Owners of household appliances are often faced with the need for scheduled maintenance, which includes not only defrosting, but also cleaning hidden structural elements. Drip moisture removal system, installed in most modern units, requires regular attention to the evaporator tray, located at the bottom of the body. Ignoring this unit can lead to the appearance of an unpleasant odor, the growth of bacteria, or even water leakage onto the floor, which is especially important for models made in Belarus.
The procedure for removing the container is not always obvious, since manufacturers often hide this element behind decorative panels or in a niche above the compressor. Depending on the series and year of manufacture Atlant refrigerator, the fastening design can vary significantly, requiring the use of different tools and techniques. Understanding the structure of your unit will help you avoid breaking plastic latches or damaging the No Frost system tubes due to careless handling.
In this guide we will analyze in detail all the stages of dismantling, paying attention to the nuances for various modifications. You will learn where to look for fasteners, how to safely disconnect the hoses and whether you need to use physical force. In models with the No Frost system, the tray is often part of a single unit with the fan, which requires special care when removing. Following a proven method will allow you to quickly put the equipment in order without calling a technician.
Location and types pallets in Atlant refrigerators
The first stage of any maintenance work is to accurately determine the location of the collecting container. In the classic two-chamber models of the brand Atlant the lower location is most often used, when the tray is located directly above the motor-compressor. This arrangement was not chosen by chance: the heat generated by a running engine promotes faster evaporation of condensate, reducing the frequency of the need for manual pumping.
However, in some series, especially built-in or narrow versions, engineers could use alternative solutions. Removable plastic tray can be mounted on the rear wall inside the camera or integrated into the water drainage system behind the rear panel of the housing. It is important to carefully examine the lower part of the unit by removing the protective grille to understand what kind of structure you are dealing with in a particular case.
The type of structure directly affects the algorithm of action. If in older models the container is simply inserted into the grooves, then in new series it can be secured with screws or special clips. Failure to correctly determine the type of fastener often results in users breaking fragile plastic while trying to force the part out. Therefore, visual diagnostics is a key point before starting active actions.
Necessary tools and preparation for work
Before starting mechanical impact on structural elements, it is necessary to ensure safe working conditions. Working with household appliances always involves the risk of electric shock, therefore disconnecting from the power supply is a mandatory first step. Even if you only plan to remove the plastic container, accidentally touching the wires or contacts can be dangerous.
To successfully complete the task, you will need a minimum set of tools, which are usually found in every home. Do not use inappropriate objects such as knives or wide-blade screwdrivers, which can damage the surface of the plastic or scratch the enamel of the case. Accuracy in this process is more important than speed.
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) for unscrewing the grille mounting screws.
- 🧤 Protective gloves to avoid getting your hands dirty when in contact with stagnant water and dust.
- 🧽 Rag or sponge to remove residual moisture and dirt around the niche.
- 🔦 Flashlight for better illumination of the space under the refrigerator.
It is also recommended to prepare a container in advance for draining water if the tray is full. In some cases, the water may have an unpleasant odor or contain mucus, so it is best to keep a disinfectant handy. Preparing the workplace will take no more than 5 minutes, but will significantly simplify the entire process.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the rear grille
Access to The tray in most models Atlant is covered with a decorative or protective grille located in the lower part of the rear wall. This element protects the compressor from dust and prevents accidental contact with hot or moving parts. Removing this panel requires care, as it is often attached to fragile plastic latches.
First you need to find all the attachment points. Typically these are two or four screws around the perimeter of the grille, but some models may only use clips. If you see screws, they should be unscrewed counterclockwise, putting the fasteners in a separate container so as not to lose them. After removing the screws, the panel should be pulled slightly towards you, starting from the bottom or top corner.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when removing the grille. If it does not give in, check whether one of the screws remains unscrewed in a hard-to-reach place, so as not to break the plastic mounting ears.
After removing the grille, you will have access to the compressor, condenser and, in fact, the pan itself. At this stage, it is important to inspect the space for the presence of additional fixing elements that could be hidden by the panel. Sometimes the tray itself may be additionally secured with a bracket, which will also need to be removed.
☑️ Preparing to remove the grille
Algorithm for removing the tray for different models
The process of removing the tray itself depends on the specific series of your refrigerator. In classic models Atlant MHM the tray is often simply inserted into the guides above the motor. To remove it, you need to grab the front edge and smoothly pull it towards you and slightly up. If the tray sits tightly, you can slightly rock it from side to side.
