The situation when a refrigerator Atlant stops freezing, while the compressor works continuously, is familiar to many owners of this equipment. Often the cause of a breakdown is a blockage in the refrigerant circulation system, which blocks the normal movement of freon. In most cases, the problem lies in capillary tube —the thinnest copper channel, where blockage with microscopic particles of ice or oxides occurs.
Independent cleaning of this element requires not only certain skills, but also specialized equipment, such as a vacuum pump and a pressure gauge station. However, understanding the principles of operation of the system and the algorithm of actions will allow you to correctly diagnose a malfunction or prepare the unit for a visit from a technician. In this article, we will analyze in detail the process of removing the blockage and restoring the functionality of your refrigerator.
Diagnostics of a blockage in the capillary system
The first sign that it is clogged is the abnormal behavior of the compressor and the lack of cold in the chambers. If you touch the back wall inside the freezer, it will be warm or slightly damp instead of frosted. In this case, the motor-compressor itself can wear out, trying to pump freon through the obstacle, which is often accompanied by overheating of the housing. capillary tube clogged, is the abnormal behavior of the compressor and the lack of cold in the chambers. If you touch the back wall inside the freezer, it will be warm or slightly damp instead of frosted. At the same time, the motor-compressor itself can wear out, trying to pump freon through the obstacle, which is often accompanied by overheating of the housing.
For accurate diagnostics, it is necessary to disconnect the unit from the network and gain access to the technical area. On the rear panel there are discharge and suction tubes compressors. If, when the engine is running, there is no air flow from the suction tube or it is very weak, but, on the contrary, it blows out of the discharge tube with strong resistance, this is a sure sign of a blockage. It is also worth paying attention to the filter drier: if it is swollen or condensation appears on it, the system is sealed, but the circulation is impaired.
There are two main types of blockages: ice plug and oil-mechanical blockage. An ice plug is formed due to moisture in the system, which freezes at the narrowest point of the capillary. Oil blockage occurs due to thickened oil or copper oxidation products. The type can only be determined after opening the system and purging it with nitrogen.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on the pipes, make sure that the refrigerant is completely vented in a safe place. Direct release of freon into the atmosphere is prohibited by environmental standards, and inhalation of vapors can be hazardous to health.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
High-quality repairs are impossible without the proper tools. To work with the system Atlant you will need not only a standard set of plumbing tools, but also specific equipment for working with refrigerants. The main tool will be burner with solder, which allows you to carefully depressurize copper connections without damaging adjacent elements.
In addition, a prerequisite is the presence of a cylinder with dry nitrogen. It is nitrogen that is used to purge the system, since it is inert and does not contain moisture, unlike compressed air from a compressor, which can only worsen the situation by introducing new water into the circuit. You will also need a pipe cutter, a roller and a chamfering tool.
- 🔧 A set of keys and screwdrivers for dismantling panels.
- 🔥 A portable gas torch with flux and solder.
- 💨 A cylinder with nitrogen and a reducer for creating pressure.
- 🔌 Vacuum pump and manifold.
Preparation of the workplace also plays a critical role. Ensure good ventilation in the room, as soldering may release harmful substances. Prepare a container in advance to collect old oil that may leak from the compressor when the system is opened. All actions must be carried out strictly according to the instructions so as not to damage evaporator or the condenser.
Nitrogen purging technology and removal of blockages
The cleaning process capillary tube begins by cutting it off from the filter-drier and condenser. After this, a hose from a nitrogen cylinder is connected to the end of the tube. Pressure is applied in pulses to dislodge the plug. If the blockage is icy, it may come out with a characteristic pop, but more often mechanical action or chemical flushing with a special solvent is required.
In cases where simple blowing does not help, the “pushing” method is used in the opposite direction. To do this, the tube is disconnected from the evaporator and nitrogen is supplied from the condenser side. This allows dirt to be pushed towards the filter. If this does not work, the tube must be replaced with a new one, since deep mechanical blockages are often irremovable.
This element is disposable and cannot be restored at home. Its task is to absorb moisture and microparticles, and if it is already saturated, a new portion of freon will instantly become contaminated.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to clean the capillary with a thin wire or fishing line. You can damage the inner walls of the tube or pierce it, which will lead to the need to completely replace the expensive evaporator.
☑️ Algorithm of actions in case of blockage
Replacing the filter-drier and soldering the connections
After successful cleaning of the line, the assembly stage begins. The new filter-dryer is installed strictly in a vertical position with an arrow in the direction of the refrigerant flow (usually from the condenser to the capillary). Soldering of connections must be done quickly and carefully so as not to overheat the filter housing, since there is a temperature-sensitive sorbent inside it.
For soldering copper tubes, silver solder or special phosphorus-copper rods are used. The joint is first cleaned to a shine and heated with a burner. The solder should melt from the heat of the tube, and not from the open flame of the burner, flowing into the gap under the influence of capillary effect. This ensures the tightness and strength of the seam.
