Belarusian built-in appliances brand Atlant is deservedly popular due to its reliability and durability, but even the most advanced units require regular maintenance.
Many owners mistakenly believe that a built-in two-chamber refrigerator Atlant with a No Frost or Low Frost system does not need defrosting at all, but this misconception can lead to a decrease in efficiency operation of the compressor and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
In this article we will look in detail at how to safely carry out the defrosting procedure without damaging the furniture set and the unit itself, and also consider the nuances of caring for various modifications.
Regular removal of ice is not just a matter of hygiene, but also a way to extend the service life of the cooling circuit.
Design features of built-in Atlant models
Built-in refrigerators are structurally different from free-standing counterparts, since they do not have their own external decorative panel and often have a specific ventilation system.
Models Atlantintended for built-in, are mounted in a niche of the kitchen unit, which limits access to the back wall and side surfaces where the heat exchangers are located.
That is why the defrosting process requires more careful preparation so that water does not get on wooden or Chipboard surfaces of furniture, causing them to swell.
In addition, built-in two-chamber refrigerators are often equipped with a system air circulation, the channels of which can become clogged with ice crumbs with rare maintenance.
⚠️ Attention: Built-in models have a smaller gap for heat dissipation, so ignoring the formation of ice can lead to overheating of the compressor faster than in free-standing refrigerators.
It should be taken into account that the doors of the built-in unit open along with the kitchen facade, creating additional load on the hinges, which also need to be checked during defrosting.
Preparation for defrosting procedure
Before starting any work, it is necessary to empty the refrigerator and freezer compartments of food by packing them in thermal bags or placing them in a cool place.
It is important to prepare a container for collecting water and soft absorbent fabrics in advance, since the volume of melting ice can be significant, especially after the winter period.
☑️ Preparing for defrosting
Be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply by unplugging the plug from the socket, which in the case of built-in appliances is often located in an adjacent cabinet or plinth.
Remove all removable elements: glass shelves, plastic containers, grilles and egg trays to wash them separately under running water.
Do not try to speed up the process by using a hairdryer or hot water, since a sharp temperature change is dangerous for plastic evaporators and can cause their deformation.
Step-by-step instructions: how to defrost correctly
The process of natural thawing takes from 3 to 10 hours, depending on the thickness of the ice crust and the temperature in the room.
Leave the doors the refrigerator and freezer compartments are wide open, ensuring maximum flow of warm air to the inner walls.
If the model Atlant is equipped with a system Low Frost, the ice will melt more slowly, and the water will have to be wiped off manually periodically.
| Stage | Action | Execution time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off power and remove products | 10-15 minutes |
| 2 | Natural thawing of ice | 3-8 hours |
| 3 | Removing moisture and wiping | 20-30 minutes |
| 4 | Drying and turning on | 1-2 hours |
During the melting process, carefully collect water with a sponge or with a soft cloth, trying not to damage the sensitive temperature sensors.
After the ice has completely disappeared, thoroughly wipe all internal surfaces with a dry cloth, paying special attention to the corners and joints of the panels.
Nuances for No Frost and Low Frost systems
Owners of refrigerators Atlant with the No Frost system are often surprised why they need to defrost the unit if it supposedly does it itself.
Indeed, the automatic system removes condensation, but it does not remove greasy deposits and dust, which clog the drainage hole over time.
Once every 6-12 months it is necessary to carry out preventive defrosting to clean the water drainage channels and check the operation of the fan.
For models with Low Frost technology, where ice forms more slowly, but still is present, the procedure is similar to the classic defrosting of drip systems.
Why does ice form in No Frost?
Ice in No Frost systems appears due to frequent opening of doors, failure of the seal or loading of hot products.
If you notice that ice is growing unevenly or only in one corner, this may indicate a malfunction of the damper or thermostat.
Care for seals and ventilation
While the refrigerator chambers are empty and dry, it’s time to pay attention to the rubber seal around the perimeter of the door.
The tightness of the closure depends on its condition: if the rubber dirty or deformed, warm, moist air penetrates inside.
Wipe the seal with a soft sponge soaked in a mild soap solution, and be sure to wipe dry to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Also check the ventilation grilles, usually located in the lower or upper part of the niche of the built-in refrigerator.
The dust content of these holes disrupts heat exchange, forcing the compressor to work with increased load.
⚠️ Attention: When cleaning the ventilation holes of the furniture box, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft attachment so as not to damage the decorative elements of the kitchen.
Lubricating the seal with silicone or oil is not recommended unless absolutely necessary, as this can change its properties.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
After you have removed all moisture and wiped the surfaces, do not rush to immediately load food and close it doors.
Let the unit run idle for 1-2 hours so that the temperature inside the chambers stabilizes to the set values.
Only after this can you carefully arrange the food, being careful not to block the ventilation holes inside the refrigerator.
Make sure that the thermostat is installed in the correct position, usually this is the average value or mode Eco.
Check whether the doors of the built-in refrigerator close tightly, taking into account the weight of the products on the shelves.
Frequent errors when maintenance
One of the most common mistakes is trying to speed up the process using a hairdryer or heater.
A directed flow of hot air can lead to cracking of the plastic and damage the foam insulating layer.
Also, you should not use aggressive chemicals with abrasive particles or a strong odor to wash the chambers.
Plastic easily absorbs aromas, and subsequently the smell of the cleaning agent can be transferred to the products.
Never leave the refrigerator to defrost unattended for a long time if there is no container nearby water.
Is it possible to defrost the Atlant refrigerator without unplugging it?
It is absolutely not possible. Defrosting is only possible when the power supply is completely turned off, since the compressor will try to maintain the temperature, which will lead to its breakdown.
How long should the refrigerator dry before turning it on?
30-60 minutes after removing the last ice are enough for residual moisture to evaporate from the surfaces, but it is better to wait 1-2 hours of operation idling.
What to do if a whistling appears after defrosting?
A whistling noise can be produced by a fan of the No Frost system if water or ice gets on its blades. It is necessary to turn off the refrigerator again and let it dry longer.
Do you need to lubricate the door hinges of a built-in refrigerator?
Lubricating the hinges is rarely required, only if there is a squeak. Use a special silicone lubricant, avoiding oil getting on the food.