Two-chamber refrigerators of the brand Atlant with one compressor are one of the most common models in the post-Soviet space. Their design is time-tested and reliable, but even high-quality equipment requires repair or replacement of parts over time. The most common cause of failure or incorrect operation is the thermoregulation system, which is responsible for maintaining the set temperature.
Owners are often faced with a situation when food in the refrigerator compartment begins to freeze, or, conversely, the freezer does not become cold enough. In such cases, the first suspect becomes thermostat, which could have gone astray or completely failed. Understanding where exactly this unit is located in your model is a key step for self-diagnosis and troubleshooting.
In this article we will analyze in detail the design of the temperature control system, consider the features of the location of sensors in various series of refrigerators Atlant and provide a step-by-step algorithm for replacement.
The principle of operation and design of the thermoregulation system
In single-compressor models Atlant the cooling system is designed in such a way that cold is generated in the freezer compartment and then circulates into the refrigeration compartment. This process is controlled using a thermostat (mechanical regulator) or an electronic control unit. In classic models, the main element is mechanical thermostat, the sensitive element of which reacts to changes in the temperature of the evaporator.
The principle of operation is based on the expansion and compression of gas or liquid inside a capillary tube connected to a bellows. When the temperature reaches the set value, the contacts open and the compressor stops. If the sensor is faulty, the on-off cycle is disrupted, which leads to either constant operation of the motor or its complete downtime.
Electronic systems found in more modern series use thermistors (thermistors). Their resistance changes depending on the temperature, and the signal is transmitted to the main control module. In such refrigerators, the concept of “thermostat” is replaced by a “temperature sensor”, and there can be several of them: in the evaporator, in the air of the refrigerator compartment and in the freezer.
⚠️ Attention: In models with the No Frost system, sensors are often built into the plastic body of the evaporator and hidden behind the casing. Replacing them requires complete defrosting and removal of the back panel.
Localization of the thermostat in different Atlant series
The location of the control element directly depends on the year of manufacture and series of your refrigerator. In older models with a “crying” evaporator, the thermostat is most often located inside the refrigerator compartment. In newer versions with the No Frost system or improved insulation, the sensors can be moved outside the chambers or integrated into the electronic board.
If you have a classic model, look for the temperature control knob on the inner wall of the chamber or under the top cover. From this handle there is a shaft to the mechanism itself. In some cases, it is temperature regulator hidden behind a decorative overlay or located in a niche above the door. The exact diagram depends on the specific model index indicated on the nameplate.
It is important to distinguish between a mechanical thermostat and a defrost sensor. The first regulates the operation of the compressor, the second - turns on the heating element to defrost the evaporator. In two-chamber Atlantakh with one compressor, one main thermostat is often used to control the temperature in the freezer, and in the refrigerator there is an additional sensor or air damper.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the thermostat with a starting-type protection relay. The relay is located at the back, on the compressor, and is responsible for starting the engine, and not for the temperature.
Instructions for finding a mechanical thermostat
To start the search, you must turn off the power to the refrigerator. This is a mandatory safety requirement. After unplugging, open the refrigerator door. Carefully inspect the upper part of the internal volume. In most models of the KShT series (Ksh-212, Ksh-256 and their modifications), the thermostat is located under the top plastic cover or behind a decorative strip.
Carefully remove the lampshade if it interferes with access. Often the thermostat is mounted on a bracket next to the light bulb. You will see a plastic pen with numbers or marks on it. If the handle is removable, remove it by pulling it towards you. Under it there may be a fastening screw or a rod going to the sensor body.
If there is no adjustment knob inside the chamber, inspect the outside of the refrigerator. In some models Atlant the regulator is located on the upper end of the case or on the front panel above the door. In this case, access to the electrical contacts is achieved by removing the top cover of the refrigerator body.
☑️ Preparing to search for a thermostat
After visually detecting the thermostat housing (usually a black or white plastic parallelepiped with an exiting copper capillary tube), you can begin checking it. The capillary tube can be attached to the evaporator or lie freely in the channel.
Dismantling and checking the serviceability of the part
Before removing the part, it is necessary to photograph the wire connection. Color markings may vary from year to year and assembly errors will result in a short circuit. Typically, yellow-green (grounding), red, black or brown wires are used.
