Refrigerator drip defrosting system: what it is and how it works

Basic concept and features of what drip defrosting is

The system facilitates defrosting automatically using the evaporator on the rear panel, so there is no need for manual cleaning. This, in turn, cools the air flow. The temperature inside always remains positive. This approach promotes the formation of condensation on the surface.

Defrosting controls the presence of ice that accumulates in certain areas of the refrigerator. When its layer becomes as large as possible, the system automatically turns off the compressor.

And there is also No Frost...

More expensive devices use a slightly different system, eliminating the possibility of freezing in the usual sense. These refrigerators have a compressor connected to a cooling panel. But cold air is distributed inside using coolers (fans), which ensure uniform flow. At the same time, a certain amount of condensate also collects on the surfaces, but it is much less than with drip technology.

What is a refrigerator defrosting drip system?

Products with drip technology are trouble-free to use, and their cost is in the middle range. The principle of drip defrosting of the refrigeration chamber is based on the following aspects:

1. The equipment is equipped with a panel in which moisture accumulates and is discharged into specially installed tanks.
2. The defrosting process is carried out silently for residents thanks to the built-in mode, which optimally determines the time of freezing and thawing.
3. Refrigerators operating using this method are equipped with an alarm that is triggered during periods of elevated internal temperature. In this case, users are immediately notified that the refrigerator needs to be defrosted.

The drip defrosting function is well thought out. The only thing is that sometimes it is necessary to clean the containers that collect water so that they do not become clogged.

How to properly defrost a refrigerator

Defrosting begins with the preparatory stage, where it is necessary to empty the shelves of contents. It is better to start the process at a time when there are no perishable foods in the refrigerator or the air temperature outside is quite low, so that the food is perfectly preserved on the balcony.

How to defrost a refrigerator correctly? Adhere to the following rules:

• Set the regulator to o and disconnect the equipment from the network.
• Unload groceries.
• Remove all trays and drawers.
• If the unit is not equipped with a container for collecting melt water, install a tray under the refrigerator, after placing a rag under it.
• Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors open. This will help the unit defrost faster.

During the defrosting process, periodically check the tray and drain the accumulated water in a timely manner.

Advantages and disadvantages of drip defrosting

The drip defrosting technique has a simple design; its operating principle is based on the simplest physical phenomenon - condensation.

System advantages:

• comfortable operation;
• affordable price;
• high quality;
• quiet operation of the equipment;
• minimal power consumption.

Disadvantages of the system:

• The freezer needs to be defrosted independently;
• The drain hole and drain hose may become clogged.

The most popular defrosting systems

Modern technologies are perfect for defrosting. They ensure constant air circulation inside. An evaporator is provided between the freezer and main chamber. We figured out what drip defrosting of a refrigerator is, let’s look at popular systems.

The air flow is supplied from one side and exits from the opposite. If the compressor turns off, the water flows into the tank and then evaporates. There are several types of defrosting. Let's look at the most popular of them.

Refrigerators are equipped with separate chambers for storing vegetables.

No Frost defrosting system

No Frost technology means “no frost”. During operation, a snow cap will not accumulate on the inner walls of the refrigerator, which should be removed independently.

The main difference between this system is the absence of an evaporator or air cooler, which is present in standard refrigerators. The evaporator is provided in a recess or on the back wall of the equipment and has the shape of a coil with fins.

The advantages of the No Frost option are as follows:

• minimal effort required for operation;
• uniform temperature throughout the entire volume;
• easy and simple use of technology;
• Condensation does not collect on the back wall;
• Built-in quick freezing function.

Disadvantages of the No Frost option:

• high price;
• such products do not differ in capacity;
• there is a high risk of breakdown due to the presence of many parts;
• consume relatively more energy;
• Quite noisy when working.

However, this defrosting system has more advantages, which is why it is popular among buyers.

Literally, the term “No Frost” is translated from English as “without frost”

Naturecool defrosting system

The Naturecool defrosting system is an innovative, modern development. It does not use forced air circulation. The cold enters the chamber directly from the evaporator, which is located inside the walls. Thanks to this, ice does not form in the chambers.

Refrigerators with this defrosting system have the following advantages:

• high capacity;
• there are additional compartments for storing food;
• quiet work.

Since this defrosting technology is new and is used mainly in Bosch refrigerators, users have not yet discovered any disadvantages.

