Two-chamber refrigerators of the Belarusian brand Atlantequipped with two independent compressors are one of the most reliable units in the post-Soviet space. Their key feature is the complete autonomy of the refrigerator and freezer compartments. It is this design feature that opens up a unique opportunity for owners: if necessary, you can completely stop the operation of the freezer, while maintaining the functionality of the main compartment. This function becomes relevant during the holidays, when moving, or when it is necessary to temporarily free up space for storing a large amount of fresh food.
Unlike single-compressor models, where stopping one circuit often leads to disruption of the entire system, double-circuit system allows you to manipulate operating modes almost independently. However, simply turning the thermostat knob to the “Off” position may not be enough to fully understand the processes occurring inside. It is important for the user to know not only how to click the lever, but also how to properly prepare the equipment in order to avoid the appearance of unpleasant odors or mold during downtime.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm for stopping the freezer, consider the nuances of operation thermostat and give practical advice on caring for equipment during idle periods. We will also touch on the issue of energy consumption and operational safety, since ignoring simple rules can lead to failure of the seals or compressor in the future.
The principle of operation of a dual-circuit cooling system
The fundamental difference between a model with two compressors is the presence of two separate refrigeration units contours. Each circuit has its own compressor, its own condenser, its own capillary pipeline and its own evaporator. When you adjust the temperature in the refrigerator compartment, you only affect the operation of the first motor. Likewise, the control of the freezer is exclusively tied to the second unit. This means that turning off one of them does not in any way affect the operating cycles of the other.
This circuit is implemented to increase energy efficiency and accuracy in maintaining temperature conditions. In models Atlant series 40, 42, 45 and others with an index indicating two motors, the thermostats (or electronic control modules) are physically separated. signals from temperature sensors arrive independently. This gives the user flexibility: you can turn a two-chamber refrigerator into a single-chamber one by simply “freezing” the operation of one of the circuits.
It is important to understand that when the freezer is stopped, heat from the main compartment will not be transferred to the freezer, since there is a heat-insulating partition between them. However, if your freezer defrosts, moisture inside it can cause problems. Therefore, understanding the physics of the process is necessary for proper operation.
Preparation for shutdown: assessing the need
Before starting to manipulate the settings, It’s worth weighing the pros and cons. Turning off your freezer completely isn't just a matter of turning a knob. This is a change in the thermal regime inside the cabinet. If you plan to stop the freezer for a short period of time (for example, for a week of vacation), the procedure is the same. If the equipment stands idle for months in a switched off state, the preparation requirements change radically.
The main risk of prolonged downtime of a defrosted chamber is the development of microorganisms. Even after thorough washing, mold spores may remain in hard-to-reach places of the plastic. In a warm and humid environment (after the ice has defrosted), they begin to actively reproduce. This can lead to a persistent musty smell, which is then extremely difficult to get rid of, even if you turn the freezer back on.
⚠️ Attention: If you leave the refrigerator with the freezer turned off in an unheated room (dacha, garage) in winter, make sure that there is no water left inside. Freezing of residual moisture in the drainage channels or at the bottom of the chamber can lead to mechanical damage to the plastic box or evaporator.
It is also worth considering the condition sealing rubber bands. When not in use for a long period of time, the doors should be left slightly open to allow air circulation. If this is not done, the rubber may stop, and a “swamp” will form inside. In working condition, when the freezer is simply turned off by the thermostat, but the door is closed, the risk is less, but it still exists for long periods (more than 2-3 weeks). year
Instructions: how to turn off the freezer
Procedure for turning off the freezer in a two-compressor Atlanta technically simple, but requires consistency. In most models, control is carried out by a mechanical thermostat located inside the refrigerator compartment or on the top panel (depending on the series). For a freezer, a separate regulator is usually located inside the freezer itself or on the front panel next to the indicators.
If your model has a separate switch or thermostat knob for the freezer, the algorithm is as follows. Locate the freezer temperature control. Turn it counterclockwise until it stops. Usually the extreme position is marked with a number 0 or a word Off. At this moment, you will hear a characteristic click - the contacts of the thermostat open, and the supply of electricity to the second compressor stops.
In models with electronic control (series with a display on the door), the actions may differ. You will need to enter settings mode. This often involves holding down the freezer temperature button for 3-5 seconds until the lights start flashing. Then, using the “-” or “+” buttons, you need to set the temperature value to the maximum possible (usually +10°C or higher), or activate the “Vacation” mode if it involves turning off the freezer (although more often “Vacation” turns off the refrigerator compartment).
☑️ Checklist for turning off the freezer
After you set the control to the “Off” position, the compressor will not stop instantly. It may take 5 to 20 minutes for it to complete its current cycle and shut down. This is normal operation of the automation. Do not try to speed up the process by pulling the cord out of the socket - this may damage starting relay.
What to do with food and defrosting
The most critical point is the fate of frozen food. If you unplug your freezer, everything in it will begin to defrost. The defrosting speed depends on the chamber load: a full box of ice will take longer to melt than a half-empty one. However, even with a full load, the temperature will begin to rise 2-4 hours after the compressor stops.
