Two-chamber refrigerators Atlant are deservedly considered one of the most reliable household appliances in the post-Soviet space. Understanding exactly how this unit works is necessary not only for professional craftsmen, but also for ordinary users who want to extend the life of the equipment. Knowledge of the principles of refrigerant circulation and the operation of the main components allows you to quickly diagnose malfunctions and avoid errors during operation.
The design is based on a classic refrigeration machine operating on the principle of a compression cycle. Compressor compresses the gaseous refrigerant, increasing its temperature and pressure, after which the hot gas enters the capacitor. There it cools down, turning into a liquid state, and is sent to the evaporator, where the most important thing happens - the absorption of heat from the refrigerator chambers. This continuous process provides a stable temperature for storing food.
A feature of two-chamber models is the separation of the freezer and refrigerator compartments, which requires a more complex system for controlling the flow of cold. Unlike single-chamber “brothers”, separate evaporators or complex damper systems are often used here. Understanding design features a specific model Atlant means getting the key to effective use and timely maintenance of the device.
The principle of operation of the compressor and starting relay
The heart of any refrigerator Atlant is the compressor, which is most often located in the lower rear part of the case. This is a sealed electric motor that creates the necessary pressure for movement freon through the system. In two-chamber models, one powerful compressor is often used, which, through a system of valves and tubes, supplies refrigerant first to the freezer and then to the refrigeration chamber, or to parallel circuits.
To start the engine, a starting relay is used, which briefly supplies increased voltage to the starting winding If you hear a click, but the engine does not start, the problem often lies in this unit or in the protective thermal relay. Modern models can be equipped with inverter compressorsthat operate smoothly, without sudden starting jerks, which significantly reduces the noise level.
⚠️ Attention: Attempting to repair the compressor yourself without special equipment (rolling, vacuum pump, pressure gauges) is prohibited. Opening the sealed casing will lead to the release of freon and will require expensive professional refilling.
It is important to understand that the compressor works cyclically: it turns on when the temperature in the chambers rises above the set one, and turns off when the required parameters are reached. Operating and idle times are controlled by a thermostat or an electronic control module. Impaired heat exchange, for example, due to a tight fit of the back wall to the furniture, causes the motor to wear out, reducing its service life.
Cooling system: evaporators and condenser
Heat exchange in two-chamber refrigerators Atlant occurs thanks to two main elements: the condenser and the evaporator. The condenser, which is a grille on the rear wall or a tube hidden in the side walls of the case, releases heat to the environment. This is why the sides of a working refrigerator can be warm - this is a normal physical process of heat removal.
The evaporator is the place where liquid freon boils at low pressure, actively absorbing heat from the internal space. Models with a system No Frost (or partial, like Atlant XM-4425) use one main evaporator, usually located in the freezer. Cold air from it is forced by a fan into the refrigeration compartment through special air ducts.
- ❄️ Crying evaporator: in classic models, the back wall of the refrigeration chamber itself is an evaporator, which periodically thaws.
- 💨 Fan: ensures air circulation in systems with forced cooling, preventing the formation of ice coats.
- 🧊 Heating element defrosting: heating element, which is turned on by a timer to defrost the evaporator in No Frost systems.
The efficiency of heat transfer directly depends on the cleanliness of the condenser. Dust and pet hair settling on the back of the grille create a heat-insulating layer. This leads to the fact that the pressure in the system increases, the compressor overheats, and the quality of frozen food decreases. Regularly cleaning the rear panel is an easy way to prevent damage.
Design features of the freezer compartment
The freezer compartment in two-chamber refrigerators Atlant can be located both at the top and at the bottom. Structurally, it is a well-insulated compartment where temperatures are maintained down to -18°C and below. In models with manual defrosting, a tubular evaporator is located here, often hidden behind a plastic panel or acting as a freezer shelf.
In systems complete No Frost the freezer compartment is devoid of visible frost on products due to the constant circulation of dry cold air. Moisture from the food is blown by a fan onto the cold evaporator, where it freezes in the form of frost, which is then automatically removed by the defrost system. This eliminates the need for the user to carry out manual defrosting more than once a year for hygienic cleaning.
The rubber seals on the freezer door play a critical role. They must provide a tight seal so that warm, moist air from the room does not get inside. If the rubber band does not fit tightly, a thick layer of snow will form on the walls of the chamber and on the food, and the compressor will work almost non-stop.
Why does ice freeze in the freezer?
A coat of ice is formed due to the entry of moist air into the chamber. This can happen if you open the door frequently, leave it ajar, or if the rubber seal has lost its elasticity and does not fit tightly. Also, the cause may be a malfunction of the defrost system (the heating element or timer has burned out), due to which the evaporator becomes overgrown with ice and stops passing cold air.
