Refrigerators Atlant are deservedly famous for their reliability and durability, but even the highest quality equipment breaks down over time. Most often, owners encounter a breakdown compressor, which is the heart of the cooling system. If the unit stops freezing, hums intermittently or does not turn on at all, there is a high probability that diagnostics or replacement of this unit is required. Independent dismantling is a complex task, requiring certain skills, but quite doable with theoretical training.
Before taking active steps, you must clearly understand the risks associated with working under high voltage and refrigerant pressure. Incorrect handling freon or violation of the tightness of the circuit can lead to final damage to the refrigerator or injury. In this article, we will analyze in detail how to competently and safely remove the refrigerator compressor Atlantto minimize risks and prepare the device for repair or disposal.
The dismantling process varies depending on the specific model, be it classic two-chamber Atlant MHM 1704 or more modern series. The key success factor is consistency of actions and the availability of a specialized tool. Ignoring the preparation steps often leads to damage to copper tubes or electrical parts, which makes further repairs economically unfeasible.
Fault diagnosis and workplace preparation
The first step should always be thorough diagnostics. Do not rush to disassemble the unit if you are not sure that the problem is in the motor-compressor. Symptoms may be similar to a faulty thermostat or start relay. If you hear clicks, but the start does not occur, or, conversely, the engine hums, but does not gain momentum, most likely it is the culprit. In some cases, checking the starting relay helps, which can be replaced without dismantling the compressor itself. supercharger. In some cases, it helps to check the start relay, which can be replaced without dismantling the compressor itself.
Preparation of the workplace plays a critical role in safety and speed of work. You will need some free space around the refrigerator as the technical compartment is accessible from the rear. Make sure that the floor is covered with thick cloth or cardboard so as not to damage the coating or lose small parts. The lighting should be bright and directed directly to the area of the condenser motor.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with live electrical components is fatal. Also, do not forget that residual pressure may remain in the system, even if the refrigerator has not been used for several days.
To successfully complete the task, you will need a set of tools, which is best prepared in advance. Not having the right wrench or screwdriver can delay the process for hours. Pay special attention to the quality of hand insulation and eye protection, since if freon is suddenly released, oil may splash.
Necessary tools and protective equipment
The quality of the work directly depends on the equipment used. To dismantle the compressor in refrigerators Atlant a standard home repair kit may not be enough. You will need specific tools for working with copper tubing and electrical contacts. The use of unsuitable tools often leads to “licking” the edges of the bolts or damage to the threads.
The basic list of tools includes:
- 🔧 A set of open-end wrenches (sizes 8, 10, 12 mm) for unscrewing fasteners bolts.
- 🔪 A sharp knife or a special pipe cutter for carefully cutting copper lines.
- 🔌 Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head) for removing terminals and protective covers.
- 🧤 Thick work gloves and safety glasses to prevent injuries.
The issue of working with refrigerant deserves special attention. Freon, used in household refrigerators, is inert, but in a confined space in high concentrations it can displace oxygen. In addition, upon contact with an open flame, it forms toxic compounds. Therefore, work should be carried out in a well ventilated room.
If you plan not only to remove the old unit, but also to install a new one, you will also need a vacuum pump and a pressure gauge station to fill the system. However, if the goal is only disposal or diagnostics, you can get by with a minimal set. It is important to have a container on hand to collect the drained Compressor oilcompressor oil, since it has a specific odor and is difficult to wash off from surfaces.
Sequence of compressor dismantling
The process of removing the motor-compressor requires strict adherence to the sequence of operations. Violation of the procedure may lead to damage to other components of the refrigerator Atlant. You should start by providing access to the technical area located at the bottom of the rear wall of the unit.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling:
- Move the refrigerator away from the wall and provide access to the rear panel.
- Remove the protective metal or plastic cover covering the compressor compartment. It is usually secured with 4-6 bolts or latches.
- Bend the fixing plates or unscrew the bolts holding the compressor to the frame.
- Carefully disconnect the electrical wires from the contact group of the start relay.
- Cut the filling tube (if the system is soldered) or unscrew the nuts (if a threaded connection is used).
- Remove the unit from the niche, being careful with the copper tubes.
Pay special attention to the moment you turn off the electrics. Before removing the wires, it is recommended to take a photo of the connection diagram or sketch the colors of the wires. In different models Atlant color marking may differ, and an error during assembly will lead to the new motor burning out or lack of starting.
☑️ Dismantling checklist
When unscrewing the compressor mounting bolts, use a stop so that the heavy metal block does not fall on your feet or damage the thin tubes evaporatorrunning nearby. In some modifications, the compressor is installed on rubber shock absorbers, which harden over time. It is also advisable to replace them when installing a new unit in order to reduce the level of vibration and noise.
