Modern two-chamber models made in Belarus Atlant are deservedly famous for their reliability and durability, however, even the most advanced equipment requires regular maintenance. Owners often wonder how to properly organize the defrosting process so as not to damage cooling circuit and maintain the tightness of the seals. Errors at this stage can lead to a decrease in cooling efficiency or the appearance of unpleasant odors inside the chambers.
The main difficulty is that many users confuse systems No Frost and drip defrosting, using the wrong ones cleaning methods. If your model has manual defrosting of the freezer, ignoring the rules can lead to mechanical damage to the evaporator. It is important to understand that thick ice coat not only occupies useful volume, but also forces the compressor to work in increased mode, consuming excess electricity.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for the safe implementation of the procedure, paying special attention to the specifics of dual-circuit systems. You will learn what tools you will need, how to speed up the process without using sharp objects, and why you should not turn on the device immediately after washing. A competent approach will extend the service life compressor unit and provide ideal conditions for storing food.
Determining the type of defrosting system in your Atlanta
Before taking active steps, you must clearly identify the type of defrosting system installed in your refrigerator model. Two-chamber Atlanta can be equipped with both a classic system with manual defrosting of the freezer, and more modern technology No Frost. In models with full No Frost ice freezing on the back wall is minimal, and a special shutdown procedure is not required more than once a year for hygienic cleaning.
If you are the owner of a model with a drip system in the refrigerator compartment and manual defrosting in the freezer, then the formation of ice with a thickness of more than 5-7 millimeters is a signal to action. In such devices, moisture from the products settles on the walls of the chamber and crystallizes, forming a dense layer frost. Ignoring this process results in ice blocking air circulation and impairing heat transfer.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to defrost the No Frost system using a hairdryer or hot water can damage the defrost sensors and heating elements. Confirm the type of system you have by looking at the technical data sheet or finding the markings on the nameplate inside the chamber.
To determine the exact model and type of system, refer to the instructions or look for the technical data sticker, usually located inside the refrigerator compartment or on the back wall of the case. The full model index will be indicated there, by which you can determine the presence of the system automatic defrosting. If there are certain code letters in the model designation, they may indicate the presence of the No Frost function, which radically changes the approach to maintenance.
How to decipher the Atlant model?
The first two digits after the dash in the model number often indicate the volume and type of control. For example, in the KXM-2808-90 model, the number 8 may indicate the presence of a No Frost system in the freezer, but only technical documentation provides accurate information.
Preparatory stage before defrosting
Quality preparation is half the success of the entire operation, allowing you to avoid chaos in the kitchen and food spoilage. You should start by emptying the chambers of their contents: all frozen products must be removed and placed in thermal bags, wrapped in blankets or temporarily transferred to a nearby freezer. Temperature conditions the inside of the chamber will begin to rise immediately after turning off, so the speed of your actions directly affects the safety of supplies.
Next, you should disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply by removing the plug from the socket. It is strictly forbidden to pull the wire so as not to damage electrical cable or the contacts. If the model is built into a kitchen unit, make sure there is access to an outlet, or use an extension cord to safely unplug it. After this, open the doors of the freezer and refrigerator compartments to ensure the flow of warm air.
- 🧊 Prepare containers for water: you will need wide basins and rags, since a significant amount of liquid is formed when ice melts.
- 🧼 Collect detergents: mild detergent, a sponge and a separate towel for drying.
- 🛡️ Protect the floor: cover the area in front of the refrigerator with an absorbent cloth or old newspapers.
Be sure to remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, ice trays and containers. It is more convenient to wash them separately in the bathroom under running water. Plastic parts should not be washed with hot water (above 40 degrees), as they may become deformed and lose their properties. While they are drying, you can proceed to the main chamber. geometric shape. While they are drying, you can proceed to the main chamber.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Natural defrosting: a safe and reliable method
The most gentle way for evaporator and the internal coatings of the refrigerator are subject to natural thawing. This method takes time - from 3 to 10 hours depending on the thickness of the ice and the room temperature, but it ensures that there are no thermal shocks to the materials. Just leave the doors open and wait until the ice crust turns into water on its own.
During the melting process, it is important to promptly remove the draining water so that it does not fall on the floor or into the lower technical compartments where compressoris located. Place a towel under the bottom edge of the freezer or install a shallow tray if the design allows. Change the rags as they get wet, making sure that the water does not flow outside the chamber.
Although this method seems slow, it is the only one recommended by the manufacturer to preserve the life of the equipment. Sudden temperature changes caused by artificial heating can lead to microcracks in the plastic or disruption of the tightness of solder joints tubes. Patience in this case pays off in the long and uninterrupted service of the device.
Accelerating the process: acceptable and prohibited methods
If time is running out, users often look for ways to speed up the melting of ice, but here lies the greatest danger to the equipment. It is strictly forbidden to use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, ice picks) to chip ice. Aluminum heat exchanger in Atlant freezers is located very close to the inner wall, and damage to it will lead to immediate release of freon and expensive repairs.
