No frost refrigerator: system features, advantages and disadvantages

Drip refrigerator

The evaporator in such a device is located in the area of ​​the rear wall, where moisture condenses. After the compressor is turned off, the liquid begins to melt. It moves along a special chute and accumulates in a small container, where it evaporates. The drip refrigerator has a number of positive and negative qualities.

Advantages of drip refrigerators

  • The main advantage is the preservation of a large amount of moisture in products. This makes it possible to store them without the use of special packaging.
  • Low cost.
  • A large number of different models when compared with non-freezing refrigerators.
  • The device operates almost silently, since there is no fan.
  • Consumes minimal electricity.
  • Refrigerating chambers have a large capacity.

Cons of drip refrigerators

  • Cooling is not very intense. After opening the door, the temperature recovery occurs very slowly.
  • A wet wall remains on the back surface. Products should not touch it. They may get wet or freeze to the surface.

Important! When the refrigerator is in working condition, it is strictly forbidden to wash its back wall. It is necessary to avoid the use of detergents that contain abrasive particles. Metal jaws are not permitted.

  • About once every six months, the refrigerator has to be stopped. A “fur coat” appears in the freezer, which needs to be gotten rid of.
  • The refrigerator compartment is not uniform in temperature. The value of the lower area may differ from the upper area by several degrees.
  • Sometimes the gutter designed to drain condensate becomes clogged. It needs to be cleaned constantly. If this is not done, accumulated water will fall into the bottom of the device.

Refrigerator No Frost

If you translate No Frost into Russian, you get “without frost.” This development appeared recently.

It is most in demand in countries where humidity is constantly high. Its main difference from the “crying” system is the forced circulation of the air mass in the chamber of the device, thanks to the operation of a strong fan.

A uniform temperature is created throughout the entire working space of the refrigerator. Air enters the cooler where condensation accumulates.

After the compressor is turned off, the accumulated moisture flows through the chute into a special container.

Pros of No Frost refrigerators

  • The temperature in the refrigerator compartment is always uniform. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about improper distribution of products. They will always be cooled equally.
  • After opening the door, the temperature quickly returns.
  • Food placed in the freezer freezes quickly. As a result, their beneficial properties are preserved as much as possible. Plastic bags never stick together.
  • There is a slight accumulation of condensation inside the freezer compartment. It is also found in the area of ​​the back wall.
  • The device does not require defrosting.

Note! The refrigerator must be unplugged once a year. “Sanitation day” will allow you to maintain the necessary hygiene inside the product.

Cons of No Frost refrigerators

  • Constantly circulating air gradually becomes dry. To increase humidity, it begins to attack poorly packaged foods. As a result, they dry out. Their appearance deteriorates and their taste changes. Therefore, long-term storage of products in such a unit is contraindicated.
  • Complex design takes up internal space. The volume of the refrigerator decreases. Of course, this point can be compensated for by a large two-door device, but only if the kitchen is large in size.
  • The cost of No Frost is much higher than its drip counterpart.
  • High energy intensity. Operation requires large financial investments.
  • Fans make a lot of noise.

If there is ice frozen in the refrigerator with No Frost

Often, when No Frost owners find ice in the refrigerator, they resort to the traditional method of removing it - defrosting. As a rule, after this procedure the equipment works properly for some time. This is what gives rise to the myth that No Frosts need to be defrosted. In fact, if ice begins to form in a refrigerator of this type, it is a malfunction. And no matter how much time you defrost your No Frost, the breakdown will not go away on its own.

The most common reasons for this “behavior” of equipment is a failure of the evaporator defrost system or a clogged drainage channel. Let's talk about them in detail.

Failure of the No Frost evaporator defrost system

Every second call to the RemBytTech workshop with a breakdown of the No Frost refrigerator is associated with a failure of the defrost system. This causes the evaporator to become filled with ice. But since it is hidden under the panel, the user usually does not see it or does not notice it right away.

In Full No Frost models, the problem is most often detected when the cooled air supply channel to the refrigerator compartment freezes and it stops cooling. In Free Frost refrigerators, the refrigerator compartment operates as normal, and users begin to suspect something only when ice begins to form on the back wall of the freezer. In both cases, the refrigerator compressor turns off less frequently than usual.

