Owners of modern household appliances often are faced with a dilemma: is it necessary to interfere at all with the operation of smart units that supposedly can do everything themselves. The two-compressor models of the Belarusian brand Atlant are truly famous for their reliability and autonomy of operation of each of the departments. However, even the most advanced cooling system is not immune to the formation of an ice crust when doors are frequently opened or the seal is faulty. Complete defrosting is required not only to remove ice, but also to extend the service life of the motor-compressor.
The defrosting process in units with two engines has its own technical features, ignoring which can lead to incorrect operation of the automation. You will have to turn off the refrigerator and freezer compartments sequentially or simultaneously, which requires a clear understanding of the sequence of actions. In this article we will analyze all the nuances of the procedure so that your refrigerator serves for many years without failures.
Design features of two-compressor models
The main difference between such devices is the complete independence of the cooling circuits. While one compressor is working, maintaining a low temperature in the freezer, the second can rest or, conversely, intensively cool the main compartment. This means that when defrosting, you are actually dealing with two different devices in one housing. The system control here is more complex than in single-circuit analogues, and requires careful attention.
Many models Atlant equipped with a system No Frost or Full No Frost, which formally eliminates the need for the user to manually chip the ice. However, even in automatic defrosting systems, it is recommended to carry out a complete wash and drying once every year or year and a half. This is necessary to remove bacteria, mold and odors that no amount of ventilation will eliminate. In models with a drip system (crying evaporator) in the refrigerator compartment, defrosting is required when a layer of ice forms more than 3-4 mm.
Preparatory stage before shutting down
You need to start the process not by pulling the cord out of the outlet, but by preparing the space and products. Make room in the kitchen in advance where you will store perishable foods. If it's winter outside, you can use the balcony, but remember that sudden temperature changes are also stressful for some products. It is better to remove all drawers and shelves in advance so that they warm up to room temperature - cold plastic may crack when in contact with warm water.
Be sure to prepare a container for collecting melt water and rags. In two-compressor models Atlant, the drainage system can be designed differently, and the water does not always go only into a special tray. Liquid often flows down the inner wall onto the floor, so floor rags or old towels should be laid out at the foot of the unit. You will also need soft sponges and a detergent that does not contain abrasive particles.
☑️ Preparation checklist
⚠️ Attention: Never use hair dryers, fan heaters or heaters to speed up defrosting. Sudden heating of plastic parts and the evaporator can lead to their deformation, and hot air entering the electrical contacts will cause a short circuit.
Sequence of turning off compressors
The most important technical point is the correct power shutdown. Since you have two independent circuits, the logic of the automation may be disrupted if the circuit suddenly breaks during operation of one of the compressors. It is recommended to first set the temperature controls in both compartments to the “0” or “Off” position. This will command the electronics or thermostats to stop the engines in the normal manner.
After you hear that both motors are stopped (stop humming), wait 2-3 minutes. This time is necessary to equalize the refrigerant pressure in the system. Only after this pause can you remove the plug from the socket. If you have an electronically controlled model, the indicators on the display may remain on until the capacitors are discharged - wait until the screen turns off completely. A sudden shutdown under load is harmful to start relay and the motor windings.
What will happen if you do not wait for the compressor to stop?
If you pull out the cord while the motor is running, a water hammer may occur in the cooling system due to a sharp pressure drop, which will reduce the life of the compressor.
There is an opinion that two-compressor refrigerators need to be defrosted in turn: first the freezer, then the main compartment. This is a false misconception. For high-quality cleaning and disinfection, the unit must be completely defrosted and completely dried. Partial defrosting will not have any effect, since odors and bacteria will not go away. Turn off the appliance completely.
The process of natural thawing of ice
After turning off, leave the refrigerator and freezer doors completely open. The natural defrosting process takes longer than the forced one, but it is the only one safe for the health of the device. Depending on the thickness of the ice and the room temperature, the entire cycle can take from 10 to 24 hours. Do not try to speed up the process by opening the windows wide in winter - this will create an unnecessary draft, but will not speed up the melting of the ice inside the insulated housing.