Pay special attention to the length of the tubes entering the connecting elements. The capillary tube should enter the filter no more than 15-20 mm, otherwise it may rest against the mesh and create a new blockage. If the tube is too long, it must be carefully cut with a pipe cutter, avoiding flattening the edges.
Evacuating the system and filling with freon
Assembling the circuit is only half the battle. The critically important stage is vacuuming. After soldering all connections, a vacuum pump is connected to the system. The process of pumping out air should last at least 30 minutes, and for systems with a long line, like some models Atlant, the time can be increased to an hour.
The purpose of vacuuming is to remove not only air from the system, but and moisture vapor that inevitably got inside during repairs. Residual moisture during operation of the refrigerator will turn into ice and block the capillary again. The pressure in the system must reach a deep vacuum, which is confirmed by the readings of the pressure gauge.
Only after achieving the required vacuum is the refrigerator refueled refrigerant. The amount of freon is strictly regulated by the manufacturer and is indicated on a label located on the back wall or inside the chamber. Refilling is carried out with the compressor running through the service fitting, monitoring the pressure and current consumption of the engine.
Why can't you refill "by eye"?
A lack of freon will lead to overheating of the compressor and insufficient cold, and an excess will cause liquid shock and destruction of the engine valves. The exact dosage is critical.
Table of refrigerant parameters for Atlant refrigerators
For correct refilling, you need to know the type of refrigerant used. Models Atlant can operate on different types of freon, and mixing them is strictly prohibited. Below is a table with the main parameters.
| Refrigerant type | Marking | Features | Charging pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|
| R600a | Isobutane | Explosive, small quantity | 0.4 - 0.6 |
| R134a | Tetrafluoroethane | Safe, requires synthetic oil | 1.0 - 1.2 |
| R12 | Dichlorodifluoromethane | Outdated, prohibited for production | 1.2 - 1.4 |
When working with R600a (isobutane) special care is required due to its flammability. All soldering work should be carried out only after complete evacuation and ventilation to eliminate gas concentrations. An error in choosing the type of oil or freon can lead to compressor failure in a short time.
Typical errors and precautions
Independent repair of refrigeration equipment is fraught with risks. One of the most common mistakes is insufficient vacuum time. Owners often neglect this stage, considering it a formality, but moisture is the main enemy capillary system. The ice plug may form again a few days or weeks after repair.
Another common mistake is using an open flame near plastic elements or insulation. Plastic is highly flammable, and combustion products can damage the insides of the refrigerator compartment. Always use a metal shield or asbestos fabric to protect surrounding surfaces when soldering.
It is also worth mentioning the risk of pinching the tubing. When rolling or bending copper tubing, it is important to prevent the lumen from collapsing. Even a slight narrowing of the diameter will create additional resistance that the compressor will not be able to overcome, which will lead to repeated failure.
⚠️ Attention: If you do not have experience working with oxygen gas equipment and do not have the skills to solder non-ferrous metals, it is better to entrust this work to professionals. Improper soldering can lead to gas leakage and a fire hazard.
Prevention and care of the cooling system
To extend the life of the refrigerator Atlant and to avoid repeated blockages, it is important to follow the operating rules. Do not load warm products into the chamber, as this creates excess load on the compressor and promotes the formation of condensation, which can enter the system due to microcracks. Regular defrosting also helps maintain the efficiency of heat transfer.
Monitor the condition of the door seals. If they allow warm, humid air from the room to pass through, the moisture will actively settle on the evaporator and, during defrosting, enter the drainage, increasing the risk of corrosion and water entering the circuit. Replacing rubber bands in a timely manner is a cheap way to prevent serious problems.
Periodically check the cleanliness of the condenser (the grille at the back of the refrigerator). Radiator dust causes the compressor to operate longer and at higher temperatures, which accelerates oil degradation and carbon deposits in the system. Simple cleaning with a vacuum cleaner every six months significantly extends the life of the unit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to blow out the capillary with your mouth or with a tire pump?
Absolutely not. The exhaled air contains a huge amount of moisture, which will instantly freeze in the system and create a new, more complex plug. A tire pump will also not provide the required pressure and dryness.
How much does it cost to replace a capillary tube in a service?
The cost depends on the region and model, but usually consists of the price of materials (pipe, filter, freon) and the work of the technician. This is cheaper than replacing the compressor, but requires accurate diagnostics.
Why does the refrigerator freeze after cleaning, but then stops again?
Most likely, there is moisture left in the system that was not removed during vacuuming. It circulates along the circuit and periodically freezes in the capillary, blocking the flow of freon. A repeat procedure with a high-quality vacuum is required.
Is it necessary to flush the system with oil when replacing a compressor?
Yes, if the old compressor burns out, combustion products and acidity remain in the system. Flushing with special oil or nitrogen is mandatory, otherwise the new motor will burn out in a short time.
What solder is best to use for copper tubes?
For copper-copper connections, phosphorus-copper solders without flux are optimal. To connect copper-steel or copper-brass, you need silver solder using flux.