A sudden stop in the operation of the compressor or, conversely, its endless hum often indicates a malfunction of the temperature control system. In two-chamber models of the brand Atlant the thermostat is responsible for this process, which can fail due to power surges or natural wear. Replacing this element requires care, since you are working with the electrical network and fragile plastic interior parts.
Before proceeding with disassembly, it is necessary to accurately diagnose the problem so as not to change serviceable parts. Thermostat is a mechanical or electronic device that opens the circuit when the specified value is reached temperature. If your refrigerator has stopped freezing or turns on too often, perhaps this particular unit requires the intervention of a technician or independent replacement.
In this article we will analyze the dismantling process in detail, paying attention to the nuances of various modifications of the equipment. It is important to understand that the design may differ depending on the year of manufacture and series of your unit. In most Atlant two-chamber models, the thermostat is located inside the refrigeration chamber under the top cover.
Diagnosing a thermostat malfunction
The first step should always be to check the symptoms, since replacing a working part will not solve the cooling problem. If the compressor does not start at all, even when the adjustment knob is turned to maximum, this is a sure sign of an open circuit inside the sensor. A malfunction is also indicated by the absence of a characteristic click when turning the control knob.
Sometimes the refrigerator operates non-stop, freezing food in the refrigerator compartment to the point of ice. This indicates that the contacts inside the thermostat are “stuck” in a closed state and do not open the circuit. In such cases mechanical wear the internal components make further operation impossible without repair.
⚠️ Attention: Before any diagnostics, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with live electrical wiring is deadly.
There is a simple preliminary check that will help ensure that replacement is necessary. If, when the two wires going to the thermostat are short-circuited (bypassing the sensor itself), the compressor starts and operates normally, then the problem is in the thermostat. However, this method requires skills in working with a multimeter and an understanding of electrical circuits.
Necessary tools and preparation
To successfully complete dismantling work, you will need a minimum set of tools that every amateur craftsman can find in his home. The main tool will be Phillips screwdriver, since most fasteners in the Atlant technique have just such a slot. You may also need a flat-head screwdriver to carefully pry up the plastic latches.
Don't forget to prepare a container for melt water if you need to touch the defrost system during disassembly or if condensation has accumulated in the chamber. Purchase a new thermostat in advance, completely identical to yours in markings and capillary tube length. An incorrectly selected part will not work correctly.
List of what is needed for work:
- 🛠️ Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers for removing fasteners and panels
- 🔦 Flashlight for illuminating the interior of the camera
- 🧤 Gloves to protect hands from sharp edges and cold
- 📸 Phone for photographing the wire connection diagram
Access to the thermostat in different models
The design of refrigerators Atlant involves several options for the location of the control panel. In classic two-chamber models, the thermostat is most often hidden under a lampshade or a decorative trim on the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment. In more modern versions, the control unit can be moved outside, but the sensor itself is still located inside.
To get to the unit, it is often necessary to remove the top cover of the refrigerator compartment. To do this, open the door, find the fasteners around the perimeter of the lid and carefully unscrew them. The plastic of older models can be fragile, so do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the latches.
In some modifications, access is through the light bulb niche. The lampshade is removed by lightly pressing or unscrewing the screw, after which a view of the thermostat opens. It is important not to confuse the lamp power wires and the compressor control circuit.
Features of the capillary tube
The capillary tube is a thin copper tube filled with refrigerant that transmits temperature from the evaporator to the bellows of the thermostat. When dismantling, it must not be bent, twisted or damaged, otherwise the sensor will stop responding......>
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling
The process of removing the thermostat requires sequential steps. First, remove the temperature control knob by simply pulling it towards you. Then unscrew the screws securing the thermostat housing to the wall or lid of the chamber. Carefully remove the case out to gain access to the wires.
Next you need to disconnect the electrical wires. It is important to act carefully here, as the wires may be tightly clamped in the terminals. Use pliers or side cutters to cut the wires as close to the terminals as possible if you plan to solder the connection, or simply disconnect the terminals if the design allows.
Checklist for dismantling:
☑️ Algorithm for removing the thermostat
The most delicate moment is removal sensitive capillary tube from the process hole in the evaporator. It can be glued or simply inserted into the groove. Pull the tube slowly and smoothly, without jerking. If it is stuck, you can lightly heat the exit area with a hairdryer to soften the insulation or glue.
⚠️ Attention: The capillary tube is very thin and easily deformed. Any deformation will change the volume of the internal liquid and lead to incorrect temperature readings.
The specifics of replacement in models with No Frost
In refrigerators Atlant with the system No Frost the design of the thermostat may differ. Electronic sensors or thermostats with a shorter capillary tube are often used here, since temperature control occurs in the air stream and not at the surface of the evaporator. The dismantling process in such models requires removing the back panel inside the chamber.
To access the back wall, you must remove all shelves and drawers. The panel is secured with screws and plastic latches. After removing the panel, access to the evaporator and air channels is available, where the sensor is located. Be prepared for the fact that you will have to defrost the refrigerator for at least 10-12 hours before starting work.
Table of differences between thermostats for different systems:
| Characteristics | Drip system | No Frost system |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Inside the chamber, against the wall | Behind the rear panel or in the channel |
| Sensor type | Mechanical with a long tube | Often electronic or short mechanical |
| Difficulty of replacement | Average | High (requires disassembly) |
| Necessity of defrosting | Desirable | Required (12+ hours) |
When working with the No Frost system, it is critical not to damage the defrost heater, which is often located in close proximity. Damage to it will lead to the formation of an ice coat and failure of the refrigerator in a short time.
Installing a new thermostat and checking
Installing a new element is done in the reverse order. We carefully insert the capillary tube of the new thermostat into the hole until it stops, trying not to create loops or creases. We fix the thermostat housing in its original place with screws.
The connection of wires is best done using soldering and heat shrink insulation, since the twists can oxidize and burn under conditions of vibration and humidity. If soldering is not possible, use high-quality terminal blocks. Make sure that the insulation of the wires is not damaged.
After assembling all the panels and installing the regulator knob, you can plug in the refrigerator. During the first hours of operation, listen to the unit: it should turn on, work for a certain time and then turn off. Cyclical operation is the main sign of the serviceability of the installed thermostat thermostat.
During the first day, do not completely load the chamber with products. Allow the equipment to return to mode and stabilize the temperature. If after 5-6 hours of operation a uniform frost forms on the back wall (in drip models) or there is cold in the freezer, then the replacement was successful.
Is it possible to use a thermostat from another refrigerator model?
The use of analogues is possible, but only if the main parameters match: the length of the capillary tube, the type of contacts and the temperature range. Installing an unsuitable sensor will lead to incorrect operation of the compressor.
Why doesn’t the new thermostat click?
Some modern thermostats operate silently or have very quiet contact movements. If the refrigerator begins to freeze and turns off, the absence of a loud click is not a sign of a malfunction.
How to determine that the problem is not in the thermostat?
If after replacing the thermostat the refrigerator does not turn on, the problem may be in the compressor start relay or the motor itself. It is also worth checking the integrity of the wiring inside the harness.
Does the system need to be charged with freon when replacing the thermostat?
No, replacing the thermostat does not affect the sealed refrigerant circuit. The capillary tube of the thermostat is filled with its own working substance and is not connected with freon in the cooling system.