Two-chamber refrigerators Atlant are popular due to their reliability and functionality, but sometimes it becomes necessary to turn off the freezer - for example, to save energy or if it is temporarily not needed. Unlike models with a system No Frostwhere the freezer and refrigerator compartment are connected by a common circuit, in classic units Atlant with a drip system this is often possible. However, the process depends on the type of control (mechanical or electronic) and the specific model.
In this article we will look at how to safely turn off the freezer without the risk of compressor failure or freon leakage, which models Atlant support this function, and what to do if a separate shutdown is not possible. You will also learn how to properly prepare a refrigerator for long-term downtime of the freezer and what alternative solutions will help save energy.
Which models Atlant allow you to turn off the freezer separately?
Not all refrigerators Atlant support independent shutdown of the freezer. This function is available mainly in models with two compressors or electronic control (series XM, NM, MXM). The table below shows the key characteristics:
| Control type | Model series | Ability to turn off the freezer | Examples of models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | MHM, HM | Partially (only temperature adjustment to minimum) | Atlant MXM 2835-080, Atlant XM 4026-000 |
| Electronic | XM, NM | Full shutdown (Vacation function or separate button) | Atlant XM 4625-100, Atlant NM 6025-090 |
| Two compressors | MXM, MY | Complete shutdown of the freezer without consequences | Atlant MXM 2835-90, Atlant MY 4626-089 |
If your model is not on this list, check the instruction manual or look for a sticker with technical specifications on the back wall of the refrigerator. Please note: in models with with one compressor (for example, Atlant XM 4021-000), you cannot completely turn off the freezer - you can only set the minimum temperature.
Step-by-step instructions: how to turn off the freezer in refrigerators with electronic control
In models with a display (series XM, NM), the process is as simple as possible. Follow the algorithm:
Press the button
Menu(orSettings) on the control panel.Select section
ModesorFreezer settings(depending on model).Find the option
Vacation(Vacation) orDisable freezer.Confirm your selection with the
OKbutton. A shutdown indicator should appear on the display (for example, a snowflake with a crossed out circle).
In some models (for example, Atlant XM 4625-100), instead of completely shutting down, the mode "Eco"is activated, in which the freezer maintains a temperature of about +8°C, preventing the formation of ice, but not freezing food.
Defrost and wash the freezer compartment|
Remove all products|
Check the door tightness|
Turn off the function “Super freezing” (if available)|
Set the refrigerator compartment temperature to +4°C
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⚠️ Attention: If, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator compartment begins to cool worse, return the settings to their original state. In models with one compressor, the freezer can participate in cooling the main compartment.
Shutdown of the freezer in models with mechanical control
In refrigerators with rotary controls (for example, Atlant MXM 2835-080) complete shutdown freezer is impossible, but you can reduce its operation to a minimum:
Turn the freezer temperature regulator (usually indicated by a snowflake) to position
OFFor0.If the regulator does not have position
OFF, set it to the minimum value (for example,1).Disable the function "Super Freeze"if it is active (a button or a separate control).
In such models the compressor will turn on less often, but the freezer will not turn off completely. The temperature in it will rise to +5...+10°C, which will prevent the formation of ice, but will not preserve frozen food.
What happens if you leave the freezer at the minimum temperature for a long time?
If it is idle for a long time (more than 1-2 months) an unpleasant odor may appear in the freezer due to defrosting of leftover food. There is also a risk of condensation forming on the door seal, which over time will lead to its deformation. It is recommended to periodically (every 2-3 weeks) open the freezer for ventilation.
Models with two compressors: how to completely turn it off. freezer
Refrigerators Atlant with two compressors (series MXM, MY) allow you to turn off the freezer without affecting the refrigerator compartment. To do this:
Find two compressors on the back wall of the refrigerator. Usually the one that is responsible for. freezer, located below.
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
Carefully disconnect the power terminals from the freezer compressor (take a photo of their location first!).
Insulate the exposed wires and turn the refrigerator back on.
In models Atlant MXM 2835-90 i MY 4626-089 the freezer compressor can be turned off through the service menu, but this requires a special key or assistance technician. Independent intervention in the electrical circuit voids the warranty can lead to a short circuit.
