Brand refrigeration equipment Atlant famous for its reliability and durability, however, even the most advanced equipment requires regular maintenance. Many owners mistakenly believe that modern cooling systems work forever without human intervention, but the formation of ice crust is a natural process that cannot be ignored. Ignoring the need to carry out preventive procedures can lead to serious damage to the compressor or failure of temperature sensors.
The process of completely defrosting the unit is necessary not only to remove ice, but also to deeply clean the internal surfaces from bacteria and unpleasant odors. Unlike old Soviet models, which required defrosting every two weeks, equipment with a system needs this much less frequently. However, at least once a year, and preferably every 6-8 months, it is necessary to carry out general cleaning to maintain hygiene and energy efficiency. Atlant with the system No Frost or Low Frost needs it much less often. However, at least once a year, preferably every 6-8 months, a deep cleaning is necessary to maintain hygiene and energy efficiency.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will allow you to safely defrost the device without damaging fragile structural elements. You will learn how the procedures differ for different models, how to properly wash plastic elements and what absolutely should not be done during the maintenance process. A competent approach will extend the life of your refrigerator for many years.
Preparatory stage before starting work
Before taking active steps, you must carefully prepare the workplace and the unit itself. The first step is always to completely disconnect the device from the electrical network. Unplug the plug from the socket to protect yourself from electric shock and prevent accidental starting of the compressor while manipulating internal components.
Next, you should empty the refrigerator and freezer compartments of all food. If it’s winter outside, you can take perishable goods out to the balcony, having previously packed them. In the summer, it is better to use cooler bags or ask your neighbors to temporarily store supplies with them. It is better to use products that have already begun to thaw in the near future for cooking.
It is also important to prepare all the necessary equipment in advance so as not to run for rags in the midst of the process. You will need:
- 🧊 Several large terry towels or old sheets to absorb water.
- 🧼 A soft sponge and dishwashing detergent without aggressive abrasives.
- 🪣 A container to collect draining water (basin or bucket).
- 🧹 A spatula made of plastic or wood (metal tools are prohibited).
After all the tools have been collected and the products have been removed, you can proceed to removing the removable elements. Shelves, drawers, containers and grids should be removed from the chambers and washed separately in the bathtub or shower. This will allow you to gain access to hard-to-reach corners and the back wall.
Defrosting technology for different Atlant models
The defrosting algorithm directly depends on the type of cooling system installed in your model Atlant. Owners of classic two-chamber refrigerators with manual defrosting or a drip system (“crying wall”) are the least fortunate in terms of the frequency of procedures, but the process itself is as simple as possible for them.
If you have a model with drip system, then ice forms mainly on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. The freezer in such models most often has to be defrosted manually, since there is no condensate drainage system. In this case, after turning off, you just need to leave the doors open and wait for the natural melting of the ice.
For models with the system No Frost the situation is different. In them, the evaporator is hidden behind a plastic panel, and ice practically does not form on the walls of the chambers due to constant air circulation. However, even in such systems, periodic defrosting is required to clean hidden drainage and prevent blockages.
⚠️ Attention: Never use a hair dryer, hot water from a kettle or heaters to speed up the melting of ice. A sudden temperature change can cause cracks in the plastic case or damage the evaporator tubes, which will lead to freon leakage.
Natural defrosting time can vary from 3 to 12 hours depending on the thickness of the ice crust and the room temperature. Do not try to force things by opening and closing the doors every five minutes - this will upset the temperature balance and slow down the process.
Proper cleaning and washing of the internal chambers
When the ice has completely melted and the water has stopped dripping, it is time for general cleaning. Even if it visually seems that the inside is clean, during operation mold bacteria or yeast may have settled there, which can cause an unpleasant odor.
To wash the internal walls, it is best to use a warm soapy solution. You can use regular dishwashing detergent, rinsing thoroughly afterward with clean water. An alternative is a solution of baking soda (one tablespoon per liter of water), which perfectly disinfects and eliminates odors without leaving chemical traces.
Particular attention should be paid to the rubber seal on the doors. It is in the folds of rubber that dirt and black mold most often accumulate. Wipe the seal with a cotton swab dipped in a solution of vinegar or alcohol to remove plaque and maintain the elasticity of the material.
After wet cleaning, be sure to Wipe all surfaces dry with a clean microfiber cloth. The remaining moisture can become a breeding ground for microorganisms or freeze during the first start, forming a new layer of ice.
Care for the drainage system and fan
One of the most common reasons for the appearance of puddles under the refrigerator or inside the chamber is a clogged drainage hole. It is located at the bottom of the rear wall of the refrigerator compartment and is designed to drain condensate into a special container above the compressor.
If you notice that water is standing in the groove and does not drain, you need to clean the channel. To do this, you can use a special brush-brush, which is often included, or ordinary soft wire wrapped in cotton wool. You need to act carefully so as not to pierce the channel wall.
In models Atlant with the system No Frost it is also worth checking the accessibility of the fan. Although you don’t need to get to it without disassembling the case, make sure that in the air circulation area (usually the back panel in the freezer) there are no foreign objects, bags or ice blocking the flow.
| Element | What to wash | Cleaning frequency | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic shelves | Warm water + soda | Every defrost | Do not use boiling water |
| Rubber seal | Vinegar solution | Once every 3 months | Lubricate with silicone |
| Drainage hole | Brush or pear | Once every six months | Check the passage |
| Rear grille (outside) | Vacuum cleaner or brush | Once a year | Clean from dust |
Regular cleaning of the drainage is the key to eliminating the smell of dampness and mold in your refrigerator. If the water does not drain well, you can pour a little warm water into the hole using a syringe to push the plug.
Drying and first start-up of equipment
After completing all water procedures, a critical stage begins - drying. Many users make the mistake of closing the doors immediately after wiping, which leads to condensation and a musty smell. The refrigerator should stand with the doors open in a well-ventilated area for at least 2-3 hours.
During this time, all micro-humidity from the pores of the plastic and seals will have time to evaporate. Only after making sure that the internal chambers are completely dry can you begin assembly. Reinstall all shelves, drawers and containers, checking that they are securely fixed.
Now you can plug the device into the network. However, don't rush to load the products right away. Let the refrigerator Atlant run idle for about 2-4 hours so that it reaches the required temperature and stops the compressor. This will allow the system to stabilize.
☑️ Pre-startup checklist
After the refrigerator has completed the cycle and returns to operating mode, you can gradually load food. You shouldn’t overcrowd the chamber right away - give the equipment time to adapt to the thermal load.
Typical mistakes and precautions
In the pursuit of speed, owners often make mistakes that can cost expensive repairs. The most common of these is the use of knives, screwdrivers or other sharp objects to chip ice. Thin-walled evaporators in refrigerators Atlant are damaged, and a breakdown of the tube leads to an instant release of refrigerant.
Another mistake is ignoring the tilt of the body when installing after washing. If the refrigerator is not level, the doors may not close on their own, which breaks the seal and leads to increased ice formation. Check the position of the adjustable supports.
⚠️ Attention: When washing, it is strictly forbidden to pour water directly on the back wall inside the chamber or on the upper part of the case where the electrical wiring and control unit are located.
Also, do not use chlorine-containing products or aggressive chemicals to remove odors. Plastic absorbs these substances, and food may subsequently develop a chemical taste. It is better to use natural odor absorbers, such as activated carbon or black bread crusts.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
If more than 6 hours have passed after turning it on and the cold has not appeared, check whether the doors close tightly. If everything is normal, the thermostat may have been damaged during defrosting or there has been a power surge. In this case, you need to call a specialist.
Recommendations for further operation
To ensure that the need for frequent defrosting occurs as rarely as possible, monitor the temperature conditions. Do not set the controller to maximum cooling unless necessary. The optimal temperature in the main chamber is +4...+5°C, and in the freezer -18°C.
Do not put hot foods in the refrigerator. This creates excess vaporization, which immediately turns into an ice crust on the walls and causes the compressor to wear out. Allow food to cool to room temperature before storing.
Check the condition of the seals regularly. If the rubber has hardened or lost its elasticity, the door will not fit tightly, letting in warm, moist air. Lubricate the seal with a special compound or glycerin once every six months.
Following these simple recommendations, you will ensure long and uninterrupted operation of your refrigerator. Cleanliness and correct temperature conditions are the main conditions for the safety of your food and the health of your family.
How long does it take on average to completely defrost an Atlant refrigerator?
The time depends on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room. Typically the process takes from 4 to 10 hours. Do not speed it up artificially, so as not to damage the cooling system.
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with water from a hose?
Absolutely not. A large amount of water can get into the electrical components, drain