Two-chamber refrigerators Atlant are one of the most popular in Russia and the CIS countries due to their reliability and ease of operation. However, even with such proven models, owners often face questions: what temperature should be in the freezer and refrigerator, how to change it if the food freezes or, conversely, spoils faster than usual. Errors in settings lead not only to spoiled products, but also to increased energy consumption or even compressor breakdowns.
In this article you will find step-by-step instructions for adjusting the temperature for all modern models Atlant (including series MHM, NRM, HM), you will understand the features of mechanical and electronic controls, and also learn how to check that the settings are working correctly. We will also talk about typical mistakes that users make and give advice on optimizing modes to save energy.
Why is it important to set the temperature correctly
Not only the safety of products, but also refrigerator lifedepends on the correct settings. Too low a temperature in the refrigerator compartment leads to:
- 🥬 Frostbite on greens, fruits and dairy products (they lose their taste and beneficial properties).
- ❄️ Formation of ice on the back wall, which increases the load on the compressor.
- ⚡ Increased energy consumption (up to 15–20% above normal).
Too high a temperature is no less dangerous:
- 🦠 Rapid proliferation of bacteria in meat, fish and ready-made dishes.
- 🧀 Mold on cheeses and sausages within 3–4 days.
- 🔥 Overheating of the motor due to frequent switching on (trying to cool the chamber to a given level).
The manufacturer Atlant recommends maintaining it at refrigerator compartment from +2°C to +5°C, and in freezer — from −18°C to −24°C. However, these values can be adjusted depending on:
- 📦 Loading of the chambers (the more products, the colder it should be).
- 🌡️ Room temperatures (in hot weather the refrigerator works more intensely).
- 🍗 Type of stored food (for example, chilled meat needs a temperature closer to 0°C).
Types of control in Atlant refrigerators: mechanics vs electronics
Two-chamber models Atlant equipped with two types of control panels:
- Mechanical adjustment (rotary knobs or sliders). Found in budget series (MHM 1808, XM 4021) and older models. Advantages: simplicity, no electronics that can break. Disadvantages: less precise adjustment, no indication of the current temperature.
- Electronic control (touch buttons or display). Installed in modern refrigerators (NRM 6228, MHM 2835). Allows you to set the temperature with an accuracy of 1°C, often there are “Holiday”, “Super Freeze” modes and an open door alarm.
To determine type of your model, look at the top panel inside the refrigerator compartment or at the front side of the freezer:
- 🔄 If there round knob with numbers (usually from 1 to 7) - you have mechanical control.
- 📱 If there is display or buttons with icons (snowflake, sun, checkmark) - electronic.
⚠️ Attention: In some models Atlant (for example, MHM 2808-90) refrigeration and the freezer compartments are regulated separately, while in others (for example XM 4426) - with one handle. Check this in the instructions for your model so as not to make a mistake when setting up.
How to set temperature in the Atlant refrigerator with mechanical control
Mechanical regulators in models Atlant usually represent a rotary knob with numbers from 1 to 7 (less often up to 5). The numbers do not indicate degrees, but intensity cooling:
1–2—minimum cold (suitable for winter or low load).3–4—optimal mode for most cases.5–7—maximum cooling (needed in hot weather or when fully loaded).
To adjust the temperature:
- Find the regulator - it can be located:
- 🔹 Inside the refrigerator compartment on the top panel.
- 🔹 Outside on the front side (for models with a freezer at the bottom).
3–4.To check the accuracy of the settings, use household thermometer (you can put a glass of water and measure the temperature of the liquid after 2 hours). If the readings go beyond +2...+5°C, adjust the position of the handle.
Make sure that the handle turns smoothly, without clicks|
Set position 3-4 to start|
Wait 6–8 hours for stabilization|
Check the temperature with a thermometer|
If necessary, adjust by 1 division-->
Adjusting the temperature in models with electronic control
Electronic panels in refrigerators Atlant allow you to set the temperature with an accuracy of a degree. Setting algorithm:
- Find the control panel:
- 📱 In most models, it is located on the top of the refrigerator compartment.
- 🔌 In some series (for example, NRM 6228-101) the display is located on the front side of the freezer door.
Temp (or the snowflake icon) for the refrigerator compartment. The current value will flash on the display.+/− buttons (or arrows) to set the desired temperature: +4°C —the optimal option for most products.Freezer or have an icon ❄️). Recommended value: −18°C.OK or wait for automatic saving (depending on the model).Some refrigerators Atlant have additional modes:
- 🏝️ "Vacation" —maintains the minimum temperature (+10...+15°C) during long-term absence. Saves energy, but is not suitable for storing perishable foods.
- ❄️ "Super Freeze" —temporarily lowers the temperature in the freezer to −24...−30°C for quick freezing (automatically turns off after 24–48 hours).
⚠️ Attention: If after setting the indicator flashes on the displayAlarmorHi/Lo, this means that the temperature is outside the permissible limits. Check the tightness of the door closure and the distribution of food (if they are blocking the ventilation holes).
