The choice of refrigeration equipment for the kitchen is often based on the reliability of the brand, and Belarusian Atlanta are deservedly popular due to the availability of spare parts. However, when equipment breaks down, the owner’s first question is identifying the core of the unit - the compressor. Understanding which motor is installed in your two-chamber refrigerator is critical for proper repair or replacement.
Two-chamber models from this manufacturer are equipped with different types of motors depending on the year of manufacture and series. In older modifications, you can most often find piston units, while more modern versions can be equipped with inverter or linear compression units. Precise marking will help avoid mistakes when purchasing spare parts.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main types of compressors that were installed in two-chamber Atlant refrigerators over the past decades. You will learn to independently determine the engine model, read technical specifications and understand the differences between original components and analogues.
Main types of compressors in Atlant technology
Historically, the Atlant plant used several main suppliers and its own developments to complete its refrigerators. The most common option for classic two-chamber models is piston compressors with a reciprocating piston movement. They are distinguished by a simple design, high maintainability and affordable cost.
In addition to the classics, the model range also includes more modern solutions. In particular, some series were equipped with engines produced by Danfoss (later renamed to Secop), which proved to be extremely reliable and quiet units. It is also worth noting the appearance of inverter models in new lines that provide smoother operation and energy savings.
- 🔧 Piston motors - a classic solution with a high compression ratio, but a noticeable noise level at start.
- ❄️ Secop/Danfoss units —sealed units, often installed on more expensive or export versions of refrigerators.
- ⚡ Inverter systems —modern motors with soft start, no sudden voltage surges and low energy consumption.
It is important to understand that the type of compressor directly affects the connection diagram and the required parameters of the starting relay. Replacing one type with another without changing the electrical circuit can lead to equipment failure.
How to determine the compressor model by marking
You don’t need to be a refrigeration engineer to accurately identify the engine. All the necessary information is contained on a metal tag that is glued to the body of the compressor itself. To access it, you need to move the refrigerator away from the wall, remove the back metal cover at the bottom of the unit and clean the surface of the motor from dust.
On the nameplate you will find a series of numbers and letters. The key parameters are the model (for example CT 110 GK or H 80), refrigerant (usually R134a or R600a) and power. It is this data that must be reported to the spare parts seller or looked for in compatibility catalogs. Compressor model This is the main key to success.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to scrape off the markings with a knife or solvent. If the sticker is not readable, use a flashlight and a magnifying glass at an acute angle to distinguish the embossed symbols.
Decoding Atlant codes
In Atlant models there are often markings where the first letters indicate the series, and the numbers indicate the cooling capacity. For example, in the H 80 code, the letter H may indicate the low-temperature class, and the numbers 80 may indicate the cylinder volume or power in cubic centimeters. The exact decoding depends on the year of manufacture and the engine manufacturer (Mogilev or a foreign partner).
Often owners confuse the model of the refrigerator itself (indicated inside the chamber or on the case) with the model of the compressor. These are different things. The compressor can be replaced with one similar in characteristics, even if its marking differs from the factory one, the main thing is compliance with the technical parameters.
Comparative table of characteristics of popular models
When selecting a replacement, it is important to take into account not only the mounting dimensions, but also the technical characteristics. Below is a table comparing popular models of compressors that can be found in two-chamber Atlant refrigerators of different years of manufacture.
| Compressor model | Refrigerant type | Power (W) | Noise level | Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant 80 | R134a | 135 | Medium | Classic two-chamber |
| Secop TL 80 GK | R134a | 110 | Low | Middle class models |
| Atlant 110 | R134a | 160 | High | Large freezers |
| Embraco R 600a | R600a | 95 | Low | Modern energy efficient |
As can be seen from the table, even with similar power, the noise level and the type of freon used can dramatically differ. Replacing a compressor from R134a to R600a requires a complete re-soldering of the system and replacement of the filter-drier, since oils and refrigerants are incompatible.