⚠️ Attention: If you are not confident in your skills in working with electricity, do not try to physically turn off the compressor. Contact the service center Atlant —the technicians will perform the procedure safely, while maintaining the warranty.
What to do if the freezer cannot be turned off separately?
If your model Atlant does not support turning off the freezer, consider alternative ways to save energy:
- 🔄 Holiday mode: Activate it in the refrigerator compartment (if available). The temperature will rise to
+12...+15°C, which will reduce the load on the compressor. - ❄️ Disable "Super freezing": This function increases energy consumption by 15-20%.
- 📉 Set the minimum temperature: In the freezer -
-12°C, in the refrigerator compartment -+5°C. - 🔌 Use the outlet timer: Turn off the refrigerator for 4-6 hours a day (for example, at night), if there are no perishables in it products.
Another option is to temporarily switch the refrigerator to the mode "Storage" (if provided). In this case, the compressor will turn on less often, and the temperature in the freezer will rise to -8°C, which is enough to maintain already frozen products, but not to freeze new ones.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
When trying to turn off the freezer, users often make critical mistakes that can lead to breakdown. Here are the most common of them:
- ⚡ Turning off the power while the compressor is running: This can cause water hammer and equipment failure. Always wait 5-10 minutes after the compressor stops before turning off.
- 🔧 Disassemble the rear yourself panels: In models with one compressor, physically turning off the freezer will upset the balance of the system and the refrigerator compartment will stop cooling.
- 🧊 Ignoring defrosting before turning off: Ice in the freezer may damage the seal or drainage system when defrosting.
If, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator begins to make unusual sounds (knocking, humming), immediately return the settings to their original state and contact your service. This may indicate compressor overload or refrigerant leakage.
How to prepare the refrigerator for a long freezer downtime
If you plan not to use the freezer for more than a month, follow these steps:
Thaw the freezer and wash it thoroughly with a soda solution (2 tablespoons of soda per 1 liter of water).
Dry the chamber, leaving the door open for 12-24 hours.
Place an odor absorber inside (for example, a bag of activated carbon or a special gel absorbent).
Set the temperature in the refrigerator compartment
+5°Cand activate the "Vacation" mode (if any).
If the freezer will be idle for more than 3 months, it is recommended to completely unplug the refrigerator, having first removed all the food and carried out general cleaning. Before turning it on again, let the equipment stand at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
⚠️ Attention: If it is not used for a long time (from 6 months), the rubber seals may lose their elasticity. To avoid this, periodically (once every 1-2 months) open and close the freezer door, and also lubricate the seal with silicone grease.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about turning off the freezer in refrigerators Atlant
Can it be turned off? freezer in the refrigerator Atlant XM 4026-000?
In this model with mechanical control and one compressor, complete shutdown of the freezer is impossible. You can only set the temperature control to the minimum value (1) and disable "Super Freeze". The compressor will turn on less often, but the freezer will not turn off completely.
Will the refrigerator compartment work normally if I turn off the freezer in a model with two compressors?
Yes, in models with two compressors (for example Atlant MXM 2835-90), the refrigerator and freezer compartments work regardless. Turning off the freezer will not affect the temperature in the main compartment.
How to save energy if the freezer cannot be turned off?
Set the temperature in the freezer -12°C (instead of standard -18°C), turn off "Super Freeze" and regularly defrost the chamber (once every 1–2 months). Placing the refrigerator away from heat sources (radiators, stoves) will also help.
What should you do if, after turning off the freezer, the refrigerator begins to hum loudly?
This is a sign of increased load on the compressor. Immediately return your freezer settings to their original state and check to see if the refrigerator is overloaded with food. If the humming does not stop, call a technician - there may be a freon leak or a fan malfunction.
Is it possible to turn off the freezer in a refrigerator Atlant with the No Frost system?
In most models Atlant s No Frost The freezer and refrigerator compartment are connected by a common cooling circuit, so they cannot be turned off separately. The exception is models with two compressors (for example, Atlant MY 4626-089).