The sudden appearance of an extraneous sound in the operation of household appliances always causes alarm, especially when it comes to a refrigerator that works around the clock. If you notice that your Atlant refrigerator started to make clicking noises, this may be either a sign of normal operation or a signal of an incipient breakdown. It is important to be able to distinguish between these conditions so as not to miss the moment when the equipment requires the intervention of a specialist or adjustment.
The nature of the sound, its frequency and the place from where it comes are key factors for diagnosis. The clicking noises can come from the top of the chamber, where the thermostat is located, or from the bottom, where the compressor is hidden. Sometimes the sound resembles the crackling of ice, and sometimes a loud impact of metal on metal. Correct identification of the sound source allows you to save time and money by eliminating unnecessary calls to a specialist to eliminate natural physical processes.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the possible causes of clicking in Atlant brand refrigerators, from the most harmless to critical. You will learn how to carry out initial diagnostics yourself and in what cases it is worth preparing for serious repairs. Repeated loud clicks without turning on the motor most often indicate a malfunction of the starting relay or the compressor itself.
Natural physical processes and expansion of materials
Do not panic ahead of time, as in many In some cases, clicking sounds are absolutely normal for refrigeration equipment. The main source of sound in this category is thermal expansion and contraction of materials. The chamber walls, evaporator and other internal elements are made of plastic and metal, which change their volume as the temperature changes. When the refrigerator Atlant turns on or off, a sharp temperature change causes the materials to “walk,” which is accompanied by a characteristic crackling or clicking sound.
This sound is especially often heard in new models or after defrosting. Plastic has not yet gone through the full cycle of adaptation to constant temperature loads. Typically, such sounds occur cyclically and do not depend on the operation of the motor-compressor. They can be heard even when the unit is simply unplugged, cooling to room temperature.
It is also worth considering the design of the evaporator. In models with a No Frost or drip defrosting system, ice can accumulate in certain places and, when thawed, make sounds. If the clicking sounds are accompanied by the sounds of water dripping or flowing, this is a normal part of the defrost cycle. However, if the cracking becomes too loud and constant, it is worth checking whether the internal shelves are pressed against the walls of the chamber.
Operation of the thermostat and start relay
One of the most common causes of rhythmic clicking is the operation of thermostat (thermostat). This device is responsible for maintaining the set temperature inside the chambers. When the air is cooled to the desired temperature, the thermostat opens the electrical circuit that supplies power to the compressor. At this moment, the contacts physically open, which is always accompanied by a click. After a while, when the temperature rises, a response click is heard.
If the thermostat clicks become too loud or frequent, this may indicate that it is incorrectly configured or worn out. In older models of Atlant refrigerators, mechanical thermostats begin to work less stably over time, making louder sounds when switching. Electronic control modules are quieter, but they can also produce characteristic sounds when the relay is activated.
The second important element that produces sounds is starting relay. It is located next to the compressor and is responsible for starting the engine. When voltage is applied, the relay clicks, starting the motor. If the refrigerator tries to start, a click is heard, but the motor does not hum, and after a while the click repeats - this is an alarming symptom. It indicates that the starting device cannot start the compressor, or the engine itself is jammed.
How to distinguish a relay click from a thermostat click?
The thermostat click always precedes the start or stop of the motor and occurs less frequently (once every 20-40 minutes). Clicks of the starting relay in the event of a breakdown can be frequent (every few seconds or minutes), accompanied by an attempt to hum the motor, which immediately stalls.
The table below shows the main differences in the nature of sounds for different components:
| Component | Sound character | Frequency of occurrence | Associated symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermoregulator | Single loud click | When the set temperature is reached | Turn on or off motor |
| Start relay | Loud clicking, sometimes crackling | When you try to start the motor | The motor hums and stalls or is silent |
| Case materials | Crackling, crackling | Cyclicly, regardless of the motor | Change in temperature inside the chambers |
| Compressor | Knock, clang, vibration | Constantly during operation | Strong vibration of the case, heating |
Problems with the compressor and start-up protection device
The situation when the Atlant refrigerator clicks but does not turn on is one of the most serious. In this case, the chain of events looks like this: the relay clicks, the motor tries to start, emits a short hum or knock, then a safety shutdown click follows, and the process is repeated after a certain interval. This means that compressor cannot reach operating mode.
The most likely reason in this scenario is failure of the start relay or jamming of the compressor piston group. The relay could burn out and not provide the required impulse to start. If the relay is working properly, but the motor still does not start and clicks, there may be a break in the motor winding or a mechanical jam. Operating the refrigerator in this mode is strictly prohibited, as this can lead to complete burnout of the windings and expensive repairs.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear a series of clicks at intervals of several minutes, accompanied by short attempts to hum the motor, immediately unplug the refrigerator. Continuing to operate in this mode can permanently damage the compressor.
Diagnostics of a compressor requires special skills and tools, such as an ohmmeter to check the windings. At home, you can only visually inspect the starting relay for melting or a burning smell. Often replacing the relay solves the problem if the motor itself is still operational. However, if the compressor is hot to the touch and makes a dull thud when it tries to start, it will most likely need to be replaced.
