Liebherr Refrigerator Repair: An Overview of Common Problems and Their Solutions

Any high-quality equipment also fails over time. In order to perform diagnostics and repair of Liebher refrigerators, it is necessary to understand the general principles of operation, to know the locations of the nodes and the procedure for their installation.

The article we presented lists all the typical malfunctions inherent in the models of this brand. We described in detail the methods for restoring the health of the units and methods for preventing violations. Based on our recommendations, you can easily cope with the problem and prevent a serious breakdown.

Liebherr Refrigerator Specifics

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

The high cost of the 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 out errors in operation. However, the presence of complex technical components significantly complicates the repair

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

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

The manufacturer selects components and assemblies based on the principles of reliability, avoiding compromises between quality and cost. Therefore, the price of original spare parts is quite high.

The original fan for the CBN 3956 model costs 7400 rubles, and the compatible one costs 2300 rubles. Official dealers in the warehouse have only branded components (+)

To install components from other manufacturers during repairs, even if they are suitable for the parameters - this means to reduce the reliability of the device. But it should be noted that it is often necessary to do so, since Liebherr certified service centers do not exist in all cities.

Therefore, before buying a Liebherr refrigerator, you need to check for the availability of a certified repair organization in the near future and, therefore, have a sufficient supply of components in stock.

Before starting operation, it is necessary to study the installation instructions and the start of operation of the refrigerator, as well as the features of its defrosting. It identifies the nuances that depend on the system used: drip or type “NoFrost”.

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, it is necessary to name the brand, serial number of the model and describe the problem. If the refrigerator is equipped with an electronic control and display unit, then you also need to name the error code that will be displayed on the screen.

An error code indicates a malfunction of the refrigerator. However, self-diagnosis does not always correctly determine the type of problem: the cause of the breakdown may be different.

Overview of Major Faults

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

Most of the problems that arise are typical for equipment of any brand, the difference lies in the frequency of specific failures. Most likely functioning problems refrigeration equipment Liebherr reviewed below.

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

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

• failure of the start relay (no clicks and attempts to start);
• compressor failure (quick stop after start).

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, it is necessary to check the operation of the outlet using a multimeter or other electrical appliance. You also need to pay attention to the density of the plug.

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

If during connection between the compressor casing and the lead-through wires there is resistance, and not an “open”, 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 several seconds and turns off, and the temperature is much higher than the set value, then the most probable cause is a compressor breakdown;
• if ice has formed on the fan blades of the “NoFrost” system, this means a problem with its motor or jamming of the bearing;
• if there is severe freezing of the freezer and the temperature in any department is much lower, and the compressors work often, this means a malfunction of the temperature controller or temperature sensor;
• if the compressor works very often, but the chambers do not cool, then the problem is probably the leak of freon;
• 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 does not fulfill its function and air is exchanged between the chamber and the kitchen room.

Another reason for the elevated temperature is not related to the quality of the refrigeration equipment. This may be an excess of the ambient temperature. Such a scenario is undesirable, since in addition to the likely spoilage of products, there may be a 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. Instructions for use indicate how to do this.

# 3 The emergence of freezing and hoarfrost

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

The formation of snow on the rear wall has a different origin. This means a problem with defrosting. The cause may be either a breakdown of the evaporator or a problem with the defrost sensor.

The formation of ice growths occurs for various reasons. This may be a signal about the thermostat breaking, clogging of the capillary pipe, or freon leakage from the evaporator. Often ice appears when settings are set incorrectly or operating rules are violated, for example, when hot dishes 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 the formation of a blockage in the drainage system. Such a malfunction can easily be eliminated independently and it is better to do this immediately when it is detected.

Water retains smells well, so they will be saturated with all products inside the chamber. In addition, 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 water doesn’t get on the floor from a sink or dishwasher located nearby.

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

• The drain pipe has been moved, which is directed into a special bath. To solve this problem is not difficult. It is necessary to unscrew the rear bottom panel (where the compressor is located) and straighten the tube by hand.
• Evaporator or fan broken in “NoFrost” systemThen, when thawing, a large volume of water arises, which the drainage system is not able to accept. It is necessary to resume normal operation of the air circulation system.
• There are problems with the density of the door. In this case, water can be seen on the front of the refrigerator or feel it to the touch. Seal repair or door adjustment necessary.

