Refrigerators of the Belarusian brand “Atlant” are deservedly popular due to their reliability and affordable maintenance costs. However, if the cooling system breaks down or the circuit loses its tightness, the owner is faced with a critical question: what kind of freon was used in the production of a particular model. Not only the efficiency of cold restoration depends on the correct answer, but also the safety of operation of the device as a whole.
Unlike Soviet equipment that worked on fire-hazardous mixtures, modern units use more environmentally friendly and safe substances. However, they should not be confused. Refrigerant is the working fluid of the refrigeration cycle, which circulates through a system of tubes, taking heat from the chambers. The wrong choice of substance can lead to compressor failure or even fire.
In this article we will analyze in detail what types of gases are used in various lines of Atlant refrigerators, how to identify them and why independent replacement requires strict adherence to technology. Understanding the physics of the process will help you competently approach repairs or diagnose a malfunction.
Main types of refrigerants in Atlant technology
The history of the development of Atlant refrigeration equipment goes back several decades, and during this time the plant engineers used different working substances. In older models produced in the 90s and early 2000s, R134a freon was most often found. This is a colorless, odorless gas that replaced the ozone-depleting R12.
Modern models, especially narrow and built-in refrigerators, are almost entirely converted to isobutane (R600a). This substance has excellent thermodynamic properties, but requires increased care during installation. Isobutane Heavier than air, it has no color, but in high concentrations it can be explosive when in contact with an open fire.
⚠️ Attention: Mixing different types of refrigerants (for example, adding R134a into a system designed for R600a) is strictly prohibited. This leads to a chemical reaction, the formation of acids in the compressor oil and rapid destruction of the mechanism.
The type of gas can be determined not only by markings, but also by indirect signs. For example, refrigerators with R600a often have smaller capillary tubes and less oil in the compressor. In addition, charging such systems requires more accurate scales, since the amount of gas is measured in grams, not kilograms.
For diagnostics and correct selection of components, it is important to know the distinctive features of each type. Below is a comparative description of the main refrigerants used in the products of the Minsk plant.
| Parameter | R134a (Tetrafluoroethane) | R600a (Isobutane) | R12 (Freon-12) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical formula | CH2FCF3 | C4H10 | CCl2F2 |
| Boiling point | -26.1 °C | -11.7 °C | -29.8 °C |
| Flammability | Not flammable | Flammable | Non-flammable |
| System pressure | Average | Low | Average |
| Environmentally friendly | Safe for ozone | Ozone safe | Destroys the ozone layer |
How to determine the brand of freon from the label
The most reliable way to find out what what gas is filled in your Atlant refrigerator is to find the factory identification plate. Manufacturers are required to display this information in a visible place. Usually it is a silver or white sticker with the ATLANT logo and a barcode.
The location of the label may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the design of the case. In most cases, you should look for it inside the refrigerator compartment on the side wall, closer to the shelves. In some models, especially older series, the sticker may be located on the back wall outside, next to the compressor.
On the label you are interested in the field where Refrigerant or “Refrigerant” is indicated. Next to this word there will be a marking, for example, R600a or R134a, and the exact amount of the substance in grams (for example, 52g or 140g) will be indicated. This figure is critical for the technician when refueling.
What to do if the label is unreadable or torn off?
If the sticker is damaged, you can try to find the technical data sheet of the device. Also, the type of refrigerant is often duplicated on the nameplate of the compressor itself, located at the bottom of the unit at the rear. Look for the inscription "Refrigerant" on the metal motor tag.
Sometimes the information on the label can be erased or damaged by detergents. In this case, you should not rely on memory or advice from neighbors. It is better to double-check the data on the compressor model. Compressors different manufacturers (Secop, Danfoss, Atlant) have their own markings, which clearly indicate compatibility with a certain type of freon.
⚠️ Attention: If you plan to order a refilling service, never allow the technician to act “on eye." Require weighing the amount of gas being charged. Overfilling or underfilling will lead to improper operation of the refrigerator.
Knowing the exact markings is necessary not only for refilling, but also for finding leaks. Different types of leak detectors are configured for different gases. For example, a halogen leak detector perfectly “sees” R134a, but may be less effective or require reconfiguration for R600a.
Features of operation of R600a (Isobutane)
The transition of the refrigeration industry to isobutane is due to high requirements for energy efficiency and ecology. Atlant refrigerators running on R600a consume less electricity and are quieter. However, the chemical nature of this gas dictates its own strict rules for operation and repair.
The main feature of isobutane is its flammability. Unlike previous generations of freons, which were used even in aerosols, R600a in a concentration of 1.3–8.5% in air forms an explosive mixture. This does not mean that the refrigerator is dangerous in everyday life, but if the tightness of the circuit is broken, there is a risk.
When repairing such systems, craftsmen use special equipment. Soldering work They are carried out with extreme caution, often using nitrogen purge, to displace oxygen from the tubes and prevent the ignition of oil or gas residues inside the system. Non-sparking tools are also used.
If you hear hissing or smell a specific smell (although pure isobutane has almost no smell, the smell is given by special odorant additives) when working with the back wall of the refrigerator, stop working immediately. It is necessary to ventilate the room and exclude sources of open flame.
