The appearance of extraneous sounds in the operation of a household refrigerator always causes concern for the owner. This is especially true for brand equipment Atlant, which is famous for its reliability and quiet operation. If your Atlant refrigerator starts to make a knock, this is a signal that a failure has occurred in the cooling system or electrical circuit that requires immediate attention.
The problem cannot be ignored, since ignoring diagnostics can lead to more serious ones breakdowns In this article, we will analyze in detail the main causes of knocking, methods of self-diagnosis and situations when it is no longer possible to do without calling a technician.
⚠️ Attention: If the knocking is accompanied by sparking, a burning smell or strong heating of the compressor housing, immediately disconnect the device from the power supply to avoid a fire.
Diagnostics of operation compressor
The most common and often frightening cause of noise is compressor. It is this unit that is responsible for circulating the refrigerant through the system. In normal operation, it emits a smooth, quiet hum, which is barely noticeable against the background of household noise.
However, if you hear a distinct metallic knocking or clanging sound, this may indicate wear on the internal parts of the motor or problems with the starting mechanism. Models Atlant often use reliable piston compressors, but over time their service life is exhausted.
- 🔨 Wear of the piston group: A metallic knock during startup and operation indicates that the pistons or fingers have play.
- ⚡ Problems with the start relay: If the compressor tries to start, makes a clicking or knocking sound and turns off, the start relay has most likely failed.
- 🔩 Loosening fasteners: The bolts securing the compressor to the frame may have become loose, causing vibration and impacts to the frame.
To check the condition of the compressor, you need to carefully listen to its location, usually the lower part of the rear wall. If the knocking comes from there, a more detailed disassembly will be required.
Faults in the No Frost system
In refrigerators Atlantequipped with a system No Frost (or “Full No Frost”), the source of noise is often the fan. Its task is to force cold air to circulate through the chambers.
Over time, ice can build up on the fan blades, which upsets the balance and causes beating. The knocking noise may also be caused by a worn fan motor bearing.
⚠️ Attention: Before checking the fan, be sure to defrost the refrigerator for at least 12 hours to prevent ice from affecting the operation of the unit.
Checking the fan requires partial disassembly of the freezer compartment. It is necessary to remove the back panel and visually assess the condition of the impeller. If there is ice on it, it should be carefully removed.
How to check the fan without disassembling?
Turn on the refrigerator and carefully open the freezer door. Press the door sensor button (if it is mechanical) to simulate closing. If the fan starts and makes noise, that is the problem. If there is no noise, it may be that the evaporator is freezing.
Knock of pipes and structural elements
Often owners are frightened by loud sounds, not knowing that the reason lies in banal vibration. When the compressor operates, the copper tubes through which freon circulates can vibrate and hit each other or the housing.
This phenomenon is called “resonance”. In refrigerators Atlant pipes are usually secured with clamps, but over time the plastic ages and the fixation weakens. A slight push is enough for the tubes to start rattling.
- 🔍 Visual inspection: Look behind the rear radiator grille. If you see that the tubes are located too close to each other, this may be the cause of the knocking.
- 👐 Manual check: Gently (without force!) Try to slightly move the tubes apart with your hands or change their angle. If the knocking stops, the problem has been found.
- 🧊 Ice plug: Sometimes the knocking noise is made by the refrigerant itself passing through the capillary tube if an ice plug or air bubble has formed in the system.
To eliminate vibration of the tubes, you need to carefully bend them, increasing the gap. The main thing is not to overdo it, so as not to damage the thin walls of the copper and not cause a freon leak.
Problems with shock absorbers and suspension
The compressor in refrigerators Atlant is attached to the frame using special shock absorbers. These could be springs or rubber bushings. Their task is to dampen the vibrations of a running engine.
If the shock absorbers are worn out, dried out or burst, the compressor begins to “dangle” and hit the metal elements of the frame with each stroke. This causes a dull, rhythmic knock.
Diagnostics is simple: with the compressor running, lightly press it with your hand (being careful!). If the noise disappears, then the problem is in the suspension. Replacement of rubber gaskets or springs is required.
Table: Comparison of noise types and probable causes
| Sound type | Probable cause | Localization | Complexity repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal clanging | Piston group wear | Bottom, rear | High (compressor replacement) |
| Quiet humming + knocking | Loose fastenings | Bottom, rear | Low (tightening bolts) |
| Crackling and whistling | Fan malfunction | Freezer compartment | Medium (fan replacement) |
| Periodical clicking noise | Thermal expansion of plastic | Inside the chamber | Normal (does not require repair) |
| Loud knocking at start | Start relay | Side of the compressor | Low (relay replacement) |
When you need to call a technician
Not all causes of knocking can be eliminated yourself. There are situations when the intervention of an unqualified user can only harm the equipment Atlant.
First of all, this concerns problems related to the tightness of the system. If the knocking is caused by freon water hammer or a malfunction of the valves inside the sealed circuit, you will need special equipment for evacuation and refilling.
☑️ When to call a technician
Also a master is needed if required replacing the compressor itself. This process includes not only dismantling the old motor, but also soldering copper tubes, which requires a gas burner and skills in working with metal.
Prevention and care of the refrigerator
In order to Atlant refrigerator serve for a long time and quietly, it is important to follow the operating rules. Regular defrosting (for drip systems) and cleaning the drainage holes will prevent many problems.
Do not overload the shelves and install the refrigerator close to the wall. A gap of 5-10 cm is necessary for normal air circulation and cooling of the condenser, which reduces the load on the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to forcefully remove frozen drawers or shelves - this can damage the guides and cause misalignment, which will lead to vibration and noise.
Check the stability of the refrigerator legs regularly. If it is not level, vibration during operation will increase, accelerating wear of parts.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why a refrigerator Does Atlant knock only when turned on?
A knock when turned on most often indicates a malfunction of the start relay or initial wear of the compressor. At the moment of start, the load on the engine is maximum, and if there is play in the piston group or the relay does not press, a shock occurs.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it is knocking?
For a short time - it is possible, but not recommended. A constant knocking indicates a progressive breakdown. If the cause is not eliminated, the compressor may jam, which will lead to expensive repairs or the need to purchase new equipment.
Is it normal for the refrigerator to make sounds after defrosting?
Yes, this is normal. After defrosting, residual moisture may remain in the system, which, evaporating or moving through the tubes, causes gurgling and slight clicking. Also, when the plastic housing cools down, it can make a cracking noise.
How can you tell that it is the compressor that is knocking and not something else?
Put your hand on the compressor housing (bottom back). If vibration and knocking sounds are heard in the palm of your hand rhythmically with the hum of the motor, then the problem lies with the motor. If the knocking is chaotic or comes from above/from the side, look for the cause in the fans or pipes.