Operation of household appliances Atlant usually does not cause difficulties, but the need for deep cleaning or minor repairs may require dismantling the internal elements. Often owners are faced with the task of how to remove the side shelf in the Atlant refrigerator in order to thoroughly wash it or replace a damaged part. Unlike the central glass ceilings, the side elements can be attached differently depending on the series and age of your unit. Understanding the fastening design will help avoid plastic breakage or glass damage.
Modern models refrigerators are equipped with ergonomic fixation systems, which, however, can “stick” or jam over time due to changes in temperature and humidity. Incorrect force when trying to remove the element can lead to cracks in the glass or breakage of the guides. That is why it is important to clearly understand the fastening mechanism in your particular model before taking active steps. Below we will analyze in detail all the nuances of the process.
You do not need a complex tool or special skills to perform this procedure. It is enough to know where the fixation points are and how to apply the force correctly. Ignoring design features may result in you having to look for a replacement for an entire section, which is much more expensive and difficult. Let's look at the main types of fastenings found in appliances of this brand.
Determining the type of fastening of the shelf
The first step before dismantling is a visual assessment of exactly how it is fixed shelf in your refrigerator. The design may vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture and the specific series Atlant. In most cases, there are three main fixation options, each of which requires its own approach. Incorrect determination of the type of fastening is the most common cause of breakdowns when trying to remove it.
The most common option is to install glass on plastic guides, which are mounted into the side walls of the chamber. In this case, the glass simply lies in the grooves and is held in place by its own weight and limiters. Another common type is shelves, which are part of a single module with a door or side wall that requires the release of special latches. The third option is typical for older models, where glass can be inserted into metal profiles.
Carefully inspect the ends of the glass surface. If you see that the glass is inserted into the grooves of the plastic frames, which in turn are attached to the walls, you will need a release mechanism. If the glass lies freely, but cannot be removed, it may be jammed with food or ice. An accurate determination of the type of fixation will allow you to choose the right strategy of action and avoid the use of brute force where accuracy is needed.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on dismantling the internal elements, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This will protect you and prevent possible damage to the lighting or control system due to an accidental short circuit.
It is also important to consider the material from which the side elements are made. Modern models Atlant often use tempered glass, which, despite its strength, is sensitive to pinpoint impacts at the end. Plastic holders can become brittle over time, especially if the refrigerator is operating in heavy freezing mode. Therefore, all manipulations should be carried out at room temperature, giving the unit time to warm up, if it previously worked at maximum.
Preparation for dismantling and safety measures
Before proceeding directly to removing the elements, it is necessary to prepare the work space and free access to the work area. Safety and the safety of products are priority tasks. The load on the shelf when trying to remove it should not exceed permissible limits, otherwise the glass may burst in your hands. Therefore, the first step is to unload the element being removed as much as possible.
Free the shelf from all products, cans and containers. If there are heavy bottles on it, remove them first. Check to see if there are any small pieces of food stuck to the surface or ends that could become ice plugs. The presence of ice in the fastening grooves is a common reason why a part cannot be moved from its place. In this case, preliminary defrosting will be required.
☑️ Preparation for removing the shelf
Prepare the place where you will put the removed parts. The floor should be covered with a soft towel or mat to prevent the glass from breaking if it falls. Also make sure your hands are dry and clean to ensure a secure grip. Hands that are slippery from grease or water can cause slipping and injury. If your refrigerator has a system No Frostmake sure the fan has stopped before you reach deep into the chamber.
In some cases, dismantling may require a minimal set of tools, although most often your hands will suffice. However, having a flathead screwdriver with a wide blade can be useful for prying open the latches if they are tight. Use the tool carefully, using a cloth to avoid scratching the plastic or glass. The main rule is not to use excessive force if the element does not give in.
Removing glass shelves with plastic guides
The most common scenario in refrigerators Atlant is the presence of a glass shelf that is inserted into a plastic frame or rests on side profiles. To extract such an element, you need to understand the principle of its fixation. Typically, the glass is held in place by special protrusions or stops that prevent it from moving forward spontaneously. To dismantle, you need to lift the front edge of the glass.
Grip the front corners of the glass surface with both hands. Smoothly but firmly lift the front part up a few centimeters. At this point, the back of the shelf should come out of the grooves or free itself from the stops. If you feel resistance, do not pull by force - check if there is anything in the way. Often the limiter is located in the front part of the plastic frame.
After the front part is raised, carefully pull the shelf towards you. The movement should be smooth. If the shelf fits tightly, you can slightly rock it from side to side to loosen any ice or grease contaminants that interfere with movement. Once the limiting factors are removed, the element can be easily removed from the chamber.
What to do if the shelf is stuck?
If the raised shelf does not slide out, it may be frozen or jammed due to misalignment. Try using a hairdryer to slightly heat the mounting area (without directing hot air directly onto the glass to avoid thermal shock) or let the refrigerator stand for 15-20 minutes. Sometimes lightly tapping the end of the plastic guide helps.
In models with adjustable guides the glass can be installed in different height positions. When reinstalling, make sure you hit the correct groove level. Incorrect installation may result in the shelf being tilted and food rolling off it. Also check the integrity of the plastic stops - if they are broken, the glass will not hold securely.
