When the refrigerator Atlant begins to freeze poorly, make unusual sounds or accumulate ice in the chamber, the problem often lies in a valve malfunction. But before calling a technician, it’s worth figuring out where exactly this valve is located, what it looks like, and whether it can be reached without disassembling the equipment. In this article we will analyze in detail all types of valves in refrigerators Atlant (from two-chamber to Side-by-Side), show them in the photo and explain what each is responsible for.
It is important to understand that depending on the model and cooling system (No Frost, drip, combined) valves can be located in different places. For example, in refrigerators s No Frost is often found switching solenoid valve, and in drip refrigerators - thermostatic valve. We will consider all options so that you definitely find the right element.
If you are not confident in your abilities, do not take risks. Improper intervention in the cooling system can lead to freon leakage or compressor failure. But if you are ready to act carefully, our instructions will help you save on diagnostics.
What valves are there in Atlant refrigerators and what are they responsible for
In refrigerators Atlant several types of valves are used, each of which performs its own function. Let's look at the main ones:
- 🔧 Electromagnetic switching valve —responsible for the distribution of refrigerant between the freezer and refrigerator compartments. Found in models with No Frost and two-compressor systems.
- ❄️ Thermostatic valve (TRV) - regulates the supply of freon to the evaporator depending on the temperature. Typical for drip refrigerators.
- 🔄 Check valve - prevents reverse flow of refrigerant. Installed in systems with one compressor.
- 💧 Defrost valve — controls the defrosting process in systems No Frost. It often fails when overheated.
The most common valve that users encounter is electromagnetic. It is usually located on the tube connecting the compressor and the evaporator. Its breakdown leads to the fact that one of the chambers stops cooling, and the other freezes.
In models Atlant with a system No Frost (for example, MHM 2835-90 or MHM 1842-80) the switching valve is often located behind the rear wall of the compressor. In drip refrigerators (for example MX 2822-66), the thermostatic valve can be hidden under the control panel.
Where to look for the valve in refrigerators Atlant with No Frost
In models with the system No Frost the switching solenoid valve is usually located in the lower part of the rear wall, next to the compressor. To get to it:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Move it away from the wall to gain access to the back panel.
- Remove the protective cover (it is secured with latches or screws).
- The valve will look like a small box with wires and tubes attached to the copper line.
In refrigerators Atlant s Full No Frost (for example, MHM 2808-90) the valve can be hidden under foam insulation. In this case, you will have to carefully cut off part of the insulation to get to it.
How to distinguish the valve from other parts?
The switching valve usually has a cylindrical shape with a coil and two or three pipes. It may have markings like "EMV" or "Solenoid Valve". Do not confuse it with the compressor relay (it is square and located on the compressor itself).
If you see traces of corrosion, melted plastic or burnt wires on the valve, this is a clear sign of a malfunction. In this case, the part must be replaced.
⚠️ Attention: In some models Atlant after 2020, the valve can be integrated into the control board. If you do not find it on the tubes, check the diagram in the instructions for the refrigerator.
Location of the valve in drip refrigerators Atlant
In drip refrigerators (for example, MX 2821-66 or MX 2831-66) instead of a solenoid valve is often used thermostatic valve (TRV). It is located:
- 🔍 At the entrance to the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber (behind the back wall, under plastic panel).
- 🔧 Next to the capillary tube (thin copper tube coming from the compressor).
- 📍 In some models - inside the thermostat housing (then you will have to remove the control panel).
TRV looks like a brass or copper cylinder with thin tube at the outlet. Its task is to dose the freon supply depending on the temperature in the chamber. If the valve is jammed, the refrigerator may either not cool at all or work without stopping.
To check the expansion valve, touch the outlet tube: if it is icy and the refrigerator does not freeze, the valve is most likely clogged. If the tube is hot, but the compressor is working, the problem is a freon leak or a compressor malfunction.
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network
Remove the back panel (screws or latches)
Find the capillary tube and trace its path
Check the temperature of the tubes at the inlet and outlet of the valve
Inspect the valve for mechanical damage-->
What the valve looks like: photo and connection diagram
The appearance of the valve depends on its type. Below are the characteristic features:
| Valve type | Appearance | Location | Symptoms of malfunction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electromagnetic | Plastic case with a coil, 2-3 pipes | Next to the compressor, on the line | Does not click when turned on, one of the chambers does not cool |
| Thermostatic valve (TRV) | Brass/copper cylinder with a thin tube | At the inlet to the evaporator | The tube freezes or remains warm |
| Check valve | Small metal ball or membrane | In a break in the line between the compressor and the condenser | The refrigerator does not turn on, the compressor hums and turns off |
| Defrost valve | Plastic block with wires and tubes | Behind the panel No Frost, heating element | Ice in the freezer, the fan does not spin |
The photo below shows a typical electromagnetic valve from the refrigerator Atlant MXM 2835-90:
[Here would be a photo of the valve with captions: 1 - coil, 2 - pipes, 3 - fastening to the main line]
In Atlant refrigerators with the MultiFlow system (for example, MXM 2806-90) the switching valve can have 4 pipes instead of the standard 2-3. This is normal - it distributes freon between several evaporators.
