The need to remove the handle on the refrigerator Atlant can arise for various reasons: from a banal breakdown of a plastic element to a desire to update the kitchen interior by replacing standard parts with more modern chrome-plated analogues. Unlike many other brands, the design of Belarusian equipment often involves hidden fasteners, which requires a certain sequence of actions and accuracy. An incorrect approach to dismantling can lead to damage to the door leaf or the opening mechanism itself, so it is important to clearly understand which model you are dealing with.
In this article we will examine in detail all the nuances of replacing handles on various series of refrigerators Atlant, including two-chamber models and units with the No Frost system. You'll learn what tools you'll need to get the job done, how to remove decorative caps without scratching them, and where to look for hidden screws. We will also look at typical mistakes that inexperienced craftsmen make when trying to do their own repairs.
Preparation of tools and workplace
Before starting any work on disassembling household appliances, it is necessary to organize a comfortable workspace. The refrigerator door should not swing loosely or slam shut during operation, so it is recommended to lock it in the open position. To do this, you can use small wooden blocks, placing them under the bottom of the door, or ask an assistant to hold the structure while unscrewing the screws.
As for the tools, in most cases you will need a standard home craftsman's set. However, some models Atlant may require specific attachments. Prepare the following list of accessories in advance:
- 🔧 A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat) for unscrewing screws of different lengths.
- 🔪 A thin knife or spatula for carefully prying off the plugs.
- 🧤 Gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and dirt.
- 🧲 Magnetic cup to avoid losing small screws during operation.
It is important to note that plastic elements old refrigerators can be fragile due to time and temperature changes. If you are working with equipment that has been in use for more than 10 years, it is recommended to preheat the plastic parts with a hairdryer at minimum power to make the material more elastic and reduce the risk of chipping.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This will not only protect you from electric shock, but will also prevent accidental activation of the compressor or lighting system during dismantling.
Design features of handles of different Atlant series
Refrigerators Atlant have been produced for several decades, and during this time the design and method of fastening the fittings have changed several times. Understanding your model's construction type is the key to successful dismantling. Conventionally, all handles can be divided into several main categories according to the method of fastening.
The first type is the classic overhead handles, which are fastened with screws from the inside of the door. Such models are often found in the MHM 1700 and MHM 1800series. Everything here is relatively simple: the screws are accessible, they are unscrewed, and the part is removed. The second type is mortise handles with decorative plugs. Visually, it seems that there are no screws, but they are hidden under plastic caps that need to be carefully removed.
The third type, the most difficult for beginners, is the integrated handle profiles, characteristic of modern models with the system No Frost. In such designs, the handle may be part of the door panel or attached to hidden latches. Removing them often requires complete or partial disassembly of the door leaf. To determine which type is installed in yours, carefully examine the end of the door and the inner surface.
Removing handles with hidden fasteners (with plugs)
The most common problem faced by owners Atlantovis the lack of visible screws. In such models, the fastening elements are closed with round or oval plugs made of the same plastic as the handle itself. These plugs are color-matched (white, silver, beige) and are practically invisible.
To begin dismantling, you need to find these hidden elements. Usually they are located on the end side of the handle or on its inner plane, facing the body of the refrigerator. Take a thin screwdriver or utility knife and carefully pry up the edge of the plug. The movement must be precise: you cannot apply excessive force so as not to scratch the front surface.
After the plug is removed, your attention will be revealed fastening screw. The most commonly used screwdriver is a Phillips screwdriver (PH2), but some models may have a hex screwdriver. Remove the screws completely, but do not lose them. If the handle does not come off after unscrewing all the screws, it may be held on by additional guides or suction cups.
☑️ Algorithm for removing the handle with plugs
It often happens that the screws “stick” or oxidize over the years of use. If the screw does not budge, do not use force to avoid stripping the splines. Treat the joint with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and let sit for 10-15 minutes. This will help to unscrew even tightly tightened connections without damage.
Replacing overhead handles on MHM series models
Models of the MHMseries, such as the popular 1704, 1801 or 2808, are often equipped with classic overhead handles handles. Their design involves mounting directly through the front panel of the door. To replace, you do not need to disassemble the door itself; access to the inside is enough.
Open the refrigerator door. On the inside, strictly opposite the handle, you will see holes covered with decorative plastic bushings or simply through holes with screw heads. If there are bushings, they need to be removed. Next, using a long Phillips screwdriver, remove the mounting screws. In some modifications, the screws may be hidden under a layer of sealant that needs to be slightly bent.
