The appearance of extraneous sounds, overheating of the motor or the need for replacement start relay often require access to the technical part of the unit. Equipment owners Atlant are faced with the issue of dismantling the protective casing, which hides the main components of the compressor. The correct approach to this stage of repair allows you to avoid damage to tubes and electrical connections.
The process of removing the cover is not complicated, but requires strict adherence to safety precautions and a certain set of tools. Failure to do so can result in broken copper lines or damaged wiring, resulting in more expensive repairs. In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances of the procedure.
It is worth considering that the design of the rear wall may differ depending on the specific model and year of manufacture of your refrigerator. Some modifications are equipped with a one-piece casing, others - with composite elements with additional fasteners. Understanding these differences will save you time and nerves during the work process.
Preparation of the workplace and the necessary tools
Before starting any manipulations with electrical appliances, it is necessary to ensure safety. The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the device from the electrical outlet. Unplug the cord from the outlet to eliminate the risk of electric shock if you accidentally touch the contacts.
To successfully complete the task, you will need a basic DIY kit. Failure to use the correct tool may result in stripped threads or damage to plastic latches. Prepare in advance:
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) for fastening screws.
- 🔧 Flat-head screwdriver for prying up the plugs.
- 🔧 Pliers or pliers with thin jaws.
- 🔧 Flashlight for illuminating hard-to-reach places.
Free up space around the back wall of the refrigerator. You need to provide easy access from all sides, since you will have to work in a limited space. Remove the mat and move the equipment at least one meter away from the wall.
⚠️ Attention: Never start disassembling if the compressor is still warm. Allow the unit to cool for 30-40 minutes after operation to avoid burns and pressure surges in the system.
☑️ Ready for repair
Removing the rear panel of the refrigerator
Access to the motor-compressor in models Atlant usually closed metal or plastic panel located at the bottom of the rear wall. This part protects internal components from dust and mechanical damage, and also forms the correct air flows for cooling.
The process of removing the panel begins with a visual inspection of the perimeter. Fastening elements can be hidden under decorative plugs or located in the corners of the sheet. In some models, the panel is secured with screws, in others it is held in place by plastic latches that require careful bending.
Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry out the plugs, if present. Be careful not to crumble the plastic, which becomes brittle over time. After removing all the screws, carefully pull the panel towards you, controlling the force so as not to damage the adjacent structural elements.
Nuances of older models
In older Atlant refrigerators, the panel can be screwed not only around the perimeter, but also have additional fastenings in the center. Carefully inspect the metal surface before using force.
After removing the panel, access to the bottom of the unit will open. Here you will see the compressor, condenser grille and various tubes. Do not touch them sharply, as even when turned off, residual pressure may remain in the system.
Design and types of compressor casings
The compressor itself in refrigerators Atlant is most often closed with a round or oval metal casing. This element performs the function of protecting the electrical part and thermal insulation. Understanding the type of your compressor will help you choose the right disassembly tactics.
Modern models use sealed casings that are not intended for frequent opening at home. However, to replace the thermal relay or starting device, they have to be removed. Older models may have removable bolted covers, which greatly simplifies the task.
| Casing type | Mode of fastening | Difficulty of removal | Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sealed | Welded/Riveted | High | Glinder/Hacksaw |
| Removable | Screws/Bolts | Low | Screwdriver/Key |
| Plastic | Latch | Medium | Flat screwdriver |
It is important to distinguish between the outer protective cap and the internal structure. If your goal is to get to condenser or the relay, it is often enough to remove the outer cover without opening the sealed motor housing itself. It is prohibited to open the sealed compressor housing without special equipment and skills, as this violates the tightness of the system.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the cover
Let's consider the algorithm of actions for the most common option - removing the external protective casing secured with screws. This process requires care and consistency. Any sudden movement can cause damage to the copper tubes.
First, inspect the perimeter of the casing. Find all attachment points. In models Atlant there are usually three or four of them. Unscrew the screws counterclockwise, placing the fasteners in a magnetic tray or container so as not to lose them. Small parts tend to roll under the refrigerator.