Complete defrosting of a refrigerator (within 12 - 24 hours) with a failed No Frost defrosting system helps to normalize the operation of the equipment for a while. But after 1-2 weeks, ice forms on the evaporator in the freezer again, and the same problems arise.

If this is how your No Frost behaves, you don’t have to worry about constant defrosting, you just need to repair the defrost.

SignsBreakingRepair or replacementCost* (work only)
The evaporator in the freezer is frozen, and ice may have formed on the back wall. The compressor starts frequently. The temperature in the freezer is negative, but higher than normal (for example, -14°C instead of -18°C).
In refrigerators with full No Frost, the refrigerator compartment does not work.

When completely defrosted, the refrigerator starts to work normally, but after 1-2 weeks the situation repeats.

No-Frost defrost system malfunction. A breakdown of one or more defrosting elements has occurred. The following may fail:
  • thermal fuse;
  • defroster (sensor that activates defrosting);
  • defrost timer;
  • Evaporator heating element.
Replacement of failed elements of the defrost system.from

*Price without spare parts

No Frost freezer drainage channel clogged

Normally, during defrost, water from the evaporator flows through the drainage channel into a reservoir located on the engine, and evaporates from there. If the drain tube is clogged, water flows into the freezer, accumulates at the bottom and freezes there. And sometimes it even leaks onto the floor under the refrigerator. After defrosting, such a refrigerator works properly for some time, but since the water has nowhere to go, ice forms again.

If your refrigerator behaves this way, check the patency of the drainage channel. To do this, remove the back panel of the freezer to get to the drainage hole and pour about half a glass of water into it. If water does not appear in the bath on the compressor, but stands in the drainage channel or spills into the freezer, it means the drainage channel is clogged.

When you cannot remove the back panel in the freezer, behind which there is a drainage hole (it is frozen by a snow coat), first defrost the refrigerator and only then check it.

SignsBreakingRepair or replacementCost* (work only)
There is ice frozen on the bottom of the No Frost freezer. There is water under the refrigerator. The freezer drainage channel is clogged. When clogged with crumbs and dust, the channel stops passing water. As a result, it accumulates and freezes at the bottom of the freezer. It is necessary to clean the channel and remove the blockage.
Using a syringe, the canal is washed with warm water. If the water does not pass, the refrigerator is completely defrosted (from 12 to 24 hours), and the rinsing with a syringe is repeated. In severe cases, when the above steps did not help, the channel is carefully cleaned using a cable of suitable diameter.
independently or from

*Price without spare parts

To be fair, we note that the appearance of ice in the freezer of No Frost refrigerators can be a consequence of other, more rare, breakdowns. You will find a complete list of faults that lead to the formation of ice and snow in the freezer in our article “Why ice and snow freezes in the freezer.”

Let's sum it up

If you compare all the positive and negative characteristics, you can determine which model is better:

  • In the cost option, “crying” models will be in first place. However, this does not apply to all models.
  • Drip refrigerators have a wider range of products compared to No Frost.
  • It is much easier to maintain “crying” models.
  • No Frost is noisy and consumes much more electricity.
  • Professionals believe that it is much easier to repair a drip refrigerator. It is much more difficult to understand the complex No Frost device.

The choice of product depending on the method of storing products concerns the individual approach of each buyer. Those who like to pack food in plastic bags without thinking about where to put them will definitely purchase No Frost.

Those who often forget to close food and who do not care about the condition of the back wall will prefer the drip model. Moreover, its internal volume will allow you to save much more products.

Of course, not everyone will be happy with the compromise solution. Taking this into account, manufacturers have developed combined models. Some devices are equipped with both systems simultaneously. This unit has a refrigeration compartment that operates on the “crying” principle, and the freezer compartment operating system is based on No Frost.

To choose the right model, you need to first find out which one suits you best. The quality of the refrigerator, its advantages and disadvantages, as well as cost will help you make an informed decision.

Refrigerator model options

The No Frost/No Frost system has several variations. Depending on the configuration and nuances, they may have similar names, but the operating principle is somewhat different.

Frost Free

Frost Free refrigerators are unique hybrids that use the usual drip (“crying wall”) cooling system in the main one and No Frost in the freezer compartment. Cooling operates from one compressor, co-dependently.

Full No Frost

Both the freezer and refrigeration compartments have their own ventilation system; condensation is removed using air masses using No Frost technology. They are independent of each other, operate from two compressors, and have two evaporators. In essence, Full No Frost is two separate devices in one housing (refrigeration unit and freezer).