A very rare reason for water to be found under Liebherr refrigerators is mechanical damage to the fluid reservoir. You can replace it with a product similar in geometry. It is mounted on self-tapping screws, the only difficulty is inconvenient access to this part.

Water flowing out of the refrigerator can leave stable spots on linoleum, which will be difficult to wash. Another reason to quickly take action to resolve this problem

#5. Increased noise level

The refrigerator cannot work silently, as moving elements are present in it.

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

• a monotonous hum emits a running compressor;
• gurgling caused by the overflow of freon;
• clicks produces a compressor on and off relay;
• monotonous quiet buzzing sounds of fans of the “NoFrost” system.

For Liebherr refrigerators, a noise level of around 40 dB has been declared, which is a fairly low figure. If the device is operating clearly louder, you must first check its tilt using a level. If skew exists, then you need to fix this defect.

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

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

• a slight vibration leads to the fact that the touching objects make a sound in the refrigerator (for example, two glass jars);
• the fan bearing of the “NoFrost” system fails;
• breakage or loosening of the compressor mount.

In the event that 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 passport of the device. If the measurement with a sound meter shows its excess over the declared value, the device must be repaired or replaced under warranty (+)

# 6 Lack of lighting with the door open

This problem is not critical - with 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 light is present.

There may be several reasons for the breakdown:

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

You can test the lamp for operability visually or by trying to use it in another device.

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

Repair of components and systems

Parts of Liebherr refrigerators rarely need repair because of their high quality. Typically, the need for this arises due to external factors or improper handling.

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

1. Troubleshooting the start-up relay

Failure rare enough for Liebherr refrigerators to fail starting relay.

There are several causes of the malfunction:

• overheating of the spiral;
• reduced elasticity of the movable plate;
• jamming of movable contacts.

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

Install the thermal relay in the position indicated in the instructions. Moving contacts go down due to gravity. If they close, then the relay will burn out along with the compressor

Diagnostics of health and repair of this unit is typical. You can do it yourself or entrust it to a workshop specializing in the repair of household appliances. Only a winding problem can cause a replacement part.

2. Leak detection and refrigerant replacement

Leakage of freon most often occurs at the joints or adhesions of the aluminum and copper parts of the circuit. If the breakthrough occurred in the foamed (insulated) area of ​​the refrigerator, then visually the problematic place can be identified by the darkening and bloating of the plastic of the camera.

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

The most likely leak locations are shown in the video:

With technological rules and steps freon refrigeration Introduces an article on the methods of this procedure.

3. Damage to the fan of the “NoFrost” system

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

Structurally, the fan is an ordinary blade model. You can fix it in the workshop for repairing household appliances. Typical problems are bearing replacement or wire breakage.

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

4. Compressor replacement procedure

The principle of operation of Liebherr refrigeration equipment does not fundamentally differ from devices of other manufacturers. Replacement refrigerator compressor - The procedure is the same for any brand. It requires the skills of an electrician, locksmith and the ability to work with a household oxygen-propane burner.

Replacing a compressor is a nontrivial procedure that requires experience. Liebherr’s expensive refrigerators are definitely not suitable for repair work

5. Elimination of rattling compressor sounds

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

The compressor is located below and is closed by the enclosing panel, which must be removed by unscrewing the screws along the contour of the cover. After that, you can turn on the refrigerator to determine the rattle. Using a wooden stick or bar, it is necessary to press the compressor in places of its docking to the frame of the refrigerator.

If the sound of rattling changes, it means that you need to tighten loose mounting. Do not touch metal products to the compressor or capillary tube while the refrigerator is running, as this is fraught with electric shock.

Also, rattling can be caused by the contact of a metal tube along which the refrigerant moves and any element of the refrigerator. As a result of the compressor, the vibration is transmitted to the tube and it hits 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 fixed with ordinary fishing line.

6. Replacement of lighting lamps

All lamps are closed with special light-transmitting housings. To access the lamp, you must remove the cover. To do this, press on it from two sides and pull it towards you.

