Repairing an Indesit refrigerator: how to find and fix typical faults

Even equipment from renowned brands breaks down periodically for a variety of reasons.High-quality repairs of Indesit refrigerators can be carried out at a service center, but some operations can also be done by a home craftsman. In addition, knowledge about the causes of malfunctions will help to avoid and prevent most breakdowns.

You will learn everything about restoring the performance of refrigeration machines of this brand from the article we presented. We have described common malfunctions, their causes and diagnostic methods. Taking into account our recommendations, you can cope with the problem yourself.

Basics and methods of diagnostics

A refrigerator breakdown is akin to a minor disaster, since you need to immediately look for another option for storing perishable and frozen foods.

Here are the most common problems:

• the device does not turn on;
• the air in the chambers is not cold enough;
• the intervals between switching on and off have become too short;
• the compressor runs without interruption;
• an unpleasant odor appeared in the cells;
• a large amount of frost accumulates in a short period of time;
• The device makes a lot of noise and vibrates during operation.

The first thing to do if any of these signs appear is to find the manufacturer's documentation.It contains a lot of useful information, such as technical characteristics of the device, features of its operation, operating procedures, contacts of service centers and warranty obligations.

If the refrigerator was purchased relatively recently, its warranty may not have expired. In this case, it is better to invite a specialist recommended by the manufacturer and provide him with a solution to the problem. Unprofessional interference with the operation of the device may be grounds for revoking the warranty.

Before you start repairing a refrigerator, you need to study the technical documentation, understand the structure of the device, understand the location and operating principles of its main elements (+)

If the deadlines have passed, you can try to diagnose the situation and make simple repairs yourself. In this case, it is better to adhere to the rule: if you don’t understand, don’t touch.

In any case, complex faults will have to be addressed to refrigeration specialists. Improper handling of equipment will only worsen the problem, resulting in more expensive repairs.

Many models refrigerators “Indesit” equipped with a self-diagnosis system. Messages appear on the control panel in the form of a combination of LEDs on and off or an alphanumeric code, usually the letter F with numbers from 01 to 63. This information can greatly facilitate the process of identifying a malfunction.

If a sufficient amount of cold does not form in the refrigerator chambers, you will have to check almost all of its systems to find the reason (+)

The error codes that the device gives about malfunctions of the Indesit refrigerator do not always reflect the real cause of the breakdown.

Sometimes electronics only indicate the obvious consequence of a malfunction, and to identify the exact cause, detailed diagnostics will have to be carried out. Experts recommend rebooting the system when alarm signals appear.

You need to unplug the refrigerator for about a quarter of an hour, and then turn it on again. If normal data is restored, it means there was simply a failure of the control system. But if there is a new signal about a malfunction, you must immediately begin repairs.

The control panel of the Indesit refrigerator may contain information about possible malfunctions in the form of a code or a combination of LEDs

Typical breakdowns and methods of dealing with them

The owner of Indesit refrigeration equipment should familiarize himself with information about common types of problems that accompany the operation of their favorite unit.

The information will help you monitor the actions and evaluate the work of refrigeration technicians, not all of whom are conscientious, or conduct easy DIY repairs.

1. Signal: relay not working

If the temperature in your refrigerator or freezer gradually rises and the cooling level cannot be achieved, the start relay has most likely failed.

This element regulates the operation of the compressor, which is needed so that freon moves through the system at the required speed. It is recommended to check the motor contact terminals.

If the refrigerator does not turn on, you first need to check its electronic circuits outside and inside, although the cause of such a breakdown may also be a malfunction of the start relay (+)

In conditions of high humidity, carbon deposits can accumulate here, which interferes with the operation of the device.Another important point is the correct connection of system elements.

If it is carried out with flaws (as happens when carrying out unprofessional repairs), disturbances in the operation of the relay are quite possible. In extreme cases, the element may burn out due to a short circuit. In this case start relay will have to be completely replaced.

If the refrigerator starts for just a couple of seconds after being plugged in, and then immediately turns off, this may also be due to a faulty relay, but there are other options. It is also recommended to check the wiring and electronic control unit.

Oxidation of the contacts can lead to a loss of power supply to the refrigerator. It is enough to disconnect them, clean them and connect them again to restore normal operation of the device

Before replacing the relay, experienced craftsmen first check (ring) the motor winding. If it is faulty, efforts to replace the relay will not yield results. You should first repair the engine if such a breakdown is detected after diagnosis.

2. Ice that shouldn't exist

The No Frost system, which is equipped with almost all models of Indesit refrigerators, allows you to create cold without ice and frost. If it still appears on the walls of the chambers, it means that the device is not working correctly. This type of problem occurs quite often, and the usual cause is improper operation.

If frost appears on the walls of a refrigerator with a No Frost system, it may simply be time to defrost it. If there is a lot of ice or it appears frequently, a thorough diagnosis will be required.

Although icing should not occur in the chamber, periodic defrosting is still necessary and should be done every seven months.If the appearance of frost is associated with a long lack of maintenance, you just need to defrost the refrigerator in accordance with the instructions.

