Modern refrigerators Atlant are famous for their functionality and thoughtful ergonomics of the internal space, however, even the highest quality equipment requires regular maintenance. Sooner or later, every owner faces the need to carry out general cleaning, remove old stains, or simply refresh the food storage room, and the first step in this process is dismantling the internal filling. Many users mistakenly believe that this requires special tools or physical strength, but in fact the design of the shelves is designed so that they can be easily removed manually with the right approach.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that will help you safely remove glass or lattice elements without damaging either the fragile glass or the plastic guides of the unit itself. Careful study Features of fastening your model will allow you to avoid awkward situations when the shelf gets stuck or falls out of your hands at the most inopportune moment. The correct sequence of actions is the key to the cleanliness and safety of your refrigeration equipment for many years.
Design features of Atlant internal shelves
Refrigerators of the Belarusian manufacturer are equipped with various types of internal partitions, and understanding their structure is the key point before starting cleaning. Most often, models Atlant use tempered glass shelves with edging or classic lattice options made of metal with a polymer coating. Each type has its own fixation nuances, which must be taken into account so as not to use unnecessary effort and not break plastic stops.
Glass surfaces usually rest on special protrusions in the walls of the chamber or on removable plastic stops, which can be integrated into the overall design of the sidewalls. Newer models often feature a “slider” system that allows you to adjust the installation height, which adds another layer of complexity when dismantling. Metal gratings, as a rule, are simply inserted into the grooves, but over time they can “stick” to the walls due to ice or sticky contaminants.
It is important to note that the material from which the shelves are made has high strength, but is extremely sensitive to pinpoint impacts and sudden temperature changes. Tempered glass can withstand significant weight products, however, its edges remain a vulnerable point if handled carelessly. Understanding exactly how your shelf is fixed in the space of the refrigerator compartment will help you choose the right strategy for removing it without the risk of damage.
Preparation for removal: safety rules
Before taking active steps to remove the contents of the refrigerator, you must carry out a number of preparatory measures that will ensure the safety of both you and the equipment. The first and most important step is to completely empty the shelf of food, dishes and any foreign objects. Even a small weight of a package left on the glass can shift center of gravity and cause the structure to fall during dismantling.
☑️ Preparing to clean the refrigerator
It is also recommended to prepare a work area in advance where you will put the removed elements. The ideal option would be a table covered with a soft towel or a carpeted floor, which will minimize the risk of damage to the glass if it accidentally falls. If you plan to wash the shelves with hot water, make sure they have cooled to room temperature, as boiling water on cold glass can cause it to instantly shatter.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to forcefully pull out a shelf if it does not move. First of all, check to see if ice has formed at the fastening points, which could “glue” the shelf to the walls of the chamber.
Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the fastenings and guides themselves. If you notice visible damage, cracks in the glass or deformation of plastic elements, proceed with extreme caution. In such cases mechanical strength the structure is already broken, and any careless movement can be final for the part.
Algorithm for removing a glass shelf
The process of removing a glass shelf in refrigerators Atlant usually does not require the use of tools, unless it is stuck due to icing. The standard procedure begins with grabbing the shelf with both hands by the front corners or special recesses in the edging, if they are provided for by the design of the model. The movement should be smooth and upward in order to remove the front edge from engagement with the supporting elements.
After the front part is raised, you need to carefully pull the shelf towards you, moving it out of the side grooves. On some refrigerator models, the shelf may have latches on the back that require slight turning or tilting before removal. The main rule here is not to make sudden jerks, as inertia this may cause you to let go of the glass, which is slippery due to condensation, from your hands.
If the shelf is equipped with a decorative plastic frame, make sure that you are holding glass or a durable part of the frame, and not thin plastic ones sides that can break off under load. If there is a height adjustment system, before final removal you may need to move the shelf to its extreme position or unlock special latches on the side walls.
What to do if the shelf is stuck?
If the glass shelf cannot be removed, it may be frozen to the walls or jammed due to misalignment. Try slightly warming the joints with a hairdryer at minimum temperature or defrosting the refrigerator completely. Under no circumstances use a knife or other sharp objects to loosen the glass.
