Repair of Liebherr refrigerators: overview of typical faults and their elimination

Any high-quality equipment also breaks down over time.To diagnose and repair Liebherr refrigerators, you need to understand the general principles of operation, know the location of components and the procedure for their installation.

The article we presented lists all the typical malfunctions characteristic of models of this brand. We have described in detail the methods for restoring the functionality of the units and methods for preventing violations. Taking into account our recommendations, you can easily deal with the problem and prevent serious damage.

Specifics of refrigerators from Liebherr

Refrigerators and freezers of this German holding are positioned as premium equipment. They are produced at factories in Germany, Austria and Bulgaria.

The high cost of devices is due to the price of components and customs duties on finished products.However, this does not deter customers who are willing to pay for a quality product.

Liebherr brand refrigerators are equipped with intelligent control, a display that allows you to control the temperature and read operating errors. However, the presence of complex technical components significantly complicates repairs.

In total, Liebherr presented the following product lines for sale in Russia:

• refrigerators without freezers;
• freezers and chests;
• refrigerators with freezers, made according to the “European type” familiar in Russia;
• two-door devices made according to the “American type”, when the refrigerator compartment is located on the right and the freezer on the left;
• wine cabinets.

The manufacturer selects components and assemblies based on the principles of reliability, without allowing compromises between quality and cost. Therefore, the price of original spare parts is quite high.

The original fan for model CBN 3956 costs 7,400 rubles, and the compatible one costs 2,300. Official dealers have only branded components in stock (+)

Installing components from other manufacturers during repairs, even if they fit the parameters, means reducing the reliability of the device. But it should be noted that this often has to be done, since Liebherr-certified service centers do not exist in all cities.

Therefore, before purchasing a refrigerator manufactured by Liebherr, it is necessary to check whether a certified repair organization is nearby and therefore has a sufficient supply of components in stock.

Before starting operation, you must study the instructions for installing and starting to operate the refrigerator, as well as the features of its defrosting.It outlines the nuances depending on the system used: drip or “NoFrost” type.

The procedure for performing operations when defrosting equipment of a certain type must be observed, since if there are facts that indicate improper operation, the manufacturer will refuse warranty service

When contacting the service, you must provide the brand, serial number of the model and describe the problem that has arisen. If the refrigerator is equipped with an electronic control and display unit, then you also need to name the error code that will be shown on the screen.

The error code indicates that the refrigerator is faulty. However, self-diagnosis does not always correctly determine the type of problem: the cause of the breakdown may be different

Overview of main faults

Based on the manifestation of a malfunction in the refrigerator, you can determine the range of possible malfunctions and assess the feasibility of self-repair.

Most of the problems that arise are typical for equipment of any brand, the difference lies in the frequency of specific breakdowns. The most likely problems in functioning Liebherr refrigeration technology discussed below.

#1. The refrigerator does not turn on: what's wrong?

If the lights are on, the electronics work, but the refrigerator either does not start or turns on for a very short time, then two malfunctions are likely (to approximately equal extent):

• failure of the start relay (no clicks or attempts to start);
• Compressor failure (quick stop after starting).

If the refrigerator does not work, there is no light inside, there is no indication and the control panel does not work, then this means a complete blackout.

First of all, you need to check the functionality of the outlet. using a multimeter or other electrical appliance.You also need to pay attention to the tightness of the plug.

The second reason may be a break in the electrical cable, starting from the plug and ending with the junction box inside the device. Any novice electrician can check the wire for a break by ringing the wires with a multimeter.

If there is resistance when connecting between the compressor casing and the feed-through wires, and not a “break,” then the compressor is faulty

#2. Temperature mismatch

There can be many reasons why the temperature inside the refrigerator or freezer does not correspond to the set parameters:

• if the compressor turns on for a few seconds and turns off, and the temperature is significantly higher than the set temperature, then the most likely reason is a compressor failure;
• if ice has formed on the fan blades of the “NoFrost” system, this means a problem with its motor or a jammed bearing;
• if there is severe freezing in the freezer and the temperature in any department is significantly lower, and the compressors operate frequently, this means a malfunction of the thermostat or temperature sensor;
• if the compressor runs very often, but the chambers are not cooled, then the problem is probably a freon leak;
• If it’s warm inside the refrigerator, and if you run your hand around the perimeter of the closed door you can feel the cold, then this means that the seal is not fulfilling its function and air exchange occurs between the chamber and the kitchen area.