Cooling in NatureCool refrigerators is carried out without forced air circulation

Direct Cool (drip defrost)

The Direct Cool refrigerator drip defrosting system (which means “directional cooling”) is the simplest, most affordable and reliable. While the compressor is operating, the temperature in the refrigerator gradually decreases due to heat intake from the evaporator. Moisture begins to accumulate and freeze on the back wall. If the temperature becomes as low as possible, the compressor turns off and the air temperature begins to rise.

The Direct Cool drip defrosting system has numerous advantages:

• affordable cost of equipment and maintenance;
• almost silent operation;
• the likelihood of parts failure is reduced;
• widest selection of models;
• low power consumption.

Minor cons:

• not in freezers;
• the back wall is always covered with ice;
• Frequent defrosting is required;
• The walls of the refrigerator compartment can be of different temperatures.

Some users note that water may leak during operation if the drain is clogged. Through it, condensate is removed from the refrigeration chamber. Therefore, manufacturers do not recommend placing equipment on carpet, laminate or parquet.

Low Frost

The Low Frost option is based on an evaporator, which is located across the entire surface of the freezer. This approach makes it possible to maintain temperature and humidity at the same level.

Ice formation is quite slow, and it appears in a thin layer. This makes defrosting much easier. The advantages of the system are as follows:

• there is no strong condensation, which contributes to the appearance of ice;
• the difference between the temperatures of the walls and the air in the chamber is small;
• the entire volume of air in the freezer is cooled;
• Maintenance is quick and easy.

The undeniable advantage of Low Frost defrosting technology is its low cost, simplicity of design and attractive price for consumables. Household refrigerators with such a system are very popular in the market.

LowFrost is a design of an evaporator circuit placed around the perimeter of the freezer behind its inner walls.

Where do the drops come from?

The evaporator temperature fluctuates within no more than 2 degrees (depending on the model and type of compressor). Therefore, practically no frost forms on the wall. Although it all depends on the temperature settings in the chamber.

When the evaporator temperature is at its minimum, moisture may freeze on the back wall of the chamber. After this, the evaporator cools down and the frost turns into water. It accumulates into drops and flows down. Hence the name – drip system.

There are several reasons why humidity increases in the refrigerator compartment:

• Frequent opening and closing of the door;
• The door does not fit tightly due to misalignment or wear of the seal;
• Placing hot food in the refrigerator;
• Storing prepared foods in open containers.

Rating of the best models of refrigerators with a drip defrosting system

Here is a rating of the best models of refrigerators with a drip defrosting system according to users’ opinions and sales volumes.

Refrigerator Shivaki SHRF-90DP

An inexpensive and spacious refrigerator from the manufacturer Shivaki is an affordable budget option, its average cost is 12 thousand rubles. The equipment weighs only 26 kg. Perfect for a rented or small apartment.

The original design allows the refrigerator to be used in conjunction with a bread maker, dishwasher and other appliances. There are two doors that open separately. The kit comes with various useful accessories.

Important Features:

• class A energy consumption savings;
• silent operation;
• The drip system is only in the main chamber.

Among users, this refrigerator received 4 points out of 5.

Price: ₽ 12,000

Refrigerator Indesit SB 185

A powerful, large and capacious device with a drip defrosting system. The total volume of the chambers is 339 liters. The quality of defrosting is at the highest level; even after a power outage, the cold will remain in the chambers for up to 15 hours.

It operates almost silently, but has class B energy consumption. The average cost varies from 18 thousand rubles. The technique has received a large number of positive reviews.

Price: ₽ 18,000

Refrigerator Pozis RK 139

A beautiful and stylish refrigerator from a Russian manufacturer with a bottom-mounted freezer. The model has a strict design and is made in white. It is distinguished by its height, capacity (285 liters) and economical energy consumption.

The original design has the ability to overweight the doors in order to open them comfortably. The average cost is 19 thousand rubles.

Price: RUB 19,572

Defrosting

Step 6: Empty the Refrigerator

Remove all shelves from the freezer. If some are frozen, you will have to wait until the ice melts. Remove all shelves and drawers for vegetables and fruits from the upper chamber. Leave the doors open.

Step 7: Speed ​​up the process

To quickly get rid of ice, use a special scraper (spatula). A plastic car one is best. If you don't do this, it will take several hours to defrost. Immediately place the ice cubes in a container.

Place a container of hot water in the chamber. It is best to use a basin - it has a large evaporation area. As soon as the water has cooled, drain it and pour in hot water. It is best to use boiling water.

Use a hair dryer. The best one is a construction one, and if you don’t have one, a regular one will do. You can use a clothes steamer. The hotter and stronger the air flow, the better.

Freezing the refrigerator using hot water.

Comparison table of the best drip defrosting systems for refrigerators