If previously refrigerators were defrosted manually, over time, manufacturers invented another technology to get rid of the growths of ice on the walls. Models from the middle price segment are equipped with drip systems or crying evaporators. Now in blocks no blocks of ice and snow are formed. In the article, we will find out what drip defrosting is and how it functions.
How different types of defrost work
How to defrost a Bosch, Atlant, or Indesit refrigerator depends on the type of defrost system that is installed in it. There are three main types:
- Manual
- Automatic:
- Semi-automatic.
Manual The principle of operation is as follows: the equipment is disconnected from the network, the products are taken out and they wait until the frozen ice thaws. Water is collected in the lower sump, which must be emptied afterwards. Therefore, owners of early models had to deal with defrosting for a long time.
Automatic. Installed in drip type refrigerators, as well as No Frost models (LG, Bosch and others). How is it different from manual defrosting? In the first case, moisture collects on the walls of the chamber and forms a crust of ice and snow. In the second, drops of moisture are collected on the inner wall, and then drain into the container.
The drip system consists of:
- evaporator;
- compressor;
- capacities.
The principle of operation of an automatic type (or Direct Cool) is freezing-thawing. The consumer sets the desired temperature on the thermostat. The condensate is frozen, and after reaching the desired temperature, the unit turns off. Then a defrost occurs, and moisture drops flow down the wall.
As soon as water accumulates in the sump, it is heated by the motor and turns into gas.
Do I need to defrost No Frost refrigerators? Their work is similar to drip, except that the cold air in the compartment is accelerated by a fan. Therefore, condensation almost does not accumulate on the walls.
Semi-automatic. Refrigerators of this type defrost on their own, but for this the user needs to start a defrost.
Pros and cons of drip systems
Which refrigerator is better: Nou Frost or drip? Consider their differences, strengths and weaknesses and compare.
Drip type
Pros:
- Convenient automatic defrosting. No user intervention required.
- Affordable cost of technology.
- A wide range of models.
- Volumetric cameras.
- Low power consumption.
- Moderate noise at work.
- Low likelihood of breakage, as defrosting occurs naturally.
Minuses:
- Only refrigeration compartments are equipped with such a system.
- The back wall is covered with a thin layer of ice until defrost starts.
- The “crying” type needs more frequent defrosting than Nou Frost.
- Probability of blockage. If the drainage hole is clogged with crumbs, small debris, there is a possibility of water leakage on the floor.
- The temperature distribution is uneven.
No frost
Benefits:
- Thanks to the fans, cold air is evenly distributed throughout the compartment.
- The system is located both in the freezer and in the refrigerator.
- After shutdown, the temperature quickly recovers.
- You can enable the "Quick freeze".
- No ice is formed in the compartment.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
- The presence of a large number of parts increases the likelihood of breakage (depending on the brand and reliability of the parts).
- Greater energy consumption (depending on the class of energy efficiency, equipment of classes A, A +, A ++ works economically).
- Increased noise due to the operation of fans (depends on the quality of sound insulation).
- Products are quickly weathering, therefore it is recommended to pack everything in plastic wrap or cover it.
Which refrigerator is more reliable? As you can see, there are pros and cons everywhere. Choose based on personal needs.
Drip Defrost Fridge Rating
Imagine the best models, according to customer reviews.
INDESIT ST 145
A popular two-chamber model, budget thanks to the “crying evaporator”. Management is as simple as possible, electromechanical. Energy class B, consumes 405 kW per year. The freezer is thawed by hand.
The total volume is 249 liters. After a power outage, it keeps cool for 14 hours. The noise level reaches 42 dB. Case dimensions: 60x67x145 cm.
Price - from 13 000 rubles.
POZIS RK-102
Fridge with two chambers. The freezer is located below, manual defrost. The refrigerator compartment is equipped with a drip system. Economically consumes energy - 226.3 kW per year, belongs to class A +. It is able to freeze up to 4 kg per day.
The RK-102 maintains its temperature offline for 13 hours. The total volume of branches is 285 liters. LED lighting in the camera saves electricity. The noise level during operation is 40 dB.
Case dimensions: 60x63x162 cm.
The cost is from 14,000 rubles.
BOSCH NatureCool KGV39XL2AR
This is a two-chamber refrigerator with a drip system in the refrigerator. The freezer needs manual defrosting. In addition, the manufacturer offers NatureCool technology, which maintains sufficient humidity for the safety of products. Since there is no forced ventilation in the department, the model works quietly - 38 dB.
When a power outage occurs, the technician will maintain the temperature for 22 hours. The usable volume of the chambers is 351 liters. Refers to energy class A +, consumes 291 kW per year. There is the possibility of super-cooling and super-freezing. Case dimensions: 200x60x63 cm.
Cost - from 31 000 rubles.
It is worth considering: despite the automatic operation, the unit needs to be completely washed and cleaned once a year. Use soft sponges and gel products without abrasive particles. The ice formed on the wall must not be removed on its own, otherwise the camera may be damaged.
We figured out what the drip defrosting system means and what are the advantages of such models. Consumers note that the technique is convenient to use, and the price is more than affordable.