Step-by-step instructions: how to get to the valve without breaking
To safely access the valve, follow these instructions:
- Unplug the refrigerator unplug and let it stand for 10-15 minutes (this will relieve pressure in the system).
- Remove the back panel:
- The screws may be hidden under stickers or plugs.
- In some models, the panel is held on by latches - pry it off with a flat screwdriver.
- Electromagnetic - will have wires.
- TRV - without wires, with a thin tube at the output.
- Check the fastening: the valve can be soldered or secured with nuts. Do not try to unscrew it without experience!
In refrigerators Atlant with a top freezer (for example, MHM 1742-80), the valve may be located behind the panel in the upper part of the rear wall. In this case, you will have to remove the freezer lid.
⚠️ Attention: If during inspection you notice oil on the pipes or valve, this is a sign of a freon leak. In this case, independent repair is dangerous: freon is toxic, and its refilling requires special equipment.
Signs of a valve malfunction and what to do with them
How to understand that the problem is in the valve? Pay attention to the following symptoms:
- ❄️ One chamber does not cool, the other works normally - a typical sign of a jammed solenoid valve.
- 🔥 The compressor is running without stops, but the temperature does not drop - the thermostatic valve may be clogged.
- 💦 Ice appears on the back wall of the refrigerator —the defrost valve in the system is faulty No Frost.
- 🔊 Clicks or buzzing from the back —the valve tries to work, but the mechanism is jammed.
If the valve is solenoid, you can try checking it with a multimeter:
- Disconnect the wires from the valve.
- Switch the multimeter to resistance test mode (200 Ohms).
- Attach the probes to the coil contacts. A working valve will show resistance in the range
20-50 Ohm. - If there is no resistance, the coil is burnt out, the valve must be replaced.
In the case of thermostatic valve diagnosis is more complicated: it is checked by the temperature of the inlet and outlet tubes. If the temperature difference is more 10-15°C, the valve is working. If the tubes are the same temperature, the expansion valve is jammed.
Atlant models with non-standard valve location
In some models Atlant the valve may be located in unexpected places. Let's look at the features:
- 📦 MXM 2806-90 (MultiFlow) — the switching valve is hidden under a foam partition between the chambers. To get to it, you need to remove the internal panel of the refrigeration chamber.
- 🧊 MX 2824-66 (drip) —the thermostatic valve is located inside the thermostat housing. You will have to remove the control panel.
- 🔄 MHM 1842-80 (No Frost) —the defrost valve is located behind the fan panel. To see it, you need to unscrew 4 screws and remove the plastic cover.
In models Side-by-Side (for example, Atlant SBS 5026-100) the switching valve is often duplicated - one for each chamber. They are located symmetrically behind the compressors.
If your model is not mentioned in the list, find it in Atlant official catalog and check the diagram in the instructions. For refrigerators released after 2021, the location of the valves may differ due to the updated design.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about valves in Atlant refrigerators
Is it possible to repair the valve yourself or just replace it?
Solenoid valves cannot be repaired - only replaced. The thermostatic expansion valve (TEV) can sometimes be cleaned if it is clogged with mechanical particles, but this is a temporary solution. In 90% of cases, the faulty valve is replaced with a new one.
How much does it cost to replace a valve in an Atlant refrigerator?
The cost depends on the type of valve and model of the refrigerator:
- Solenoid valve - from 1500 to 3500 rubles (with work).
- Thermostatic valve - from 2000 to 4500 rubles.
- Defrost valve - from 1200 to 2800 rubles.
Prices are relevant for Moscow and the regions for 2026, but may vary depending on the service center.
How to check if the valve is working without disassembling the refrigerator?
Indirect signs:
- Listen: a working solenoid valve makes a slight click when switching (every 5-10 minutes).
- Touch tubes: if one is icy and the other is warm, the valve switches.
- Look at the temperature in the chambers: if the difference is more than 10°C, the valve is working.
Accurate diagnostics can only be carried out after disassembly.
What will happen if you do not change the faulty valve?
The consequences depend on the type of valve:
- Electromagnetic —one of the chambers will stop cooling, the compressor will wear out.
- TRV —the refrigerator either will not freeze or will begin to freeze.
- Defrost valve —ice will form in the freezer, the fan will stop working, which will lead to motor failure.
In the long term, this can damage the compressor (repairs will cost 5-7 thousand rubles).
Is it possible to temporarily do without the valve?
No, it is impossible. The valve is a critical element of the cooling system. If it breaks, the refrigerator will either not work or will not work properly. A temporary solution is to turn off one of the chambers (if there is a switching valve), but this will lead to increased load on the compressor.