Another reason for elevated temperatures is not related to the quality of refrigeration equipment. This may be an increase in ambient temperature.It is undesirable to allow such a scenario, since in addition to possible spoilage of food, there may be failure of the compressor due to its frequent switching on.

One of the common causes of temperature violations is the installation of a refrigerator in a cabinet with insufficient ventilation. The instructions for the device indicate how to do this correctly.

#3. The occurrence of freezing and frost

If snow accumulations with an admixture of ice along the edges are observed in the freezer close to the door, this means that it is not closed tightly. The reason for this is a misalignment of the door or a problem with the seal. In the refrigeration section this leads to frost on the side walls.

The formation of snow deposits on the back wall has a different origin. This indicates a problem with defrost activation. The cause may be either a breakdown of the evaporator or a problem with the defrost sensor.

Ice formations occur for various reasons. This may be a signal about a broken thermostat, a clogged capillary pipe, or a freon leak from the evaporator. Ice often appears when the settings are set incorrectly or when operating rules are violated, for example, when hot foods are placed in the refrigerator

#4. Presence of water inside or under the refrigerator

If water accumulates inside the refrigerator at the very bottom of the chamber, this indicates a blockage in the drainage system. You can easily fix such a malfunction yourself and it is better to do it immediately when it is detected.

Water retains odors well, so all products inside the chamber will be saturated with them. In addition, permanent stains form on the plastic.

There may also be a problem with detecting water under the refrigerator.First of all, you need to make sure that the water on the floor did not come from a nearby sink or dishwasher.

If the problem is in the refrigerator, then there are three options why water ends up on the floor:

• Drainage tube moved, which is directed into a special bath. Solving this problem is not difficult. You need to unscrew the rear bottom panel (where the compressor is located) and straighten the tube by hand.
• The evaporator or fan in the NoFrost system is broken, then during thawing a large volume of water appears, which the drainage system bath is not able to accept. It is necessary to resume normal operation of the air circulation system.
• There were problems with the tightness of the door. In this case, water can be seen on the front of the refrigerator or felt by touch. The seal needs to be repaired or the door position needs to be adjusted.

A very rare reason for finding water under Liebherr refrigerators is mechanical damage to the liquid reservoir. It can be replaced with a product of similar geometry. It is attached with self-tapping screws, the only difficulty is inconvenient access to this part.

Water leaking from the refrigerator can leave permanent stains on the linoleum that will be difficult to clean. Another reason to quickly take action to eliminate this problem

#5. Increased noise level

The refrigerator cannot operate silently because it contains moving parts.

The sounds of a normally functioning device can be divided into the following types:

• a monotonous hum is produced by a running compressor;
• gurgling is caused by freon overflow;
• clicks are produced by the compressor on and off relay;
• A monotonous quiet hum is produced by the fans of the “NoFrost” system.

For Liebherr refrigerators, the declared noise level is around 40 dB, which is a fairly low figure. If the device is clearly louder, you must first check its tilt using a level. If there is a bias, then this defect needs to be corrected.

Secondly, you need to make sure that the refrigerator does not touch the walls or kitchen furniture.

If the sound is rattling and uneven, then there are three main options for its origin:

• slight vibration causes objects in the refrigerator to make a sound (for example, two glass jars);
• the fan bearing of the “NoFrost” system fails;
• Compressor failure or loosening.

If there are no prerequisites for the occurrence of intense noise, then you need to contact a service center.

The noise level is indicated in the device passport. If measurements using a sound level meter show that it exceeds the declared value, then the device must be repaired or replaced under warranty (+)

#6. No lighting when the door is open

This problem is not critical - if there is sufficient lighting in the kitchen, it will not be difficult to carry out the necessary manipulations in the refrigerator. However, of course, it is better if there is light.

There may be several reasons for the breakdown:

• the lighting bulb has burned out;
• breaker broke;
• There were problems with the wiring (a very rare occurrence).

You can test the light bulb for performance visually or by trying to use it in another device.

The most common reason for the lack of light in the refrigerator compartment when the door is open is the end of the working life of the light bulb

Repair of components and systems

Liebherr refrigerator components rarely require repairs due to their high quality. Usually the need for this arises due to exposure to external factors or improper handling.

Not in all cases you can repair the equipment yourself or replace it: there is a high probability that you will have to use the services of specialized service workshops.