It is important to note that the oil used in R600a compressors has a synthetic or semi-synthetic base (often polyester POE). It is hygroscopic, that is, it actively absorbs moisture from the air. Therefore, evacuation of the system before refilling should be carried out longer and better than in systems with mineral oil.
Compatibility of oils and compressors
The choice of refrigerant is inextricably linked with the type compressor oil. Atlant refrigerators use different types of lubricants that are chemically compatible only with certain gases. Confusion in this matter is one of the most common causes of repeated breakdowns after repair.
Synthetic polyester oil (POE) is traditionally used for R134a freon. It has excellent miscibility with this gas, which ensures that the oil returns to the compressor. However, it is very sensitive to moisture. When in contact with water, such oil quickly oxidizes, forming an acid that corrodes the motor windings.
For isobutane R600a, synthetic oils are also used, but with other additives. Some old Atlant models on R12 used mineral oil. Mixing mineral and polyester oils are unacceptable - they form an insoluble precipitate that clogs the capillary tube and filter drier.
When replacing a compressor with an analogue (for example, instead of the native Atlant they install Secop or Embraco) it is necessary strictly monitor the type of oil already poured into the new engine. If the oil in the new compressor does not suit your system (for example, you are changing R134a to R600a or vice versa), the system must be thoroughly flushed.
☑️ Check before replacing the compressor
The process of replacing and refilling the refrigerant
Refilling the refrigerator Atlant is a technological process that cannot be performed efficiently without professional equipment. It includes several stages: finding and eliminating leaks, replacing the filter-drier, evacuation and dosed refilling.
First, the technician must find the location of the leak. At home, this is done using soapy water, but professionals use leak detectors or the method of raising pressure with nitrogen. After sealing the hole or replacing the tube, the system must be purged with nitrogen to remove combustion products and moisture.
The key step is evacuation. Using a vacuum pump, all air and moisture vapor are pumped out of the circuit. The duration of the process depends on the power of the pump and the volume of the system, but is usually at least 15-20 minutes. Residual moisture in the system is the main enemy of the compressor.
The final stage is refueling. Gas is refilled strictly according to the scale. For R600a, the error should not exceed 1-2 grams. Filling by eye or by pressure (which is acceptable for R12, but not for R600a) will lead to unstable operation. The pressure in the R600a system is below atmospheric when turned off, so pressure gauges can lie without taking into account weight.
⚠️ Attention: After refueling, be sure to check the tightness of all new connections with a soap solution. Even a microscopic leak will eventually lead to loss of cold and moisture entering the circuit.
Frequent problems and their solutions
Owners of Atlant refrigerators may encounter a number of problems related to the refrigerant. The most common is a gradual decrease in cooling efficiency. If the freezer is working, and the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is higher than normal, this may indicate a partial leak of freon.
Another symptom is that the compressor works continuously, without turning off, trying to gain temperature. In this case, a uniform layer of frost may not form on the evaporator (the back wall inside the chamber), or it appears only at the entrance of the tube. This is a sign of underfilling refrigerant or blockage.
If after repair the refrigerator began to operate louder or gurgling sounds appeared, the oil-to-gas ratio may have been disrupted, or there may be air left in the system. In the case of R600a, gurgling when the compressor stops is normal, but constant noise during operation requires diagnosis.
The table below shows the main symptoms and their probable causes related to gas:
| Symptom | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The refrigerator does not freeze, the compressor is cold | Total freon leak | Search for leaks, soldering, vacuum, refilling |
| The compressor is hot, turns off by thermal | Clogged or underfilled gas | Cleaning the system or refilling |
| Frost only at the entrance to the evaporator | Lack of refrigerant | Refilling (rarely) or searching for a leak |
| Gurgling after stopping | Normal for R600a | No intervention required |
Is it possible to refuel the refrigerator yourself?
Theoretically, you can by buying a cylinder with gas and scales. But without a vacuum pump and experience, you will force moisture into the system, which will kill the compressor in a few months. Savings on a technician will backfire.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to refill an Atlant refrigerator with R134a instead of R600a?
No, this is impossible without completely replacing the system. These gases have different operating pressures, require different oils and reconfigure the thermostat. A compressor designed for R600a may not be able to handle R134a due to the difference in performance and required torque.
How many grams of freon is needed for an Atlant refrigerator?
The quantity depends on the model and volume of the chambers. For R600a this is usually 30–60 grams. For R134a - 70–140 grams. The exact value is always indicated on the manufacturer's label inside the refrigerator compartment.
Why did the refrigerator stop freezing after refueling?
Possible reasons: the technician put excess oil into the system, did not replace the filter-drier (moisture remained), did not create a vacuum properly, or used low-quality gas with impurities. A factory defect of the new compressor is also possible. Is it dangerous to breathe freon vapors from the refrigerator? R600a in a closed area with a large leak creates a risk of explosion from a spark. If you suspect a leak, ventilate the room.
Is it dangerous to breathe freon vapors from the refrigerator?
Short-term inhalation of small concentrations of R134a or R600a is not fatal, but may cause dizziness, nausea and mucous membrane irritation. R600a in a closed area with a large leak creates a risk of explosion from a spark. If you suspect a leak, ventilate the room.
How often should you change the freon in the refrigerator?
Freon has no expiration date and is not consumed during operation, like fuel in a car. The system is sealed. Replacement is required only in case of mechanical damage to the circuit (corrosion, breakdown) or after replacing the compressor.