The evaporator is a key element of the refrigeration system, responsible for removing heat from the chamber. In refrigerators Atlant its location depends on the type of defrosting: drip system (in most budget models) or No Frost (in modern lines). If you notice that the refrigerator does not freeze well, ice forms on the back wall or the compressor works without stopping, the problem may lie in the evaporator.
Finding the evaporator in the refrigerator Atlant is not as easy as it seems: it is hidden behind panels or a layer of plastic. In this article, we will analyze where exactly to look for the part in different models, provide diagrams and photos, and also tell you how to check the evaporator for malfunctions without disassembling it. If you are planning cleaning or repairs, this information will save you hours of time and protect you from mistakes.
Types of defrosting systems in Atlant refrigerators and their effect on the location of the evaporator
Refrigerators Atlant are equipped with two main defrosting systems, on which the location of the evaporator directly depends:
- 🔹 Drip system (aka “crying”). The evaporator is located open on the rear wall of the refrigerator compartment. The freezer may have a separate evaporator or a common circuit.
- 🔹 No Frost (Full No Frost or Frost Free). The evaporator is hidden behind internal panel in the freezer compartment or above the refrigerator compartment (in models with
Total No Frost).
To accurately determine the system of your refrigerator, check:
- The presence of a fan in the freezer compartment (typical for No Frost).
- Ice on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (if there is one, it is drip system).
- Model marking: letters
NFin the name (for example, Atlant MHM 2835-90 NF) indicate No Frost.
In models with combined system (for example, Atlant XM 6025-031), the refrigeration chamber operates on the drip principle, and the freezer - on No Frost. There will be two evaporators: one on the back wall. refrigeration compartment, the second - behind the freezer panel.
Where is the evaporator in Atlant refrigerators with a drip system?
In models with drip defrosting (Atlant XM 4021-000, Atlant XM 4426-000 etc.) the evaporator of the refrigeration chamber is located on the back wall and is visible to the naked eye. It consists of tubes through which the refrigerant circulates. During operation of the compressor, the evaporator is cooled, and moisture from the air condenses on its surface, flows into the drainage hole and is discharged outside. aluminum or steel radiator with tubes through which the refrigerant circulates. While the compressor is operating, the evaporator cools, and moisture from the air condenses on its surface, flows into the drainage hole and is discharged outside.
To see the evaporator:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Remove all food and shelves from the refrigerator compartment.
- Remove the back protective panel (if there is one) - it is usually secured with latches or screws.
In the freezer compartment of such models, the evaporator may be:
- 🔹 Open - visible behind the rear wall (for example, in Atlant MHM 1708).
- 🔹 Closed plastic box - panel dismantling is required (typical for models with an upper freezer compartment).
How to distinguish the evaporator from other parts?
The evaporator always has the shape of a coil or a grid of tubes, covered with frost or ice during operation. It is easy to confuse it with a condenser (radiator on the back wall). data-i="105">refrigerator), but the condenser is hot and the evaporator is cold. outside refrigerator), but the condenser is hot and the evaporator is cold.
Important! If there is a thick layer of ice on the evaporator (more than 5 mm), this indicates a malfunction: a clogged drain, a freon leak, or a broken thermostat. Normally, the ice should thaw during. turning off the compressor.
Location of the evaporator in Atlant refrigerators with No Frost
In models with No Frost (Atlant MXM 2835-90 NF, Atlant MX 2842-67 NF) the evaporator is hidden behind internal panel the freezer compartment. It is not visible. during normal inspection, disassembly is required. Here's where to look for it:
- 🔹 In freezers with upper location — behind the panel on the ceiling of the chamber.
- 🔹 In freezers with lower location — behind the back wall, under the plastic box.
- 🔹 In models Total No Frost (full No Frost) - there is additionally an evaporator above the refrigerator compartment, behind the top panel.
