Modern models of the Belarusian manufacturer Atlant are famous for their reliability and durability, but even the most advanced equipment requires regular maintenance. Many owners mistakenly believe that the presence of a No Frost or Full No Frost system completely eliminates the need for defrosting, but this is not entirely true. Even in devices with automatic moisture removal, plaque, odors and bacteria accumulate over time, which require mechanical removal.
Ignoring scheduled maintenance can lead to reduced energy efficiency, unpleasant odors and even compressor failure due to overload. In this article we will look in detail at how to defrost the fridge compartment of an Atlant refrigerator without damaging the delicate elements of the cooling system and maintaining the warranty.
The process of preparing for washing depends on the type of your model: it is single-compressor or double-compressor, whether it is equipped with a “crying evaporator” system or a full one. No Frost. Understanding the design of your unit is the first step towards a safe procedure.
Preparing the Atlant refrigerator for defrosting
Before starting any manipulations, it is necessary to properly prepare the unit. The first step is to disconnect the device from the power supply by removing the plug from the outlet. If your model has a separate switch on the case, it must also be moved to position 0 or Off.
Next you need to empty the refrigerator compartment of all products. If you plan to defrost quickly, you can transfer the food into bowls of ice or another working refrigerator. For long-term storage, it is better to use cooler bags with refrigerants.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the defrosting refrigerator plugged in with the door open for a long time, as this can lead to failure of the temperature sensors.
Remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers for vegetables, trays for eggs and bottle bottles. It is better to wash them separately under running water using a mild detergent. Plastic parts should not be washed with hot water to avoid deformation.
Defrosting technology: natural and accelerated
There are two main ways to remove ice crust: natural and forced. The natural method is the safest for the compressor and evaporator, but takes time - from 3 to 24 hours depending on the thickness of the ice.
To speed up the process, you can use a fan by directing a stream of air at room temperature inside the chamber. This will help quickly evaporate moisture and melt ice without using aggressive methods.
- ❄️ Open the doors of the refrigerator and freezer compartments as wide as possible.
- ❄️ Place absorbent rags or towels on the bottom of the chamber to collect melt water.
- ❄️ Install a fan nearby for air circulation.
- ❄️ Periodically change wet rags to dry ones.
The use of a hair dryer or other heating devices is strictly not recommended by manufacturers Atlant. A sudden temperature change can damage the plastic housing of the evaporator or lead to cracks in the tubes of the cooling system.
Features of defrosting the No Frost system
Owners of models with the No Frost system often wonder whether it is necessary to defrost their equipment at all. Although an ice coat does not form in the chamber, there is an evaporator located inside the housing, behind the rear wall, which also requires attention.
Once every 6-12 months it is recommended to carry out preventive defrosting even for No Frost. This is necessary in order to clean the drainage channels through which condensate flows into the tray above the compressor.
| System type | Defrosting frequency | Process duration | Does it need to be washed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual | As ice forms | Up to 24 hours | Required |
| Drip | 1-2 times a year | 3-5 hours | Recommended |
| No Frost | once a year (prevention) | 2-4 hours | Desirable |
If the drainage hole becomes clogged with dust and dirt, the water will start accumulate under vegetable drawers or leak out. Therefore, preventative cleaning of the inside is extremely important for the longevity of your equipment.
Why does ice still appear in No Frost?
Ice in the No Frost system may appear due to a loosely closed door, a damaged seal, or a malfunction of the defrost heating element. In such cases, diagnostics are required.
Cleaning and disinfection of internal surfaces
After all the ice has melted and the water has been removed, the cleaning stage begins. To wash the inside walls of the refrigerator Atlant it is best to use a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water) or a weak vinegar solution.
Chemical cleaners with abrasive particles or chlorine cannot be used. They can damage the coating of the chambers and leave a persistent odor, which is subsequently absorbed into the products.
- 🧼 Wipe all surfaces thoroughly with a soft sponge soaked in the solution.
- 🧼 Pay special attention to the corners and places where the shelves are attached.
- 🧼 Rinse the surfaces with clean water and wipe dry.
- 🧼 Leave the doors open for 1-2 hours for complete drying and ventilation.
⚠️ Attention: When cleaning rubber seals, do not use alcohol or aggressive chemicals, as the rubber may crack and lose its seal.
If there is an unpleasant odor inside the refrigerator, you can use activated carbon or special odor absorbers. Place them on the shelves before turning on the appliance.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
Proper startup after washing is the key to stable operation of the compressor. Make sure all interior surfaces are completely dry. Turning on a wet appliance may cause a short circuit.
Put all shelves and drawers back in place. Close the doors and only then connect the refrigerator to the network. If the model is equipped with electronic control, wait until the self-diagnosis is completed.
Sequence of actions:1. Checking dryness.
2. Installation of components.
3. Closing the doors.
4. Connecting to the network.
5. Setting the temperature.
Do not load food into the chamber immediately. Let the refrigerator run idle for at least 2-3 hours so that it reaches the required temperature and enters operating mode.
☑️ Check before loading food
Typical errors when servicing Atlant
Often users make mistakes that shorten the life of equipment. The most common of them is an attempt to chip the ice with a knife or sharp objects. This can lead to breakdown of the evaporator and leakage of freon.
Another mistake is using hot water to speed up defrosting. Pouring boiling water onto an ice block is dangerous: the plastic can be deformed, and the glass can burst from thermal shock.
- 🚫 Do not use sharp objects to remove ice.
- 🚫 Do not pour hot water directly onto the ice.
- 🚫 Do not turn on the device without waiting completely dry.
- 🚫 Do not place the refrigerator close to the wall immediately after washing.
Following these simple rules will avoid costly repairs and will extend the life of your refrigerator Atlant for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How often do you need to defrost an Atlant refrigerator with a drip system?
It is recommended to carry out a complete defrosting and washing at least once every 6 months. If you notice that the layer of ice on the back wall is becoming thicker faster, you should increase the frequency of the procedure.
Is it possible to defrost a refrigerator without unplugging it?
Absolutely not. Defrosting is only possible when the power supply is completely turned off. A running compressor with the door open will quickly fail due to continuous operation and overheating.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
There may be damage to the cooling system or a freon leak. Also check that the doors are closed tightly and that the thermostat is installed correctly. If the problem persists for more than 5-6 hours, contact service.
Do you need to lubricate the seals after washing?
Yes, this is a useful procedure. Wiping rubber seals with silicone grease or glycerin preserves their elasticity and prevents cracking, ensuring a tight fit of the door.