Operation of refrigeration equipment Atlant requires periodic maintenance, especially if your model is not equipped with a system No Frost. Owners often wonder whether it is possible to defrost only the freezer compartment without disturbing the temperature in the refrigerator compartment where fresh food is stored. Technically defrosting a separate unit is possible, but requires a careful approach and understanding of the principles of operation of the compressor and evaporators.
Modern two-chamber units are designed so that the refrigerant circulates through a common system, but heat flows and temperature control in each compartment can be isolated. If you notice that ice coat it is frozen only in the freezer, you cannot ignore this, as this increases the load on the engine. The correct procedure will keep the main chamber cold and safely clean the evaporator.
Before starting work, it is important to make sure that you understand the structure of your device. In some older models, a complete stop of the compressor will still be required, while in new modifications with Full No Frost or Low Frost the process can be automated or simplified. We will analyze an algorithm of actions that minimizes risks for equipment and products.
It should be taken into account that ice thickness of more than 5 millimeters is already considered critical for the energy efficiency of the device. Ignoring this fact leads to the fact that compressor works for wear, trying to break through the insulator layer. Timely cleaning extends the service life of the unit and preserves the quality of frozen products.
Preparation for the defrosting procedure
You should start by assessing the situation and preparing the workplace. You will need to clear some space in front of the refrigerator to allow easy access to the doors and bottom of the unit. It is also necessary to prepare containers for collecting melt water, since the drainage system may not be able to cope with a large volume of liquid during rapid defrosting defrost.
First of all, empty the freezer of food. If you want to store supplies, put them in a thermal bag or wrap them in several layers of blankets to slow down the heat. For the main refrigerator compartment, which we plan not to touch, close the door tightly and try not to open it during the work process.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to speed up the process by using a hairdryer or hot water directly on the evaporator. A sharp temperature change can lead to cracking of the pipes of the freon systemwhich will lead to expensive repairs.
Prepare soft absorbent rags and sponges. If the ice is frozen in a thick layer, stock up on a plastic scraper in advance, but under no circumstances use sharp metal objects. Scratches on the inner coating can become sources of corrosion or break the tightness of the thermal insulation.
☑️ Preparing for defrosting
It is also important to take care of the safety of the power supply. Although we don't turn off the refrigerator completely, the outlet should be accessible in case of an emergency. Make sure that the floor under your feet is dry to prevent slipping when working with water.
Defrosting algorithm without complete shutdown
The partial defrosting process is based on the principle of isolating temperature zones. In most models Atlant with two compressors or a modern control system, it is possible to defrost the freezer, leaving the refrigerator compartment to operate normally. To do this, you need to set the temperature regulator in the refrigerator compartment to minimum, and in the freezer - to mode defrosting or simply turn off this circuit, if such a function is provided by the design.
If your refrigerator is equipped with one compressor, the situation is more complicated. You will have to turn off the power completely, but due to the large heat capacity of the food in the refrigerator compartment, the temperature there will rise more slowly. Leave the refrigerator door tightly closed - this will keep the cold inside for 4-6 hours, which is enough to thaw the ice in the freezer with the door open.
⚠️ Attention: In models with a single compressor, it is impossible to physically defrost one evaporator circuit without stopping the refrigeration cycle completely. Any claims about “secret buttons” for such models are misleading.
Open the freezer door and leave it in that position. The natural melting process will take from 3 to 5 hours depending on the thickness of the ice and the room temperature. It is strictly not recommended to speed up the process mechanically (picking the ice), as you can damage aluminum radiator.
To collect water, use special grooves, if provided by the design, or place towels on the floor. Be careful not to allow water to get onto the electrical contacts or into the housing through the ventilation holes. Carefully remove thawed pieces of ice with a gloved hand.
Cleaning and removing ice plugs
After the main body of ice has melted, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the inner walls. Often small pieces of ice remain in the recesses and at the joints of panels, which can turn into a source of unpleasant odor after turning on the equipment. Use warm water with a mild dishwashing detergent.
