The need to dismantle the upper compartment of the refrigerator Atlant often arises when planning a kitchen, when the dimensions of the equipment do not allow the unit to be brought into the doorway, or in case of a serious breakdown that requires replacing the evaporator. Owners of two-chamber models know that freezer is a removable module, but the process of its separation requires a strict sequence of actions. Improper disassembly can lead to damage to the plastic elements or disruption of the system's tightness.
Before starting work, it is important to understand the design of your device. Models Atlant series 400, 450 and 600 have a similar layout, but may differ in fastenings. In modern models with the system No Frost dismantling may require removal of the interior trim to access the mounting bolts. If you plan to simply reduce the height of the refrigerator for transportation, the procedure will be one, and if repairs are needed, another.
This manual will help you safely disassemble the unit while retaining all fasteners. We will look at the steps of disconnecting communications, removing doors and separating the camera body itself from the main unit. Be attentive to details, as the plastic on older models can be fragile.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
Any work with household appliances begins with ensuring safety. The first step should always be to completely unplug the appliance. Unplug the socket and let the refrigerator stand off for at least 30 minutes to allow the refrigerant to distribute and the condensation to drain.
Clear the space around the refrigerator. You will need access from all sides, especially from behind and from above. Put away food and remove all removable shelves, drawers and containers from the freezer and refrigerator. This will not only lighten the weight of the structure, but also prevent glass or plastic from breaking during work.
Prepare the necessary tools. You will need:
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (standard PH2).
- 🔩 Flat screwdriver for prying off the plugs.
- 🧤 Gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- 📦 Container for folding screws.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to remove the camera if there is still ice inside. Mechanical impact on frozen elements can lead to rupture of the evaporator tubes or damage to the plastic.
☑️ Ready for disassembly
Removing the freezer doors
To remove the camera itself, you must first get rid of the hanging elements that interfere with access to the fasteners and increase the dimensions. Doors in refrigerators Atlant are mounted on powerful hinges that are secured with screws. Start with the top hinge connecting the freezer door to the camera body.
Remove the decorative plug from the top hinge. Underneath you will find two or three mounting bolts. Carefully unscrew them, but do not remove them completely at once - first loosen everything, then remove them. Ask an assistant to hold the door, as after unscrewing the last bolt it may fall sharply.
After removing the top hinge, the door can be carefully lifted and removed from the bottom pin. If the door is equipped with a system electronic control or a display on the body, carefully inspect the connection point. There may be a train of wires running there.
What to do if the bolts are rusty?
If the mounting screws cannot be unscrewed due to corrosion, do not use excessive force to avoid tearing off the cap. Treat the joint with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and leave for 15-20 minutes. After this, try to carefully tear off the thread again.
The lower hinge is usually removed after separating the chamber, but if your goal is simply to reduce the height for carrying it through the door, you can also remove it by unscrewing the bolts hidden under the plastic cover at the bottom of the front wall of the freezer.
Disconnecting electrical communications
In models with manual defrosting, there may be no electrical connections between the chambers, however, in most modern refrigerators Atlant with a system No Frost or electronic control, the presence of wires is mandatory. They ensure the operation of the fan, defrost heating element and temperature sensors.
The connectors are usually located in the upper part of the partition between the chambers or in a special channel along the rear wall. To get to them, you sometimes need to remove the plastic panel inside the freezer. Be extremely careful: plastic becomes very brittle in the cold.
Disconnect the chips by holding the connector body itself, and not the wires. Pulling on the cable can cause wires inside the insulation to break, causing electronics to malfunction in the future. Remember or take a photo of the connection order, although it is difficult to mix up the connectors there because of their shape.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to disconnect live contacts. Make sure that the refrigerator is not just turned off with a button, but is physically disconnected from the outlet.
Removing the housing fasteners
The main stage is freeing the freezer housing from the main unit. In two-chamber refrigerators Atlant the upper and lower parts are often fastened together with screws passing through the internal partition or side walls.
