Modern two-chamber Atlant refrigerators, despite the presence No Frost systems in some models often require periodic manual defrosting of the main refrigerator compartment. An ice “coat” on the back wall is not just an aesthetic defect, but a signal that the evaporator has ceased to effectively remove heat. Ignoring this process leads to increased energy consumption and accelerated wear compressor.
Owners of equipment with an upper freezer chamber (TM) should know that the defrosting procedure here has its own nuances, which differ from the maintenance of single-chamber models or units with a lower freezer. Atlant refrigerator designed taking into account the natural circulation of the refrigerant, and a violation of the temperature regime during washing can lead to failure of the thermostat. Therefore, it is important to strictly follow the sequence of actions described in the technical data sheet of the product.
Next we will analyze a detailed algorithm of actions that will help you safely service your unit. You will learn how to speed up the process without using sharp objects and a hairdryer, and what mistakes users most often make when trying to quickly get rid of ice.
Preparing for the defrosting procedure
Before starting any manipulations, you need to free up the internal space. Remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer compartments. If it's winter outside, you can take perishable goods to the balcony, but make sure that the temperature is not extremely low, which can damage the packaging. For the summer period, prepare thermal bags or ice packs to keep food fresh during the procedure.
A critical step is to completely turn off the power supply. Unplug the cord from the outlet. Do not rely solely on the position of the temperature control, as in some modifications Atlant the electronics may remain energized even when turned off. This is necessary for your safety and to prevent accidental starting of the compressor during washing.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to defrost a running refrigerator by simply opening the doors wide. This will create a colossal load on the motor-compressor, which will try to compensate for the loss of cold, which can lead to its overheating and jamming.
Prepare your equipment in advance: you will need dry microfiber rags, a basin for water, a sponge and a mild detergent. If the ice layer is too thick, use a plastic scraper (often included) or use a regular plastic spatula. Metal tools are strictly prohibited, as they can damage evaporator pipewhich will lead to freon leakage and costly repairs.
Natural thawing of ice
The safest way to get rid of ice is to let the ice melt on its own under the influence of room temperature. Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors open. Place absorbent rags under the lower shelves and drawers, as water will flow down. In models Atlant with a top freezer, water from the main compartment often flows into a special gutter, which can be hidden under the bottom shelf.
The natural thawing process can take from 8 to 24 hours, depending on the thickness of the ice layer and the temperature in the room. Do not try to speed up the process by using a hair dryer or heater pointed into the chamber. A sharp temperature change is dangerous for the plastic elements of the case and sealing rubber bands, which can become deformed or lose elasticity.
- 🧊 Open all doors and remove the removable shelves.
- 🧽 Place rags under the freezer to collect melted water.
- 🚫 Do not use sharp objects to chip ice.
- 💨 Provide ventilation in the room by opening the window.
If you notice that water accumulates in the tray and does not have time to evaporate, carefully scoop it out with a cup or pear. Make sure that moisture does not get on the electrical contacts, usually located in the upper part of the refrigerator compartment or on the lampshade.
Accelerating the process without harm to equipment
In situations where time is limited, gentle methods can be used to speed up the melting. One effective way is to use containers with warm water. Pour water at a temperature of about 40-50 degrees into wide bowls or baking trays and place them on the shelves inside the chambers. Close the doors for 15-20 minutes. The warm steam generated inside will begin to actively destroy the ice crust.
Repeat the procedure with warm water several times, changing the cooled liquid. This method allows you to defrost Atlant refrigerator 2-3 times faster than the natural way, without exposing the plastic to thermal shock. The steam evenly heats hard-to-reach corners and joints where the ice holds tightest.
Why can't you use a hairdryer?
Using a hairdryer creates local overheating of the plastic, which can lead to its melting. In addition, hot air dries the rubber seals, making them brittle, and can damage the varnish coating of the inner contour of the chamber.
You can also use a fan, directing a stream of air at room temperature into the open chamber. Air circulation will speed up heat transfer. However, make sure that dust does not get into the flow, which will then settle on the wet walls.
Washing and disinfection of internal cameras
After all the ice has melted, it is necessary to thoroughly wash the insides of the unit. During operation, bacteria and mold could settle on the walls, which are sources of unpleasant odors. Use a weak solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or special products for cleaning refrigerators.