After removing the fasteners, do not immediately pull the lid up. Try turning it slightly around its axis. Often it sits tightly due to a layer of dust or corrosion. Gently rocking from side to side will help loosen the fit. If the lid is plastic, use minimal force.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use force if the lid does not give way. Make sure that you have removed all the screws, including those hidden under stickers or in hard-to-reach niches.
Lift the casing and carefully remove it. Below it you will see the electrical connector going to the relay and the compressor leads. Be extremely careful with the wires - the insulation on old refrigerators may be dry.
Working with electrical components under the casing
Under the removed cover there is starting relay a thermal protection relay. It is these elements that most often require replacement or inspection. They are attached directly to the compressor terminals and fixed with a metal bracket or a plastic case.
To access the contacts, you must remove the fixing bracket. It can be spring or screw. Use pliers to carefully bend the tabs of the staple if it is a spring type. Do not damage the plastic housing of the relay; it is fragile at low temperatures.
Before disconnecting the wires, it is strongly recommended to photograph the connection diagram. The colors of the wires in different modifications Atlant may differ, and memory may fail. Recording the visual state will help you put everything back together correctly.
Disconnect the pads by holding the plastic connector itself, and not the wires. Pulling on the wire can cause it to break at the base, requiring splicing and soldering. If the connector cannot be removed, gently rock it from side to side.
Typical errors and precautions
The most common mistake is damage to copper tubes when removing the casing carelessly. Copper is a soft metal, and even a light blow with a tool can create a crack or through hole. A refrigerant leak will turn a simple repair into a complex procedure with calling a technician and refilling with freon.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the wire insulation. During prolonged use under conditions of vibration and temperature changes, the insulating layer becomes thinner. A rough touch may cause a short circuit the next time you turn it on.
- ⚡ Do not touch the contacts with wet hands.
- ⚡ Do not leave tools on the top panel of the refrigerator - they may fall and break the tubes.
- ⚡ Do not turn on the refrigerator with the cover open without absolutely necessary.
It is also worth mentioning the risk of damage to the compressor itself. The terminals on which the relay is mounted are made of glass melt and are very fragile. Excessive force when removing the relay can break the glass, which will lead to depressurization and failure of the unit.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice oil on the floor under the compressor after removing the cover, this may indicate a leak in the system. In this case, further operation is impossible without professional intervention.
Assembly and performance testing
After carrying out the necessary diagnostic work or replacing parts, the assembly stage begins. Reinstall the housing, making sure it fits properly into the grooves and does not pinch any wires or tubes. Incorrect installation may cause vibration and noise during operation.
Tighten all mounting screws. Don't overtighten them, especially if they screw into the plastic. Enough tight fit. Check that no foreign objects remain inside the cabinet.
Return the rear panel of the refrigerator to its place and secure it. Only after complete assembly of all structural elements can the unit be connected to the network. Turn on the refrigerator and listen to the operation of the motor.
In the first minutes of operation, short-term noise is possible due to the system entering mode. However, extraneous knocks, clicks or hums should alert you. If you did everything correctly, Atlant refrigerator should work normally.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on?
Check whether the start relay is firmly seated on the compressor rod. Often, after removing the cover, the relay remains in the hands or is not inserted completely.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the compressor cover without turning off the refrigerator?
Absolutely not. Working with live electrical components is fatal. In addition, a running compressor is hot, and you could get burned or damage the cooling system.
What to do if the cover screws are rusty and won't turn?
Use a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40). Apply it to the thread and wait 15-20 minutes. If this does not help, you can gently warm up the screw head, but be careful not to melt the surrounding plastic.
Does it need to drain the freon before removing the outer cover?
No. The outer cover (casing) is not part of the sealed refrigerant circuit. Draining the freon is required only if you plan to open the sealed compressor housing itself or cut copper tubes.
How can you tell that the cover is in place correctly?
The cover should fit evenly around the entire perimeter without gaps. When the refrigerator is operating, there should be no rattling or vibration coming from the casing. If the lid is loose, check the presence of all the screws and that they are tightened correctly.