Ventilation requirements for fridges and freezers

Issue

• Required ventilation space in refrigeration equipment.
• Why is it necessary to provide ventilation spaces for fridges/freezers?
• The fridge-freezer is not working properly; its performance is poor.
• Poor cooling, temperature too high in the fridge or freezer
• The fridge/freezer compressor is still running and still cannot maintain the correct temperature.
• Do Fridges and Fridge Freezers Need Ventilation?

Applies to:

• Fridge-freezers
• Fridges
• Freezers

Resolution

Where should the fridge-freezer go?

Optimal operation of your fridge-freezer is only possible if all installation requirements are met. Below you will find a list of general installation tips:

1. Do not install your fridge-freezer near a heat source (e.g. oven, cooker, radiator, gas cooker or hob) or in direct sunlight.
2. Install the appliance in a dry, well-ventilated room.
3. The fridge-freezer should be positioned at least 50 cm away from cookers, gas stoves and hobs and at least 5 cm away from electric ovens.
4. Make sure that the fridge-freezer is not exposed to moisture or rain.
5. Level the fridge-freezer to ensure safe use. Use the adjustable feet to position the appliance horizontally.
6. Before using the fridge-freezer, wipe all the shelves and drawers with a cloth soaked in warm water mixed with a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda. After cleaning, rinse them with warm water and dry them.
7. Fridges are designed to operate at ambient temperatures from 10°C to 43°C.

Requirements for ventilation of refrigeration equipment

The fridge-freezer produces heat during operation, which escapes through the rear wall of the appliance. Maintaining appropriate ventilation gaps is necessary for correct and optimal operation. The fridge-freezer must not be placed directly against a wall, furniture or the ceiling – the required clearance must be maintained.

Due to its physical properties, warm air emerging from the rear of the fridge-freezer rises. Therefore, it is necessary to provide adequate space above the appliance to allow air to circulate freely.

Ventilation requirements vary depending on the type of fridge-freezer.

Integrated fridge freezers

Built-in fridge-freezers require a suitable ventilation channel to be prepared in the kitchen unit (always check the fridge-freezer installation instructions and the "Installation" section of the user manual).

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Important: A minimum of 200 cm² of ventilation must be provided at both the top and bottom of the cabinetry to ensure correct airflow.

Freestanding fridge freezers

Freestanding fridge-freezers require a certain distance between the back of the appliance and the wall and the ceiling (see the "Installation" chapter in the fridge-freezer's user manual)

IMPORTANT! Failure to ensure proper air circulation and ventilation may directly cause failure. Defects resulting from faulty installation are not covered by the warranty. 

Incorrect ventilation of the fridge-freezer – possible symptoms

A faulty ventilation duct may cause the fridge to overheat and cause components to operate irregularly. Symptoms that may be caused by incorrect installation:

• noisy operation of the fridge/freezer;
• continuous operation of the compressor, without stops;
• problem maintaining the temperature inside the fridge or freezer compartment; repeated high-temperature alarms;
• excessive frost or moisture build-up inside the fridge or freezer compartment.

Important: The operation of the fridge-freezer is affected by the ambient temperature and humidity. The warmer it is, the more pronounced the signs of faulty construction will be, i.e. the more noticeable they will become.

Remember

In addition to the ventilation ducts, regular cleaning and comprehensive maintenance also have a significant impact on the operation of the fridge-freezer. Check the "Maintenance and Cleaning" section in your appliance's user manual.

Buy genuine cleaning products for fridges and freezers

Cause:

FAQs – Ventilation Requirements for Fridges and Freezers

Why does my fridge or freezer need ventilation?
Ventilation allows heat generated by the cooling system to escape, helping the fridge or freezer maintain the correct temperature and operate efficiently.

What happens if there is not enough ventilation around my fridge or freezer?
Insufficient airflow can cause poor cooling performance, temperature alarms, excessive ice build-up, increased energy consumption, and unusual operating noises.

How much ventilation space is required for a built-in fridge or freezer?
Built-in models typically require ventilation openings at both the top and bottom of the cabinetry. Always follow the dimensions specified in the installation instructions for your model.

Can I block the ventilation grilles or air vents?
No. Ventilation grilles and air vents must remain unobstructed to ensure proper airflow and cooling performance.

Can poor ventilation cause the compressor to run continuously?
Yes. If heat cannot escape properly, the compressor may run for longer periods to maintain the set temperature.

Is it normal for the sides of a fridge or freezer to feel warm?
Yes. Many fridges and freezers release heat through the cabinet walls or condenser system, so it can be normal for the outer surfaces to feel warm during operation.

Do I need a service if my fridge or freezer is overheating due to poor ventilation?
Not usually. In many cases, improving airflow around the fridge or freezer resolves the issue. A service may only be required if the problem persists after the installation and ventilation requirements have been checked.