To check, you will need a multimeter switched to resistance (Ohm) or continuity measurement mode. Disconnect the wires from the thermostat contacts. Connect the multimeter probes to the input and output contacts. At room temperature, the circuit should be closed (resistance close to zero), since the contacts are normally closed.
For more accurate diagnostics, you can place the sensitive element (capillary tube) in a container with water and ice. When the temperature drops, the contacts should open and the multimeter will show an open circuit. If this does not happen, or if the circuit is broken already at room temperature, thermostat it is faulty and requires replacement.
Wire color matching table
Yellow-green wire always goes to the body (grounding)|Red or brown - phase from the mains|Black or blue - goes to the compressor|In older models, the colors may differ, the diagram on the terminal block is important
When dismantling, be extremely careful with the capillary tube. It is very thin and easily pinches or breaks. Damage to the tube makes the thermostat unsuitable for further use, since the working substance will leave the system.
Comparative table of locations in popular models
For ease of navigation through the models Atlant we have prepared a summary table. It will help you quickly navigate where to look for the control unit depending on the index of your device.
| Series / Model | Location of the regulator | Control type | Features access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant KSh-212, 256 | Inside the refrigeration chamber, under the ceiling | Mechanical | Requires removal of the handle and cover |
| Atlant MXM-1700 | Inside the chamber, to the right of the lampshade | Mechanical | Access through the lamp niche |
| Atlant MXM-2808 | Behind the top cover housing (outside) | Mechanical | You need to remove the top cover of the refrigerator |
| Atlant XM-4425 | Electronic unit at the top of the chamber | Electronic | Requires disassembly of the plastic casing |
Please note that in models with the index MHM there is often a remote thermostat, which simplifies replacement, but requires care when pulling the capillary tube through the holes in the body.
Frequent errors during replacement and diagnostics
One of the most common mistakes is installing an unsuitable analogue. Thermostats differ in the on and off temperatures, as well as the length of the capillary tube. Installing a sensor with other parameters will result in the refrigerator either not turning off or not being able to reach the desired temperature in the freezer.
The second mistake is incorrect installation of the capillary tube. It needs to be attached exactly in the place where the original one was, using standard clamps. If the tube dangles or touches other parts of the evaporator, the temperature readings will be incorrect.
The third problem is ignoring the condition of the door seals. Often users mistake the thermostat when the compressor runs non-stop. However, the reason may be a loose fit of the door through which warm air enters, and a working sensor is simply trying to compensate for heat loss.
It is also worth mentioning the risk of damage to the wiring. If you handle the tool carelessly, you can damage the insulation of the wires, which will lead to a breakdown on the housing. This is life-threatening, so all connections must be reliably isolated.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to temporarily short-circuit the thermostat to make the refrigerator work?
Theoretically, if you connect the wires going to the thermostat contacts, the compressor will start and work continuously. However, this highly not recommended do this as a temporary solution. The refrigerator will not turn off, the evaporator will be covered with ice, the food in the refrigerator compartment will freeze, and the compressor may overheat and burn out due to the lack of rest cycles.
Which thermostat is better to buy as a replacement: TAM or T-110?
The choice depends on the specific model of your Atlanta. Temperature regulators of the THERE series (made in Russia/China) are often direct analogues for many models. Series T-110 (Italy/China) is also widely distributed. The main thing is to look not at the brand, but at the marking (for example, TAM-133, TAM-145) and the length of the capillary tube. It is best to take the old sensor with you to the store for comparison.
Why did the refrigerator start to turn on frequently after replacing the thermostat?
Perhaps a sensor with the wrong one was installed temperature range or a capillary tube that is too short and does not have time to cool. The cause may also be incorrect installation of the tube (poor contact with the evaporator). In some cases, it is necessary to re-adjust the screw under the seal on the thermostat itself, but this must be done by a specialist.
Where is the temperature sensor in the Atlant electronic refrigerator?
In electronic models, thermistors are used instead of a mechanical “plug”. They can be located in the air duct between the chambers, on the back wall inside the chamber, or be integrated into the control unit, which is often located in the upper part of the refrigerator compartment or behind the rear cover of the case.
How can you tell that it is the thermostat that has failed and not the compressor?
If the compressor is humming, trying to start, but after a few seconds it clicks and goes silent - most likely In all, the problem is in the start relay or the motor itself. If the compressor is silent and does not make any sounds, but the light inside is on, there is a high probability of a malfunction of the thermostat or the power circuit. Testing the contacts with a multimeter will give an accurate answer.