Malfunctions of the defrosting system in No Frost models
In Atlant refrigerators with the No Frost system, clicks may be associated with the operation of the automatic defrosting system. This process is controlled by a defrost timer or an electronic control module that switches between the “cooling” and “defrosting” modes. At the moment of switching, you can hear a characteristic click. This is the sound of the damper motor operating or valve switching.
However, if the clicks become intrusive and are repeated frequently, the defrost sensor may be faulty. If the ice does not have time to melt completely, it can build up on the evaporator. During subsequent cycles of operation of the compressor, the ice mass may crack or chip, making loud noises. Sometimes pieces of ice get on the fan, causing cracking and knocking of the blades. Defrost heating element or defrost sensor. If the ice does not have time to melt completely, it can build up on the evaporator. During subsequent cycles of operation of the compressor, the ice mass may crack or chip, making loud noises. Sometimes pieces of ice get on the fan, causing the blades to crack and rattle.
To check this system, you need to defrost the refrigerator completely, leaving it turned off for a day. If after defrosting the clicks disappear, but return after a week or two, the problem lies precisely in the defrost unit. It is necessary to check the integrity of the heating element, the serviceability of the temperature sensor and the operation of the timer.
External factors and incorrect installation
Before looking for a breakdown inside the unit, it is worth eliminating external factors. Often the source of clicking noises is the installation of the refrigerator itself. If the unit is not level, vibrations from the operating compressor are transmitted to the housing and surrounding objects. While vibrating, the refrigerator may touch the wall, furniture or objects standing on it, creating a rhythmic knocking or clicking sound.
Check the following points:
- 🔹 Stability of the legs: the refrigerator should not wobble, all four legs should be firmly on the floor.
- 🔹 Clearance to the wall: back the condenser grille should not touch the wall, the minimum distance is 5-7 cm.
- 🔹 Contacts with furniture: side walls should not rub against cabinets or door frames.
- 🔹 Objects on the roof: often forgotten cans or boxes begin to rattle and click from vibration.
☑️ Diagnostics of refrigerator installation
The source of sound can also be the electrical network itself. If the outlet has poor contact or the voltage is unstable, this can cause sparking and clicking noises in the area of the plug or surge protector. Check to see if the plug gets hot after the refrigerator is running. The use of low-quality extension cords can also lead to extraneous sounds.
When you need to call a technician: critical symptoms
There are a number of symptoms in which self-repair is not only ineffective, but also dangerous. If you notice that the Atlant refrigerator is making clicking noises and has stopped freezing, the temperature in the chambers is rising, and the food is spoiling - this is a signal to action. It is especially alarming if the clicks are accompanied by the smell of burning or melted plastic.
The following signs are considered critical:
- 🔥 Smell of burning in the area of the compressor or rear wall.
- 🔥 The compressor is hot to the touch, but does not start.
- 🔥 The clicks are accompanied by sparking inside the case (visible through the ventilation holes).
- 🔥 The motor hums for a few seconds, followed by a loud click and complete silence for 10-15 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: Attempts to replace the compressor yourself or open sealed cooling system circuit without a license and equipment is prohibited. This can lead to freon leakage and violation of environmental standards.
In such cases, you must contact an authorized service center. The technician will conduct professional diagnostics, measure the compressor starting current and pressure in the system. The repair may involve replacing the start relay, which is inexpensive, or replacing the compressor, which is a major overhaul. Timely handling will allow you to preserve products and avoid more complex breakdowns.
Noise prevention and equipment care
In order for your Atlant refrigerator to serve for a long time and quietly, it is important to follow the operating rules. Regular defrosting (even for the No Frost system, preventative shutdown once a year is recommended) helps to avoid ice accumulation and unnecessary loads on the system. Keep the condenser grille at the back clean: dust and animal hair impair heat transfer, causing the motor to work longer and harder.
Keep an eye on the position of the refrigerator. Over time, the legs may become loose and the unit will require readjustment. Use a building level to check. Also, do not place the refrigerator close to heating appliances or in direct sunlight - overheating negatively affects the operation of the compressor and can cause additional noise.
Following these simple rules will extend the life of your equipment. Remember that quiet operation is a sign of service. If the character of the sound has changed, do not ignore it. Early diagnosis allows you to eliminate the problem at the stage when it is solved with minimal means.
Why does the refrigerator click when it is unplugged?
If the refrigerator is turned off but clicks, this is almost always thermal expansion of the materials. Plastic and metal cool at different rates, producing sounds. It may also be the sound of dripping water in the drainage system if there is still ice inside.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it clicks when starting?
If there is only one click and the motor starts, it is possible. If there are a lot of clicks, the engine hums and stalls - this is not possible. This will cause the compressor windings to burn out. You need to turn off the device and call a technician.
How much does it cost to replace the start relay in an Atlant refrigerator?
The cost consists of the price of the spare part (it is inexpensive) and the work of the technician. At service centers, the price may vary depending on the region and model of the refrigerator. The technician will tell you the exact amount after diagnosis.
Does the voltage level in the network affect clicks?
Yes, low voltage in the network can prevent the compressor from starting normally. The relay will click, trying to start the engine, but there will not be enough power. In such cases, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer.