Brand refrigerators Atlant are known for their reliability and adaptability of the internal space - but only if the shelves are installed correctly. Incorrect installation can lead to distortions, broken fasteners, or even damage to the compressor due to uneven load. In this article, we will look at how to independently rearrange, adjust or replace shelves in models Atlant (including series MHM, NM, HM i NB), avoiding typical mistakes.
A feature of refrigerators Atlant is a modular fastening system that allows you to change the height of the shelves to suit the dimensions of the products. However, each generation of models has nuances: for example, refrigerators Atlant 2020–2023 use plastic guides with locks, and earlier ones (before 2018) use metal grooves. We will take into account all the options and give universal recommendations that are relevant for most modern devices.
Before you start work, check the equipment of your refrigerator. The box with documents should contain a diagram of the layout of the shelves - it is often ignored, but it will help to avoid mistakes when rearranging. If there is no diagram, no problem: below we will provide standard sizes and types of fasteners for popular models.
1. Preparation: tools and safety measures
To install or rearrange shelves in the refrigerator Atlant you do not need complex tools, but there are several prerequisites:
- 🔧 Unplug the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before starting work. This is necessary not only for safety, but also to ensure that the glass shelves are not cold (risk of cracks due to mechanical impact).
- 🧤 Use rubber gloves —they will improve adhesion to glass surfaces and protect your hands from sharp metal edges fastenings.
- 📏 Prepare a tape measure or rulerif you plan to change the standard height of the shelves. In models Atlant the adjustment step is usually 2-3 cm.
- 🧴 Prepare warm water and soapy solution —it can be used to clean the guides from fat or food residues that interfere with tight fixation.
If you install new shelves (for example, after purchasing spare parts), check their compatibility with the refrigerator model. Atlant has two main lines of shelves:
- 🔹 Glass (thickness 5–6 mm) - standard for models XM-6021, MHM-1708 and similar ones.
- 🔹 Plastic (with a metal frame) - found in budget series, for example NB-100.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use abrasive detergents to clean the guides - they can damage the plastic clips. The best option: a microfiber cloth and glass cleaner.
2. Types of shelf fastenings in Atlant refrigerators
The design of the fastenings depends on the year of manufacture and series of the refrigerator. Below is a comparative table of the most common systems:
| Mounting type | Refrigerator models | Features | Installation tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic guides with latches | Atlant XM-4021, MHM-1842 (2019–2026) | The shelves are fixed by pressing until they click. Height adjustment without tools. | Not required |
| Metal grooves with bolts | Atlant NM-4406, NB-120 (until 2018) | Requires unscrewing the bolts with a wrench. The shelves are less movable. | Phillips screwdriver (PH2) |
| Combined (plastic + metal) | Atlant MX-2826, XM-4426 (2017–2022) | The guides are plastic, but with metal inserts for rigidity. | Flat screwdriver (for prying up the fasteners) |
To determine the type of fastening in your refrigerator, inspect the side walls of the inner chamber. If you see:
- 🔘 Plastic "ribs" with slots - these are guides with latches.
- 🔘 Metal corners with holes for bolts - the classic system.
- 🔘 Hybrid grooves (plastic + metal inserts) - combined type.
In refrigerators Atlant 2023–2026 the "EasyFix" system is used - the shelves are fixed automatically when installed at any level without additional manipulations. If your model is newer, check for markings EasyFix on the inner wall of the chamber.
3. Step-by-step instructions for installing glass shelves
Glass shelves are the most common option in refrigerators Atlant. Their installation requires care, but can be done in 10–15 minutes. Follow the algorithm:
- Remove the old shelf.
To do this, lift it by the front edge and pull it towards you. In models with plastic guides, the shelf will come out easily; if the mount is metal, you may need to unscrew the bolts (usually 2 pieces on each side).
- Clean the guides.
Remove food residues, grease or ice (if the refrigerator has not been defrosted for a long time). For ice, use plastic scraper - metal objects can damage the plastic.
- Install a new shelf.
Insert the back edge of the shelf into the grooves on the back wall, then lower the front edge until it clicks (for plastic fasteners) or fix with bolts (for metal ones).
- Check the horizontal position.
Put a level on the shelf (or place a bottle of water) - if there is a skew, adjust the height on one side.
Cool the shelf to room temperature|Check the integrity of the glass (no cracks)|Make sure that the guides are dry|Prepare a screwdriver (for metal fasteners)-->
⚠️ Attention: If the glass shelf cracks during installation, do not try to operate it - even small cracks can lead to complete destruction under the weight of the products. Service centers Atlant sell original spare parts (the article number is indicated in the refrigerator passport).
4. Adjusting the height of shelves: diagrams and recommendations
The optimal arrangement of shelves depends on what products you store. Here are the standard recommendations for refrigerators Atlant:
- 🥛 Top shelf: ideal for milk, yogurt, sauces - products that are often used. Height from the ceiling of the chamber: 5–7 cm.
- 🍗 Middle shelf: for meat, fish, semi-finished products. Optimal height: 25–30 cm from the bottom (to accommodate tall packages).
- 🥬 Bottom shelf/drawer: for fruits, vegetables, cereals. Here the temperature is slightly higher, which is suitable for “breathing” products.
- 🧀 Door shelves: for cheeses, sausages, bottles. Do not load them with heavy products (maximum 1–1.5 kg per shelf).
To change the height of the shelf:
- Lift it by the front edge and pull it out of the grooves.
- Move the fasteners (or the shelf itself) to the desired level. In refrigerators Atlant the adjustment step is usually indicated by marks on the walls.
- Install the shelf back, making sure that it fits tightly into the grooves.
If the shelf “walks” or is not fixed, check:
- 🔹 Not Are the metal guides bent (relevant for older models).
- 🔹 Has any debris gotten into the plastic latches (cleaned with a toothpick).
- 🔹 Does the shelf match the model of the refrigerator (sometimes when replacing, they buy the wrong article).
5. Installation of plastic and metal shelves
Plastic shelves (for example, in models Atlant NB-100 or NM-4406) are easier to install than glass ones, but have their own nuances:
- 🔹 They are less durable - the maximum load is usually 5–7 kg (versus 10–15 kg for glass ones).
- 🔹 Attached on plastic hookswhich can break with excessive force.
- 🔹 Some models have removable sides -they need to be snapped in place after installing the shelf.
Instructions for plastic shelves:
- Remove the old shelf by pulling it towards you (without tilting!).
- Insert the new shelf with its back into the grooves, then lower the front until it clicks.
- If there are sides, lock by pressing them from top to bottom.
Metal mesh shelves (less common in Atlant, but present in some models for freezers) are installed similarly to glass ones, but require more effort when fixing. Their plus is high strength (withstand up to 20 kg), minus - they can rust when in contact with moisture.
⚠️ Attention: If the plastic shelf is deformed (bent under weight), do not try to straighten it with heat - this will lead to a loss of strength. It’s better to replace it with a new one.
6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even with the apparent simplicity of installing shelves, many make mistakes that later lead to breakdowns. Here are the most common:
- 🚫 Ignoring weight restrictions.
Glass shelves can withstand up to 15 kg, plastic shelves - up to 7 kg. Excessive load leads to cracks or deformation.
- 🚫 Mismatch between the model of the shelf and the refrigerator.
Shelves from Atlant XM-4021 are not suitable for MHM-1708 —the sizes and fastenings differ. Always check the article number in the passport.
- 🚫 Installing shelves on an uneven surface.
If the refrigerator is on a slope, the shelves will spontaneously move out. Use adjustable legs for leveling.
- 🚫 Use of non-original fasteners.
Chinese analogues often cannot withstand the load and break after 1-2 months.
If after installation, the shelf wobbles or creaks:
- 🔧 Check whether the bolts are loose (for metal fasteners).
- 🔧 Lubricate the plastic guides silicone lubricant (not oil!).
- 🔧 Make sure that the shelf is level - sometimes a misalignment of 1-2 mm leads to play.
What to do if the shelf is cracked during installation?
If the crack is small (up to 2 cm), you can temporarily fix it food-grade silicone (sold in hardware stores), but this is not a long-term solution. The best option is to replace the shelf. In service centers Atlant the cost of an original glass shelf for popular models is 1,200–2,500 rubles (for 2026).
7. Features of installing shelves in the freezer
Shelves in the freezer Atlant (if it is not No Frost) have their own characteristics:
- 🔹 They are more often metal (mesh or solid) and are designed for low temperatures.
- 🔹 Fastenings are usually more rigidto withstand the weight of frozen products.
- 🔹 In models c manual defrosting shelves can freeze to the walls - before rearranging, let the chamber thaw for 10-15 minutes.
Step-by-step instructions for the freezer:
- Turn off the refrigerator and wait until the ice on the fastenings will melt.
- Remove the shelf by pulling it up (in freezers Atlant shelves usually “sit” on pins).
- Install a new shelf, aligning the holes with the guide pins.
- Press from above until you hear a click (some models have latches).
In freezers with No Frost system (for example, Atlant MXM-2835) the shelves are removable, but they cannot be washed under hot water - this will deform the plastic. Use cool water and a soft sponge.
8. Where to buy spare shelves for Atlant
If the original shelf is damaged, it can be replaced in several ways:
- 🛒 Official service centers Atlant.
Guaranteed original parts, but the price is higher than the market price. The addresses of the centers are on the manufacturer's website.
- 🛒 Online spare parts stores.
For example,
4fresh.ru,zapchasti365.ru. Before purchasing, check the shelf article number (indicated in the refrigerator passport). - 🛒 Universal shelves.
Suitable for older models, but may differ in size. Example: glass shelves
60×40 cmfrom Indesit or Beko.
Cost of original shelves for Atlant (for 2026):
- 💰 Glass shelf: 1,200–2,500 rub.
- 💰 Plastic shelf: 800–1,500 rub.
- 💰 Metal shelf for freezer: 1,500–3,000 rub.
⚠️ Attention: When buying universal shelves, pay attention to glass thickness —in cheap options it can be less than 5 mm, which reduces strength.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about installing shelves in Atlant
Is it possible to install shelves from other brands in the Atlant refrigerator?
Theoretically, yes, but only if they match dimensions and type of fastenings. For example, glass shelves from Indesit or Beko are suitable for some models of Atlant series HM, but may not fit into the grooves due to different widths. Before purchasing, measure the old shelf and compare with the parameters of the new one.
Why is the new shelf not fixed in the grooves?
There are several reasons:
- Contamination of the guides (wipe them with alcohol).
- Mismatch between the model of the shelf and the refrigerator (check the article number).
- Deformation of the plastic clamps (important for old refrigerators).
If the shelf is EasyFix, try pressing on it from above - sometimes the locking mechanism works.
What is the maximum weight that a glass shelf in Atlant can withstand?
For most models Atlant the limit is 15 kg per shelf. However, distribute the load evenly: for example, do not place 10 kg of meat at one point. In the freezer, metal shelves can withstand up to 20 kg, but this depends on the specific model (see data sheet).
Can glass shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
No! Sudden temperature changes and aggressive detergents can lead to microcracks. Wash the shelves by hand with warm water and a mild detergent (e.g. glass cleaner). After washing, wipe dry with a microfiber cloth.
What should you do if, after installing the shelf, the refrigerator becomes louder?
This may be due to:
- 🔹 By skewing the shelfwhich causes it to vibrate compressor.
- 🔹 By touching the shelf to the back wall (check the gap of 1-2 cm).
- 🔹 Incorrect load (heavy products on the door).
Eliminate the cause and check the noise level after 1-2 hours (the compressor may be temporarily louder after repositioning).