Connecting the thermostat in the Atlant refrigerator: step-by-step analysis with diagrams and nuances

The thermostat (or thermostat) is the “brain” of the refrigerator Atlantwhich controls the temperature in the chambers and controls the operation of the compressor. If the refrigerator stops freezing, does not turn off, or, conversely, turns off too often, the problem most often lies in this unit. Replacing the thermostat is one of the most common procedures when repairing refrigerators Atlant models MHM 1708, MHC 2450, XM-4026 and others.

In this article we will look at how to how to correctly connect the thermostat in a refrigerator Atlant with our own hands: from diagnosing a malfunction to soldering wires and checking functionality. You will learn what tools you will need, how not to mix up the contacts when connecting, and what to do if after replacing the refrigerator still does not work. And for those who are afraid of making a mistake, we have prepared a universal thermostat connection diagram for 90% of Atlant models from 2010 to 2026.

Important: if your refrigerator is still under warranty, Self-repair may invalidate it. In this case, it is better to contact a service center. But if the warranty period has expired or you are ready to take a risk, let's get started!

1. Signs of a malfunctioning thermostat in the Atlant refrigerator

Before changing the thermostat, make sure that it is the problem. Here are the typical “symptoms” of a breakdown:

• 🔴 The refrigerator does not turn on —the compressor is silent, the light inside is on, but there is no cooling.
• ❄️ Continuous operation of the compressor —the motor hums without stopping, a “snow coat” forms in the freezer.
• 🌡️ Temperature mismatch —the refrigerator compartment is too warm (above +8°C) or too cold (below 0°C).
• 🔄 Frequent on/off —the compressor clicks and starts every 5-10 minutes.
• 💡 The light inside does not light - if the lighting circuit has burned out along with the thermostat (found in older models).

🔧 Quick check: open the refrigerator door and manually turn the thermostat knob (if it is mechanical) clockwise all the way arrow. If the compressor starts, the thermostat is faulty. If not, the problem may be in the compressor, relay or power supply.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Atlant with electronic control (for example, ATLANT XM 6025-031), the thermostat can be integrated into the board. In this case, replacement requires soldering work and knowledge of the circuit - it is better to entrust this to a professional.

2. Tools and materials for replacing the thermostat

To change the thermostat yourself, prepare:

• 🔧 Screwdrivers: cross (PH2) and flat (for dismantling the panel).
• 🔨 Pliers - for removing spring clips from the siphon tube systems.
• 🔥 Soldering iron (25–40 W) + solder and flux - if the wires are oxidized or broken off.
• 📸 Smartphone - to photograph the connection diagram to dismantling!
• 🧲 Multimeter - to check the circuit (optional, but useful).
• 🛠️ New thermostat - suitable for your model (more about this below).

💡 Which thermostat should I buy? In refrigerators Atlant most often thermostats of the series K-59 (for single-chamber) and TAM-133 or TAM-125 (for two-chamber). Check the brand on the label on the old thermostat or in spare parts catalog. For example:

⚠️ Attention: If you buy a non-original thermostat, check it temperature range. For example, TAM-133 is designed for −24...+12°C, and K-59 - for −10...+10°C. A discrepancy will lead to improper operation of the refrigerator.

3. Where is the thermostat located in the Atlant refrigerator?

The location of the thermostat depends on the model:

• 🔹 Single-chamber refrigerators (MHM 1708, MHM 1601) - the thermostat is installed inside the fridge compartment, under the plastic cover next to the light bulb.
• 🔹 Two-chamber with top freezer (XM-4026, XM-4626) - the thermostat is located in the upper part, behind the control panel (next to the adjustment knob).
• 🔹 Two-chamber with bottom freezer (MHC 2450, MHC 2835) - the thermostat can be in the refrigerator compartment (under the top shelf) or outside, on the back wall (under the plastic casing).

📌 How to get to the thermostat?

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove the top shelf (if the thermostat is inside the chamber) or unscrew the control panel screws (if external).
3. Carefully disconnect capillary tube (thin copper tube going from the thermostat to the evaporator). Do not bend it too much!
4. Disconnect terminals with wires (it is better to photograph their location).

4. Thermostat connection diagram: how not to mix up the wires

The most important part is to correctly connect the wires to the new thermostat. In refrigerators Atlant usually used 3-4 wires (depending on the model):

• 🔌 Orange/red - phase (comes from the compressor).
• 🔌 Brown/black —zero (common).
• 🔌 Yellow/green —grounding (if any).
• 🔌 White/yellow — power supply to the light bulb (in mechanical thermostats).

📷 Universal diagram for most Atlant models:

🔧 Step-by-step instructions:

Take a photo of the old connection diagram|Mark the wires with a marker or tape|Connect the phase (orange/red) to terminal “3” or “L”|Connect zero (brown/black) to terminal “4” or “N”|Connect the light bulb wire (if any) to terminal “6” or “Lamp”|Check the reliability of the contacts (pull the wires)-->

⚡ Important: If there are no markings on the terminals of the new thermostat, be guided by wire colors and their location in the photo. In refrigerators Atlant since 2015, a standard pinout is often used:

⚠️ Attention: In models with No Frost (for example, ATLANT XM 6321-080) the thermostat may have 5 terminals —the fifth wire goes to fan Don't connect it at random! Check the instructions for your model.

5. Installing a new thermostat: step by step with photos

When the wires are connected, all that remains is to secure the thermostat and put the refrigerator back together. Proceed carefully:

1. Fix the thermostat in the same place (usually it is fixed with 1-2 screws or a latch).
2. Lay the capillary tube so that it does not touch the walls of the chamber and does not bend. The best way is to secure it with plastic ties.
3. Connect power and turn on the refrigerator. Turn the thermostat knob to minimum cooling (usually position “1” or “Min”).
4. Check operation:
   • The compressor should start after 5–10 minutes.
   • After 1–2 hours, the temperature in the chamber should begin to drop (check with a thermometer).
   • If the refrigerator works without stopping, the thermostat is incorrectly calibrated or faulty.

📸 Photo of the process (example for the model ATLANT MXM 1708):

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Press and hold the "Super Cool" + "Fridge Temp" buttons for 5 seconds.
3. In the menu, select the "Calibration" item (using the "+" and "–" buttons).
4. Set the value to "0" to reset or enter an adjustment (for example, "+2" to increase the temperature by 2°C).
5. Save the settings and reboot the refrigerator.