Replacing or installing new glass shelves in the refrigerator Atlant is a task that may seem elementary only at first glance. In practice, owners often encounter difficulties getting into the grooves, adjusting the guides or fixing the glass in new models with an improved storage system. Incorrect installation can lead to the shelf not supporting the weight of the products or, worse, cracking during operation.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances of installing glass surfaces in the refrigeration chambers of the Belarusian manufacturer. You will learn how to differentiate between types of fasteners, what to look for when choosing a position, and how to protect yourself from injury when working with glass. A correctly installed shelf is a guarantee of durability and safe storage of your products.
Preparation of the workplace and assessment of the condition of the shelves
Before proceeding with installation, you must carefully inspect the shelf itself and the interior of the refrigerator. Glass is a fragile material, and even a microscopic chip at the end can become a stress point, leading to the destruction of the structure under load. Make sure that the surface glass shelf has no visible defects, and the rubber seals (if provided by the design) are intact and elastic.
Inspect the inner wall of the refrigerator compartment. There should be no cracks in the plastic sheathing where the guides are attached. If you are replacing a shelf because the previous one broke, be sure to remove all the pieces. Even the smallest glass chips caught in the extension mechanism or under the seal can cause creaking or jamming.
⚠️ Attention: Never use a shelf with chips on the ends or corners. Under conditions of temperature changes and constant vibration of the compressor, such a defect is guaranteed to lead to complete destruction of the glass.
Prepare a clean, dry rag. Wipe the installation areas to remove grease and dust that may reduce the adhesion of the rubber pads to the plastic of the housing. A clean surface is the key to ensuring that the shelf will stand up straight and will not “move” when loaded with products.
Types of shelf designs in Atlant refrigerators
Refrigerators Atlant are equipped with different types of shelves depending on the series and year of manufacture. Understanding the type of construction will help you not to make unnecessary efforts where accuracy is needed, and vice versa.
- 🔹 Stationary shelves: classic version, where the glass is simply inserted into plastic guide frames attached to the back and side walls.
- 🔹 Drawable shelves on telescopes: more complex systems where the glass is mounted on metal or plastic guides, allowing the contents to be pushed out.
- 🔹 Shelves with variable geometry: models that allow you to fold one half of the glass up to accommodate tall bottles or pots.
The most common option is stationary shelves with plastic frames. They are easy to install but require precise positioning. Pull-out systems are more often found in models of the middle and high price segments and require a more careful approach during installation.
It is worth mentioning separately tempered glasswhich is used in most modern models. It is much stronger than usual, but is susceptible to pinpoint impacts on the edge. That is why during installation you should not rest the glass at an angle on the hard plastic elements of the case.
Instructions: how to insert a stationary glass shelf
The process of installing a standard shelf in a plastic frame-edge requires following a certain sequence of actions. The back is installed first, as it usually has a deeper groove or retainer.
Grip the shelf with both hands on opposite long sides. Bring it to the installation site at a slight angle. Insert the rear end into the corresponding groove on the back wall of the refrigerator. Make sure that the glass lies on the bottom of the plastic groove along the entire width.
☑️ Shelf installation algorithm
After fixing the back part, carefully lower the front edge of the shelf. At this moment, the side projections of the plastic frame should fit into the side guides on the walls of the refrigerator compartment. You should hear a characteristic but quiet click or feel that the shelf has “sat” into place.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force. If the shelf doesn't fit the first time, it means you didn't hit the groove. Try to slightly lift and move it, rather than pressing down with all your weight.
Check the horizontal installation. The shelf should not be distorted. If one side is higher than the other, the products may roll down and the load on the glass will be uneven, which is dangerous.
Installation of pull-out systems and telescopic guides
Installation of pull-out shelves in refrigerators Atlant is more difficult due to the presence of a sliding mechanism. Often such systems consist of two parts: guides attached to the walls, and the shelf itself with counter elements.