To access the evaporator in No Frost:
Turn off the refrigerator and defrost 12+ hours
Remove the shelves and drawers of the freezer
Unscrew the screws securing the inner panel (usually under the decorative plugs)
Carefully remove the panel without damaging the fan wires-->
In Atlant refrigerators with No Frost the evaporator is often combined with the fan into a single unit. When disassembling, be sure to turn off the power to the fan, otherwise you risk damaging the blades.
If after removing the panel you see thick layer of ice on the evaporator this is a sign of a malfunction of the defrosting system (the heating element has burned out, the timer or sensor has failed). Normally, ice on the evaporator is broken. data-i="132">must thaw every 8-12 hours of operation. No Frost must defrost every 8–12 hours of operation.
Step-by-step instructions: how to get to the evaporator in different Atlant models
We'll figure out how to dismantle the panel and gain access to the evaporator depending on the model. Attention: if you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a specialist - improper disassembly can lead to freon leakage or breakage of plastic details.
Models with a drip system (for example, Atlant XM 4021-000)
- Unplug the refrigerator, defrost (if there is ice).
- Remove the shelves and drawers from the refrigerator cameras.
- If there is a plastic panel on the back wall, pry it off with a screwdriver (usually it is held on by latches).
- The evaporator will be right in front of you - an aluminum or steel grille.
Models with No Frost (for example, Atlant MXM 2835-90 NF)
- Defrost the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
- Remove all shelves and drawers from the freezer.
- Unscrew the screws hidden under the plugs on the inner panel (usually 4-6 pieces).
- Carefully remove the panel by disconnecting the connectors of the fan and heating element (if they interfere).
- The evaporator will be located behind the panel, often together with the fan.
Models with a combined system (for example, Atlant XM 6025-031)
There are two evaporator:
- 🔹 B refrigerator compartment — on the back wall (as in a drip system).
- 🔹 B freezer compartment —behind the panel (as in No Frost).
To access the freezing evaporator, follow the instructions for No Frost, for the refrigeration - for drip system.
Signs of a malfunctioning evaporator: when should it be checked?
The evaporator rarely fails on its own, but its condition directly affects the operation of the refrigerator. Pay attention to the following symptoms:
| Symptom | Probable cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| The refrigerator does not cool, but the compressor works | Freon leak, capillary blockage tubes | Check the evaporator for ice/frost. If it is not there, there may be a leak. |
| There is thick ice on the back wall (in drip models) | The drainage hole is clogged or the thermostat is faulty | Clean the drainage, check the defrost operation. |
| No Frost in the freezer snowy "coat" | The defrost heating element or timer does not work | Defreeze the refrigerator, check the heating element circuit with a multimeter. |
| The compressor runs without stopping | Insufficient refrigerant or blockage in evaporator | Inspect the evaporator for damage to the tubes. |
If the evaporator is covered a uniform layer of frost this is normal. But if the ice forms “clumps” or grows only in certain areas, this indicates problems with refrigerant circulation or ventilation (in No Frost).
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Atlant with No Frost not It is recommended to mechanically knock the ice off the evaporator - this can damage the tubes and lead to freon leakage. Use only defrosting and soft tools (plastic scraper).
How to check the evaporator for functionality without disassembling?
Before disassembling the refrigerator, you can perform preliminary diagnostics:
- 🔹 Checking cooling. Touch the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (in drip models) or the freezer panel (in No FrostIf the evaporator is working, it should be cold (up to freezing) compressor operating time.
- 🔹 Checking the fan (for No. Frost). When the freezer door is open, you should hear the sound of a running fan. If it is not there, it may be frozen or burned out.
- 🔹 Control of the defrost cycle. In models with No Frost the defrost heating element should turn on every 8-12 hours (you can hear a slight crackling sound). If this does not happen, check the timer or sensor.
For more accurate diagnostics. you will need a multimeter:
- Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
- Remove the panel to gain access to the evaporator.
- Test the defrost heating element circuit (resistance should be in the range of 20-60 Ohms).
- Check the sensor defrost (thermistor) - its resistance changes when heated.