Dismantling lattice and drawer structures
Metal lattice shelves and drawers in refrigerators Atlant have their own installation features that differ from their glass counterparts. The gratings are most often simply inserted into horizontal grooves on the walls of the chamber, but over time they can oxidize or become so dirty that they begin to move with difficulty. To remove them, you need to lift one side of the grille to disengage it, and then carefully pull it out.
Drawers designed for storing vegetables and fruits are usually removed by fully extending them all the way. After this, you need to slightly lift the front of the drawer so that its guides come out of the grooves of the body, and pull it towards you. Some models may have stoppers that prevent the box from accidentally falling out during a sharp jerk, which must be pressed out with your fingers.
When working with metal elements, it is important to monitor the integrity of the polymer coating, which protects the metal from corrosion. Scratches and chips on the surface of the grille can become areas for the development of rust, which is especially undesirable in conditions of high humidity in the refrigerator compartment. Therefore, avoid contact of metal parts with abrasive materials or sharp edges of other objects when cleaning.
Typical problems and methods for solving them
During the operation of refrigerators Atlant users often encounter a number of typical difficulties that arise when trying to remove the shelves. One of the most common problems is glass surfaces freezing to plastic stops or chamber walls due to high humidity and temperature changes. In such a situation, the use of force is strictly prohibited, as this is guaranteed to lead to the destruction of the glass.
Another common problem is shelves jamming due to plastic deformation or foreign objects getting into the guides. Sometimes users themselves inadvertently create obstacles by leaving packages or lids in the grooves, which blocks the normal movement of the structure. In such cases, a thorough visual diagnosis and removal of all interfering elements is required before attempting dismantling again.
Below is a table that will help you quickly identify the problem and choose the right method to solve it without the risk of damaging the equipment:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| The shelf is frozen | High humidity, ice | Full defrosting or careful heating with a hair dryer |
| Drawer jammed | Foreign object in the groove | Inspect and remove the obstacle, lubricate the guides |
| The plastic stop is broken | Mechanical damage, aging of the plastic | Replacement of the part, use of a temporary support |
| The shelf is skewed | Incorrect installation, geometry defect | Alignment of the position, checking all support points |
Care and cleaning of removed elements
After successful removal of the shelves, the stage of their cleaning begins, the quality of which determines the hygienic safety of the stored products. It is best to wash glass surfaces with warm water and a mild detergent, avoiding the use of aggressive chemicals or abrasive sponges that can leave micro-scratches. Metal grilles also require careful handling, especially if they have an anti-corrosion coating.
It is important to thoroughly dry all the elements before putting them back into the refrigerator, since excess moisture will cause the rapid formation of new ice and increase humidity in the chamber. For drying, you can use soft, lint-free cloths or paper towels that will not leave lint on the surface of the glass. Pay special attention to corners and joints where dirt most often accumulates.
Regular maintenance of the interior of the refrigerator not only maintains the aesthetic appearance of the equipment, but also extends the life of its components. Clean guides and stops ensure that shelves can be easily removed in the future, preventing jamming and mechanical damage. Do not forget to periodically check the condition of the seals and fasteners during each general cleaning.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use hot water to wash glass shelves if the glass is cold, and vice versa. A sharp temperature change can lead to thermal shock and destruction of the material.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can Atlant glass shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
The manufacturer does not recommend washing glass shelves and plastic elements in the dishwasher. High water temperatures and aggressive detergents can damage the coating, cause clouding of the glass or deformation of plastic frames and fasteners.
What to do if the shelf wobbles after installation?
If the shelf wobbles, check that it is installed correctly: all corners should rest evenly on the protrusions intended for this. Also make sure that the guides are not dirty or damaged. In some cases, wobbling may be caused by uneven installation of the refrigerator itself.
How often should you remove and wash the shelves in the refrigerator?
It is recommended to completely clean the refrigerator by removing all shelves and drawers at least once every 3-4 months. However, if stains, odors or sticky marks appear, cleaning should be carried out immediately, without waiting for the scheduled date.
Where can you buy a replacement if the shelf is broken?
Original spare parts for refrigerators Atlant can be purchased at the brand's authorized service centers or from official dealers. When ordering, be sure to indicate the exact model of your refrigerator, since the dimensions and configuration of the shelves may differ even within the same series.