Total No Frost

The models are almost identical to the previous ones with one small exception: the presence of air valves to ensure better circulation and uniform cooling in both chambers. Convenient, but there is a drawback: you will have to better monitor the tightness of containers with products. Otherwise, the smell will spread throughout all compartments.

For those who couldn't decide

Technologies do not stand still and relatively recently (about 15 years ago) Bosch developed and implemented the Low Frost system. It is radically different from No Frost in the structure of the coolers.

In it, the freezing elements are located behind all the walls of the refrigerator. Frost from the evaporator circuits forms in a minimal amount.

The absence of a fan unit makes such refrigerators silent, economical and with large internal space.

There is also another solution - a combined cooling system. Units with this design are an order of magnitude more expensive than mono-system ones, but will satisfy the most demanding buyer. The peculiarity of the solution is that the No Frost cooling system is used in the freezer compartments, and the drip cooling system is used in the refrigeration cabinet.

Service Features

Caring for a refrigerator with the No Frost function does not require much effort. It needs to be washed several times a year to remove accumulated dirt and disinfect surfaces. The device is processed using a sponge both from the inside and from the outside. As a detergent, you can use a soap solution or a special composition from the store.

At least once a year you need to do a general cleaning with washing the back wall. Before carrying out the procedure, you must turn off the power supply. Such care will not only increase the life of the device, but also reduce electrical energy consumption.

Recommendations when choosing a device

Before purchasing, you should pay attention to the following factors:

  1. Availability of containers with lids for a dry cooling system. As a last resort, you can buy a set of glass boxes with a plastic lid;
  2. Energy saving class. A very important parameter in the context of constantly rising energy prices. It is recommended to choose devices of class A, A+, A++ . In this case, overpaying for a more expensive unit with the same number of options will be justified;
  3. Only a famous brand. In the event of a breakdown, finding a similar replacement part will not be easy when purchasing a refrigerator from a nameless budget brand. It is worth asking about the warranty period and first studying the instructions by calling the nearest service center before payment.

No frost or drip refrigerator - which is better?

Choosing home appliances is not an easy decision. It is not uncommon for people to be faced with the problem of which refrigerator is best to choose.

There is a wide range of modern technology on the market. Particular attention is paid to the cooling system.

Not only the functionality of the model, but also ease of use depends on this. The consumer can choose know frost or drip refrigerator.

Each has certain technical characteristics. All that remains is to decide which know frost or drip refrigerator to purchase for your home.

Know frost systems

Consumers give preference to modern devices with the neofrost system. The peculiarity of the technology is that freezing is carried out without the use of frost.

The design of the refrigerator has several built-in fans that provide air circulation. The advantage of this technology is that it does not cause the formation of condensation and ice on the rear housing.

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

Initially, the system was used to manufacture refrigerators for consumers living in areas with a humid climate. The equipment does not need frequent defrosting, since the risk of ice formation is minimal.

Therefore, there is no reason to worry that excess moisture will get into the refrigerator and freezer. Thanks to this advantage, the models are very popular among a wide audience.

Every year the range is replenished with modern models. Multifunctional equipment is of high quality and has many advantages, which explains the rapid growth in popularity.

When manufacturing, manufacturers take into account the needs of consumers. Thus, the new Indesit brand models have the Direct Cool function installed.

It ensures moisture is maintained at an optimal level. As a result, products are stored much longer without weathering, even if there is no packaging.

The Black Sensor function is built into modern models. The main task is to inform about the safety of consumption of products that are in refrigerators. Indicates those that can still be eaten, and those that are better to be thrown away. Consumption of expired or long-stored products can cause significant harm to the health of household members.

Important! Modern refrigerators have many advantages, among which it is worth noting versatility and ease of use. But, at the first stage, choose the type of freezing, and then pay attention to additional functions.

To decide whether a know frost or drip refrigerator is better, you need to consider all the features of both options. The benefits of dry freezing include:

  • Freezing is carried out in a fairly short time;
  • There is no need for frequent cleaning (containers and shelves only need to be washed once every six months);
  • The temperature regime in the compartments is at the same level;
  • Elimination of condensation, which prevents the formation of ice on the wall of the refrigerator;
  • After closing the doors, the temperature is restored to the set value in a fairly short time;
  • This is a refrigerator that does not need to be defrosted often;
  • When loading the freezer, food freezes relatively quickly;
  • In the freezer, packaging materials do not stick together, which makes removing food much easier.