If defrosting does not help, and the amount of “snow” inside accumulates too quickly, you should check the condition of the temperature sensor and capillary tube. The tube may have become clogged or dislodged. In this situation, it is better for inexperienced craftsmen to contact a service center.

3. Insufficient sealing of chambers

A simple breakdown is wear or damage to the sealing layer on the refrigerator door. If the door is not closed tightly, the device will work under increased load, which can cause a variety of breakdowns.

If found gum damage, you should just replace it as soon as possible. This is a simple operation that you can do yourself. New rubber gaskets can be secured around the perimeter of the door using glue or epoxy resin.

A worn rubber gasket on the refrigerator door must be immediately replaced with a new one in order to eliminate the cause of its leaky fit and cold leakage

4. Fan failure

The error code F04 indicates that the fan is faulty. To understand the nature of the problem, you need to “ring” the electrical circuit of the fan itself, as well as its control board. You can simply connect the device to the network. If the blades of the device do not rotate, it should be replaced.

If there is movement, you need to deal with the electronic board. To replace it, it is better to take exactly the same fan, designed for a specific refrigerator model.

Usually it can be ordered through a service center.Replacing the control board and setting it up can only be entrusted to a technician who has undergone training and internship in repairing refrigeration equipment of this brand.

5. Broken defrosting heating element

This fault is usually indicated on the panel by error code F07. First you need to make sure that there is resistance in the circuit, and then inspect the fuses. These procedures are not complicated; they will allow you to determine whether the heating element has really burned out or whether the problem is in the fuses.

If the fuse is faulty, you just need to replace it. When the fuses are in order, all that remains is to replace the defrosting heating element. It is better to use the help of an experienced craftsman for this; independent repairs of this type rarely end successfully.

6. Troubleshooting the compressor

Breaking refrigerator compressor - this is a death sentence, you will have to buy and install a new device. There are two main reasons for such a malfunction: voltage drops in the network or normal wear and tear. Replacing a compressor is not a cheap procedure; sometimes it’s easier to add a little money and buy a new model of refrigerator.

It is better to entrust the elimination of complex faults, such as repairing motor windings or replacing a compressor, to an experienced professional from a good service center

It is not difficult to understand that the engine has broken down, since in operating condition it makes a characteristic noise. There is no sound, which means the device is faulty, i.e. Freon does not circulate, heat exchange does not occur, and the temperature does not drop. You need to check the power cable, it may be damaged.

If the reason is not in the wires, you will have to either repair the compressor or completely replace it. It also happens that it is not possible to immediately determine the exact cause of the breakdown.

For example, the engine is running, but the temperature inside the refrigerator remains too high. You will have to invite a repairman to conduct an in-depth diagnosis of the device’s condition.

The compressor is one of the main elements of any refrigerator; it circulates refrigerant throughout the system and moves thermal energy from the chambers to the outside

Another good reason to seek professional help is excessive or uncharacteristic noise. If your refrigerator is making too much noise when the compressor is running, it may simply not be level.

You need to arm yourself with a level and correct the position of the device using the adjustable legs. If the noise continues, there may be a more serious problem. Modern Indesit refrigerators operate almost silently.

7. Prevent refrigerant leakage

Freon leaks happen quite often; the following signs may indicate a possible lack of refrigerant in the system:

• air cooling in the chambers is insufficient;
• Frost regularly appears on the walls;
• a bulge appeared on the back wall of the refrigerator;
• breaks in compressor operation have become too short;
• the compressor runs continuously.

In such a situation, it is important to accurately determine that the Indesit refrigerator does not freeze effectively precisely because of a freon leak, then eliminate the cause of the breakdown and pump a new portion of refrigerant into the system.

For an experienced master this is an ordinary procedure, but for a non-specialist it is better not to interfere with the operation of complex equipment, so as not to completely ruin the situation.

To top up the system with refrigerant and identify the causes of its leak, you will have to unsolder the circuit and fill it with air under pressure

Freon leaks out if there is damage in the system, in other words, a hole or crack. It can be almost invisible. Double chamber refrigerators are more prone to such breakdowns than simple models with one camera. The cooling system of the upper section and the freezer, which is located below, are connected by a heat pipe.

To fill the refrigeration circuit with freon, it is better to invite an experienced specialist who will carry out the work correctly and provide quality guarantees

Moisture often condenses on this element due to temperature changes. As a result, corrosion processes are activated, holes appear, and freon leaks out. The gas does not have a characteristic color or odor, so the problem becomes obvious only if the leak affects the operation of the device.

A soap solution applied to the surface of the tubes will help to detect the location of a refrigerant leak in the refrigeration circuit. This is the only way to identify microcracks

There is no need to worry about health safety. Refrigerants are inert, and their quantity in a typical refrigerator is not very large. Even if absolutely all the freon leaks out, the residents of the house will not face any sad consequences. Sometimes the location of a freon leak can be detected visually, but this is not always the case.