Wipe all surfaces: shelves, drawers, chamber walls and sealing rubber bands. Pay special attention to the condensate drainage channel, which is often clogged with crumbs and mucus. You can clean it with a cotton swab or soft wire wrapped in cloth. Carefully pour a little warm water into the hole to check the permeability.
| Cleaning area | Meanium | Tool | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chamber walls | Soda solution | Soft sponge | When defrosting |
| Seals | Soap solution | Rag | Once a month |
| Shelves and drawers | Special means | Sponge | When defrosting |
| Drain channel | Warm water | Cotton swab | When defrosting |
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cloth. The remaining moisture will turn into a new layer of ice when turned on, which will negate all your efforts. Let the refrigerator “ventilate” in the open state for another 30-60 minutes so that the smell of detergent and dampness completely disappears.
Correct startup after defrosting
Switching on of the Atlant refrigerator after defrosting should occur according to a certain algorithm. First, make sure that all removable elements (shelves, drawers) are in place and securely fixed. Close the doors tightly, checking for any distortions.
Only after this, connect the power cord to the power supply. In the first minutes of operation, the compressor may make louder sounds than usual - this is normal, as the system is filled with refrigerant and enters operating mode. Do not load food into the chambers immediately.
Let the unit run idle for at least 2-3 hours. During this time, it will reach the required temperature, and the thermostat (or electronic sensor) will turn off the motor. Loading warm food into a refrigerator that has not yet cooled down will cause the compressor to work without stopping, which is critically harmful to the resource of the equipment.
☑️ Starting after washing
⚠️ Attention: If after turning on the refrigerator makes a whistling sound or vibrates strongly, check the horizontal installation. Perhaps, when washing, you moved the unit, and the legs are no longer firmly on the floor.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Many users make typical mistakes when trying to save time. The most common is trying to break off the ice with a knife or screwdriver. One awkward move and you puncture the thin evaporator tube. Repair in this case requires calling a technician, evacuation of the system and refilling with freon, which is expensive.
Another mistake is ignoring the level. After washing, the floor may become slippery and the refrigerator may be placed crooked. Warped refrigeration unit leads to improper closing of the door and disruption of oil circulation in the compressor. Always check the position of the case with a building level or visually.
- ❌ Using aggressive chemicals (chlorine, acetone) destroys plastic.
- ❌ Loading products until the temperature reaches a temperature kills the compressor.
- ❌ Leaving the door open for a long time without fixing it can cause the hinges to “hang.”
- ❌ Washing removable shelves with hot water - the glass may burst.
Also, do not turn on the light inside the camera using external sources (lamps, flashlights) if the standard lighting does not work. This can lead to a short circuit if moisture gets on the contacts of the lamp.
Prevention of ice formation
To defrost Atlant less often, monitor the condition of the sealing gum. If it does not fit tightly, warm, moist air constantly enters the chamber, which condenses and freezes. Wipe the elastic band with a dry cloth once a week.
Do not put hot or warm food in the refrigerator. Let the dishes cool to room temperature. Evaporation of moisture from hot products is the main reason for the rapid growth of a “fur coat” on the back wall. Also, do not overcrowd the chambers: a gap between the food and the walls is necessary for air circulation.
Regularly check the operation of the condensate drainage system. If you notice water standing under your vegetable drawers, the drainage hole is clogged. Timely cleaning will prevent the formation of an ice plug in the channel, which can spread to the evaporator.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
If, after turning on and waiting for 3-4 hours, the temperature in the chambers does not drop, there may be a power surge or damage to the system during defrosting. Check if the compressor is working (listen for a hum from behind). If the engine is humming, but there is no cold, the defrosting system or thermostat may have failed. If the motor is silent, the problem is in the start relay or wiring. Diagnostics by a specialist is required.
Is it possible to defrost the refrigerator if you are on vacation?
Yes, this is even recommended. If you are going away for a long time, completely defrost, wash and dry the refrigerator. Leave the doors slightly open (you can insert a rolled-up rag between the door and the cabinet) to prevent mold from growing inside. Before leaving, make sure that the unit is completely dry.
How often do you need to defrost Atlant with a drip system?
Models with a drip system (crying wall) in the refrigerator compartment require defrosting less often than old single-chamber ones, but regularly. The optimal frequency is 1-2 times a year. A freezer with manual defrosting (if it is not No Frost) must be turned off when the thickness of the ice on the walls reaches 5-7 mm.
Why did an unpleasant odor appear after defrosting?
The smell may remain if the condensate drainage channel is poorly washed or if water gets into the thermal insulation layer of the case through cracks. The source could also be a forgotten piece of food in a hard-to-reach corner. Try rinsing the chambers with a vinegar solution or using special odor absorbers (activated carbon, silica gel).