Dry freezing is present in all chambers without exception. Even despite these advantages, devices with such a system have some disadvantages. Among the main disadvantages it is worth highlighting:

  1. Constant circulation of air masses. This causes the food to gradually dry out. To avoid this, experts recommend storing in plastic bags and special boxes.
  2. The know frost system is equipped with special fans that are responsible for air circulation and take up a lot of space. As a result, the useful space of the cameras becomes somewhat smaller.
  3. Some equipment makes a lot of noise. This is due to the fact that in addition to the compressor, fans also come into operation.
  4. Refrigerators consume a lot of electricity. This is explained by the presence of various functions that ensure the safety of products at a high level and improve the conditions for using the equipment.

The main disadvantage is that devices with dry freezing are much more expensive than their predecessors. This mainly applies to bulky structures that are equipped with a variety of functions. Therefore, before deciding whether to buy a know frost or a drip refrigerator, you should decide on your budget.

Tips for proper refrigerator care

Many manufacturers in their advertising draw attention to the fact that the Nofrost system implies a complete refusal of defrosting. You should not believe such statements; you need to defrost the refrigerator at least once a year. It’s not just about removing ice, which may not form at all, it’s also important to simply clean constantly used equipment, kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can enter the human body along with food.

Main rules for care and use:

  • eliminate dirt and wipe up spilled liquids immediately after they appear;
  • Do not put hot foods in the refrigerator; they must be cooled to room temperature;
  • food should be stored in airtight packaging (film, container);
  • It is better not to put excess food in the refrigerator that does not require storage in the refrigerator or freezer;
  • the inner walls of the chambers are best washed with a soda solution;
  • hard-to-reach places can be cleaned with a soft toothbrush;
  • follow the care recommendations specified in the manufacturer's instructions.

How to properly clean such a refrigerator:

Turn off the refrigerator

  • turn off the power, having previously set the temperature indicator to zero;
  • get all the products, as well as removable drawers and shelves;
  • wash the removed parts and the inner walls of the chambers and dry with a soft cloth;
  • install all elements in place;
  • turn on the device, set the desired temperature;
  • After cooling the chambers to the required temperature, place the products in them.

No Frost in the refrigerator is what the modern housewife needs. The system has a lot of advantages, but is not without its disadvantages. You can safely purchase such equipment if you don’t want to waste time on defrosting. Devices of this type are suitable for rooms with high humidity levels and for constant use. The presence of such a function as quick freezing allows you to stock up on food for a long time. The No Frost system on the refrigerator is not suitable for every consumer, so to decide which device to buy, you need to weigh the pros and cons.

Is it worth buying?

Many consumers are puzzled over which is better, a no frost or drip system. To make the right choice, you need to examine all the characteristic features of the models. It is also important to dispel misconceptions about modern technologies:

  1. There is an opinion that air circulation causes food to dry out. This is true if they are stored openly. But no one has done this for a long time. To prevent the occurrence of an unpleasant aroma in the chamber, it is recommended to keep the products in a bag, container or other packaging. This will also prevent them from drying out, thereby extending their shelf life.
  2. No Frost is a refrigerator that does not need to be defrosted. In reality this is not the case. To prevent bacterial growth and to maintain cleanliness, containers should be washed periodically. In order to perform quality cleaning, the equipment is disconnected from the network. As a result, the chambers will defrost. A slight condensation forms on the walls. It must be completely eliminated during the cleaning process.
  3. Fans take up a lot of space, which reduces the usable internal volume. This is partly true. But, if necessary, you can purchase equipment that has two or more cameras. The main thing is that there is enough space in the kitchen to install a large unit.
  4. Refrigerators use refrigerants that can cause significant harm to human health. This is a misconception, since the devices use the same freon as in drip models. Therefore, you should not believe that know frost poses a health hazard.

In fact, there are many such myths. This is due to the fact that people who are not technically savvy express their erroneous opinions and spread them among others.

To avoid becoming a victim of such conversations, you should take the help of a specialist when choosing a refrigerator. Consultants will tell you in detail everything that interests the buyer.

This applies not only to general information, but also to the technical characteristics of a particular model.

