Buying household appliances often turns into a real quest, especially when you are faced with a long string of numbers and letters that mean nothing to the average person. The marking on the case or in the warranty card is not just a random set of characters, but an encoded passport of the device containing information about its dimensions, defrosting system, climate class and even year of production. Understanding this logic is necessary not only when choosing new equipment in a store, but also when searching for spare parts for repairs, when you need to know exactly the type of compressor or evaporator design.
In this article we will look in detail at how the coding system of the Belarusian manufacturer works Atlant, and we will learn to “read” the characteristics of the refrigerator by its name. This knowledge will help you avoid mistakes when ordering parts or choosing a model for a specific niche in the kitchen, because each number in the model code carries an important technical load.
Labeling structure: what the code is made up of
The standard refrigerator model Atlant consists of a letter part (usually XM or MX) and a sequence of seven numbers separated by dots. It is these numbers that are the key to understanding what you are holding in your hands. The first two digits after the letters they determine the total volume of the fridge compartment and the dimensions of the device. This is a fundamental parameter on which all further classification is based. For example, the number 40 or 41 will indicate a standard height of 150-160 cm, and 60 or 62 - for high models under 2 meters.
It is important to understand that the manufacturer uses a single coding system for the entire model range, which simplifies navigation. However, there are nuances depending on the year of manufacture and series, so it is always worth checking the data with official documentation if you are engaged in professional repairs. The third digit in the code always indicates the number of chambers (1, 2 or 3), which is a critical difference between a simple refrigerator and a freezer.
Having dealt with the dimensions and number of compartments, you can move on to more subtle settings hidden in subsequent symbols. The fourth digit will tell you about the defrosting system, which directly affects the operating comfort and frequency of maintenance of the unit. Knowing this parameter will help you understand whether you will need to regularly pick up an ice scraper or the refrigerator will do everything itself.
Decoding the number of chambers and their volume
As already mentioned, third digit in the marking is responsible for the configuration of the internal space. This is one of the most important parameters, as it determines the functionality of the device. The line Atlant adopts the following logic: one indicates a single-chamber refrigerator (only a refrigerator compartment or a freezer with a small refrigerator compartment at the top), two is a classic two-chamber version with a freezer at the bottom or top, and three indicates the presence of three chambers, which is often found in models with a separate freshness zone or zero chamber.
It is worth noting that for single-chamber refrigerators (where the third digit is 1), the volume of the freezer compartment, if there is one, is usually small and does not require a separate defrosting system. In two-chamber models (number 2), volumes can vary significantly, and this is already reflected in the first two digits code. For example, models with code 40-45 have a smaller total volume than models with code 60-63.
Below is a table that will help you quickly navigate the meaning of the first three digits of the model code:
| Code (first 3 digits) | Device type | Approximate height | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24x, 25x, 28x | Freezer | 85 cm | Low, under the countertop |
| 33x, 34x | Refrigerator | 140-150 cm | Single-chamber, small volume |
| 40x, 41x, 42x | Double-chamber | 150-160 cm | Classic, bottom freezer |
| 43x, 44x, 45x | Two-chamber | 170-180 cm | Medium height, increased volume |
| 60x, 62x, 63x | Two-chamber | 200-205 cm | Tall, large volume |
Defrosting systems: what the fourth digit hides
The fourth digit in the digital sequence of the model - this is an indicator of technology evaporator defrost. This parameter determines how often you will have to service the refrigerator. In modern models Atlant the most common systems are No Frost (complete defrosting) and a drip system (crying evaporator). Understanding the differences between them will help you correctly assess the energy consumption and noise level of the device.
If the code contains a number 1, this means the presence of a system No Frost in the freezer compartment, and sometimes in refrigerator compartment (Full No Frost). Such models do not require manual defrosting, since moisture is removed by a fan and heater. The number 2 indicates the drip system in the refrigerator compartment and manual defrosting of the freezer (or semi-automatic). These are simpler and quieter units, but require attention once every six months to a year.
There are also modifications with numbers 3 or 4, which can indicate combined systems or specific series released in certain periods. For example, some models with the number 4 may have an improved air circulation system. Always check the technical data sheet, as designations may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture of a particular series.
⚠️ Attention: If you are replacing a thermostat or defrost sensor, make sure that the new part matches the type of defrost system indicated in the fourth digit of the model. Installing a sensor from No Frost in a drip refrigerator will lead to incorrect operation.
Climate class and type of refrigerant
The fifth digit in the marking tells us about the climate class of the device. This is a parameter that determines the range of ambient temperatures at which the refrigerator can operate efficiently. For Belarus and Russia, the most relevant classes are N (normal, up to +32°C) and SN (subnormal, up to +32°C, but start at +10°C). In the code, these classes usually correspond to certain numerical values that allow you to quickly identify the suitability of equipment for a hot kitchen or unheated room.
