Refrigerators of the Belarusian brand Atlant have long established themselves as reliable and repairable equipment that is in demand in the post-Soviet space. Many models are equipped with two separate compressors, which allows you to independently control the temperature in the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This design opens up a unique opportunity for the owner: if necessary, you can completely stop the operation of the freezer, turning the device into a large refrigerated display case.
Most often, such a need arises in the winter, when food supplies are minimal, or during long holidays, when additional space is required for cooling drinks and ready-made dishes. Also, complete defrosting may be required for deep cleaning or if one of the circuits breaks down, when it is necessary to maintain the functionality of at least part of the unit. Understanding the principles of operation dual-circuit system will allow you to effectively manage the resources of the device.
It is important to note that the deactivation process does not always require intervention in the electrical circuit. In most modern and many older models, this function is incorporated into the operating algorithms of electronics or mechanical thermostats. Proper use of standard controls extends the service life compressor and prevents premature wear of parts.
The operating principle of a two-compressor cooling system
The fundamental difference between two-compressor models Atlant from single-circuit analogues lies in the complete autonomy of the cameras. Two independent units are responsible for cooling the upper and lower compartments, each of which has its own capillary tube. This means that stopping one compressor does not in any way affect the operation of the second, which is physically impossible to implement in systems with one motor and a solenoid valve. evaporator and a capillary tube. This means that stopping one compressor in no way affects the operation of the second, which is physically impossible to achieve in systems with a single motor and solenoid valve.
When you initiate a shutdown of the freezer, you actually break the power supply circuit of one of the compressors or turn its thermostat into "Off" position. The refrigerant in this circuit stops circulating, the temperature inside the chamber begins to slowly rise, reaching ambient levels. At the same time, the refrigeration compartment continues to operate normally, maintaining the specified microclimate parameters.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that your model actually has two compressors. If only one motor is heard, and the doors open in different directions, but the cooling system is common, it is impossible to completely turn off the freezer without losing cold in the refrigerator.
Energy consumption when operating one compressor is reduced by almost half, which is a pleasant bonus for. However, it is worth considering that the thermal insulation between the chambers is not absolute, so the temperature in the switched-off freezer will depend on the temperature in the active compartment and the environment. In winter, this allows you to use the lower compartment as a cool cellar.
Mechanical control: setting thermostats
In models Atlant with mechanical control, such as series MHM-1700 or KSh-270, the shutdown process is maximum is simple and does not require special knowledge of electrical engineering. There are two controls located on the front panel or inside the refrigerator compartment, often labeled with numbers 1 through 7 or the words “Min/Max.” Each of them is strictly responsible for its own cooling circuit.
To turn off the freezer, you need to find a regulator that corresponds specifically to it. It is usually located below or labeled as a snowflake. You need to turn the handle counterclockwise until it stops. In the extreme position, a characteristic click is often heard, signaling the opening of the thermostat contacts. After this, freezer compressor will stop starting.
The refrigerator compartment will continue to operate if its regulator is set to the working position. This allows you to store fresh food while the freezer is defrosting or idle. Please note that after turning it back on, the compressor will not start immediately, but after warming up thermal sensor, which is normal protection of the system.
There is a nuance with models that use one common thermostat to control the climate, but two compressors (rare). In such cases, complete shutdown is only possible by turning off the power or blocking one of the starting relays, which requires disassembling the rear panel.
Electronic control and display panels
More modern lines Atlant, for example, series with index 45 or 46, equipped with an electronic control unit with a digital display. Here, the process of deactivating the freezer is software and is performed through the panel interface. You need to find the button responsible for selecting the camera (often indicated by a snowflake symbol or caption Freezer).
After selecting the desired compartment, using the temperature adjustment buttons (usually “+” and “-”), you need to reduce the value until the “--” or “Off” symbol appears on the display. In some models, to enter the setup mode, you need to long-press the camera selection button for 3-5 seconds. The electronics will independently block the start of compressor and the fan (if there is one in this chamber).
The advantage of electronic control is accuracy. You can be sure that the shutdown occurred programmatically, and the system will not try to start the cooling cycle if there is an accidental power surge. In addition, the alarm indicator or the “Alarm” symbol may light up on the display, which in this context. means simply informing about the increased temperature in the freezer, and not a malfunction.
It is worth remembering that after returning to normal operation, the smart system may take up to 2-3 hours to reach the nominal freezing mode. Do not load the chamber with products immediately, let evaporator get cold.
Features of Atlant models with the No Frost system
In refrigerators Atlantequipped with a system No Frost (or “Full No Frost”), turning off the freezer has its own technical features. In such devices, air circulation is often responsible. a common fan or separate air ducts, although the compressors remain separate. When turning off one circuit, it is important to make sure that the air circulation in the second compartment is not disrupted.