Proper defrosting

Now you need to figure out how to defrost a refrigerator with No Frost. First you need to study the instructions; manufacturers post step-by-step instructions for handling each model.

But we can highlight general rules that apply to equipment of any brand:

  1. Defrosting cannot be carried out in hot or, conversely, cold rooms. Sudden changes in temperature can damage the compressor.
  2. For dual-circuit units, defrost is performed alternately. Single-circuit devices must be completely disconnected from the network.

How long does it take

The answer to the question of how long to defrost a refrigerator with a No Frost system can be found in the instructions or technical data sheet of the household appliance. The average is 24 hours. It is not recommended to connect the unit to the electrical network earlier than 12 hours after disconnection. This can put a lot of stress on the engine and damage it.

Preparatory stage

Before defrosting, the following activities are carried out:

  1. Turning off the equipment.
  2. Emptying the refrigerator of all products.
  3. The doors must be opened.
  4. All provisions must be sorted out and spoiled and rotten products must be selected.
  5. Removable elements must be dismantled.
  6. Inside the compartments you need to lay out fabrics that will absorb moisture.

To gain access to the rear of the cabinet, the equipment must be moved away from the wall.

How to defrost

It takes two days to completely defrost. During this time, the frost will disappear even in hard-to-reach corners of the equipment. The unit can defrost on its own, but at this time you need to clean the equipment:

  1. To clean the ventilation holes, you need to prepare a solution of two liters of water and three tablespoons of soda.
  2. Using the same composition, you can wipe all internal surfaces and drawers.
  3. Use a toothbrush to clean rubber seals.
  4. External surfaces are treated with a product that does not contain abrasive components.
  5. The back surface can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.

Additionally, all surfaces are treated with an antibacterial composition. Before turning on the refrigerator, you must wipe it with a dry cloth.

Final stage

Only a well-washed and dry unit can be connected to the network. Then all the shelves, drawers and containers are put into place.

Ways to speed up defrosting

There are several ways to help perform quick defrosting:

  1. The warm jet of the fan heater can be directed inside the chamber.
  2. Place a container of warm water in the refrigerator.
  3. Using a regular hair dryer.
  4. Placement inside the heating chamber.
  5. The inner walls can be sprayed with hot water using a spray bottle.

Most manufacturers do not recommend speeding up the procedure. This will extend the service life of refrigeration equipment.

"Crying" refrigerators

A special feature of the equipment is the presence of a special evaporator, which is located on the rear wall. Thanks to the device, it is possible to cool the chamber evenly throughout the entire volume. During the cooling process, condensation forms and accumulates on the wall. Subsequently, it flows into the container and undergoes repeated evaporation.

The defrosting system of the refrigerator is characterized by the accumulation of condensation only on the back wall, while the sides remain dry. But, when the compressor is actively operating, condensate freezes.

As a result, the side walls become covered with a layer of ice, which can prevent the doors from closing properly. In the future, this entails more serious problems, such as spoilage of products and disruption of equipment.

Refrigerators with a drip system require careful maintenance. It is necessary to regularly wash the chambers with preliminary defrosting.

During operation, the holes that serve to drain condensate may become clogged. As a result, liquid flows under the boxes that are designed for storing fruits and vegetables.

That is why it is important to defrost and wash the refrigerator compartments in a timely manner.

The advantages of technology with a drip system include:

  1. A wide range of. There is a wide range of models on the market, which allows consumers to choose the right equipment. This applies not only to technical characteristics, but also to cost.
  2. Low cost. When deciding whether to choose a “crying” or no frost refrigerator, pay attention to the cost of the equipment. It is worth noting that the first option has a more affordable price. The cost is affected not only by the type of freezing, but also by other factors, such as size, functionality, number of chambers, and more.
  3. Devices on which drip defrosting is installed consume little electricity. This allows you to significantly reduce costs. This option is optimal for regions where the cost of the resource is high.
  4. Low noise level. Compared to dry freezing, drip equipment does not have built-in fans, which are additional sources of noise. Therefore, the equipment makes less noise during operation.
  5. The cameras have a large volume. Know Frost refrigerators have fans installed. They are the ones who ensure air circulation. This significantly reduces usable interior space. This is not the case with crying refrigerators. Therefore, devices of the same size have different chamber volumes.

