Two-chamber models of the Belarusian brand have long established themselves as reliable helpers in the kitchen, however, even the most advanced equipment requires regular maintenance. Ice freezing on the walls of the evaporator - this is a natural process for drip-type systems, which inevitably reduces cooling efficiency and increases energy consumption. It is important for owners to understand that ignoring this point can lead to failure of the compressor or failure of the seals.
Many users mistakenly believe that the presence of the system No Frost completely eliminates the need to defrost the unit, but this is not entirely true. Even in models with full automation, periodic hygienic cleaning prevention is required, although much less frequently than in classic versions. The correct approach to the procedure allows you to extend the life of refrigeration equipment and preserve the freshness of products.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various modifications, point out typical mistakes and explain why rushing in this matter can harm the equipment. Complete thawing of ice in a two-chamber refrigerator takes from 10 to 24 hours, depending on the thickness of the ice and the ambient temperature. Compliance with technology is the key to your Atlant will serve for many years without expensive repairs.
Determining the type of cooling system
The first step before starting any manipulations is to accurately determine the type of defrosting system installed in your model. Two-chamber refrigerators Atlant can be equipped with three types of systems: classic drip, combined (Frost Free) and full No Frost. The frequency of the procedure and the method of action directly depend on this.
In classic models, such as the series MHM 1700 or 1800, the back wall of the refrigeration chamber is covered with a “fur coat”, which periodically thaws when the compressor operates, and water flows into the drainage hole. The freezer compartment in such devices requires manual defrosting about once every six months. If you notice that the ice is more than half the volume of the freezer, it's time to act.
Models with a system Frost Free (often found in series 4000 i 6000) have automatic defrosting of the evaporator in the refrigerator compartment, but the freezer may require attention if the door seal is broken. The complete system No Frost theoretically does not require defrosting the ice, but needs to be washed and cleaned from dust and odors every 1-2 years.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to forcefully break off the ice with a knife or screwdriver in models with the No Frost system. Damage to the hidden evaporator will lead to freon leakage and expensive repairs, which are not economically feasible.
To accurately determine the type of your model, look at the technical data sheet or find the sticker with the characteristics inside the chamber. It will indicate the presence of functions Low Frost or No Frost, which radically changes the approach to maintenance.
Preparation for the defrosting process
Quality preparation is half the success of the entire operation. Before disconnecting the device from the network, it is necessary to empty the chambers of food. Take care in advance about where you will put it frozen supplies: you can use thermal bags, take the food out to the balcony (in winter) or spread it among your neighbors.
After emptying the shelves, you should remove all removable elements: drawers, trays, glass shelves and egg containers. Plastic parts become brittle at low temperatures, so you need to remove them carefully, without sudden movements. It is also better to wash glass shelves separately in warm water to avoid thermal shock in case of contact with boiling water or ice.
Prepare the area around the refrigerator. Cover the floor with rags or towels, as melting a large amount of ice can cause water to spread throughout the kitchen. Prepare a basin to collect water if the drainage hole cannot cope with the flow, and a soft rag to wipe the internal surfaces.
☑️ Preparation checklist
It is important to check the condition drainage hole even before the start of the active phase melting. Often it is its clogging that leads to the formation of puddles inside the chamber. Clean the channel with a special brush or soft wire so that the water flows freely into the evaporation tank.
Step-by-step instructions for defrosting
The defrosting process must take place in strict sequence to minimize stress for the compressor and electronics. First turn the temperature regulator to position 0 or Off, and only then unplug the plug from the socket. This will allow the control system to correctly complete the current operating cycle.
Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors open. A natural influx of warm air will start the melting process. To speed up the process in two-chamber models Atlant, you can place containers with hot water inside the chambers, but not boiling water, so as not to damage the plastic. Change the water as it cools.
Under no circumstances use a hairdryer to speed up thawing. Hot air can unevenly heat the plastic and lead to deformation of internal bulkheads or damage sealing rubber bands. In addition, the air flow can drive moisture into the electronic modules, which will cause a short circuit.
| Stage | Action | Execution time |
|---|---|---|
| Disconnection | Transfer to 0 and disconnect from the network | 1 minute |
| Release | Removing products and shelves | 10-15 minutes |
| Thawing | Natural melting of ice | 8-24 hours |
| Cleaning | Removing water and wiping | 30 minutes |
After all the ice has melted, thoroughly wipe the interior surfaces with a dry cloth. Pay special attention to corners and places where shelves are attached where moisture could accumulate. Only after complete drying can you begin to assemble and turn it on.
Is it possible to defrost a refrigerator on the balcony in winter?
It is strictly forbidden to take a working or just defrosted refrigerator out into the cold. Sudden temperature changes and exposure to negative temperatures destroy the structure of the refrigerant and compressor lubricant. You can only leave equipment on the balcony when it is turned off at a temperature not lower than -5°C, but it is better to store it in a warm room.
Care for the No Frost and Frost Free system
Owners of refrigerators Atlant with the system No Frost often wonder whether they need defrost? Technically, ice does not form on food in them, since moisture is removed outside the chambers. However, once every year and a half, it is recommended to carry out a preventive shutdown for washing and cleaning the ventilation ducts.
In models Frost Free (drip refrigeration + No Frost freezer), attention should be paid to the freezer compartment. If you notice that food has begun to freeze to each other or frost has appeared on the walls, check the tightness of the door. Perhaps seal is dirty or damaged, and warm, moist air enters the chamber.
Cleaning the ventilation holes in the back wall of such models is done carefully, without using sharp objects. The accumulation of dust on the defrost heater can lead to incorrect operation of the system and the formation of ice plugs in the drainage.
Regular inspection of the rubber seals on the doors will help avoid unnecessary operation of the system. Wipe them with a soft sponge and soapy water, removing crumbs and sticky dirt that prevent them from closing tightly.
Typical mistakes when defrosting
The most common mistake is trying to speed up the process mechanically. Using knives, forks or scrapers to chip ice often ends. In two-chamber refrigerators by puncturing the evaporator. In two-chamber refrigerators Atlant the evaporator is often foamed into the wall or located close to the plastic, and it is very easy to puncture it.
The second mistake is turning on a wet refrigerator. If you hurry and turn on the unit without waiting for the internal chambers and electrical contacts to completely dry, this may lead to a short circuit or corrosion of metal parts. Let the equipment stand open for at least 2-3 hours after the ice has melted.
The third mistake is ignoring the drainage system. Many people forget to clean the water drainage hole, believing that it will break through on its own. As a result, after the first defrosting, water begins to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator, forming puddles under the vegetable drawers.
⚠️ Attention: Never pour boiling water directly onto an ice block. A sudden change in temperature can cause cracks in the plastic housing of the chamber or damage the glass shelves, even if they are removed but lying nearby.
Also, you should not turn on the refrigerator immediately after defrosting if the room is very cold (below +10°C). The compressor oil could have thickened, and starting the engine in such conditions will lead to accelerated wear.
Completing the procedure and first start
After you make sure that the chambers are completely dry, wipe the shelves and drawers with a dry cloth. Place all removable parts in place, making sure they are securely fastened. Now you can connect the refrigerator to the mains.
It is better to start the first time without loading it with food. Let the equipment run idle for 1–2 hours to reach the required temperature and stabilize the work processes. Only after this can you begin to gradually fill the chambers with products.
Pay attention to the operation of the compressor in the first hours. It should not work continuously without breaks. If you hear strange sounds or notice that the refrigerator does not turn offmay have moisture in the system or the seal is broken.
Regular maintenance, carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, guarantees that your Atlant will delight you with fresh products and quiet operation for many years. Do not neglect prevention, even if ice is not visually noticeable.
How often do you need to defrost an Atlant refrigerator with a drip system?
Refrigerators with a drip system (crying wall) in the refrigerator compartment are defrosted automatically. The freezer compartment in two-chamber models must be defrosted manually 1-2 times a year, or when the thickness of the ice cover reaches 5-7 mm.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
Perhaps the compressor oil has frozen or moisture has entered the system. Leave the refrigerator turned off in a warm room for a few more hours. If the problem persists, check the integrity of the tubes and the presence of freon.
Is it possible to wash the refrigerator with dishwashing detergent?
Yes, you can use a weak solution of dishwashing detergent, but after that you must thoroughly wipe the surfaces with clean water and wipe dry to prevent chemicals from getting on the food.
Why can’t you defrost a refrigerator with a knife?
The thin walls of the evaporator are located immediately behind the plastic casing. One awkward movement with a sharp object will lead to a breakdown of the circuit, freon leakage and failure of the compressor. Repairs in this case often exceed the cost of a new refrigerator.