Working with refrigerant and copper tubes
The most delicate moment in the dismantling process is working with a sealed circuit. Freon circulates in the system under pressure. You can’t just cut off the tubes - this will lead to a sharp and noisy release of gas, which can spray oil throughout the room.
There are two main approaches to freeing the circuit:
- ❄️ Controlled release: Puncture the filling tube with a special tool with a connected hose for venting gas to the street or through the filtration system.
- ✂️ Mechanical cutting: Use of a pipe cutter or wire cutter to pinch the tube in a location away from the compressor to minimize oil loss.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use open fire (burner, blowtorch) to heat the tubes for the purpose of unsoldering them while freon is under pressure in the system. This can cause explosive expansion of the gas and depressurization with a traumatic effect.
Copper is a soft metal, and refrigerator tubes Atlant are no exception. If handled carelessly, they can easily be deformed or flattened, making further soldering impossible. If you plan to install a new compressor, it is better to plug the ends of the tubes on the old unit or carefully seal it so that moisture and dust do not get inside.
What to do with leftover freon?
Freon is lighter than air and has no odor, but it is heavier than oxygen. With large volumes, it can accumulate at the bottom of the room. Although the dose is small for one refrigerator, it is better to carry out work with an open window or outside. The oil should also be drained into a sealed container, since it contains acidic impurities formed during the operation of the compress. One of the most common is an attempt to remove the compressor without completely disconnecting all the fasteners. In models
Typical mistakes when removing the unit
Many self-taught craftsmen make a number of typical mistakes that complicate repairs or make them impossible. One of the most common is an attempt to remove the compressor without completely disconnecting all the fasteners. In models Atlant there are often hidden bolts or additional brackets that hold the motor in a horizontal plane.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition capacitor (black radiator at the back). If you remove a heavy compressor carelessly, you can hit and damage the aluminum or steel fins of the radiator. Restoring the integrity of the capacitor is a labor-intensive process that requires argon welding.
| Error | Consequence | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp jerk during removal | Breakage of copper tubes at the base | Rock the compressor smoothly, freeing the pipes |
| Lack of wire markings | Inability to correctly connect the new motor | Take a photo or diagram before shutting down |
| Using a dull knife | Flattening the end of the tube | Use a sharp pipe cutter or new blades |
| Forgotten eye protection | Ingress of oil or freon in the eyes | Always use glasses when releasing pressure |
An error associated with the angle of the compressor during transportation after removal is also common. If you plan to use the removed unit for some purposes (for example, as a compressor for an airbrush), remember that it cannot be tilted more than 40 degrees. Oil from the crankcase may enter the circulation circuit, which will lead to water hammer at the next start.
Disposal and preparation for installation of a new motor
After the compressor is removed, the question arises of its disposal or preparing a niche for installing a new unit. The old motor contains non-ferrous metals (copper in the windings) and steel, so it should be taken to scrap metal collection points rather than thrown into a general container. This is important from an environmental point of view, since it contains technical oil inside.
Before installing a new compressor, it is necessary to inspect the system. Purge the circuit with nitrogen to remove possible breakdown products of old oil and moisture. Models Atlant often use a filter-drier, which is a disposable element and must be replaced whenever the circuit is opened.
Make sure that the new compressor fully matches the characteristics of the old one. Pay attention to the power, type of refrigerant (R134a or R600a) and overall dimensions. Installing a more powerful motor “by eye” can lead to overload of the system and rapid failure of both the new compressor and the refrigerator wiring.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the compressor without bleeding the freon?
Technically cut off the tubes it is possible, but this will lead to a sudden and uncontrolled release of gas and oil. It is dangerous for eyes and skin. In addition, the release of freon into the atmosphere is prohibited by environmental regulations. It is more correct to use a puncture with a gas outlet.
Is it necessary to solder the tubes when removing the Atlant compressor?
In most household Atlant models, the tubes are soldered. To dismantle them, they are cut with wire cutters or a pipe cutter. Soldering (hot or cold) will only be required when installing a new compressor to seal the connections.
How much does the compressor from an Atlant refrigerator weigh?
The weight of a standard single-phase compressor for Atlant refrigerators varies from 9 to 12 kilograms depending on the model and year of manufacture. This is a fairly heavy unit that requires careful handling.
What to do with oil leaked from an old compressor?
Compressor oil is a petroleum product and contains wear products and acids. It should not be poured down the drain or onto the ground. Collect the oil in a plastic bottle and take it to a special hazardous waste collection point or take it to a service station.
Is it possible to replace an Atlant compressor with an analogue from another brand?
Yes, it is often possible to install analogues from Danfoss, Secop or Aspera. The main condition is the same installation dimensions (distance between legs), power and type of refrigerant. It may also be necessary to replace the starting relay to suit the characteristics of the new motor.