal insulation layer at the end.
The consequences of damage depend on their type:
| Type of damage | Signs | What to do? |
|---|---|---|
| Crack in the decorative layer | Visible scratches or chips, but the thermal insulation is intact. | Can be painted over with special enamel for household appliances. |
| Dent | Deformation of the metal, gaps between the end and the body are possible. | Align using a vacuum suction cup or contact service. |
| Damage to thermal insulation | Condensation on the walls, increased energy consumption. | Replacement of polyurethane foam is required (only at a service center). |
| Corrosion | Rust spots, especially in the lower part of the end. | Clean, treat with an anti-corrosion compound, if the damage is severe, replace the panel. |
If the damage is serious (for example, the end has moved away from the body), Do not try to repair it yourself using glue or tape - this may lead to a refrigerant leak or short circuit.. In such cases, you must contact a professional.
The cost of end repair depends on the model and type of damage:
- 🔹 Replacement of a decorative panel: from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles.
- 🔹 Restoration of thermal insulation: from 3,000 to 10,000 rubles.
- 🔹 Elimination of corrosion: from 800 to 2,500 rubles.
⚠️ Attention! If, after damage to the end, the refrigerator began to makes noise or stops freezing, immediately unplug it. This may indicate a freon leak or problems with the compressor.
The end and energy efficiency: how is this connected?
Many do not know, but the thickness and material of the end directly affect the energy consumption of the refrigerator. The better the thermal insulation of the end panels, the less energy the compressor spends to maintain the set temperature.
Let's compare two refrigerators with the same volume, but different ends:
- 🔹 Model A: ends 4 cm thick, thermal insulation - standard polyurethane foam. Energy efficiency class B.
- 🔹 Model B: ends 7 cm thick, vacuum insulation. Energy efficiency class A+++.
The difference in energy consumption between them can reach 30–40% per year! Therefore, when choosing a refrigerator, pay attention not only to the volume and design, but also to the design of the end panels.
Some manufacturers indicate in the characteristics the parameter end heat transfer coefficient (measured in W/m²·K). The lower it is, the better the thermal insulation. For example:
- 🔹 Indesit: 0.25–0.3 W/m²·K (average).
- 🔹 Samsung (series Digital Inverter): 0.18–0.2 W/m²·K.
- 🔹 Liebherr (premium): 0.12–0.15 W/m²·K.
If you want to save on electricity, choose models with thickened ends and modern insulating materials. Also pay attention to the presence of additional seals end panels around the perimeter - they reduce heat loss by 5-10%.
⚠️ Attention! Details of technical characteristics (for example, heat transfer coefficient) may vary depending on the model year. For accurate data, always check the passport of a specific refrigerator.
Cleaning and caring for the ends of the refrigerator
The ends of the refrigerator, like other parts of the body, require care. However, cleaning them has its own nuances:
- Regular cleaning. Wipe the ends with a damp cloth and detergent (for example Mr. Proper) at least once a month. For stainless steel, use special polishes.
- Protection from moisture. If the refrigerator is located in a damp room, treat the ends with silicone grease or anti-corrosion spray.
- Checking the seals. Make sure that the rubber gaskets at the ends (if any) are not dry and fit tightly.
- Checking the gaps. Periodically check whether gaps have appeared between the end and the body - this may indicate deformation.
What to do You can't:
- 🔸 Use abrasive products (for example, powders) - they scratch the surface.
- 🔸 Wash the ends under a strong stream of water - this can damage the thermal insulation.
- 🔸 Place heavy objects (for example, a microwave) on the ends - this will deform the panels.
For cleaning hard-to-reach places (for example, the joints between the end and the back wall) you can use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle or toothpickwrapped in a damp cloth.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the ends of the refrigerator
Is it possible to paint the end of the refrigerator yourself?
Yes, but only if only the decorative coating is damaged and the thermal insulation is intact. Use enamel for household appliances (for example, Kudo or Bosny) and apply it in 2-3 layers and let it dry. Pre-clean and degrease the surface. Do not paint ends with vacuum insulation - this may damage its properties.
Why is one end of my refrigerator hot and the other cold?
This is normal! One of the ends (usually the one closest to the compressor) can heat up to 40–50°C due to the refrigerant pipes passing inside. The cold end is usually adjacent to the freezer compartment. If the temperature difference is too great (for example, one end is scorching and the other is icy), this may indicate a malfunction of the thermostat or a freon leak.
Is it possible to cover the ends of the refrigerator with film for kitchens?
Technically yes, but this is not the best solution. The film can:
- 🔹 Worse heat transfer if it closes the ventilation holes.
- 🔹 Peel off due to temperature changes (especially at the ends near the compressor).
- 🔹 Damage the factory coating when removal.
If you want to update the appearance, it is better to use magnetic panels or special covers for refrigerators.
What to do if the end of the refrigerator begins to rust?
First clean rust sandpaper (grain size 120–180) or rust converter (for example, Zincar). Then:
- Degrease the surface with acetone.
- Apply primer along metal.
- Paint with enamel in 2 layers.
If the corrosion is deep (through), the end will have to be replaced.
Does the color of the end affect the heating of the refrigerator?
Yes, but only slightly. Dark ends (black, dark gray) heat up more in the sun than light ones. However, the difference in temperature usually does not exceed 2–3°C, which is not critical for the operation of the refrigerator. If the device is located next to a window, it is better to choose a model with light ends or use protective film with a UV filter.