In two-compressor models No Frost each compartment has its own evaporator and, as a rule, its own blower. mechanical shutdown of the freezer, the fan of this compartment should also stop. If this does not happen and the air continues to blow, your model may have a complex flow redistribution system, and turning off one compressor does not guarantee that all processes will stop.
| System type | Fan response | Risk of formation frost | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Static (Drip) | Absent | High (condensation) | Leave the door ajar |
| No Frost (2 compressors) | Stops | Low | Safe for long periods of inactivity |
| Combined | Depends on models | Average | Control humidity |
It is critically important to monitor the condition of the drainage system in the disconnected chamber No Frost. If the fan is stopped, but the remaining moisture on the evaporator does not have time to evaporate due to lack of airflow, an unpleasant odor or mold may occur. It is recommended to periodically ventilate the disconnected chamber.
Why is the disconnected freezer humming?
If you have disconnected the freezer, but hear a hum, check to see if the fan is working. In some older models, the fan circuit did not break with the compressor. This requires the intervention of a technician to separate the circuits.
Complete shutdown algorithm for preservation or repair
If your goal is not just temporary use of the refrigerator as a cabinet, but preservation of equipment for a long period or preparation for repair, simply turning the handles may not be enough. In this case, a physical disconnection of the electrical circuit is required. This is especially true if the thermostat is faulty and “stuck” in the on position.
The first step should always be to completely disconnect the device from the outlet. Then remove the back cover at the bottom of the refrigerator where the compressors are located. You need to identify the freezer compressor (usually they are labeled or located symmetrically: the left one is the refrigerator, the right one is the freezer, but it is better to check the technical data sheet).
☑️ Safe shutdown checklist
To ensure a guaranteed shutdown, you can remove the terminal from the start relay or disconnect the wires going directly to the thermostat inside the chamber, if there is access. All exposed contacts must be carefully insulated with electrical tape or heat shrink to prevent a short circuit when the second compressor is turned on.
⚠️ Attention: Any manipulations with the electrical part of the device, except for adjusting the handles on the panel, should be carried out only when the device is completely disconnected from the network. Failure to follow safety rules can lead to electric shock.
Frequent errors and nuances of operation
One of the common mistakes is trying to turn off the freezer in a single-circuit refrigerator by setting the regulator to minimum. In models with one. compressor, this will only lead to the fact that the refrigerator will stop freezing at all, since the refrigerant will stop flowing into the system, or, conversely, the refrigerator will work for wear, trying to achieve non-existent cold in the freezer.
Also, users often ignore the need to defrost before a long period of inactivity. If you turn off the chamber, but leave ice in it, water will potentially flow down when melting. causing corrosion or moisture on the electrical components if they are located below. Always defrost completely before preserving the mode.
Another important aspect is odor. In a warm, humid and closed environment, bacteria multiply quickly. If you keep the freezer unplugged for more than a week, be sure to leave the door slightly open or regularly ventilate the compartment. coal will be a reasonable preventative measure.
Return to normal operation
When there is no longer a need to use the refrigerator as a single-chamber one, it is important to properly return the equipment to the operating rhythm. Do not immediately load the freezer with food. First, turn on the power, set the controls to the middle position and let the device run idle for at least 2-4 hours.
During this time temperature sensor the freon will stabilize and the freon will stabilize evenly. will be distributed throughout the system. A sudden load with warm products or a large volume of food immediately after switching on will create a critical load on the compressor, which has just come out of rest.
Watch the first on-off cycles If the compressor runs without interruption for more than an hour, and the cold does not build up, it is possible that the oil has become soured or a malfunction has occurred during the period of inactivity. in this case, diagnostics by a specialist is required.
Is it possible to keep the freezer turned off for years?
Technically, yes, if the compressor is not connected to the network. However, the rubber seals may dry out, and mold may appear inside. It is recommended to turn on the chamber at least once every six months to lubricate the compressor and check it. performance.
Why does the freezer not freeze for a long time after turning on?
In two-compressor systems, this is normal. It takes time for the oil to return to the compressor crankcase, and for freon to circulate, complete cooling can take up to 12 hours.
Does turning off one chamber affect it? for warranty?
Using standard regulators to turn off the camera is not a violation of the warranty terms. Mechanical interference with the wiring will void the warranty.
What to do if the regulator is broken and does not turn off the camera?
If the knob turns, but there is no click and the cold does not stop, the thermostat It is faulty. It needs to be replaced. Temporarily, you can use an external time relay, but this is a temporary solution.
Can the freezer be used as a cellar for vegetables?
Yes, if you turn off the compressor. However, lack of ventilation can lead to rotting of vegetables.