The situation when the refrigerator Atlant stops freezing and the temperature inside rises often confuses the owner. The most expensive and important part in this system is compressor, which is often called the “heart” of the unit. It is he who is responsible for the circulation of the refrigerant, and if it fails, the cold ceases to be produced. Before calling a technician or purchasing new equipment, it is worth conducting an initial diagnosis to understand whether the problem really lies in the motor.
In this article we will analyze proven methods that allow us to determine the condition of the electric motor without complex laboratory equipment. You will learn how to distinguish a compressor breakdown from a malfunction of the start relay or thermostat, as well as what tools are needed for an accurate check. Safety When working with electricity, this is the first rule that should not be forgotten for a second.
Belarusian brand refrigerators Atlant famous for their reliability, but even they have malfunctions in the electrical part. Understanding the operating principle and a clear algorithm of actions will help you save time and money. Below are step-by-step instructions that are suitable for most models, including dual-chamber and single-chamber options.
Visual inspection and initial diagnosis
Before taking up the tools, it is necessary to conduct a thorough external inspection of the rear of the refrigerator. Often signs of a malfunction are visible to the naked eye. First of all, pay attention to the condition of the compressor: if it is very hot (burns your hand) or, conversely, absolutely cold when the unit is plugged in, this is an important diagnostic sign.
Inspect the wires going to the motor for melted insulation, blackening or traces of burning. If you notice a burning smell or visible signs of a short circuit in the terminal box area, further self-diagnosis can be dangerous. Also check if there are any traces of oil on the tubes, which may indicate a violation of the system's tightness.
⚠️ Attention: If you find severe deformation of the compressor housing or traces of oily smudges in the lower part of the unit, further operation of the refrigerator must be stopped. This may indicate a breakdown of gaskets or cracks in the motor housing.
An important step is checking the start relay, which is often mistaken for a part of the compressor. It is mounted on the side of the motor housing. If, during a visual inspection, cracks, soot or melting are visible on the relay, the problem may lie in this particular unit, and the unit itself may be serviceable. Carefully remove the relay to inspect the contacts. electric motor may be correct. Carefully remove the relay to inspect the contacts.
Checking the integrity of the windings with a multimeter
For more accurate diagnostics you will need multimeter (tester). This device allows you to measure the resistance of the motor windings and determine the presence of an open or short circuit. Before starting any work on electrical components, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
Remove the protective cover on the back of the refrigerator and get to the compressor. Disconnect the start relay and thermal protection contact to gain access to the three contacts on the motor housing. They are usually arranged in a triangle. On the multimeter, switch the mode to the resistance measurement sector (Ohm) to the limit of 200 Ohm.
The test is carried out in pairs between each of the three contacts. You need to get three resistance values: between the top and left contact, between the top and right, and between the two bottom. Record your findings. Normal resistance values for compressors Atlant usually vary within certain limits, although the exact numbers depend on the specific motor model.
| Measurement type | Normal reading (Ohm) | What does it mean deviation |
|---|---|---|
| Starting winding | 20 - 40 Ohm | Open or short circuit |
| Working winding | 10 - 15 Ohm | Interturn short circuit |
| Total resistance | 30 - 55 Ohm | Circuit malfunction |
| Case and any contact | Infinity (1) | Breakdown on the body |
If the device shows one (infinity) when checking between the contacts, this indicates break windings. If the resistance is close to zero, a short circuit has occurred. In both cases, the compressor is considered faulty and requires replacement. Pay special attention to checking for breakdown of the case: one probe is applied to a cleaned place on the case (scratches), and the second to any contact.
Diagnostics of the starting relay and thermal protection
Often the cause of compressor failure is not the motor itself, but the auxiliary devices that ensure its starting. The starting relay is responsible for sending an impulse to the starting winding, and the thermal relay protects the motor from overheating. In refrigerators Atlant these elements are often combined in one housing or located nearby.
Remove the relay and gently shake it near your ear. If you hear a characteristic ringing or knocking sound inside (as from a broken coin), it means that the internal contact group or posistor is damaged. This is a common reason when the compressor hums, but cannot start. Visually inspect the contacts for carbon deposits.