Despite all the existing advantages of the system, it has some disadvantages. Among the main ones it is worth highlighting:

  1. Need for defrosting. To ensure normal storage and operating conditions, drip equipment is recommended to be completely defrosted and washed several times. The reason for this is the accumulation of condensation, which over time turns into ice and disrupts the operation of the device.
  2. Temperature difference. The main disadvantage is that the technology is not able to ensure the same temperature in the chambers. Therefore, consumers are forced to correctly arrange products on shelves. This is the only way to ensure their safety for as long as possible.
  3. Accumulations of condensation on the rear wall. This is the main difference between the systems. At the initial stage, the refrigerator functions normally. But, over time, deviations begin in the work, which lead to the accumulation of moisture on the back wall. The situation gets worse when the condensation turns to ice. Then the whole system fails.
  4. Long-term temperature recovery. After closing the doors, the system will take a lot of time to restore the set temperature.

Important! In addition, the drip system only works in the refrigerator compartment. The freezer operates separately and requires periodic defrosting or cleaning.

Choosing a refrigerator

Expert opinion

Romanova Ksenia Petrovna

Interior design expert and fabric store manager

When buying a refrigerator, people pay attention to many factors. Some people are interested in which refrigerator is better in price, while others want to purchase multifunctional appliances.

In order not to make a mistake in your choice and buy a truly effective device that will serve for a long time, you should pay attention to the following nuances and recommendations:

  1. Freezing system. In this case, everything is quite simple, since there are only two options: no frost or drip system. The disadvantages and advantages of devices with such technologies were discussed. All that remains is to compare the information received and make a choice as to which refrigerator is best to install at home.
  2. Pay attention to the main parameters. In this case we are talking about dimensions, capacity, power consumption, as well as energy saving class. The required combination of all parameters will determine the effectiveness of using equipment to solve certain problems in a given room. So, in a country house that is used depending on the season, it is enough to install a small refrigerator that consumes minimal electricity. As for the apartment, you can’t do without a multifunctional device that will satisfy all the needs of the residents. The noise level is also of great importance, which determines the comfort of living in the house.
  3. Every piece of equipment requires maintenance, regardless of cooling. In both cases, the refrigerator is defrosted and washed every six months. This will get rid of many problems, such as clogged condensate drainage paths or the occurrence of an unpleasant odor. In addition, regular cleaning will significantly extend the life of the equipment.
  4. Use only suitable products to wash and clean the refrigerator. This is especially true for crying devices. Drip defrosting eliminates the use of sharp objects or abrasive substances. This will damage the chamber walls.
  5. It is recommended to store food products in packaging. For this purpose, plastic bags, glass and special plastic containers are used. This will prevent odor in the chamber and extend the shelf life.

It is equally important to follow all the rules when washing a drip-type refrigerator. Before starting work, it is disconnected from the network and left for a while until completely defrosted.

It is not recommended to use a hair dryer or sharp instruments. Only after defrosting are the chambers cleaned using detergents.

Connection to the network is carried out only after complete drying.

Such nuances will allow you to decide which refrigerator is best to buy for your home. The main thing when choosing is to take into account all the pros and cons of the equipment.

What is the difference between know frost and drip refrigerator?

So, what are know frost and drip systems, why are they needed and what is the difference? Every time you open the refrigerator, you let in warm air, which, having first turned into condensation, can finally turn into an ice coat. And if a thin layer of frost on the walls of the chamber even improves the cooling of products, then a thick layer (more than 2 mm) impairs the operation of the device, increases energy costs and can even cause breakdowns.

To prevent ice from appearing, you need auto-defrosting functions - know frost and a drip system.

  • Drip system (other names Direct Cool, “crying” system) - implies the presence of an evaporator-drip collector in which the collected condensate freezes while the compressor is operating and then melts while the evaporator is slightly heated. The water then flows through the grooves into a tray at the bottom of the device and evaporates there. Unfortunately, the drip defrosting system in the freezer does not work due to the negative temperature. However, it’s not really needed here, since we don’t open the freezer very often. Of course, when the snow coat becomes large (more than 2 mm thick), the device has to be defrosted manually at least 2 times a year.
  • “No frost” (translated as “without frost”) - as we have already said, this defrosting system almost completely eliminates the appearance of ice. Thanks to the fans, the refrigerator/freezer seems to “inhale” warm and humid air, cools it, and leaves water in the evaporator. It turns out that the No Frost refrigerator is always dry, it is approximately equally cold on all shelves, and the back wall is never covered with frost.