When the screws are unscrewed, an assistant must hold the handle from the outside so that it does not fall to the floor when removing the last screw. After removing the old part, clean the installation site from dust and traces of grease. The new handle is installed in the reverse order: screws are inserted, tightened from the inside, and if necessary, decorative bushings are installed.
| Model Atlant | Type of fastening | Required tool | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| MHM 1704 | Lock-on (screws from inside) | Phillips screwdriver | Low |
| MHM 2808 | Hidden (plugs) | Knife, screwdriver | Medium |
| XM 4008 | Mortise (plugs) | Slotted screwdriver | Medium |
| MHM 4421 | Integrated | Screwdriver set | High |
What to do if the hole for the screw is broken?
If the plastic seat inside the door is cracked, you can use epoxy glue with a reinforcing mesh or insert a wooden chip after drilling a hole. This will allow the screw to hold securely again.
Removing integrated handles and profiles
Modern refrigerators Atlant with a high-tech design are often devoid of protruding elements. The handle here is a special aluminum profile or a cutout in the door itself. Removing such elements is a more labor-intensive process, as it often requires dismantling the outer door panel.
First, you need to remove the upper and lower hinges of the door in order to completely dismantle the door leaf and place it on a soft surface (for example, a blanket or cardboard). Then the plastic trim on top of the door is removed, under which the screws that secure the decorative panel are often hidden. Carefully unsnapping the plastic latches around the perimeter, remove the front panel.
Under the panel you will see a metal door frame. It is to this that the handle profile is attached. Fastening can be carried out using self-tapping screws or rivets. If rivets are installed, they will have to be drilled out and new ones placed on the rivet gun or a screw connection must be used. After replacing the profile, assembly is carried out in the reverse order: panel, hinges, door hinge.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the outer door panel, be extremely careful with the wires going to the display or indicators (if there are any on the door). A sharp jerk can break the contacts, and restoration will require soldering.
Installing new fittings and checking operation
After successfully dismantling the old handle and installing a new one, it is necessary to carry out a final check. Make sure all screws are tightened evenly. Over-tightening can lead to deformation of the plastic or the appearance of cracks around the mounting holes, especially if the new handle has a different fit geometry.
Check the operation of the opening mechanism. The door should open easily, without distortions or creaks. If you installed a universal handle (not the original one), make sure that it does not interfere with the door closing tightly and fitting sealing rubber. The gap between the door and the body should be uniform around the entire perimeter.
Plug in the refrigerator and monitor its operation for several hours. Make sure that during the process of opening and closing the door, there is no spontaneous switching off of the light or malfunction of the electronics, which could happen with careless installation.
Frequent errors during dismantling and installation
Many users make typical mistakes, trying to save time or acting at random. One of the most common is an attempt to tear off the handle by force without finding the screws. This is guaranteed to lead to breakage of the plastic pins, after which the handle will only have to be glued or replaced entirely along with part of the body.
Another mistake is the use of inappropriate tools. Using metal objects with sharp edges to pry plastic often leaves permanent scratches on the glossy surface of the refrigerator. Always use plastic spatulas or protect the metal with a cloth.
They also often forget to degrease the surface before installing a new part if it is attached with double-sided tape in addition to screws. This reduces adhesion, and after a month the handle may begin to move away from the body, creating play and unpleasant noise when opening.
Is it possible to install a handle from another Atlant model?
Yes, handles are often interchangeable within the same series or even between different generations. The main thing is the coincidence of the distance between the mounting holes (center distance). If it is different, you will have to drill new holes in the door, which requires care and masking of old holes.
What to do if the screw is rusty and cannot be unscrewed?
Do not try to unscrew it by force - you will tear off the cap. Apply a liberal amount of rust preventative (WD-40, kerosene, vinegar) and leave for several hours. You can try to slightly warm the area around the screw with a hairdryer, but be careful not to melt the plastic of the door.
Where to buy original handles for Atlant?
Original spare parts are best ordered from the brand’s authorized service centers or specialized spare parts stores for household appliances, indicating the exact model of your refrigerator (the number is indicated on the nameplate inside cameras).
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before removing the handle?
Full defrosting is not required if you remove only the external fittings. However, if the design involves access through an internal panel or removing the door, it is recommended to first defrost the unit so that water does not get on the electrical components in a horizontal position.
How to mask old holes if the new handle is smaller?
To mask excess holes, you can use special plugs in the color of the door, sold in furniture stores, or carefully putty the holes, choosing aerosol paint to match the refrigerator body.