In models with a system No Frost the situation may be more complicated. Here the pan is often part of the evaporator unit and may be connected to a drain tube. In such cases, you must first disconnect the tube through which the water drains. It can be mounted on a clamp or simply inserted into a hole. You must act carefully so as not to damage the rubber pipe.
If the tray is secured with screws, they must be unscrewed, first holding the container itself with your hand. After loosening the fasteners, the part is removed by moving upwards towards you. It is important not to drop the tray as there may be water inside. The table below shows the differences in design for popular series.
| Refrigerator series | Type of tray mounting | Do you need a tool | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant MHM 1700 | Free fit | No | Simply extends |
| Atlant MHM 2808 | Guides + lock | No | The clip needs to be released |
| Atlant No Frost | Screws + drainage | Yes (screwdriver) | You need to disconnect the tube |
| Built-in models | Specific fasteners | Yes | Limited access |
When working with models where the pan is combined with the evaporator drip receiver, it is important not to lose the rubber seals. They ensure a tight connection and prevent water from dripping past the tray. If the rubber remains in the case, it must be carefully removed and replaced during assembly.
What to do if the tray is cracked?
If, when removing, you find a crack in the plastic tray, do not rush to throw away the part. For temporary repairs, you can use waterproof epoxy adhesive or silicone sealant, thoroughly degreasing the surface before applying. However, for a long-term solution, it is better to order an original spare part by catalog number.
Cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining the system
After you managed to pull out the pan, the stage of cleaning it begins. During operation, not only water accumulates in the container, but also dust, food particles and microorganisms that form a biofilm. It is this film that often becomes the source of a musty odor that spreads throughout the kitchen.
For effective cleaning, use a warm soapy solution. Aggressive chemistry, such as chlorine-containing products or abrasive powders, can damage the plastic, making it brittle or changing color. Regular dishwashing detergent or a weak solution of baking soda is best.
- 🚿 Rinse the tray under running hot water, removing visible dirt.
- 🧼 Wipe the inner surface with a sponge and detergent.
- 🍋 To eliminate the smell, wipe the container with a solution of citric acid or vinegar.
- 💨 Dry the pan thoroughly before installing it back.
Do not forget to also clean the drainage hole and the tube, if it is removable. A blockage in this system is the main reason why water begins to overflow over the edge of the tray. For cleaning, you can use a soft brush or a special flexible wire, but you need to act without fanaticism so as not to pierce the channel wall.
⚠️ Attention: Never put a wet tray back into the refrigerator. Remaining water can freeze at low temperatures or create a favorable environment for mold immediately after switching on.
Assembling and checking the tightness of the system
The final stage is installing the cleaned tray in place. The process is performed in reverse order: first the tray is installed on the guides or screwed, then the drainage tube is connected (if it was disconnected). Make sure that the tube fits into the tray hole deeply enough and is securely fixed.
Check the angle of the container. It should be horizontal or with a minimum slope towards the drain so that water does not splash out when the compressor vibrates. If the tray is wobbly, you may not have fully latched the fasteners or did not tighten the fastening screws.
After installing the rear grille and turning on the refrigerator to the network, check the operation of the system during the first hour. Air circulation it should be restored, and extraneous sounds should disappear. Visually check that the water is dripping into the tray and not past it.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without a tray?
Short-term operation without a tray is possible, but undesirable. Water will drip directly onto the floor or onto a hot compressor, which can cause steam, corrosion of metal parts and increased humidity in the room. In addition, the lack of water can disrupt the thermal operation of the motor in some models.
Why does water flow out from under the refrigerator even after cleaning?
This may indicate a displacement of the drain tube, which no longer fits into the tray, or an overflow of the container due to too much moisture (for example, when opening the door frequently in hot weather). There may also be a crack in the tray itself or a blockage in the drainage system.
How often should you remove and wash the tray?
The recommended frequency is once every 6-12 months, usually during general defrosting. If you notice the appearance of an odor or visible dirt, the procedure should be carried out unscheduled. Regular cleaning prevents the growth of bacteria.
What to do if the tray cannot be removed?
Do not use force. Check the instructions for your specific model Atlant. Perhaps in your modification the tray is non-removable (built-in) or requires preliminary dismantling of other elements, such as the back panel inside the chamber or the lower base.