Operation of modern refrigeration equipment requires compliance with certain maintenance rules, and the key point here is regular defrosting. Even if you own a popular model Atlantequipped with a No Frost system or partial automatic defrosting, ignoring the need to remove ice can lead to serious problems. This primarily applies to refrigerators with a drip system, where moisture flows down the back wall and freezes, forming an ice crust.
The accumulation of ice in the chamber not only reduces the useful volume for storing food, but also forces the compressor to work with increased load. This happens because the ice layer acts as a thermal insulator, preventing efficient heat transfer. As a result, you may notice increased energy bills and reduced service life compressor. Correct implementation of the procedure will help avoid costly repairs.
There is a common misconception that two-chamber models defrost themselves, but this only applies to the evaporator hidden behind a plastic panel. Open shelves and drawers in the freezer still require your attention. In this article, we will analyze in detail how to safely and quickly carry out this procedure without damaging the delicate internal coating of the unit.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, make sure that the floor under the refrigerator is dry, and there are no working heating devices nearby that create a risk of short circuit when water gets in.
Preparing equipment and products for procedure
The process should begin long before you pull the cord from the outlet. The first step will be to audit the contents of the cameras. You need to empty the refrigerator of all products, since even a short-term increase in temperature inside the chamber can negatively affect perishable goods. Place all frozen supplies in basins or portable thermal containers, transferring them to a cool place, for example, on a balcony (if there is sub-zero temperature) or packing them in blankets.
Next, you should remove all removable interior elements. Shelves, drawers, egg trays and bottle holders should be removed and washed separately with warm water and a mild detergent. This is the ideal time to check the integrity of the plastic: during defrosting, cracks are often discovered that are normally hidden by ice. Glass Shelves may burst due to a sharp temperature change, so do not place cold shelves directly under hot water.
Prepare a place to collect water. Since the two-chamber Atlant holds a significant amount of ice, there will be a lot of melt water. Place absorbent rags or towels on the floor around the appliance in advance. You will also need containers with a wide neck to collect the flowing liquid so that it does not spread around the kitchen.
- 🧊 Prepare large basins or buckets to collect melting water and temporarily store food.
- 🧼 Dilute a solution of baking soda or vinegar in advance for subsequent cleaning of the internal surfaces.
- 🧤 Prepare soft sponges and dry cotton rags to wipe the walls of the chamber.
- 🔌 Check access to the electrical outlet to safely disconnect the device from the network.
☑️ Preparing for defrosting
Step-by-step algorithm for shutdown and natural defrosting
The safest method recommended by manufacturers is natural defrosting. After you have taken out the food and removed the shelves, you need to unplug the refrigerator from the power supply. Dual-chamber models Atlant often use one compressor, so turning off the power will stop both circuits. If you have a model with two compressors, make sure to turn off both devices or unplug the common cord.
Open the doors of both chambers as wide as possible. This will provide an influx of warm air and start the ice melting process. You should not close the doors in the hope that the ice will melt faster - without the fan running (if there is one) or simply air circulation, the process will be delayed. Leave the unit alone for several hours. The time for complete defrosting depends on the thickness of the ice layer and can range from 4 to 10 hours.
During the melting process, water will flow into a special gutter located in the lower part of the refrigeration chamber and through the drainage hole into a container installed above the compressor at the back. However, the freezer usually does not have such a drain, so the water will simply drain to the bottom. Monitor the water level in the placed containers and empty them in time so as not to flood the kitchen.
It is important to monitor the condition of the rubber seals on the doors. While the chambers are open, it makes sense to wipe them with a damp cloth, removing crumbs and dirt. Dirt on the seal breaks the seal, which will lead to faster ice growth in the future. After completing the process, thoroughly wipe all surfaces dry.
Methods for accelerating defrosting without damaging equipment
If you do not have the opportunity to wait 8-10 hours for the ice to melt on its own, you can use methods of forced but gentle defrosting. The most common way is to use a hairdryer. However, there are critical nuances here. Turn on the hair dryer only on warm air mode, never hot air. Hold the device at a distance of at least 30-40 cm from the walls and move the air stream evenly, without staying in one place for a long time.
Another effective method is to install containers with hot water. Pour hot water (about 60-70 degrees) into pots or bowls, place them on the bottom of the freezer (preferably on a cutting board or towel to avoid damaging the plastic bottom with hot metal) and close the door. The steam will speed up the melting of the ice. You will have to change the water every 15-20 minutes, as it cools down quickly.
It is strictly forbidden to use sharp objects to chip ice. Knives, screwdrivers, chisels can easily damage evaporator, which is located immediately behind the plastic wall or directly under the ice layer. A breakdown of the evaporator tube will lead to a refrigerant leak and expensive repairs, which are often not economically feasible.
⚠️ Attention: Never use steam generators or hair dryers for defrosting. The high temperature of the steam or air stream deforms the plastic and can melt the internal structural elements.
Why can’t you pick the ice with a knife?