Pay special attention to the drainage hole if it is visible. A clogged drain is a common cause of water pooling at the bottom of the chamber and freezing. You can clean it using a special brush or a soft rubber bulb, blowing it with air.
| Type of contamination | Recommended product | Tool | Danger |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ice crust | Warm water | Plastic scraper | Damage to the evaporator |
| Greasy deposits | Soda solution | Soft sponge | Plastic scratches |
| Unpleasant odor | Vinegar solution | Fabric | Corrosion metal |
| Mold in the corners | Special product | Brush with soft bristles | Allergens |
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean with a rag. When the compressor is turned on, residual moisture will instantly turn into a new layer of frost, which will negate all efforts. Let the chamber “ventilate” for 15-20 minutes. defrosting. Allow the camera to “ventilate” for 15-20 minutes.
Is it possible to use a steam generator?
The use of a steam generator is highly not recommended. A powerful jet of hot steam can deform the plastic elements of the interior lining and damage the door seals. In addition, moisture from the steam will penetrate into the thermal insulation layer, which will lead to swelling of the walls and loss of cooling performance in the future.
Drying and preparation for start-up
The final stage before switching on is complete drying. Even microscopic drops of moisture on shelves or drawers can become a problem. Remove all removable elements (shelves, baskets, ice trays) and wipe them separately. Make sure there is no water left in the egg recesses or bottle niches.
Check the condition of the sealing rubber on the freezer door. If it is dirty or deformed, the cold will escape and the ice will freeze again very quickly. Wipe the seal with a weak vinegar solution or a special rubber cleaner to restore elasticity.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure the drainage hole is clear. If the water does not drain by gravity during a test spill, repeat the drain cleaning procedure before turning on the appliance.
Once you are sure it is dry and clean, close the freezer door. If you turned off the refrigerator completely, you can now turn it on. If you used the single circuit method, simply return the temperature controllers to normal operation.
Loading food and setting modes
Do not rush to load the full amount of food at once. Let the refrigerator run idle for 30-40 minutes to stabilize the temperature inside the chambers. This is especially important for a freezer that must reach a temperature of -18°C or lower.
When loading food, follow the air circulation rule. Do not overcrowd the chamber; leave small gaps between the bags. This will allow cold air to evenly wash over the stock and ensure quick freezing without the formation of large ice crystals inside the food.
If your model Atlant has the Super Freeze function, turn it on for 2-3 hours before loading a large volume of warm or defrosted food. This will create the necessary supply of cold. After filling the chamber, do not forget to return the setting to normal mode so as not to overload the compressor.
Common mistakes when defrosting
Many users make mistakes that negate the effectiveness of the procedure or harm the equipment. The most common one is using a knife or screwdriver to chip the ice. This is a direct path to evaporator breakdown and leakage refrigerant, repair after which is often unprofitable.
Another mistake is turning on the fast freezing mode immediately after defrosting without first cooling the empty chamber. This creates a peak load on the electrical network and the engine. Also, do not forget to check the tightness of the door closing after completing all manipulations.
Ignoring cleaning the back wall of the refrigerator from the outside is also a mistake. Dust on the condenser (black grille at the back) impairs heat transfer, causing the refrigerator to work longer and more intensely, which indirectly affects the frequency of ice formation inside.
Is it possible to defrost the Atlant freezer without removing food from the refrigerator?
Yes, you can. The refrigerator compartment maintains a low temperature for a long time (up to 6-8 hours) if the door is tightly closed and does not open unnecessarily. However, if defrosting takes longer, it is better to transfer perishable foods to a cool place.
How long does it take to defrost a freezer?
Natural defrosting takes from 3 to 5 hours, depending on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room. Using additional heat sources (without a hairdryer) can reduce the time to 1-2 hours, but requires constant monitoring.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
Let the appliance stand turned off for another 1-2 hours. Perhaps the thermostat needs time to stabilize. If the temperature does not drop a day after turning on, check whether the seal is damaged or whether the air channel is blocked.
Do you need to wash the inside of the refrigerator after defrosting?
Yes, definitely. Melt water washes away contaminants from the walls, but does not remove them. Wiping the internal surfaces with a weak solution of soda or vinegar will remove bacteria and prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors.