Many users wonder how to make the Atlant refrigerator fully functional immediately after purchase or after a long period of inactivity. This process includes not just plugging in, but a whole range of preparatory measures, from unpacking to the first freezing. Incorrect actions at the initial stage can lead to failure of an expensive compressor or a violation of the tightness of the system.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages that turn a box of parts into a reliable food keeper. You will learn why you shouldn’t rush with the first start-up, how to set the level correctly, and what mistakes beginners most often make when installing Belarusian-made equipment.
Preparing the site and unpacking the equipment
Before you begin active operations, you need to prepare the room. A refrigerator Atlant is a large piece of equipment that requires clearances for air circulation. If you ignore the requirements for ventilation, heat exchange will be violated, which will lead to overheating of the motor.
Installation should be carried out on a flat, durable floor that can support the weight of the unit along with the products. The distance from the back wall to the wall of the room should be at least 5-7 cm, and it is advisable to leave 2-3 cm of free space on the sides. This is critical for models with a system No Frostwhere the fan runs constantly.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install the refrigerator near heating appliances, stoves or in direct sunlight. This creates an excessive thermal load on the capacitor.
The unpacking process requires care. Remove the outer carton and all shipping materials. Pay special attention to the internal fastening of the compressor and shelves.
- 📦 Remove the tape and protective film from the case to avoid damage to the enamel during further installation.
- 🔩 Unscrew the shipping bolts securing the compressor (if your modification has them), otherwise vibration during startup will be critical.
- 🧊 Remove all shelves, drawers and trays packed inside the chambers to check their integrity.
After removing the packaging, allow the equipment to stand in an upright position for at least 2-3 hours, especially if it was transported horizontally. The oil must drain into the compressor crankcase, otherwise it is possible hydraulic hammer during the first start.
Installation and alignment of the housing
Stable operation of the refrigerator directly depends on its position in space. Misalignment of the housing can lead to loose fitting of the doors and, as a result, to ice freezing or constant operation of the motor. For adjustment, screw supports are used in the lower front part of the unit.
By rotating the supports clockwise, you raise the angle, counterclockwise, you lower it. The ideal position is when the body is slightly tilted back. This ensures automatic closing of the doors when they are opened less than 90 degrees.
☑️ Checking the installation
To check horizontality, you can use a building level by placing it on the top cover or shelf. If the level shows deviation, continue adjusting the supports until the ideal result is achieved. Do not ignore this stage, as the imbalance affects the operation of the system defrosting and the circulation of the refrigerant.
First start and check of the compressor
After the refrigerator has settled and taken its place, you can move on to the most exciting moment - first start-up. Before plugging into the socket, make sure that the voltage in the network meets the requirements specified in the technical data sheet. For most models Atlant this is standard 220-230 Volts.
Plug in the unit. In the first seconds, you may hear a characteristic hum or gurgle - this is normal, the refrigerant begins to move through the system. Modern models are equipped with electronic controls, so the indicators on the display may light up.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear a loud metallic knock, clanging or strong hum when you turn it on, immediately unplug the device. This may indicate a malfunction of the compressor or the presence of transportation fastenings.
Let the refrigerator run idle (without food) for 2-4 hours. During this time, it must reach the required temperature. Check the operation of the thermostat or electronic control unit. If the model is equipped with a system No Frost, after a while you may hear the sound of a running fan or a crackling sound during automatic defrosting.
Why does the refrigerator get hot on the sides?
The side walls of a modern refrigerator often serve as a condenser. Their heating to 40-50 degrees in the first hours of operation or during active freezing is a normal operating mode, and not a defect. Heat is removed from the freon through the metal housing.
Setting temperature modes
Correct temperature settings are the key to long-term storage of food and energy savings. In different models Atlant the control may be different: a mechanical regulator (thermostat) or an electronic panel.
If you have a mechanical control, you will see a rotary knob with numbers from 1 to 7 (or Min/Max). It is important to understand the logic here: the higher the number, the lower temperature there is inside the camera. For normal storage mode, it is recommended to set the value to 3 or 4.
| Knob position | Operating mode | Temperature range | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Min) | Minimum cooling | +8...+10°C | Not recommended for long-term storage |
| 3-4 | Normal mode | +3...+5°C | Optimal for daily use |
| 7 (Max) | Maximum cooling | 0...+2°C | Only for quick freezing (no more than 24 hours) |
In electronic models, adjustment is made using buttons or a sensor. Here you set the exact temperature in degrees. For the main chamber, the optimal value is +4°C, and for the freezer - -18°C.
Loading with products and operation
After the refrigerator has entered mode, you can begin loading. You should not fill the chambers completely in the first hours. Products should be positioned freely so that cold air can circulate between them. This is especially true for systems Dynamic Cooling or No Frost.
Place products according to zoning: dairy products and prepared foods - on the middle shelves, meat and fish (in sealed packaging) - on the bottom shelf, vegetables and fruits - in special drawers below. The door is intended for drinks, sauces and foods that do not require deep cooling.
It is important to remember the “hot food” rule. Never refrigerate pots or pans that have just been removed from the heat. This causes a sharp jump in temperature, forcing the compressor to wear out, and can lead to damage to neighboring products.
Maintenance and care of equipment
For the refrigerator Atlant to serve for a long time, it needs to be looked after. Regular cleaning of the inner chambers (every 3-6 months) will prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors and bacteria. For washing, use warm water with a mild detergent or soda solution.
Pay special attention to the rubber seals on the doors. Wipe them with a damp cloth, removing crumbs and dirt. If the rubber band becomes dirty, the door will not close tightly, which will lead to the formation of ice and increased energy consumption.
⚠️ Attention: To clean the condenser grille (on the back wall), use a vacuum cleaner or dry brush at least once a year. A layer of dust 1 mm thick can increase energy consumption by up to 10%.
Also periodically check the drainage hole in the main chamber (usually located on the back wall at the bottom). If it is clogged, moisture will not escape and a puddle will form at the bottom of the chamber. You can clean it with a special flexible stick or cotton swab.
Frequent startup problems and their solutions
Even with correct installation, nuances may arise. If the refrigerator hums but does not freeze, there may be a freon leak or a clogged capillary tube. In this case, you need to call a specialist.
If the door does not close tightly, check whether the handle of a pan or a bottle on the shelf is in the way. The cause may also be a skewed body, which can be easily corrected by adjusting the legs. Sometimes it is necessary to replace the seal if the old one has lost its elasticity.
A constantly running motor may indicate that the refrigerator is too close to the wall or the room is too hot. Check the gaps and temperature in the room.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
How long can you not turn on the refrigerator after delivery?
If the refrigerator was transported vertically, 1-2 hours is enough. If in a horizontal position - at least 4 hours, but it is better to leave it overnight (8-12 hours) so that the oil flows into the compressor.
Why does the Atlant refrigerator make a lot of noise during operation?
A new refrigerator may make noise due to the grinding of parts. Also check that it is level and not touching the back wall of the furniture. If the noise is accompanied by vibration, tighten the support legs.
Is it possible to place the Atlant refrigerator on a balcony?
The manufacturer does not recommend operation at temperatures below +10°C and above +32°C. On an uninsulated balcony in winter, the oil in the compressor will thicken, and in summer heat exchange will be disrupted, which will lead to breakdown.
What to do if a lot of ice forms in the chamber?
Check the tightness of the door closure, the condition of the seal and the temperature in the room. If you have a drip system, make sure that the drainage hole is not clogged.