Owners of two-chamber refrigerators Atlant often face the need to dismantle door handles, be it to replace a damaged element, paint the facade, or simply want to update the interior of the kitchen. This procedure does not require calling a technician, but it does require accuracy and knowledge of the design features of your model. Incorrect actions can lead to damage to the door leaf or fastening elements.
The design of fastenings for different series of Belarusian brand equipment may differ significantly. Some use hidden screws under the plugs, while other models use a latch system. It is important to determine the type of fastening in advance so as not to break the plastic when trying to apply force.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances of the process, the necessary tools and precautions. You will learn how to prepare your workplace and what tricks will help you avoid scratches on the glossy surface of the door.
Necessary tools and workplace preparation
Before starting any manipulations with the refrigerator body, you must prepare the appropriate tools. To remove the handles on most models Atlant you will need a set of Phillips and flathead screwdrivers of different sizes. Also, a thin slotted screwdriver or a knife with a wide blade for carefully prying up decorative plugs would not be superfluous.
Particular attention should be paid to protecting the surface. Because refrigerator doors often have a glossy finish or a metallic texture, they can be easily scratched by metal parts of tools. Cover the floor in front of the refrigerator with a soft cloth or cardboard so that accidentally falling parts or tools do not damage either the floor or the unit itself.
It is also recommended to have a container on hand for storing screws and small parts. The loss of even one small screw can turn a simple repair into a long search for a suitable replacement.
- 🛠️ Set of screwdrivers (phillips PH1, PH2 and flathead).
- 🔪 Thin knife or plastic spatula for opening plugs.
- 🧤 Gloves to protect hands away from sharp edges.
- 🧼 Clean rags and degreaser (to prepare the surface after removal).
Make sure you have enough lighting. Working with small fasteners in poor light can lead to errors and the screwdriver slipping.
⚠️ Attention: Never use metal objects (knives, awls) to pry up plugs on glossy doors without first gluing the edges with masking tape. This is guaranteed to leave scratches that cannot be removed by polishing.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Determining the type of fastening on your model
Refrigerators Atlant are produced in numerous series, and the method of attaching handles has evolved along with the design. On older models, overhead handles were often found, fixed with screws on the back of the door or through special holes. In more modern two-chamber series, such as XM-4008 or XM-6021, the fasteners are usually hidden under decorative plastic plugs.
The first step is a careful visual inspection. Look for small round or oval holes on the end of the handle or on the inside of the handle facing the door. Often these holes are covered with plastic circles, the color of which can match the color of the handle or be contrasting (black, white, silver).
If there are no visible holes, perhaps your model belongs to a series with integrated handle profiles that are removed by snapping the latches. In this case, it is important to know the location of the fasteners so as not to break the plastic.
To accurately determine the type of fastening, it is useful to know the full markings of your device. It is indicated on the nameplate located inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall or on the back wall.
Step by step instructions: dismantling handles with hidden fasteners
This is the most common type of fastening in modern two-chamber refrigerators Atlant. The removal process requires consistency and care. First you need to remove the decorative plugs. This is best done with a thin knife blade or a slotted screwdriver, carefully prying up the edge of the plug.
After the plugs are removed, you will see the screw heads. Use a Phillips screwdriver of the appropriate size (usually PH2 or PH1). Unscrew the screws counterclockwise. Do not use excessive force if the screw does not go - perhaps the thread is soured or you are twisting in the wrong direction.
When all the screws are unscrewed, the handle does not always fall on its own. Sometimes it is held in place due to a tight fit or residual adhesion of the glue (if the model is old and has been re-glued). Take the handle with both hands and gently but firmly pull it towards you, slightly rocking it from side to side.
It is important to pull evenly. If you pull only one edge, you can break the plastic fastening ears inside the handle itself.
Removing overhead and integrated handles
In some models, especially in series with a wood-look or retro-style design, the handles may be attached differently. For example, in refrigerators with a bottom freezer, the top handle is often part of a decorative panel. Here the algorithm of actions changes.
If the handle is a long profile across the entire width of the door, check its ends. Often there are plastic stoppers or plugs installed on the sides that need to be moved or pryed off. After removing the stoppers, the profile moves to the side (left or right) and is released from the latches.