Inspect the perimeter of the junction of the chambers. The mounting bolts can be located inside the freezer compartment (in the corners on the bottom) or outside, covered with decorative strips. In some models of the series MHM 1700 and above, the fastenings are hidden under the top cover, which must first be snapped off.
Unscrew all visible bolts. Their number varies from 2 to 4 pieces depending on the model. If the screws are inside the chamber, make sure that you do not damage the sealing rubber when using a screwdriver.
Table of common mounting locations in different series:
| Atlant Series | Fastening location | Type fasteners |
|---|---|---|
| 300th series | Inside the camera, in the corners | M6 screws |
| 400th series | Outside, under the top cover | Bolts with washer |
| 600 series | Combined (inside and outside) | Self-tapping |
| No Frost | Behind the rear panel inside | Star screws |
The process of separating the freezer compartment
After all the bolts are unscrewed and the wires are disconnected, the most crucial moment comes. The freezer may “stick” to the main unit due to sealing rubber or moisture residues that have turned into ice.
Grip the chamber with both hands by the side walls (or ask an assistant). Gently, without jerking, rock the module from side to side, while lifting it up. The amplitude of movements should be minimal so as not to damage the pipes refrigerantif they pass through the joint.
If the chamber does not give way, do not use force. Check again that all screws are removed. Sometimes one forgotten bolt in the far corner can block the entire process. Also check if the outgoing cable is in the way, which you might have forgotten to disconnect.
Successful separation of the chambers is when you feel the characteristic click of the seal coming off. After this, carefully set the top module aside, placing it on a soft surface so as not to scratch the front panel.
Features of disassembly of No Frost models
Refrigerators Atlant with a system No Frost have a more complex design. In them, the freezer compartment is often a single plastic box with a built-in evaporator and fan. Removing such a chamber may require dismantling the rear wall inside.
In such models, it is important not to damage the plastic gutter for draining melt water. It passes through the entire body and can burst if tugged carelessly. Also pay attention to the air ducts: they can connect the upper and lower parts of the unit.
When reassembling, be sure to check the integrity of the air duct seal. If it is torn, cold air will escape and the freezing efficiency will drop sharply. In some cases, to completely remove the No Frost chamber, it is necessary to dismantle the compressor compartment from below.
⚠️ Attention: In No Frost models, the evaporator tubes are located very close to the walls. If you bend the plastic carelessly, you can break through thin-walled aluminum, which will lead to freon leakage.
Assembly and installation in a new location
Installation of the freezer is done in the reverse order. First of all, make sure that the installation location is level and stable. Align the guides and carefully lower the camera onto the main block until the seals fit snugly.
Tighten all the mounting bolts, but do not tighten them all the way right away. Bait everything first, then tighten evenly diagonally. This will ensure the correct positioning of the parts relative to each other.
Connect the electrical connectors, making sure that the latches click. Reinstall the doors, adjusting the hinges so that the gap is even around the perimeter. After assembly, let the refrigerator stand for 2-3 hours before turning it on, especially if it was transported lying down.
Check the operation of the unit at idle for 24 hours. If the freezer has reached the temperature and there is no extraneous noise, the procedure can be considered successfully completed.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator with an attached freezer?
You can transport the assembled refrigerator, but only in an upright position. If the dimensions do not allow it to be carried into the doorway, dismantling the chamber is required.
What to do if after assembly the refrigerator does not freeze?
Check the connection of the electrical connectors of the fan and heating element (in No Frost). Also make sure that the air ducts are not kinked and that the damper is working correctly.
Is it necessary to change the seal after disassembly?
If the sealing rubber is elastic and has no breaks, replacement is not required. However, if it has become stiff or deformed, it is better to purchase a new one to maintain energy efficiency.
How long does disassembly take?
For an experienced craftsman, the process takes 15-20 minutes. When disassembling yourself without experience, allow about 40-60 minutes to act carefully.