So, let's take a closer look at all the pros and cons of both systems. If you are viewing the table on a smartphone, turn it to a horizontal position so that the entire table fits into the screen area.

No Frost: myths and reality

A couple of decades ago, refrigerators with a No Frost defrosting system were much more progressive. Then the drip system could not ensure tightness inside the chambers due to the fact that the doors did not close tightly. Things look a little different now.

Unpleasant odors and rapid drying of food

Unpleasant odors do not form in a freezer equipped with a No Frost system, unless emergency defrosting occurs. In the refrigerator they can occur for the same reason or during storage of spoiled food. But the chances of this happening are less than with drip, because air exchange occurs faster and the temperature is equalized.

This type of refrigerator does not have a drain hole, so it cannot become clogged and cause unpleasant odors. Products in the refrigerator with No Frost quickly air out if stored uncovered. If you hide them in a container, there won't be much difference.

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Is it necessary to defrost a No Frost refrigerator - dispelling the myths

Myth 1: A No Frost refrigerator needs to be defrosted once a year.

Above we looked at the operating diagram of No-Frost refrigerators. The ice in them defrosts automatically, so nothing can freeze anywhere in properly functioning equipment. We came across No Frost refrigerators that worked properly for 10 years, and they were never unplugged from the outlet, much less defrosted.

RemBytTech craftsmen, who have more than 15 years of repair experience, officially declare: all that is required is No Frost - periodic wet cleaning. It is enough just to remove crumbs and debris, wipe the walls and shelves of the refrigerator: this will ensure not only a neat internal appearance, but also the absence of an unpleasant odor in the refrigerator compartments. Before cleaning, be sure to unplug the refrigerator.

Myth 2: after cleaning the No Frost refrigerator from contamination, you cannot immediately turn it on; at least 1 hour must pass from the moment it was turned off.

This myth has some basis, but it is outdated. “Sofa experts” write that the reason lies in equalizing the pressure in the system. The logic is this. When the compressor is running, the freon in the condenser is under high pressure, and after turning off the motor, the pressure in the system cannot instantly equalize. In particular, increased pressure will remain for some time at the outlet of the compressor (in the discharge tube). The motor is not designed to start under such conditions: the starting torque may not be enough to move the piston against the pressure, so the compressor may jam. Blocking the motor shaft when power is supplied to the compressor, in turn, is considered a dangerous condition, since the motor windings are overloaded and can burn out. Then the compressor will need to be replaced.

If we talk about old refrigerators, then there is indeed a possibility of the situation developing according to such a scenario, which leads to a “wedge” of the motor. But only if you turn it on almost immediately. If you let the refrigerator sit for at least 5-10 minutes (and it is unlikely that wiping will take less time), no problems will arise.

Modern models are even equipped with protective relays: after disconnecting from the power supply, it simply will not allow the engine to start immediately. This way, you can plug in your refrigerator immediately after cleaning. The compressor will only start when the system is ready to start safely.

Summarizing

By comparing all the advantages and disadvantages of the two systems, we can identify leaders and outsiders in different characteristics:

  • Those who cry definitely win in terms of price, although this is not significant for everyone.
  • They also have a wider range.
  • It is easier to care for refrigerators that do not require No Frost defrosting.
  • They also produce more noise and consume more electricity.
  • As for repairs, it is more difficult for craftsmen who are faced with a more cunning No Frost scheme, although both types of refrigerators are subject to repair.

But storing food in one unit or another is a matter of taste. Those who like to tightly pack their food in plastic, but at the same time do not think about where it is colder and where it is warmer in the refrigerator, will, of course, choose No Frost.

Those who prefer to tear off a frozen bunch of parsley or a piece of polyethylene from the back wall, but do not worry about forgetting to cover the yogurt with a lid, will certainly opt for a drip refrigerator. In addition, it will fit much more food supplies.

For those who are not ready for such a compromise, today there are already combined types of refrigerators. Some models can combine both systems. The refrigerator compartment of such a unit is “crying,” while the freezer compartment operates on the No Frost principle.

Having weighed all the pros and cons, choosing “your” refrigerator to your liking and what you can afford, you can enjoy your choice for a long time when the whole family gathers around your pet in the evening!

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