For integrated handles, which are an extension of the door body, dismantling is usually not provided by the manufacturer. However, if replacement is necessary (for example, due to a chip), you have to disassemble the door completely, removing the outer sheet of metal. This is a complex process that requires removing the hinges.
When working with large overhead elements, hold the door with your other hand. A removed handle may change the center of gravity of the door, and it may slam or move.
⚠️ Attention: The design of the doors of some models Atlant assumes that the handle is part of the frame. An attempt to remove it “directly” without disassembling the door will lead to irreversible deformation of the metal. Make sure you have the mounting screws before starting work.
Compatibility table and model features
Different series of refrigerators have their own nuances. Below is a table that will help you navigate the dismantling features for popular two-chamber models.
| Series / Model | Mounting type | Screw location | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant XM-4008 | Hidden (screws) | Bottom of the handle (2 pcs.) | You need to remove the bottom plug |
| Atlant XM-6021 | Hidden (screws) | From the inside | Requires access to the end of the door |
| Atlant XM-4421 | Invoice | Top and below | Two attachment points for each handle |
| Atlant XM-4625 | Latch | Absent | Removable by sliding to the side |
Pay attention to the length of the screws. Some models may use different length screws for the top and bottom handles. You cannot confuse them: a long screw can go right through the plastic body of the handle and ruin its appearance from the front.
If you change the handles to pairs (left and right doors), remember that they can be symmetrical or mirrored. When installing new elements, check the markings L (left) and R (right).
Possible problems and ways to solve them
During the dismantling process, you may encounter a number of difficulties. The most common problem is broken mounting lugs on an old plastic handle. This happens if the plastic has become brittle over the years of use.
In such a situation, you should not try to glue the old handle. The glue will not withstand constant loads when opening the door. It is necessary to order a new original spare part or a high-quality analogue. When ordering, check compatibility using the part number.
Another problem is licked splines on the screw heads. If the screwdriver spins, try using a rubber layer between the screwdriver and the screw for better grip, or carefully drill out the screw head with a drill of a smaller diameter, and then unscrew the rest with pliers.
A situation may also arise when the new handle does not fit into place due to mismatched holes. This often happens when installing non-original spare parts. In such cases, it is permissible to carefully drill holes in the plastic of the handle, but not in the metal door!
What to do if the decorative cap is lost?
If you have lost the small plastic plug that covers the screw, do not leave the hole open - dust and moisture will accumulate there. Temporarily seal it with a piece of colored tape or select a similar plug from other equipment. Hardware stores sell universal furniture plugs of various diameters.
Installation of new handles and final check
After successful dismantling and surface preparation (cleaning of grease and dirt), you can begin installing new elements. Insert the handle into the seat, align the holes and begin tightening the screws.
Do not tighten the screws all the way right away. First, tighten all the screws by hand or turn them slightly with a screwdriver so that the handle is level. Then tighten them evenly. Excessive tightening force may cause cracks in the plastic around the hole.
After installation, check the operation of the door. It should open freely, without distortion. Make sure the handle is not loose. If there is play, the screws may not be tightened enough or the threaded part is too short.
The final stage is the installation of decorative plugs. Just press them with your finger until a characteristic click or complete immersion is flush with the surface.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and designs of refrigerators may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture and the manufacturer. If you find that the description does not match your reality, check the official instructions for your specific model or contact an authorized service center.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the handles on the Atlant refrigerator without a screwdriver?
In most cases, no. The fastening is almost always screw. Trying to remove the handle by force without unscrewing the screws will result in breakage of the plastic fastening elements. The exception is rare models with latches, but even there you usually need a tool to unlock the latches.
Where can you find original handles for replacement?
Original spare parts for Atlant can be purchased at official brand service centers, specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances or on the websites of large online stores. Search by the model number of your refrigerator.
Why does the handle squeak after installation?
The creaking can occur due to friction of the plastic on the metal of the door or weak tightening of the screws. Try to lubricate the contact points with silicone grease (do not use oil, it can stain clothes) and check the tightness of the fit.
Are handles from one Atlant model suitable for another?
Universal handles do not exist. The distance between the mounting holes, the angle of inclination and the shape may differ even for models of the same year. Select spare parts strictly according to the catalog number or compatibility specified by the seller.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before removing the handles?
No, you do not need to defrost the unit for this procedure. The handles are dismantled with the refrigerator running or turned off but warm. The main thing is to ensure dry access to the surface.