The use of a hair dryer is allowed, but with serious restrictions: the air flow must be warm, not hot, and It should not be directed point-blank, but at a distance of at least 20-30 cm. Constantly move the hair dryer so as not to overheat individual areas of the plastic. You can also use a spray bottle with warm water, spraying the ice crust, but make sure that the water does not get on electrical contacts or inside the ventilation ducts.
⚠️ Attention: Never pour boiling water directly onto the ice or chamber walls. A sudden change in temperature can cause cracks in the plastic case or deformation of internal partitions that cannot be restored.
Some craftsmen advise using special defrosting sprays, which are sold in hardware stores. They are really effective, but after using them you need to rinse the chamber very thoroughly so that the chemicals do not remain on the surfaces in contact with food. It is safer and more environmentally friendly to use ordinary warm water and time.
Proper washing and disinfection of internal surfaces
After complete removal of ice and water, the stage of hygienic processing begins. Even if there is no visible dirt, bacteria could grow inside or mold may appear, especially in hard-to-reach corners and seals. For washing, use a weak solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or a special product for washing refrigerators. Aggressive chemistrycontaining chlorine or abrasive particles is strictly prohibited.
Wipe all surfaces thoroughly, paying special attention rubber seals on the doors. It is in the folds of the seal that dirt and moisture most often accumulate, which leads to the appearance of a black coating. If the seal is very dirty, you can carefully bend it back and wipe it with a cotton swab dipped in a disinfectant solution. After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cotton cloth. Residual moisture can quickly turn into a new layer of ice immediately after turning on the appliance. Allow the camera to dry completely, leaving the doors open for another 15-20 minutes. This will also help eliminate possible disinfectant solution.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cotton cloth. Residual moisture can quickly turn into a new layer of ice immediately after turning on the appliance. Allow the camera to dry completely, leaving the doors open for another 15-20 minutes. This will also help eliminate possible foreign odors.
| Type of contamination | Recommended product | Prohibited products | Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grease stains | Soap solution | Acetone, gasoline | Soft sponge |
| Mold | Soda solution or vinegar | Chlorine bleaches | Toothbrush |
| Scaling (in trays) | Citric acid | Metal scrapers | Brush |
| General dust | Warm water | Hot water (>40°C) | Microfiber |
Completion of the procedure and first launch
The final stage includes assembling the refrigerator and starting it up. Replace all dry shelves, drawers and trays. Make sure they are secured correctly and do not interfere with the door closing. Now you can turn on the refrigerator. Please note that loading products immediately is not recommended.
Let the device run idle for at least 2-3 hours (and preferably up to 5-6 hours) so that it reaches the required temperature and reaches operating mode. Only after the thermometer shows stable values (usually -18°C and below in the freezer), you can gradually load food. A sudden loading with warm or room mass will make compressor work to wear out.
Check the operation of the refrigerator during the first 24 hours: listen for any unusual noise, check if the doors close well and if condensation appears outside. If all parameters are normal, then the service was successful. Regular defrosting (once every 6-12 months) will be the key to the long life of your Atlanta.
Why does the refrigerator hum after defrosting?
Sometimes after a long defrosting and the first turn on, the compressor may work louder than usual. This is due to the fact that the oil in the compressor may have thickened or drained into the system. After a few hours of operation, the noise should normalize.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to defrost an Atlant refrigerator while leaving food in the freezer if you turn off only the freezer?
In two-chamber Atlant refrigerators, one compressor is often used for two chambers, so It is impossible to turn off only the freezer electrically without complex manipulations. If you leave food out, it will begin to melt and spoil, and water will seep in. Complete defrosting requires releasing the chambers.
What to do if, after defrosting, the refrigerator does not turn on or does not freeze?
Check whether the equipment is completely dry before turning it on. Moisture may have gotten into the contacts of the thermostat or start relay. Leave the device turned off for a few more hours in a dry room. If the problem persists, there may be a power surge or damage during cleaning.
How often do you need to defrost a two-chamber Atlant with the No Frost system?
The No Frost system involves automatic removal of moisture, so the formation of ice there is minimal. However, once a year (or as smell/contamination appears), it is recommended to carry out a complete defrosting and washing to maintain hygiene and check the condition of the ventilation ducts. Is it possible to wash the inner walls of the refrigerator with hot water? No, the plastic from which the inner box is made is sensitive to high temperatures. Using water hotter than 40-50 degrees may cause the plastic to deform, crack or change color. Use warm water at a comfortable temperature. ventilation ducts.
Is it possible to wash the inside walls of the refrigerator with hot water?
No, the plastic from which the inner box is made is sensitive to high temperatures. Using water hotter than 40-50 degrees may cause the plastic to deform, crack or change color. Use warm water at a comfortable temperature.