During the melting process, make sure that water containers are filled. In two-compressor models, the volume of evaporators can be significant, and more water will leak out than in conventional refrigerators. Periodically check the condition of the drainage hole (if it is designed in the refrigerator compartment). It can be carefully cleaned with a special brush or cotton swab to ensure free flow of liquid.
| Parameter | Refrigerator compartment | Freezer compartment |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost type | Drip / Manual | No Frost / Manual |
| Average time | 4-8 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Start temperature | up to +5°C | to -18°C |
| Critical layer of ice | 3-4 mm | 5-7 mm |
Cleaning and disinfecting internal surfaces
When all the ice has melted and the temperature inside has reached room temperature, proceed to washing. Use a warm solution of baking soda or mild dish soap. Thoroughly wipe down all walls, shelves and drawers. Pay special attention sealing rubber bands to the doors - it is in their folds that dirt and mold most often accumulate, which is then spread throughout the entire volume.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cloth. Remaining moisture can cause rapid ice formation again the first time you turn it on. It is also worth rinsing and drying all removable elements: grills, egg trays, vegetable containers. The plastic must be perfectly dry before installing it back.
To remove unpleasant odors, if they have appeared, you can use activated carbon, cut lemon or special odor absorbers. Place them inside the chambers before closing the doors to dry. Do not use aggressive chemicals, bleach or acetone - they can damage the plastic coating and leave a toxic trace, which will then transfer to the food.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
The final stage is the correct start. Make sure all parts are in place and doors close tightly. Plug the cord into a power outlet. Now you need to configure the operating modes. Two-compressor models Atlant are characterized by the possibility of independent settings. Set the controls to the middle position (usually “3” or “4” on mechanics, or +4°C / -18°C on electronics).
Do not load products right away. Let the refrigerator run idle for at least 2-3 hours, or better yet, wait for the signal that the set temperature has been reached (if there is an indication) or the characteristic click of the compressor turning off. Loading warm products into a unit that has just been turned on will force the compressor to work hard, trying to cool a large amount of heat.
⚠️ Attention: The design and operation algorithms of models may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture and series. If you are the owner of the latest model with a Wi-Fi module or complex electronics, check the official user manual before turning it on for the first time after a long period of inactivity.
Common mistakes and precautions
One of the most common mistakes is using a knife or sharp objects to chip ice. In two-chamber Atlantakh evaporators are often located behind a plastic panel or mounted in the wall. One awkward movement can puncture a thin freon tube. Repairing such a breakdown is complicated, expensive and requires calling a technician with equipment for vacuuming and refilling.
Another mistake is turning on the device while there is still ice or water inside. Moisture that gets into the electrical part can cause a short circuit. In addition, if you did not allow the compressor to cool down before restarting (for example, you decided to defrost it, got scared of the timing and turned it back on after 10 minutes), the oil in the crankcase will not have time to drain, and the engine may seize. Observe time intervals.
- ❄️ Do not leave the doors open for a long time unattended, if you have pets or small children - they can damage the hinge mechanism or stain the seal.
- 💧 Do not pour hot water directly onto glass shelves - thermal shock is guaranteed to cause cracks.
- 🔌 Do not plug in the refrigerator with wet hands and do not touch the metal parts of the case while connecting if the floor is wet.
How long does it take to defrost a two-compressor Atlanta?
The time depends on the temperature in the room and the thickness of the ice. On average, the process takes from 12 to 24 hours. Do not try to artificially speed up this process, as this may damage the plastic parts.
Is it necessary to defrost an Atlant refrigerator with the No Frost system?
Technically, the No Frost system does not require manual defrosting to remove ice. However, once a year it is recommended to completely turn off the device for general cleaning, disinfection and removal of odors that ventilation cannot eliminate.
Is it possible to defrost only the freezer compartment?
Theoretically, thanks to two compressors, only one circuit can be turned off. But for proper hygiene and maintenance, it is recommended to defrost the entire unit to avoid temperature imbalances and odors between chambers.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after defrosting?
Check the presence of electricity in the outlet. Make sure the temperature controls are not set to “0”. If you hear a click but do not start, the thermal relay may have tripped - wait another 30-40 minutes. If the problem persists, diagnostics are required.