1. Troubleshooting the start-up relay

A fairly rare failure for Liebherr refrigerators consists of failure start relay.

There are several reasons for the malfunction:

• overheating of the coil;
• decreased elasticity of the movable plate;
• jamming of moving contacts.

Any of these problems require removal and disassembly of the relay. It is located in close proximity to the compressor.

The thermostat must be installed in the position indicated in the instructions. The moving contacts move downwards under the influence of gravity. If they close, the relay will burn out along with the compressor

Diagnostics of the performance and repair of this unit is typical. You can do it yourself or entrust it to a workshop that specializes in repairing household appliances. Only a problem with the winding can cause the part to be replaced.

2. Finding leaks and replacing refrigerant

Freon leakage most often occurs at the junction or soldering points of the aluminum and copper parts of the circuit. If a breakthrough occurs in the foamed (insulated) area of ​​the refrigerator, then the problem area can be visually identified by darkening and swelling of the plastic chamber.

In any case, to seal the leak and pump in refrigerant, you must have experience in this area.

The most likely leak locations are shown in the video:

With technological rules and steps refilling the refrigerator with freon An article devoted to the methods of carrying out this procedure will introduce you.

3. Failure of the NoFrost system fan

The fan is installed behind the evaporator and separated from the chamber by a special cover with holes. In order to remove it, you need to turn the clamps 90 degrees. When disconnecting the motor from the power supply, the refrigerator must be turned off.

Structurally, the fan is an ordinary blade model. It can be repaired at a home appliance repair shop. Typical problems are bearing replacement or broken wiring.

In order to replace a failed fan, you need to remove the decorative protective cover with holes that covers the device. It is located on the back or side wall of the refrigerator

4. Compressor replacement procedure

The operating principle of Liebherr refrigeration equipment is not fundamentally different from devices from other manufacturers. Replacement refrigerator compressor – the procedure is the same for any brand. Requires the skills of an electrician, mechanic and the ability to work with a household oxygen-propane torch.

Replacing a compressor is a non-trivial procedure that requires experience. Expensive Liebherr refrigerators are definitely not suitable for practicing repair skills

5. Eliminate rattling compressor sounds

To carry out this procedure, it is necessary to turn off the refrigerator and move it away from the wall, providing access to the back.

The compressor is located at the bottom and is covered by an enclosing panel, which must be removed by unscrewing the screws along the contour of the cover. After this, you can turn on the refrigerator to determine the location of the rattling noise.Using a wooden stick or block, it is necessary to press the compressor where it connects to the frame of the refrigerator.

If the rattling sound changes, this means that loose fasteners need to be tightened. Do not touch the compressor or capillary tube with metal objects while the refrigerator is running, as this may result in an electric shock.

Also, rattling can be caused by contact between the metal tube through which the refrigerant moves and some element of the refrigerator. As a result of the operation of the compressor, vibration is transmitted to the tube and it strikes the part in contact with it.

Using a stick, you can slightly change the position of the elements and understand the origin of the sound. To eliminate it, it is enough to lay a homemade foam insert, which must be secured with ordinary fishing line.

6. Replacing lighting bulbs

All lamps are covered with special light-transmitting casings. To access the lamp, you must remove the cover. To do this, you need to press on it from both sides and pull it towards you.

Each lamp is provided with a shade that protects it from contact with moist air. If it is damaged, it is better to replace it, otherwise the light bulbs will often burn out

When replacing a light bulb, you must completely turn off the refrigerator. Technical characteristics (base format, voltage and power) are indicated in the device passport.

7. Solving the problem with temperature sensors

First of all, you need to check the situation when the sensor freezes. Frost, having poor thermal conductivity, prevents it from responding to changes in air temperature. Therefore, the control unit does not receive information in time that the desired temperature has been reached and the compressor continues to work on cooling.

The snow shell can only be removed from the sensor by completely defrosting the refrigerator. Mechanical cleaning or the use of water will render the element unusable. If the sensor does not work properly after defrosting, it will need to be replaced.

Liebherr refrigeration equipment manufactured before 2003 had sensors with different characteristics installed. Freezer devices had less resistance. In units manufactured later than the specified year, the sensors on the evaporator, freezer and refrigerator compartments are identical.