Table: Optimal temperatures for different products
Even within the recommended range (+2...+5°C) it is worth considering what kind of products you are storing. Below are the optimal values for extending shelf life:
| Product type | Recommended temperature | Shelf/storage area |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh meat, fish | +1…+2°C | Bottom shelf (coldest place) |
| Dairy products (kefir, sour cream) | +3…+4°C | Middle shelf |
| Fruits, vegetables (except tropical) | +4…+6°C | Boxes for vegetables (high humidity area) |
| Ready meals, soups | +2…+3°C | Top shelf (under the freezer) |
| Eggs | +2…+4°C | Door (in a special tray) |
In the freezer, a temperature of −18°C is suitable for long-term storage (up to 12 months), and −24°C is suitable for quick freezing (preserves the structure of products). If you often defrost and freeze food, choose the −20…−22°C mode - this is a balance between quality and energy consumption.
Typical errors when setting the temperature
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to product damage or breakdowns. Let's look at the most common ones:
- Ignoring the season. In summer, the refrigerator works more intensely, and if you do not increase the cooling power (turn the knob 1-2 notches higher or lower the temperature on the display by 1-2°C), the compressor will turn on too often, which reduces its resource.
- Overloading the freezer. If food in the freezer is packed tightly and blocks air circulation, the temperature is distributed unevenly. As a result, some of the food thaws, and some freezes.
- Storing hot food. Placing pots of hot soup or frying pans in the refrigerator causes the temperature inside the refrigerator to rise sharply. The compressor begins to wear out, trying to compensate for the heat.
- Improper distribution of products. For example, dairy products on the bottom shelf (where it is too cold) or fruits next to meat (ethylene from fruits accelerates the spoilage of meat).
Another common problem is the door is not tightly closed. Even a small gap of 2–3 mm increases the temperature in the chamber by 3–5°C. Check:
- 🧲 The fit of the sealing rubber (it should be clean and elastic).
- 📏 The evenness of the installation of the refrigerator (when tilted back, the door may open slightly).
- 🍎 Location of products on the door (bottles or bags should not interfere with closing).
What to do if the Atlant refrigerator does not keep the temperature?
If, after setting, the temperature in the chamber does not correspond to the set one, check:
1. Thermostat - if it breaks, the compressor may not turn on or work without stopping.
2. Temperature sensor (in electronic models) - if it gives incorrect readings, the control unit does not regulate the cooling correctly.
3. Freon leak - signs: the compressor hums, but does not cool, there is no cooling on the back wall condensation.
4. Clogged capillary tube —the refrigerator freezes slightly, but without obvious signs of breakdown.
In these cases, diagnostics by a technician is required. Do not try to repair the thermostat or refill freon yourself!
How to save electricity without damaging food
A refrigerator Atlant consumes up to 30–50 kWh per month, but this figure can be reduced by 10–15% without risk to food. Here are proven methods:
- 🌡️ Optimize the temperature: in the refrigerator +4°C is enough for most products, and in the freezer -18°C instead of -24°C will reduce energy consumption by 5-7%.
- 🔄 Defrost regularly: a layer of ice 5 mm thick increases energy consumption by 20–30%. In models with
No Frostdefrosting once a year is sufficient, in regular models - every 3-6 months. - 🍲 Cool food before loading: hot dishes increase the temperature in the chamber, causing the compressor to work longer. Cool them to room temperature.
- 🔌 Check the ventilation: the back wall of the refrigerator should be 5-10 cm behind the wall, otherwise the motor will overheat.
If your refrigerator supports Vacation mode, turn it on when you leave for 1-2 weeks. It maintains a temperature of +10...+15°C, which is enough for canning and drinks, but spends 2-3 times less energy.
⚠️ Attention: Do not place the refrigerator next to a stove, radiator or window that receives direct sunlight. This increases the thermal load and forces the compressor to work at its limit, shortening its service life.
Frequently asked questions about setting the temperature in refrigerator Atlant
🔹 Why is it −24°C in the freezer, but the food still thaws?
This can happen for several reasons:
- 🔄 Frequent opening of the door (warm air gets inside).
- 🍗 Freezer overload (food blocks air circulation).
- 🧊 Malfunction of the seal or temperature sensor.
Try to arrange the food so that there are gaps between them, and check that the door is closed tightly. If the problem persists, call a technician for diagnostics.
🔹 Is it possible to set different temperatures in the upper and lower parts of the refrigerator compartment?
In most models Atlant the temperature is regulated uniformly for the entire refrigerator compartment. However, due to natural convection:
- 🥶 The lower shelves are always 1-2°C colder than the top ones.
- 🧊 The area at the back wall is colder than at the door.
Use this for rational placement of products (see table above).
🔹 How to reset the temperature settings to factory settings?
In models with electronic control:
- Press the button
Temp(orSetting) on 5–10 seconds. - A flashing message will appear on the display
rSt(Reset). - Confirm the reset with the button
OK.
In mechanical models, simply set the knob to position 3.
🔹 Why does the Atlant refrigerator freeze very much, although the knob is on minimum?
Possible reasons:
- 🔧 Faulty thermostat (sticks in the “on” position).
- 🧊 Clogged capillary tube (freon does not circulate correctly).
- 🔌 Problems with control unit (in electronic models).
Turn off the refrigerator for 12 hours (let it thaw), then turn it on again. If the problem persists, contact the service.
🔹 Do you need to change the temperature settings in winter?
Yes, in the cold season (if the refrigerator is in an unheated room or on the balcony) it is recommended:
- 🔄 Reduce the cooling power by 1-2 notches (or increase the temperature on the display 1°C).
- 🌡️ Make sure that the room temperature does not fall below +10°C - otherwise the oil in the compressor will thicken and it may fail.