The thermal relay (thermal protection) is checked for an open circuit. When cold, it should “ring” (show zero ohms). If the circuit is open at room temperature, the relay is faulty and is preventing voltage from flowing to the motor windings. Replacing this element is inexpensive and often solves the problem of a “humming” refrigerator.
How does a posistor work in a starting relay?
Inside the relay there is a ceramic element (posistor), which, when voltage is applied, heats up and sharply increases its resistance, opening the circuit of the starting winding. If it is cracked, the compressor does not receive the initial impulse to rotate the rotor.
Direct start of the compressor without a relay
One of the most reliable ways to check the performance of the motor is to try to start it directly, bypassing the standard starting relay. This method allows you to eliminate automation malfunctions and understand whether you yourself are alive electric motor. To do this, you will need a piece of wire with a plug and, preferably, a button or switch for short-term voltage supply.
Determine the contacts of the starting and operating windings (usually the diagram is drawn on the relay body or in the instructions). Apply voltage to the run winding and then to the start winding for a split second to initiate rotation. If the engine starts and runs smoothly, then the problem was in the relay. If you hear a hum, but there is no rotation, or the plugs are knocked out, the motor is “stuck” or the winding is burned out.
⚠️ Attention: Direct starting is dangerous due to electric shock! All connections must be securely insulated. Do not hold the compressor in your hands while power is applied. The duration of operation without a standard relay should not exceed 5-10 seconds, since there is no protection against overheating.
If after direct start the compressor operates, but gets very hot or makes an unusual noise, this may indicate wear on the mechanical part or poor oil quality. In home repair conditions, it is almost impossible to restore the sealed unit; a complete replacement of the unit is required.
☑️ Direct start algorithm
Analysis of noise and vibration during operation
Sound accompaniment of work refrigerator Atlant can tell a lot about his condition. A working compressor operates with a moderate, even hum. If you hear a metallic clang, knocking or vibration transmitted to the housing, these are signs of mechanical failure.
A frequent cause of knocking is the destruction of the internal engine mount. The motor inside the casing is suspended on springs that dampen vibrations. If one of the springs bursts, the rotor begins to beat against the walls of the casing during operation. Also, extraneous sounds can be produced by the shock absorbers on which the entire unit is mounted on the frame.
If the compressor turns on, runs for a few seconds, and then a loud click is heard and it turns off, this thermal protection is triggered. The reasons can be different: from jamming of the piston group to a malfunction of the thermal contact itself. In case of jamming (hydraulic hammer), attempts to revive the engine are often useless.
Table of main malfunctions and symptoms
Use a summary table to systematize the data obtained. It will help you match the symptoms you are experiencing with the most likely causes. This will simplify the decision to repair or replace the part.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Silence, no reaction | No power, burnt out cord | Check the socket and cable |
| Buzzing, does not start | Faulty starting relay | Replace the relay |
| Buzzing, clicking, turns off | The compressor is jammed | Replacing the compressor |
| The housing is getting very hot | Lack of freon, wear | Call a technician for refueling |
You should not ignore even the slightest changes in the operation of equipment. Early diagnostics allows you to replace cheap parts (relay, thermostat) before expensive ones fail. Remember that replacing the motor requires evacuation of the system and charging with freon, which cannot be done without special tools. compressor. Remember that replacing the motor requires evacuation of the system and charging with freon, which cannot be done without special tools.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair a burnt-out Atlant compressor yourself?
No, hermetic compressors cannot be repaired at home. They require opening, rewinding the windings on a special machine, changing the oil and vacuum welding. It is more economically feasible and reliable to buy a new unit.
How long should the compressor operate normally?
The operating time depends on the load of the refrigerator and the room temperature. Typically the operating cycle is from 15 to 30 minutes, followed by a pause. If the motor runs without stopping for hours, this is a sign of a freon leak or loss of tightness.
Why can a new compressor hum louder than the old one?
Modern models may have a different noise level. However, a strong hum can be caused by improper installation (tubes touching the frame or wall), overtightened mounting bolts, or floor vibration. Check whether the refrigerator is touching the walls or furniture.
Which compressor is better to replace the Atlanta?
The best option is the original compressor Atlant or its direct analogues (for example, Secop or Embraco that same power). It is important to pay attention to the performance (cm³/hour) and the type of refrigerant (R134a or R600a) indicated on the nameplate of the old motor.