The video will introduce you to the intricacies of the replacement work:

8. Replacement and installation of thermal relay

To remove the thermal relay, you need to perform the following operations:

1. turn off the refrigerator and remove the shelves;
2. by pressing on the plugs, remove the cover, which is located in the upper rear part of the camera;
3. release the thermostat panel by pulling it towards you;
4. remove the thermostat knob on the front side of the panel (for mechanical control systems);
5. disconnect the wires from the terminals, recording the order in which they are connected;
6. Unscrew the upper screws holding the capacitor and bend it slightly;
7. by turning the fasteners, remove the evaporator;
8. remove the thermostat by disconnecting the capillary tubes.

To determine performance refrigerator thermostat, it needs to be checked with a tester. For a working device, pin 4 should be connected to numbers “3” and “6”.

When dismantling the thermal relay, it is better to photograph the order in which the wires are connected to its terminals. This will make it easier to install it back correctly

9. Cleaning the drainage system

To clean the drain, you need to do the following:

1. turn off the refrigerator;
2. remove the bottom drawers that will interfere with the cleaning procedure;
3. remove accumulated water with a dry cloth;
4. place a container under the clogged tube to collect water;
5. Clean the tube with a soft brush and hot water.

If the tube is poorly cleaned, then you need to increase the water pressure. To do this, you can use a large syringe, enema or other available instrument.

Do not use any powders or solvent liquids to remove blockages. You should also not try to pierce an obstacle with a hard, sharp object such as a knitting needle.

The drainage system hole is located on the back wall, which has a special shape to collect water flowing down during the defrosting stage

10. Door alignment

Each refrigerator door can be adjusted using support brackets. To do this, you need to find their position in the instructions, use a flat-head screwdriver to remove the cover and gain access to the screws. They need to be unscrewed and the door aligned, moving it along the grooves.

It is advisable to have two people to carry out this procedure. First, it is difficult to keep the door aligned and install the screws at the same time.

Secondly, the position can only be accurately determined using a level that must be operated by the second participant in the process. In addition, if you repair alone, there is a risk of the door tipping over and damaging the door.

A signal that it is necessary to straighten the position of a sagging door of refrigeration equipment is its weak suction to the body, followed by easy opening. As a rule, the compressor wears out faster and the sensors fail as a result.

11. Control board failure

As a result of a breakdown of the refrigerator's electronic components, its normal functioning is impossible.If the warranty period has expired, you can try to repair the electronics in computer repair shops.

Replacing swollen capacitors and soldering oxidized contacts in most cases solves the problem.

The power board for the Liebherr CUP 3505 refrigerator costs about 7.5 thousand rubles upon order. Therefore, if you can wait, it is better to try to repair the burnt-out electronics. It could come out cheaper than 1000 rubles

12. Changing or straightening the rubber seal

If sealing rubber changed its shape, as a result of which the seal of the door was broken, then you can try to straighten it. To do this, you need to heat the problem area with a hairdryer or hot water, and then smooth it out.

If the rubber band has broken, then everything is more complicated. The fact is that Liebherr does not produce seals separately, and buying a complete door will be expensive.

There are companies that provide piece production services for seals for a specific refrigerator model. But the price of such products with installation will cost at least 5 thousand rubles

If, when opening the door in one of the areas, you can observe the effect of a stronger adherence of the rubber band to the body of the refrigerator, then this means the presence of a sticky substance on the plastic. It must be removed, otherwise the seal will wear out over time.

To do this you need to do the following:

1. prepare some warm (40-50 degrees) soapy water;
2. open the refrigerator door, wash the area of ​​adhesion on the seal and on the refrigerator body;
3. Remove moisture with a dry cloth.

If the rubber band has come off in one of the corners, then you need to measure the size of the part protruding from the door.If the thickness in other places is the same, then this does not mean a defect in the seal, but a misalignment of the door.

Will familiarize you with the principles and rules for performing repairs that are common to all brands of refrigerators. next article, the information of which will be useful both for independent home craftsmen and for customers of the services of craftsmen from the service center for monitoring work.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The selection of videos shows repair options, for which it is better to contact refrigeration specialists.

The first video introduces the specifics of dismantling a broken compressor and installing a new device:

The second video shows the location of the evaporator temperature sensor and demonstrates the process of replacing it:

Liebherr refrigerators are expensive but reliable equipment. When used correctly, they rarely fail. If you have doubts about your own qualifications, you should not take risks and carry out repairs yourself.

Do you want to share your own experience in operating or repairing a refrigerator of this brand? Do you have valuable information on the topic of the article that is worth sharing with site visitors? Please write comments in the block below, post photos and ask questions.