It is necessary to plan in advance where to place the food. If the shutdown is short-term (during cleaning), you can wrap the food in several layers of newspapers or blankets - this will create the effect of a thermos and keep it cold for 5-8 hours. If the freezer is turned off for a long period of time, the food will have to be eaten in the coming days or transferred to another working freezer.
After defrosting the food, be sure to carry out the washing procedure. Use a weak soda solution or special refrigerator cleaners. Do not use abrasive powders, as they can scratch the plastic, and dirt will later settle in microcracks. Pay special attention to the corner where the freon inlet into the evaporator is located - condensation often accumulates there. capillary tube and the freon inlet into the evaporator - condensation often accumulates there.
| Action | Execution time | Required tools | Importance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Removing products | 15-30 min | Cooler bags | High |
| Natural defrosting | 4-8 hours | Towels, basin | Required |
| Camera washing | 30 min | Sponge, soda, water | High |
| Ventilation | 2-4 hours | None | Average |
Is it possible to dry the camera with a hairdryer?
Using a hairdryer to speed up defrosting Atlant is not recommended in the freezer. The plastic from which the internal walls and drawers are made can become deformed due to local overheating. In addition, sudden temperature changes are dangerous for the evaporator. It is better to be patient and let the ice melt naturally, placing absorbent towels underneath.
Operation in the “Refrigerator” mode
When the freezer is turned off and the refrigerator compartment continues to operate, the device actually turns into a large single-chamber refrigerator. This can be convenient for storing vegetables, fruits, drinks and prepared food in large quantities. However, there are nuances that are worth knowing about.
Firstly, the temperature in the main compartment may become more stable, since the heat flow from the working freezer disappears (although in double-circuit models it is already minimal). Secondly, useful volume is freed up. But remember: if you store food in a former freezer at room temperature or refrigerator temperature, it should be in closed containers so that the smells do not mix.
It is important to monitor the condition of the doors. If the freezer is not working, condensation may form in it due to the temperature difference with the room (if the room is hot) or residual moisture. Wipe the interior surfaces with a dry cloth every few days. This will prevent black mold from forming on the seals.
In terms of energy savings, turning off one compressor reduces energy consumption by approximately 40-50%. This is a significant savings if you don't freeze. However, if you plan to turn off the freezer for only a couple of days, the savings may not cover the time spent on defrosting and washing.
Return to normal operation
When the need for a large refrigeration volume disappears, the freezer needs to be started again. Before turning on, make sure the camera is dry, clean, and free of any objects that could block the ventilation holes (if your model has them). The door must be tightly closed.
Turn the thermostat knob to the operating position. Usually this is the area between the numbers 2 and 3 or 3 and 4. Do not immediately set the maximum cold (number 5 or Max), this will create an extra load on the compressor after inactivity. Allow the system to reach temperature for 2-3 hours before loading food to freeze.
For the first couple of hours, the refrigerator may be louder than usual - this is normal, it is in the process of reaching the mode. Check if the freezer is cold by opening the door slightly (but do not keep it open for long). If after 4-6 hours the cold does not appear, and the compressor is running constantly, there may be freon leak or a breakdown of the thermostat, and you will need to call a technician.
What to do if a strong smell appears after switching on?
If after switching on If there is a smell in the freezer that does not go away after airing, use activated carbon. Crush 10-15 tablets, scatter into saucers and leave inside a closed chamber for a day. Coal is an excellent absorbent. You can also use fresh lemon or orange zest, but they need to be changed every 2 days to prevent them from becoming moldy.
Is it possible to turn off the refrigerator without defrosting it?
It is strictly not recommended to leave the refrigerator turned off with frozen food or ice inside for a long period of time. The ice will begin to melt, water will spread along the bottom, and may flow under the plastic and cause corrosion of the metal sheet of the case or damage the thermal insulation. A short-term shutdown (for a couple of hours) is acceptable, but a long-term shutdown is only after complete defrosting and drying.
Does frequent shutdown of one compressor affect its resource?
The mere fact of operating one compressor while the second one is stopped does not harm the equipment. Double-circuit systems Atlant are designed for such work. However, frequent on-off cycles of the thermostat itself (when you constantly turn the knob back and forth) wear out its contacts. If you decide to turn off the freezer, keep it in this state for a reasonable period of time (weeks, months), and do not switch it several times a day.
Do you need to lubricate the seals during long periods of inactivity?
Yes, if you turn off the freezer for a period of more than month, it is recommended to wipe the rubber door seals with glycerin or special silicone grease. This will prevent the rubber from drying out and cracks appearing, through which the cold will subsequently escape. It is better not to use ordinary sunflower oil - it can oxidize and give off an unpleasant odor.
Why does the freezer not freeze for a long time after turning on?
After a long period of inactivity, the compressor takes time to pump the refrigerant through the system and create the required pressure. The room temperature also affects: if the room is hot (+25°C and above), reaching the mode may take up to 12 hours. Do not load the chamber with warm products on the first day of operation.