Sixth digit often indicates the type of refrigerant used (freon) or the design features of the compressor. In modern models Atlant eco-friendly R600a (isobutane) is increasingly used, which requires less substance for refilling and has excellent refrigeration properties. Older models could work on R134a. Knowing the type of freon is critically important during repairs: they cannot be mixed, and different oils are used in the compressor.
The seventh and last digit most often indicates the color of the housing or the type of coating (silver, beige, white, wood). This is a cosmetic parameter that does not affect the technical characteristics, but is important when selecting equipment for the interior.
Is it possible to use the Atlant refrigerator on the balcony?
Technically, if the temperature does not fall below the minimum threshold of the climate class (usually +10°C for SN) and does not rise above +32-38°C. However, the manufacturer does not recommend installation on an unheated balcony due to the risk of condensation in the electrics and solidification of the oil in the compressor.
Where to find the serial number and production date
The model is only half the information. Ordering spare parts, especially compressors or control boards, is often required serial number. It allows you to accurately determine the year of manufacture and revision of the unit. On the equipment Atlant this data is located on a special sticker. Most often, it is located inside the refrigerator compartment: on the left or right wall, less often - on the back wall inside or on the plinth in front.
The serial number looks like a long sequence of numbers. The first two digits of the serial number often indicate the year of manufacture (for example, 21 - 2021, 19 - 2019), although the coding may have been different in older models. The following numbers may indicate the month or week of production. This information is necessary, since different years of production of the same model could use different compressors (for example, Secop instead of Atlant or vice versa) or different types of thermostats.
- 🔍 Inside the chamber: inspect the side walls at the shelf level, the sticker may be protected by a transparent film.
- 🔍 On the base: bottom front of the refrigerator, sometimes hidden by a decorative grill.
- 🔍 Rear: on the back metal wall, closer to the compressor (less common due to inconvenience of reading).
⚠️ Attention: Never remove the factory sticker with serial number and model! This is the main document for warranty service. If the sticker is erased, take a photo of the remaining data and save the purchase receipts.
☑️ Check before ordering spare parts
Frequent problems during decoding and repair
Despite the logic of the system, users and professionals often encounter difficulties. One of the common problems is confusion between the compressor model and the refrigerator model. The compressor (motor) itself also has a sticker with its numbers (for example, CK 105 MA2R). These numbers indicate power, refrigerant type and starting resistance, but they are not a model of the entire refrigerator. compressor model and the model of the refrigerator. The compressor (motor) itself also has a sticker with its numbers (for example, CK 105 MA2R). These numbers indicate the power, refrigerant type and starting resistance, but they are not a model of the entire refrigerator.
Another complication arises with transition models. The plant Atlant is constantly modernizing production. A model released in 2015 and a model with the same name but released in 2018 may have different defrost systems or sensor locations. That is why serial number is often more important than just the model code indicated in the catalog.
It is also worth considering that the letters at the beginning of the code matter. XM is a classic refrigerator MX - often a freezer or a model with a different arrangement of chambers. Sometimes there is a letter N at the end or middle, which may indicate the presence of a display or electronics control system (for example, N series).
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell by the numbers whether the refrigerator has No Frost?
Look at the fourth digit in the seven-digit model code. If it says “1” (for example, Atlant 4501-232), then the freezer definitely has a No Frost system. If it is “2” or “3”, then it is most likely a drip system or a combined one.
What does it mean if the refrigerator is humming after defrosting?
If the model with No Frost is humming (fourth digit 1), the fan may have failed or ice has frozen on the blades. In drip systems (number 2), the hum may be associated with vibration of the tubes or the operation of the compressor. Check whether the tubes are touching the housing.
Is it possible to replace the Atlant compressor with another brand?
Yes, they often install Secop (Danfoss) or Embraco. The main thing is to match the power (in W or BTU), the type of refrigerant (R134a or R600a) and the starting device. However, it is better to select an analogue recommended for a specific model by catalog number.
Where is the drying filter in Atlant models?
A filter drier is a copper cylinder located on the back wall of the refrigerator, usually near the compressor, at the outlet of the condenser (black radiator) before entering the capillary tube. It looks like a small barrel, often painted black or copper.
Why does one of the chambers not work in a two-chamber refrigerator?
If the upper chamber does not cool while the lower chamber is working, the problem is a clogged capillary, a freon leak, or a malfunction of the damper (if there is one). If the bottom one does not freeze, the defrosting heating element, timer or fan (in No Frost) may fail. Diagnostics by a specialist is required.