First make sure that the side guides (rails) are securely fastened to the walls of the refrigerator. They can be secured with latches or screws. If you dismantled them completely, first install and snap the side profiles until a characteristic sound is heard.
| Type of fastening | Installation features | Risk of error |
|---|---|---|
| Latches (clips) | Required pressed until it clicks | Unsnapping, falling out |
| Grooves (inserts) | Exact match of protrusions | Distortion during insertion |
| Screws (rarely) | You need a screwdriver | Breaking the plastic thread |
Now take the shelf itself with the retractable mechanism attached to it. Enter it strictly horizontally. It is important that the rollers or runners fall into the track of the guides on both sides at the same time. Misalignment during insertion can lead to the mechanism jumping off and damage to the plastic.
What to do if the shelf jams when extending?
If after installation the shelf moves with difficulty, check to see if debris has gotten into the guides. Also make sure that the plastic frame is not deformed. Sometimes lubrication of the rubbing parts with silicone spray (food grade) helps, but only if this is permitted by the instructions for your model.
After installation, do several full extension and retraction cycles. The movement should be smooth, without jerks or squeaks. If you hear a crunching sound, stop immediately and check that it fits correctly into the grooves.
Height adjustment and moving to other levels
One of the main features of refrigerators Atlant is the ability to change the height of the shelves. This allows tall pots or bottles to be placed inside the chamber. For this purpose, the walls are provided with rows of holes or guides at different levels.
To rearrange the shelf, first remove it following the reverse installation sequence. Then select a new level. Please note that not all levels may be universal: some are designed only for certain types of shelves or have load restrictions.
When installing to a new level, ensure that the side supports (if removable) fit snugly into the holes in the back wall. In modern models Cool Plus system or similar air circulation technologies require that the shelves do not completely block the ventilation holes.
If you are using a model with a system No Frost, make sure that when rearranging you do not block the cold air supply channels. This can lead to the formation of ice in one corner and insufficient cooling in another.
Care of glass surfaces and prevention
Glass in the refrigerator requires not only proper installation, but also proper care. Aggressive household chemicals can damage the plastic frame or make the glass cloudy over time.
- 🧼 Use warm water with a mild detergent to wash dishes.
- 🚫 Avoid abrasive sponges and powders that leave micro-scratches.
- 💧 Thoroughly wipe the shelves dry before installation to avoid the formation of an ice crust.
Regularly check the condition of the rubber seals at the ends of the shelves. If they become hard or cracked, it is best to replace them. Rubber serves as a buffer that dampens vibration and protects the glass from contact with the hard plastic of the case.
⚠️ Attention: Never pour hot water onto cold glass of a shelf that has just been removed from the refrigerator, and vice versa. A sudden temperature change (thermal shock) can instantly crack even tempered glass. Let the parts warm up to room temperature.
Following these simple rules will extend the life of your shelves and preserve the aesthetic appearance of the internal chamber of the refrigerator Atlant for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I use a shelf from another Atlant model?
Sometimes the sizes are the same, especially within the same series. However, it is better to use original components, since the shape of the protrusions and the thickness of the glass may differ, which is dangerous for operation.
What to do if the plastic frame is cracked?
You cannot operate a shelf with a cracked frame. The plastic holds the glass and distributes the load. If the frame is damaged, the glass may burst at any time. The frame needs to be replaced.
Why does the shelf wobble after installation?
Most likely, it is not fully inserted into the grooves or the mounting points on the walls of the refrigerator are worn out. Check for chips on the plastic guides of the case.
How to remove scratches from a glass shelf?
You can try to polish small scratches with a special paste for glass, but deep damage cannot be repaired and is a potential break point.
Is it safe to wash shelves in dishwasher?
Most modern shelves Atlant can be washed in the dishwasher at temperatures up to 45-50 degrees. However, make sure that there are no metal decorative elements on the shelf that may rust.