In modern Atlant refrigerators, the evaporator is often built into the back wall or located in close proximity to it. The thickness of the metal in this place is minimal. One awkward movement with the tip of the knife will lead to a puncture. The refrigerant will instantly evaporate, and air and moisture will enter the system. Restoring the tightness and filling with gas requires calling a specialist and special equipment, the cost of which can be up to 70% of the price of a new refrigerator.
Caring for the drainage system and removing odors
After the main ice has melted and you have wiped off the water, special attention should be paid to the drainage hole. It is located at the back of the refrigerator compartment, often hidden by a small plastic groove. It is through this that the condensate goes outside. Over time, mucus, food debris and mold accumulate in this hole, which leads to a blockage.
If the drain is clogged, water begins to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator and flow out, forming a puddle under the appliance. To clean, use a special soft brush, which is often included, or twist a string of cotton wool/gauze. Gently push it in, being careful not to damage the tube. Then rinse the hole with warm water from a syringe or syringe without a needle.
| Care element | Treatment frequency | Cleaning agent | Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal walls | Each defrosting | Soda solution (1 tbsp per liter) | Soft sponge |
| Drainage hole | Once every 6 months | Warm water | Brush or cotton wool |
| Door seal | Every defrost | Soap solution | Cotton disk |
| Condenser (rear) | Once a year | Dry brush or vacuum cleaner | Brush with long bristles |
An unpleasant smell in the refrigerator after defrosting may indicate the growth of bacteria in hard-to-reach places. After washing with water and soda, you can wipe the surfaces with a weak solution of vinegar or citric acid. These products not only disinfect, but also neutralize odors. After treatment, be sure to leave the doors open for 30-60 minutes for complete airing.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
When all surfaces have been thoroughly wiped dry, and the removable elements have been washed and dried, you can begin assembly. Place shelves and drawers in their proper places. Make sure they are level and secured securely. Now you can plug in the refrigerator. Let it run empty for 1-2 hours so that it reaches the required temperature.
Only after the indicators (if any) show normal temperature, or sufficient time has passed for cooling, can you add food. Suddenly loading warm food into a unit that has just been turned on will force the compressor to work at its limit. Distribute the products evenly, do not crowd the chamber so that air can circulate.
Pay attention to the operation of the device in the first hours after switching on. It should not make any extraneous sounds other than the usual hum of the compressor or gurgling of the refrigerant. If you notice that the refrigerator runs continuously without turning off, check the tightness of the doors. It is possible that when installing the shelves you accidentally moved the seal.
Typical errors and precautions
Many equipment owners Atlant make mistakes that shorten the service life of the device. One of the most common is an attempt to speed up the process by using heating pads applied directly to the walls, or by pouring boiling water directly onto the ice. A sharp temperature change causes deformation of the plastic and the appearance of microcracks, into which moisture then enters, destroying the thermal insulation layer.
Another mistake is ignoring the installation level of the refrigerator. If the appliance is not level, the door may not close tightly, or condensation will flow out onto the floor rather than into the drain. After each defrosting and cleaning, check the position of the legs. The door should close on its own if you open it 30-40 degrees.
Also, do not forget about external cleaning. Dust on the condenser grille (usually located at the bottom at the back) impairs heat transfer. The compressor overheats and the refrigerator begins to consume more electricity. Regular dry cleaning of the rear wall prolongs the life of the motor.
- 🚫 Do not use abrasive powders and metal sponges to clean the internal walls.
- 🚫 Do not plug in the refrigerator if there is water or high humidity inside.
- 🚫 Do not install hot products into the chamber, this violates the temperature regime.
- 🚫 Do not block the ventilation holes inside the chamber with food.
How long does it take on average to defrost a two-chamber Atlanta?
The time depends on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room. On average, the natural defrosting process takes from 6 to 12 hours. If the ice layer is small, 4 hours may be enough. Using acceleration methods (hair dryer, hot water) reduces the time to 2-3 hours.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after defrosting?
Check the integrity of the power cord and the presence of voltage in the outlet. If everything is fine electrically, the compressor thermal protection relay may have tripped due to overheating during previous operation. Let the refrigerator stand unplugged for another 30-60 minutes. If the problem persists, you need to call a technician.
Is it necessary to defrost an Atlant refrigerator with the No Frost system?
The No Frost system involves automatic removal of moisture, so there is no need to specifically defrost such a refrigerator to remove ice. However, it is recommended to carry out general cleaning and washing of internal surfaces 1-2 times a year to maintain hygiene and remove odors.
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with tap water?
You can wash removable shelves and drawers. It is better to wipe the inner walls with a well-wrung out cloth. It is impossible to pour water with a hose or a strong stream into the chamber, as moisture can get onto the electrical contacts, thermostat or into the drainage system, causing blockage or a short circuit.
How often should defrost be carried out?
For models with a drip defrosting system, it is recommended to carry out the procedure every 3-4 months, or when the thickness of the ice crust reaches 5-7 mm. More frequent defrosting is not required and is even harmful for some components, and more infrequent defrosting leads to excessive consumption of electricity.