Despite the emergence of new defrosting technologies, users still cannot completely get rid of this activity. How to properly defrost a freezer depends on the type of system installed: drip or Nou Frost. Let’s deal with this issue in more detail.
Is it possible to defrost
The No Frost defrost system is almost perfect. Thanks to the operation of the fans, condensate does not freeze on the walls, so ice build-up does not form. But still, refrigerators with automatic defrosting are recommended to be turned off and washed at least once a year.
Drip systems in two-chamber refrigerators are installed only in the refrigeration compartment. The freezer needs manual defrosting. Models with two compressors are very convenient in such cases. You can not turn off the entire refrigerator, but turn off only the freezer. While the top part is thawing, the other chamber will be cooling.
How often does a “snow coat” form in the freezer? Sometimes you have to remove the snow in an old refrigerator every month. The reason for this is a worn seal, sagging of the door, or frequent opening of the chamber.
When warm air constantly enters the compartment, the temperature rises. The motor-compressor is started more often for cooling, which leads to its rapid wear. Moisture from the air freezes on the walls of the compartment, so ice and snow form. This can be avoided by replacing the seal or adjusting the door.
A thick layer of ice and snow leads to a violation of heat transfer and a quick breakdown of the refrigerator.
As you can see, even equipment with the No Frost system can and should be defrosted. Units with a drip system are turned off for defrost every six months.
What to do
Each model of the refrigerator “Atlant”, “Biryusa”, “Indesit” or “Stinol” has a certain climate class. For example, if the manufacturer recommends operating the equipment at a temperature of 10 to 32 degrees, then defrosting should also be done in the evening, when the heat subsides.
- Disconnect the device from the mains. The exception is units with two compressors (Liebher, Atlant). Each department can be disabled individually by setting the camera switch to zero.
- Remove all food from the compartment. If one chamber is working, put them there or prepare a basin and pots where you can store them while the refrigerator is turned off. In winter, food can be taken out to the balcony.
- To keep the temperature in the container, wrap it with a blanket. So meat and semi-finished products will not thaw longer.
- Remove shelves and grates.
- Leave the door open and wait for the snow to melt. In vertical chambers, water is collected in a pan that needs to be emptied periodically. You can put a container where the water will drain. The process can take from three to ten hours, depending on the coat layer.
- Wash shelves and grates separately. As soon as the frozen lumps come off, start cleaning the chamber. Use a soft sponge or cloth.
Important! Do not clean the walls with abrasive sponges and powders. They may damage the surface.
- Soap or soda solution can be used as detergents. Lemon juice perfectly fights mold on the seal, and ammonia will help to disinfect the surface. These products also help to get rid of unpleasant odors.
- Wipe surfaces dry. Replace the shelves.
How to turn on the device after finishing work? Wait 20-30 minutes for all moisture to dry. Then connect the refrigerator and let it work for 2-3 hours. Then start laying food. Try not to look into the freezer after loading, so that the temperature returns to normal as soon as possible.
How not to do
On the forums you will find many tips on how to quickly defrost the freezer. These express methods can not only damage the walls of the compartment, but also lead to freon leakage and serious damage.
What do users “recommend”:
- Use powerful hair dryers to quickly defrost ice. This is dangerous because you can melt the plastic in the chamber.
- Break off chunks of snow with a sharp object. It is desirable that the “fur coat” melt naturally. There is a risk of damaging the chamber wall, breaking through the evaporator, which will lead to freon leakage. Then you have to call the wizard.
Of these recommendations, you can use a bowl of hot water. Put it in the chamber on a wooden plank, periodically change the water so that it does not cool down. This will help the snow cover to thaw quickly.
A system has not yet been invented that does not require defrosting at all. Technologies are developing every day, perhaps soon manufacturers will relieve housewives of this responsibility. In the meantime, follow the recommendations of experts.
Watch a video based on real experience: