Owners of Belarusian brand refrigerators Atlant often face a situation when it becomes necessary to use only the refrigerator compartment, ignoring the freezer. This may be caused by a desire to save energy, the need to free up space for storing fresh food, or a temporary freezer breakdown. In models equipped two compressors, the design allows theoretical separation of the operation of the circuits, which gives the user some flexibility in controlling temperature conditions.
However, before proceeding with any manipulations, it is necessary to understand the principle of operation No Frost systems or drip defrost installed in your unit. Simply turning off the power to one of the compressors can lead to disruption of refrigerant circulation or failure of the electronics if the model does not provide such a function as standard. In this article, we will analyze in detail safe methods for deactivating the freezer and explain why some methods are better not to be used.
Modern two-compressor refrigerators Atlant are designed to ensure independent operation of the cooling zones. This means that thermostat or the electronic control unit of each camera operates autonomously. Understanding this architecture is critical for proper configuration, since an attempt to “deceive” the system without knowledge of the circuitry can lead to incorrect operation of temperature sensors and increased energy consumption in idle mode.
The principle of operation of a two-compressor system
Fundamental difference between refrigerators Atlant with two motors is the presence of two independent cooling circuits. First compressor is solely responsible for maintaining a low temperature in the freezer compartment, while second unit cools the main refrigeration compartment. This scheme ensures high energy efficiency, since when the refrigerator door is opened, the freezer motor does not start, and vice versa.
Each circuit has its own thermostat or an electronic sensor that reads the temperature inside the chamber and gives a command to turn the compressor on or off. In mechanical models, these are simple devices that open the circuit when the specified parameters are reached. In electronic versions, the process is responsible control module, which analyzes sensor readings and regulates the operation of the motor and fans.
⚠️ Attention: In some models with the system No Frost fans can be common or have a complex blowing pattern. Disabling one compressor can disrupt the evaporator defrost algorithm, which will lead to the formation of an ice coat and breakdown of the heating element.
The independence of the circuits allows you to theoretically turn off one of the zones without affecting the other, but only if this is provided for by the design of the thermostat. If you turn the freezer's mechanical control knob to the "0" or "Off" position, the power circuit to the first compressor will open and it will stop working. In this case, the second motor will continue to function normally, maintaining cold in the main chamber.
Regular shutdown methods through the control panel
The safest and most correct way to turn off the freezer is use of standard controls provided by the manufacturer. In most models Atlant with electronic control there is a special mode, often called “Holiday” or the ability to individually adjust the temperature. If your model is equipped with a display on the door, the algorithm of actions will be as follows.
You need to find the button for setting the temperature or operating modes. By clicking on it, you switch control zones. When the freezer indicator lights up on the screen (usually indicated by a snowflake or a -symbol), you need to hold the temperature reduction button until the "Off" or dash value appears. This indicates that controller received a command not to start the freezer compressor.
- 🔹 Find the control panel on the refrigerator body or inside the chamber.
- 🔹 Press the mode selection button until the freezer indicator activates camera.
- 🔹 Hold the temperature reduction button until the shutdown symbol appears.
- 🔹 Confirm the action if the model requires confirmation after 5-10 seconds.
For models with mechanical thermostats (twists inside the chamber) the process is even simpler. Inside the freezer compartment there is a knob with numbers from 1 to 7 (or Min/Max). Turning this knob counterclockwise all the way to the “0” or “Off” position physically opens the thermostat contacts. The compressor stops receiving electric current and stops.
What happens to defrosting when turned off?
When the freezer is turned off, the defrosting system also stops working. This means that if moisture remains in the chamber, it will not be removed automatically, which can lead to the appearance of a damp smell.
Mechanical shutdown of the thermostat
In old or budget models Atlant, where there is no electronics, the only standard method is mechanical action on the thermostat. Thermostat is a device that is sensitive to temperature changes. Inside its bellows tube there is a refrigerant, which, when heated, expands and closes the contacts, starting the motor.
When you move the knob to the "Off" position, you forcefully open the contacts, preventing current from passing to the compressor windings. This is absolutely safe for the electrical network, but requires monitoring the temperature in the main chamber if you accidentally touch the refrigerator compartment regulator. It is important to make sure that you are turning the freezer handle and not the main compartment.
Users often wonder if they can simply pull out the thermostat. You should not do this unless necessary, as it can damage capillary tube or break the tightness of the system. Mechanical damage to the tube will lead to freon leakage and expensive repairs, which will require calling a technician and using special equipment for refilling.
Electrical disconnection of the compressor
There is a more radical method that involves interfering with the electrical circuit of the unit. This method is only suitable for those who have basic skills in working with electrical appliances and understand the risks. The essence of the method is to physically disconnect the wire coming from the thermostat to the freezer compressor. To implement this method, you need to remove the top cover of the refrigerator (in some models the back panel) to gain access to the compressors. Find the motor responsible for the freezer (they are usually located nearby, but may be marked). By disconnecting the terminal coming from the thermostat, you are guaranteed to stop the engine. However, this method has its drawbacks. start relay freezer compressor.
To implement this method, you must remove the top cover of the refrigerator (in some models the back panel) to gain access to the compressors. Find the motor responsible for the freezer (they are usually located nearby, but may be marked). By disconnecting the terminal coming from the thermostat, you are guaranteed to stop the engine. However, this method has its drawbacks.
⚠️ Attention: Any opening of the electrical part of the refrigerator should be done only after completely disconnecting the device from the 220V network. Failure to comply with safety regulations can lead to electric shock.
The main disadvantage of this approach is the loss of warranty and the risk of incorrect assembly. In addition, if your model Atlant implements a complex diagnostic system, the absence of a signal from the compressor may be perceived by the control board as a malfunction, and the refrigerator will go into emergency mode, ceasing to cool the main chamber.
If you still decide to take this step, use wire markings. Typically, thermostat wires are a specific color that is different from the fan or lamp power wires. Secure the disconnected end with insulating tape to prevent short circuit. After completing the experiments, be sure to return all connections to their original state.
Nuances of the No Frost system
Owners of models Atlant with the system No Frost should be especially careful. In such refrigerators, air circulation is often organized in such a way that cold air from the freezer is supplied to the refrigerator compartment through special channels. If you turn off the freezer compressor, not only the cooling will stop, but also the operation of the fan that circulates the air.
This can lead to the fact that the refrigerator compartment will become warmer than usual, as the overall air exchange will be disrupted. In addition, the evaporator defrost system (heating elements and timer) is often tied to the compressor operating cycles. Stopping the motor can “freeze” the defrost timer, and the next time you turn it on, the ice on the evaporator will not melt, which will lead to blockage of the channels.
| Parameter | Standard mode | When the freezer is turned off |
|---|---|---|
| Fan operation | Cyclic | Stopped (in most models) |
| Air circulation | Active | Disturbed / Absent |
| Defrost system | Automatic | Not working / Timer failure |
| Temperature in cold storage | Stable (+4°C) | Can increase (+6...+8°C) |
Therefore, for models with No Frost it is strongly recommended to use only software shutdown methods through the menu, if they are provided by the manufacturer. Mechanical or electrical shutdown in such systems is fraught with rapid failure of sensors and heating elements.
☑️ Check before shutdown
Impact on food safety and energy consumption
Disconnection of one of the chambers directly affects the microclimate inside the refrigerator and energy consumption. Naturally, the operation of one compressor instead of two reduces current consumption by about 40-50%. This may be relevant in the summer or during a long absence of the owners, when the freezer is not needed.
However, it is worth considering that a refrigerator deprived of normal air circulation (in the case of models with a common ventilation circuit) may work less efficiently. The main compressor may turn on more often, trying to compensate for heat inflows, which were previously partially stopped by cold from the adjacent chamber through the partition.
As for products, the temperature in the main chamber may fluctuate more when the freezer is turned off. Dairy products and meat require a stable regimen. If you plan to store perishable food, check the temperature regularly using an external thermometer. Make sure that it does not exceed the permissible standards for specific types of food.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to completely unplug the freezer's power cord from the outlet if there are two of them?
No, in most models Atlant two compressors are powered through one common cord and internal wiring. There is no separate outlet for each motor. Trying to find and cut the wire inside the case is dangerous and voids the warranty.
Why did the refrigerator become warmer after turning off the freezer?
This is typical for systems with a single evaporator or a general ventilation system No Frost. Cold air stops circulating, and the main compressor cannot cope with the heat flow through the wall, which was previously cold.
Is it harmful for a compressor to work while the neighboring one is turned off?
The mere fact of one compressor operating while the second one is turned off does not cause harm, since they are independent. However, if, due to a shutdown, the thermal balance of the housing is disrupted, the remaining motor can work with increased load, which reduces its resource.
How to understand which thermostat is responsible for what?
Usually the regulators are signed or marked. If not, turn on the refrigerator and listen: the compressor that hummed after turning the knob is responsible for the corresponding chamber. You can also put your hand on the condenser grille at the back - it will be warm when the motor is running.
Is it possible to use the "Vacation" mode to turn off the freezer?
The "Vacation" mode in refrigerators Atlant is most often designed to save energy when the doors are closed, keeping minimal cold to prevent mold from growing. It does not always completely turn off the freezer, but only maintains its temperature at about +10...+15°C. Check the instructions for your specific model.