A lamp is provided for each lamp, which protects it from contact with moist air. If it is damaged, then it is better to replace it, otherwise the bulbs will often burn out

When replacing the light bulb, you must completely turn off the refrigerator. Technical specifications (cap 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 option when the sensor freezes. Hoarfrost, having poor thermal conductivity, prevents the response to changes in air temperature. Therefore, the control unit does not receive timely information about the achievement of the desired temperature and the compressor continues to work on cooling.

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

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

The intricacies of the replacement work will be introduced by the video:

8. Replacing and installing a thermal relay

To remove the thermal relay, you must perform the following operations:

1. turn off the refrigerator and remove the shelves;
2. pushing the plugs to remove the cover, which is located in the upper rear of the camera;
3. release the temperature control panel by pulling it towards you;
4. remove the temperature control knob on the front side of the panel (for mechanical control systems);
5. disconnect the wires from the terminals, fixing the order of their connection;
6. unscrew the upper screws holding the capacitor and bend it slightly;
7. by turning the locks, remove the evaporator;
8. remove the thermal relay by disconnecting the capillary tubes.

To determine the health fridge thermal relay, you need to check it with a tester. For a working device, pin 4 should be dialed with the numbers “3” and “6”.

When dismantling the thermal relay, it is better to photograph the procedure for connecting the wires to its terminals. So it will be easier to correctly install it back

9. Cleaning the drainage system

To clean the drainage, do the following:

1. turn off the refrigerator;
2. remove the bottom drawers, which will interfere with the cleaning procedure;
3. remove accumulated water with a dry rag;
4. install a container under the clogged tube to collect water;
5. clean the tube with a soft brush and hot water.

If the pipe is not cleaned well, increase the water pressure. To do this, you can use a large syringe, enema or other improvised tool.

No powders or solvents may be used to remove blockages. Also, you should not try to pierce the obstacle with a solid sharp object such as a spoke.

The hole of the drainage system is located on the rear wall, which has a special shape for collecting water flowing down during the defrosting stage.

10. Door alignment

For each door of the refrigerator, it is possible to adjust them using the support brackets. To do this, you need to find their position in the instructions, use a flat 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.

For this procedure, preferably two people. Firstly, it is difficult to keep the door aligned and at the same time to tighten the screws.

Secondly, the exact position can only be established using the level that the second participant in the process should operate on. In addition, when repairing alone, there is a risk of tipping over and damaging the door.

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

11. Failure of the control board

As a result of the breakdown of the electronic filling of the refrigerator, its normal functioning is impossible. If the warranty period has ended, then you can try to repair the electronics in workshops for the maintenance of computer equipment.

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

The power board for the Liebherr CUP 3505 refrigerator costs about 7.5 thousand rubles on order. Therefore, if there is an opportunity to wait, then it is better to try to repair the burned out electronics. It may come out cheaper than 1000 rubles

12. Change or straightening of sealing gum

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

If the rubber band broke, then here it is more and more difficult. The fact is that Liebherr does not release seals separately, and buying a door completely will be expensive.

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

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

To do this, follow these steps:

1. prepare a little warm (40-50 degrees) soapy water;
2. open the refrigerator door, rinse the sticking place on the seal and on the refrigerator body;
3. remove moisture with a dry cloth.

If the gum has moved in one of the corners, then it is necessary to measure the size of its part protruding from the door. If in other places the thickness is the same, then this does not mean a seal defect, but a skew of the door.

Introduces the principles and rules of repair performance common to all brands of refrigerators next article, the information of which will be useful both to independent home craftsmen and to customers of the services of craftsmen from the service center to control the work.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The video compilation contains repair options, for the implementation of which it is better to contact the master refrigerators.

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

The second roller represents the location of the evaporator temperature sensor and demonstrates the process of replacing it:

Liebherr refrigerators are an expensive but reliable technology. When used properly, they rarely fail. If in doubt about your own qualifications, you should not risk it and carry out repairs yourself.

Have a desire 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, which is worth sharing with visitors to the site? Please write comments in the block below, post a photo and ask questions.