If you find that defrost heating element does not work (shows a break), you can replace it yourself. To do this:
- Disconnect the wires from Heating element.
- Carefully remove it from the fastenings.
- Install a new heating element (suitable for the model Atlant) and connect the wires.
⚠️ Attention: When replacing Be sure to check the condition of the defrost heating element fuse (if it is in your model). Often it burns out along with the heating element and also requires replacement.
Cleaning the evaporator: when and how to do it what to do?
The evaporator requires cleaning in two cases:
- Clogged with dust or dirt (relevant for No Frostwhere the fan drives air through the evaporator).
- Formation of mold or unpleasant odor (in drip systems due to stagnation of moisture).
To clean the evaporator in drip models:
- Defreeze the refrigerator.
- Wipe the evaporator with soft sponge with soapy water (no abrasives!).
- Clean the drainage hole at the bottom of the rear wall (use wire or a special brush).
To clean the evaporator in No Frost:
- Remove the inner panel of the freezer.
- Remove ice and dust from the evaporator with a plastic spatula or with a vacuum cleaner (at minimum power!).
- Wipe the parts with a solution of water and vinegar (1:1) to disinfect.
- Check the fan blades - they should not be icy or dirty.
Do not use:
- 🚫 Metal brushes or knives to remove ice.
- 🚫 Aggressive detergents (chlorine, acetone).
- 🚫 Hairdryer for faster defrosting - this can damage the plastic.
After cleaning, let the refrigerator dry for at least 2 hours before turning it on. This will prevent short circuits and ensure normal operation of the system.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the evaporator in Atlant refrigerators
Is it possible to replace the evaporator in an Atlant refrigerator yourself?
Theoretically, yes, but in practice it is extremely difficult. data-i="245">Special equipment for vacuuming the system. sealed circuit, and replacing it requires:
- Special equipment for vacuuming the system.
- Refilling with freon (this is dangerous at home!).
- Soldering copper tubes.
If the evaporator is damaged (for example, punctured during cleaning), it is cheaper and safer to contact a service center center.
Why does ice accumulate in the No Frost freezer if the evaporator should thaw automatically?
There are several reasons:
- Burned Defrost heating element (checked with a multimeter).
- Failed defrost timer or sensor.
- Drainage hole is clogged - water does not drain, freezes evaporator.
- Faulty fan —there is no air circulation, moisture settles on the evaporator.
The simplest thing you can do yourself is to defrost the refrigerator for 24 hours and clean it drainage.
How to understand that there is a freon leak in the refrigerator through the evaporator?
Signs of a leak:
- 🔹 The compressor does not work, but the refrigerator does not freeze.
- 🔹 The evaporator is not cold (in drip models) or is not covered with frost.
- 🔹 Oily stains are visible on the evaporator tubes (freon leaves along with the oil).
- 🔹 In the place of leakage may be visible green plaque (copper oxidation).
If you suspect a leak, do not turn on the refrigerator this can lead to overheating of the compressor. Professional diagnostics are needed.
How much does it cost to replace the evaporator in the refrigerator. Atlant?
The cost depends on the model and region:
- 💰 Replacement of the evaporator in drip models: 5,000–8,000 rubles. (plus the cost of freon).
- 💰 Replacement of the evaporator in No Frost: 7,000–12,000 rubles. (due to the complexity of disassembly).
- 💰 Leak diagnostics: 1 500–2,500 rubles.
In some cases, repairs may be unprofitable (for example, if the cost is close to the price of a new refrigerator).
Is it possible to use an Atlant refrigerator if the evaporator is frozen, but freezes?
Short-term - yes, but this is fraught consequences:
- 🚨 The load on the compressor increases (risk of overheating).
- 🚨 Air circulation deteriorates (in No Frost), which leads to uneven cooling.
- 🚨 Ice can damage plastic parts when defrosting.
If the refrigerator is still freezing, defrost it for 24 hours and check the drainage. If the ice returns after 1-2 days, look for the cause (heating element, timer, leak).