Temperature control and thermoregulation
Maintaining the set temperature is carried out by a thermoregulation system. In classic models Atlant a mechanical thermostat with a capillary tube, the end of which is fixed to the evaporator or in a special sleeve, is responsible for this. When the temperature changes, the gas in the tube expands or contracts, closing or opening electrical contacts.
More modern models are equipped with an electronic control module. Temperature sensors (thermistors) constantly transmit data to the control board, which accurately controls the operation of the compressor and fans. This allows you to maintain the temperature with an accuracy of a degree, which is especially important for the “Super Freeze” or “Vacation” modes.
The user can adjust the cooling intensity using a regulator located inside the refrigerator compartment or on the external panel. It is important not to set the value to maximum unless necessary, as this leads to freezing of food in the refrigerator compartment and unnecessary load on the engine.
| Component | Function | Location | Symptoms of malfunction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thermostat | Turning the compressor on/off | Inside the chamber or behind the panel | The refrigerator does not turn on or off |
| Defrosting heater | Evaporator defrosting | In the freezer (No Frost) | Ice build-up, no cold |
| Defrost timer | Mode switching | Back bottom or inside | Violation of the defrosting cycle |
| Fan | Air circulation | Behind the back wall of the freezer | Noise, lack of cold in the upper chamber |
Water drainage system and drainage
During the operation of the refrigerator, especially in models with a “crying” back wall, condensation forms. Water flows down a groove at the bottom of the refrigerator into a drainage hole. This hole is connected to a tube that removes moisture into a special container (bath) located above the compressor.
The heat from the operating compressor promotes rapid evaporation of water from the bath, so there is no need to drain it manually. However, if the drainage hole becomes clogged with crumbs, mold or ice, water begins to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator and can leak out onto the floor.
☑️ Checking the drainage system
To clean the drainage, do not use sharp metal objects, as this can damage the plastic channel or pierce evaporator, which will lead to freon leakage. It is best to use a special flexible brush or soft wire with cotton wool wound, carefully moving it down.
Refrigerants and circuit tightness
Modern two-chamber refrigerators Atlant work on environmentally friendly refrigerants, such how R600a (isobutane). This gas has excellent refrigerating properties, but is flammable, which requires special care when carrying out repair work related to soldering tubes. Older models could use freon R134a, which is non-flammable, but less efficient.
The entire cooling system is a sealed circuit. Any microcrack, metal corrosion or poor-quality rolling of joints leads to gas leakage. Without enough refrigerant, the refrigerator stops cooling, although the compressor may continue to hum. It is difficult to determine a leak visually; the use of a leak detector or a soap solution is often required.
⚠️ Attention: If you smell gas or hear hissing, immediately unplug the refrigerator, open the windows for ventilation and do not use open fire. R600a is explosive in high concentrations.
Refilling a refrigerator is a complex technological process that requires precise adherence to the gas dosage and the use of a certain brand of oil. Self-pumping of freon from a can without evacuation of the system will lead to mixing of refrigerants, the formation of an acidic environment inside the compressor and its imminent death.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the Atlant refrigerator hum or vibrate loudly?
Vibration is often caused by improper installation: check the adjustable feet, the refrigerator must stand firmly and not touch the walls or furniture. A humming noise could be a sign of compressor wear, loose motor mounts, or foreign objects getting behind the rear panel. If the sound appears abruptly and becomes metallic, the compressor may need to be replaced.
How often do you need to defrost the two-chamber Atlant?
Models with the No Frost system do not require regular defrosting to remove ice, but hygienic washing with unplugging is recommended 1-2 times a year. Models with a “crying” wall in the refrigerator compartment and manual defrosting of the freezer need to be defrosted completely when the layer of ice in the freezer reaches 5-7 mm, usually this happens once every 4-6 months.
What to do if it is too cold in the refrigerator compartment, but warm in the freezer?
This is a classic sign of a leak. freon or clogged capillary tube. The problem may also be a malfunction of the damper that regulates the supply of cold air (in No Frost models). A call to a technician is required to diagnose the pressure in the system and check the electrical part.
Is it possible to transport the Atlant refrigerator lying down?
It is highly not recommended to transport two-chamber refrigerators lying on their side, especially on the back or front panel. This may cause oil to drain from the compressor into the refrigerant circuit, causing water hammer on first start-up. If transportation cannot be avoided, you can only lay it on its side, and after installation, let it stand unplugged for at least 10-12 hours.