To identify circuit damage, you need to:

1. Open the sealed compressor tube.
2. Pump out the remaining freon in the system.
3. Fill the circuit with normal air under low pressure.
4. Determine the location of damage by the characteristic hissing sound.
5. Solder the hole or crack.

After this, it doesn’t hurt to fill the circuit with air again to check the quality of the soldering and make sure there are no other damages. After this, the sealed circuit fill with fresh refrigerant. Our recommended article will introduce you to the steps and rules for performing this procedure.

8. Breakdown of current to the body

If the refrigerator body begins to shock, this is a reason for serious concern and the beginning of immediate repair work. A more or less experienced electrician can initially do without a technician. First of all, the device must be immediately disconnected from the power supply.

The so-called breakdown to the housing usually occurs due to damage to internal or external electrical wiring. First, you can take a multimeter to measure the insulation resistance of the refrigerator. After disconnecting from the electricity, you need to inspect all the wires.

Sometimes, even with such an inspection, you can find the place where the wire has come loose or where the insulating layer is damaged. All that remains is to completely replace part of the wiring or insulate the damaged area. Insulation is a temporary measure; experienced craftsmen recommend replacing the entire wire, it’s more reliable.

If the inspection does not produce results, you need to check all the wires one by one with the device in order to identify the malfunction and eliminate it. This is done simply: the grounding wire of the device is closed on the body of the refrigerator, and the phase wire is connected to different lines.

Usually the lines supplying the compressor are checked, thermostat and relays, and locate the fault location. If it was not possible to identify the cause of the breakdown, you should immediately invite a repairman; you should not plug in a refrigerator with such a fault.

9. The appearance of an unpleasant odor

If there is an unpleasant smell in the refrigerator, which is not caused by the fact that spoiled food is stored inside, there is no need to worry. Most often, this situation is created as a result of non-compliance with operating rules, and not technical breakdowns, i.e.you won't need a master.

The constant presence of foreign odors in the refrigerator is usually caused by violation of operating rules. You need to defrost the device, wash it, wipe it thoroughly and ventilate it.

Such aromas appear very often soon after defrosting the refrigerator, if its walls were not wiped thoroughly enough. For odor control the procedure will have to be repeated, but during defrosting you need to leave an open container inside.

A mixture of plain water and lemon is poured into it. After defrosting, all internal surfaces should be wiped with a cloth soaked in another portion of water and lemon juice. Then it is recommended to leave the refrigerator closed for about a quarter of an hour or a little more.

After turning off the refrigerator, you need to wipe all internal surfaces dry. It is recommended to allow time for the device to dry and ventilate.

After this, all surfaces are thoroughly wiped dry and the chambers are left open for ventilation for about five to ten hours, i.e. for the whole night. A typical problem for many brands of Indesit refrigerators is icing of the channels through which air is exchanged.

As a result, the inside of the device cools too slowly. To correct the situation, it is usually enough to simply defrost the device regularly. Unpleasant odors can also come from a clogged drain pipe, which just needs to be thoroughly rinsed during defrosting or blown out with a stream of compressed air.

10. Problems with the backlight in the camera

If the backlight in the refrigerator is broken, most likely the standard 15 W lamp simply burned out. To replace it, you need to remove the lampshade, which is held in place by a mounting bolt.Then the burnt out lamp is unscrewed, replaced with a new one, and the lampshade is put back in place.

Replacing a burnt out lamp is one of the simplest operations. You need to remove the lampshade, unscrew the old lamp, install a new one and return the lampshade to its place

To choose the right lamp, it is better to take the burnt-out element to the store and pick up exactly the same one. If replacing the lamp did not give anything, then the problem is more serious, it’s time to call a technician.

11. The refrigeration unit does not turn on

It also happens that the refrigerator simply stops turning on, i.e. the starter does not work. It is recommended to start looking for reasons not inside, but outside. The problem is caused either by damage to the power cable or by a lack of current in the network. The cable needs to be replaced or repaired.

If the central power grid is turned off for some reason and the refrigerator is needed, it can be connected to an alternative source of electricity. Sometimes the refrigerator does not turn on due to frequent voltage fluctuations in the network. When the network is less than 190 W, the device does not operate until normal characteristics are restored.

Using a stabilizer will help solve the problem. This situation cannot even be considered a breakdown, since the device correctly responds to changes in operating conditions and protects other elements from serious damage.

12. Incorrect defrosting of the chamber

Problems with defrosting the refrigerator may arise due to a breakdown of the defrost button, which is found in many models.

As a result of wear or excessive mechanical stress, the button becomes stuck and the refrigerator either goes into an endless defrosting cycle or stops defrosting altogether.In any case, you need to remove the faulty button as quickly as possible and replace it with a new element.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Information on the principles of operation and repair of the refrigerator start relay can be found here:

This video shows in detail the process of diagnosing a freon leak:

A visual demonstration of the compressor replacement procedure:

Wear of individual parts, improper operation and problems with electrical wiring are the most common causes of breakdowns of Indesit refrigerators. This is a high-quality equipment that does not break down very often. If you try to protect it from damage, such a refrigerator will last a very long time without malfunctions.

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