When your Atlant refrigerator stops maintaining the desired temperature, stops turning off or, conversely, does not start compressor, the first suspicious part is the thermostat. It is this small device that is responsible for the cyclical operation of the entire cooling system, and its malfunction paralyzes the functionality of the unit. Owners are often faced with a dilemma: buy an expensive original or look for a more affordable analogue, which, according to sellers, fits perfectly.
The problem is aggravated by the fact that the model range of the Belarusian manufacturer is extensive, and different control systems have been used over the years of production. Single-chamber models require the same solutions, and two-chamber ones are completely different. An error in choice can lead to the fact that the new thermostat simply will not fit into place or will not work correctly, causing rapid freezing of the evaporator.
In this article we will look at how to determine exactly which one thermostat your refrigerator needs, consider the compatibility table of popular analogues and We will describe the replacement process in detail. You will learn to distinguish between capillary tubes of different lengths and understand why correct setting of the switching differential is important.
Diagnostics of thermostat malfunction
Before running to the store for spare parts, you need to make sure that the problem lies in the thermostat and not in a leak freon or compressor malfunction. Symptoms of failure may be similar, but there are key differences. If the compressor hums continuously without turning off, and a “coat” of ice has formed in the chamber, and when you turn the control knob there is no click, this is a sure sign of failure of the contact group.
On the other hand, if the refrigerator is silent, the light inside is on, but there is no cold, it is worth checking whether the voltage reaches the motor. Often the cause is a broken circuit in the thermostat. For an accurate check, technicians use a multimeter in continuity mode.
⚠️ Attention: Before any diagnostics and opening the case, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! Working with live electrical wiring is deadly.
There is a simple folk test method that does not require tools, but gives a rough understanding of the situation. If you take the thermostat out of the chamber and let it warm up in your hands and a characteristic click is heard, the mechanics are most likely intact. However, this method does not guarantee the tightness of the bellows and the absence of gas leakage inside the tube itself.
Types of thermostats used in Atlant technology
Atlant plant engineers over the years have installed temperature controllers from various manufacturers on their refrigerators. The main division is based on the type of control: mechanical and electronic. Older and budget models are dominated by mechanical thermostats, the operation of which is based on the expansion and compression of gas in a bellows.
Modern models, especially with the No Frost system and electronic control, use temperature sensors (thermistors), which transmit data to the main control unit. Replacing such elements requires not just physical installation, but often also reprogramming or setting up the board, which makes their replacement a more complex procedure.
The most common mechanical models are brand regulators Tam (Italy), K-59 (Denmark/China) and domestic TAM-133. They differ in the length of the capillary tube, the shape of the body and the location of the contacts. It is important to understand that even if the thermostat is suitable in size, its temperature range may not meet the requirements of your refrigerator.
What is the difference between Tam-133 and K-59?
The main difference is the design of the bellows and the length of the capillary tube. TAM-133 often has a shorter capillary and is designed for single-chamber refrigerators or freezers, while K-59 (analogue of Ranco K59) is more often used in two-chamber models to control the main compartment.
Compatibility table and spare part codes
Choosing the right spare part is 90% of the success of the repair. Below is a table that will help you navigate the markings. Please note that the length of the capillary tube is critical: if it is too short, the sensor will not reach the evaporator; if it is too long, it will have to be carefully laid, avoiding kinks.
| Thermostat model | Refrigerator type | Capillary length | Original analogue |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAM-133 | Single-chamber / Freezer | 0.75 m - 1.3 m | T-133, T-130 |
| K-59 L1188 | Two-chamber (main camera) | 2.5 m | Ranco K59 |
| TAM-145 | Two-chamber (with signal) | 1.3 m | T-145 |
| Ort-133 | Budget models | 0.75 m | Replacement TAM-133 |
When purchasing, pay attention to the presence of a third contact on the thermostat body. It is responsible for lighting up red light hazard alarms. If your refrigerator does not have such an indicator, you can install a thermostat with three contacts (just do not connect the alarm wire) or with two, if the design allows.
Sometimes there are situations when the original thermostat is discontinued. In this case, you have to look for cross codes. For example, instead of the rare Italian Carello more affordable Chinese or Russian analogues with similar pressure characteristics are often successfully installed.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing a thermostat
The process of replacing a mechanical thermostat is technically simple, but requires care. The main thing is not to damage the capillary tube, since it is filled with freon under pressure, and any puncture will lead to failure of the spare part.
☑️ Checklist before starting work
First you need to dismantle the old part. In Atlant refrigerators, the thermostat is usually hidden under a plastic cover, behind the adjustment knob or inside the lampshade. Remove the handle, unscrew the screws and gain access to the housing.
Carefully disconnect the wires. It is best to first photograph the connection diagram or mark the wires with a markerso as not to confuse phase and zero during assembly. Then carefully pull the capillary tube out of the mounting hole in the chamber wall.
Installing the new thermostat in the reverse order. Insert the capillary tube very carefully, without sudden movements. After installing all the components and checking the reliability of the contacts, you can turn on the refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: Under no circumstances bend the capillary tube at an acute angle or crush it with pliers! This will lead to instant depressurization of the bellows.
Nuances of setup and adjustment
After installing a new thermostat, it may need to be adjusted. Factory settings are not always ideal for specific operating conditions, especially if you replaced the original with an analogue from another brand. Adjustment is carried out through a special screw located on the body.
To access the adjustment screw, it is often necessary to remove the plastic cover. Turning the screw clockwise usually increases the shutdown temperature (differential), making the operating cycle shorter. Counterclockwise - lengthens the compressor cycle, lowering the temperature.
Use an external thermometer, placing it in the chamber, to monitor the actual readings. You should not chase extremely low temperatures, this will increase the load on compressor and will lead to excessive energy consumption.
Common mistakes when choosing and installing
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring the type of refrigeration chamber. Installing a thermostat for the main compartment in the freezer will result in the temperature there not being low enough to store food for a long time.
Also, beginners often forget about insulation. The point where the capillary tube exits into the chamber must be hermetically sealed with a standard plug or high-quality sealant. Otherwise, warm, humid air will enter the refrigerator through this hole, causing increased freezing and freezing of the “fur coat” on the back wall.
Another mistake is the use of inappropriate wires to extend the contacts. The wires must be able to withstand the current drawn by the compressor (usually up to 10-15 Amps). Using thin wires from headphones or chargers will cause them to heat up and possibly catch fire.
Is it possible to install a thermostat with three contacts instead of two?
Yes, you can. The third contact is usually responsible for the hazard warning lamp. If your refrigerator model does not have such a light bulb, the third contact simply remains free. The main thing is that the main contacts (phase and zero) are connected correctly.
Why does the new thermostat click, but the refrigerator does not turn on?
If there is a click, then the mechanics are working. The problem may be with the compressor itself, the start relay, or a broken wiring. It is also worth checking whether voltage is supplied to the thermostat input using a multimeter.
How often do you need to change the thermostat in the Atlant refrigerator?
The service life of a high-quality thermostat is 10-15 years. However, frequent power surges or constant operation of the refrigerator at maximum cold can reduce this period to 5-7 years.
Does the length of the capillary tube affect the operation?
Yes, it does critically. If the tube is too short, the sensing element will not reach the evaporator area, and the thermostat will “lie”, turning off too early. A tube that is too long can be carefully placed in a ring inside the body, but cannot be shortened.