Features of Atlant and Secop compressors
Compressors of the Atlant plant's own production (often labeled as Atlant or have series codes 80, 90, 100, 110) are most common in the budget and mid-range segments. Their main advantage is unification. You can find such a motor in almost any service center, and the price for them remains affordable.
On the other hand, engines Secop (previously Danfoss) are considered the standard of reliability in the industry. In Atlant two-chamber refrigerators they were often found in series aimed at export or the premium segment. These units operate quieter, have less backlash in parts and, as a rule, last longer without the need for intervention.
- 🛠 Maintainability —Atlantas are easier to find on sale, Secop more often require ordering.
- 🔊 Noise —Secop are noticeably quieter, especially at low speeds.
- 💰 Cost - original Secop can cost 1.5-2 times more expensive than domestic analogues.
When choosing between a restored original and a new analogue, experts are often inclined to install a new compressor, even if it is not an original brand, but a proven one analogue (for example, Embraco or GMCC). This guarantees a predictable service life.
Symptoms of malfunction and the need for replacement
You can understand that the compressor in your Atlant two-chamber refrigerator requires replacement by a number of characteristic signs. The first sign is often a change in the nature of the operation: the motor starts to turn on more often than usual or, conversely, works continuously without turning off.
If you hear a loud metallic knock, clicks when trying to start, or a hum that abruptly stops after a few seconds, this indicates problems with the trigger mechanism or jamming of the piston group. Thermal relay in such cases it works, turning off the power to prevent fire.
⚠️ Attention: If the compressor is hot to the touch and the refrigerator is not freezing, do not continue operation under any circumstances. This can lead to complete burnout of the motor windings.
Another important symptom is the absence of vibration on the body of a running motor. If the refrigerator hums, but the compressor housing remains cold and does not vibrate, it means that the valves have broken or the shaft has turned, and freon is not compressed.
☑️ Compressor diagnostics
Replacement process and technical nuances
Replacing a compressor in a two-chamber refrigeration is a complex technical process that requires special equipment. You will need a burner, a vacuum pump, a pressure gauge station and a scale for refilling freon. Simply “unscrewing and screwing” a new motor will not work, since the system must be absolutely sealed.
First, the old unit is dismantled with preliminary bleeding of the remaining refrigerant (although in domestic conditions this is often ignored, which is a violation of environmental standards). Then a new compressor is sealed, always with the installation of a new one, which absorbs moisture from the system. filter-drier, which absorbs moisture from the system.
The final stage is evacuation of the circuit to remove air and moisture, followed by charging with a precisely calculated amount of refrigerant. An error in dosage of even 10-15 grams can lead to incorrect operation of the refrigerator or failure of the new compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and requirements for refueling may vary depending on the modification. Always check the official service documentation or the sign inside the refrigerator before starting work.
Why should you not leave the system open?
The time during which the system with open pipes is exposed to air should be minimal (no more than 15-20 minutes). Otherwise, moisture from the air will be absorbed into the oil and the walls of the tubes, which will lead to the formation of ice plugs and acid that destroys the compressor from the inside.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to replace the Atlant compressor with an analogue from another manufacturer?
Yes, it is possible if the main ones match parameters: cooling capacity, type of refrigerant, overall and connection dimensions. However, it may be necessary to replace the start relay and filter drier.
What is the service life of the compressor in the Atlant refrigerator?
The average service life of a piston compressor is from 7 to 10 years of intensive use. With careful use and a stable voltage in the network, it can last up to 15 years or more.
Why is the new compressor loud?
The reasons may be improper installation (vibration is transmitted to the body), lack of rubber shock absorbers, excess freon in the system or defective product itself. Also, a new engine may require time to “break in.”
Is it necessary to flush the system when replacing a compressor?
Nitrogen flushing is required if the old compressor has burned out to remove oil combustion products. If the replacement is planned and the system is sealed, it is enough to replace the filter drier.