Removing solid side sections and balconies
In some refrigerator models Atlant, especially in doors or side niches, shelves are are solid plastic modules, often called “balconies”. Such structures are fastened not simply by inserting into a groove, but using latches or screw connections. Removing such elements requires a more careful approach, since the plastic here is more vulnerable to mechanical stress.
Carefully inspect the places where the balcony is attached to the main wall of the refrigerator. The most commonly used plastic latches are located at the top or bottom of the module. To remove a section, you must simultaneously press the latches and pull the element towards you. In some cases, you will need to first remove the top cover of a section, if it is removable, to gain access to the screws.
If you find screws, use a suitable screwdriver (usually a Phillips head) to remove them. Do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads in the plastic housing. After removing the fasteners, the module should freely separate from the wall. If it holds, check whether there are hidden latches on the sides.
| Mounting type | Location | Tool | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guides | Side walls | No | Low |
| Latch | Top/Bottom of module | None | Medium |
| Screws | Inside the niche | Screwdriver | High |
| Velcro/Glue | Rarely (models before 2000) | Spatula | Very high |
When reinstalling the balconies, it is important to hear a characteristic click, indicating that the latches are in place. If the module is loose, it means it is not secured properly and may fall when loaded with food. Make sure that all plastic elements are intact and do not have cracks that may have occurred during operation or previous cleanings.
Eliminating jams and freezing
One of the most common problems that users encounter is the inability to remove the shelf due to the fact that it is frozen or “stuck.” In refrigerators with a system No Frost this happens less often, but in models with a drip system or if the seals are not sealed, moisture can get into the grooves and freeze, permanently blocking movement.
Under no circumstances try to tear off a frozen shelf by force. A sharp jerk can lead to glass breaking or plastic fasteners being torn out along with pieces of the refrigerator wall. First you need to defrost the ice. To do this, turn off the refrigerator and leave it open for a while. You can use a hair dryer, but with great caution: direct the flow of warm air only to the fastening area, avoiding direct contact with cold glass, so as not to cause thermal shock.
⚠️ Attention: The use of sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers) to pick ice in the grooves is strictly prohibited. You can damage the evaporator or puncture the internal chamber, which will lead to failure of the refrigerator and leakage of refrigerant.
If the cause of the jam is not ice, but contamination (frozen fat, sugar syrup), warm water will help. Carefully pour warm (not hot!) water over the joints from a syringe or spray bottle. This will dissolve the sticky substance and release the mechanism. After the procedure, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry so that the problem does not recur.
To prevent freezing, it is recommended to regularly check the condition of the door seals. If they are worn out, warm, moist air constantly enters, causing abundant ice build-up. Also make sure that the food does not touch the back wall of the refrigerator, where the evaporator is located - this is a common cause of local freezing.
Cleaning and caring for the removed elements
After successful dismantling of the side shelf, the stage of cleaning it begins. This is the ideal time to tidy up not only the part itself, but also the freed-up space inside the refrigerator. To clean glass surfaces, use warm water and a mild detergent. Abrasive powders and hard sponges cannot be used - they will leave micro-scratches in which bacteria will accumulate.
Plastic elements such as frames and guides require special attention. Plastic Atlant is resistant to household chemicals, but aggressive solvents (acetone, gasoline) can make it cloudy or brittle. It is best to use special dishwashing detergents or a baking soda solution. Thoroughly rinse all the grooves and recesses where dirt usually accumulates.
After washing, be sure to wipe all parts dry with a soft towel. Leftover water may freeze again when the refrigerator is turned on, creating a new problem. Allow items to dry completely at room temperature before installing. This will also help avoid the appearance of an unpleasant odor, which often occurs in a damp environment.
Frequently asked questions and troubleshooting
Even with compliance all instructions, non-standard situations may arise. Users often ask questions about the compatibility of parts or what to do in the event of a breakdown. Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions that will help you navigate difficult situations.
Is it possible to wash a glass shelf in hot water?
Using boiling water or very hot water to wash glass that has just been taken out of the refrigerator is dangerous. A sharp temperature change can lead to destruction of the structure of tempered glass (thermal shock). Use water at room temperature or slightly warm.
What to do if the plastic holder is broken?
If the plastic fastening element is cracked or broken off, it is unsafe to use the shelf in this condition. It is necessary to order an original spare part for the refrigerator model. You can temporarily use supports, but this does not guarantee stability.
Why does the shelf wobble after installation?
Wobbling can be caused by wear of the seats, improper installation (not fully inserted) or deformation of the shelf itself. Check whether the refrigerator is level; distortion of the case also affects the stability of the internal elements.
Can you use shelves from other Atlant models?
Dimensions and fastening systems may vary even within the same brand. Before purchasing a used shelf or similar, be sure to compare the size and type of locks. There are practically no universal solutions here.
Concluding the review, it is worth noting that proper care of the interior of the refrigerator Atlant is the key to its long service. Proper removal and installation of shelves not only makes cleaning easier, but also allows you to notice minor faults in time. Be careful, use the right tools and do not ignore signs of plastic wear.