Two-chamber refrigerators of the Belarusian brand Atlant are deservedly famous for their reliability and simplicity of design. However, even the highest quality equipment may require attention over time, especially when it comes to the thermoregulation system. If you notice that the chamber is freezing food or, conversely, it is not cold enough, and the compressor works in a strange rhythm, most likely the problem lies in the temperature sensor.
It is critically important for the owner of such equipment to understand where is the thermostat located in his specific model. Unlike modern electronic systems, where sensors are often hidden behind plastic panels, in classic models Atlant this unit is most often available for visual inspection and replacement without complex dismantling of the entire unit. Correct location determination is the first step to successful repair.
In this article we will analyze in detail the design features of the various series, explain the difference between mechanical and electronic regulators and provide a step-by-step algorithm of actions. Search for an element does not require special engineering knowledge, but requires care and compliance with safety precautions when working with electrical appliances.
Types of thermostats in Atlant refrigerators
Before you begin your search, you need to determine what type of temperature control is installed in your unit. Two-chamber models Atlant can be equipped with two main types of systems: mechanical thermostats and electronic control units. Understanding this difference radically changes the approach to troubleshooting.
Mechanical thermostat is a classic solution found in most models with adjustment knobs inside the camera. It consists of a sealed capsule of gas or liquid connected to a bellows that opens or closes electrical contacts depending on the pressure. Such devices are reliable and repairable.
The electronic control system relies on temperature sensors (thermistors), which change their resistance depending on heating or cooling. The signal from them is sent to the control module, which already makes the decision to turn on the compressor. In such models you will not find the usual rotary knob with a scale, but only a digital display.
- 🔹 Mechanical regulators are often marked TAM, K, RANCO or DANFOSS on the body.
- 🔹 Electronic sensors are small elements with two wires, often filled with compound.
- 🔹 In two-chamber models, one common thermostat or two separate ones for each chamber can be used.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to replace a mechanical thermostat with an electronic one (or vice versa) without changing the electrical circuit of the refrigerator will lead to equipment failure. Always use spare parts with identical markings.
Location in models with mechanical controls
If your refrigerator Atlant has a plastic handle with numbers from 1 to 7 (or Min/Max) installed inside the refrigerator compartment, This means you have a mechanical system installed. In two-chamber modifications thermostat most often it is hidden in the refrigerator compartment, since the temperature is controlled there, and the freezer is cooled according to the residual principle.
The standard installation location is the upper right corner refrigeration chamber. However, to get to the mechanism itself, it is often not enough to simply remove the handle. In most cases, the thermostat is hidden behind a plastic trim or cover of the light bulb. You will need to carefully pry up the plastic housing to gain access to the mounting screws.
Sometimes, especially in older series, sensor may be located directly behind the adjustment knob. In this case, dismantling begins with removing the handle itself. Be careful: plastic clips become brittle over time and can break if handled carelessly. Capillary tubecoming from the thermostat is very thin and sensitive to kinks.
It is important to note that in some models with the No Frost system (although they often contain electronics, there are also hybrids) the thermostat can control the temperature of the evaporator, and not the air in the chamber. In this case, its location may be shifted closer to the rear wall or hidden behind a decorative panel.
Searching for a sensor in electronic control systems
In more modern models Atlant with a digital display on the door or inside the camera, the search thermostat is more complicated. There is no single point of control here, as in mechanics. The system can use several sensors: one for the air environment of the refrigerator compartment, the second for the freezer, and the third can control the operation of the evaporator or the No Frost system.
Main air sensor in the refrigerator compartment is usually located in the upper part, often in a special hole on the back wall or in a corner hidden behind a decorative plug. You can get to it by removing the top cover or side panel, depending on the design of the particular series. These elements look like small plastic pins with wires suitable for them.
The freezer sensor is most often built into the wall or attached to the evaporator. To replace it, in some cases, complete defrosting of the unit and partial disassembly of the internal space are required. Electronic module The control unit, which processes signals from these sensors, is usually located in the lower part of the refrigerator, next to the compressor, or in the upper part behind the decorative strip.
- 🔸 Sensors can have different resistance at room temperature (for example, 5 kOhm, 10 kOhm, 50 kOhm).
- 🔸 A malfunction of one sensor can block the operation of the entire compressor.
- 🔸 Diagnosing electronic systems often requires a multimeter and knowledge of reference resistance values.
⚠️ Attention: Electronic temperature sensors are very sensitive to static electricity. When replacing them, it is recommended to use an antistatic wrist strap or work with cotton gloves to avoid damaging sensitive electronics.
Instructions for dismantling and accessing the thermostat
The process of gaining access to thermostat requires consistency and accuracy. Before you begin, be sure to unplug your refrigerator from the electrical outlet. Working with live electrical wiring is deadly. Next, clear the refrigerator compartment of food and shelves to provide yourself with room to maneuver.
If the thermostat is under the handle, gently pull the handle towards you. It may be a tight fit, so use a flat head screwdriver under a cloth to avoid scratching the plastic. After removing the handle, you will see the thermostat stem and possibly mounting screws. If the regulator is hidden behind the lampshade, unscrew the light bulb and remove the lampshade by unscrewing the screws under it.
For models where the thermostat is located behind the top cover of the refrigerator compartment, you will need to remove the top decorative panel. It is usually held in place by latches or screws hidden under plugs. After removing the panel, access will open to the metal body of the evaporator and the thermal sensor attached to it temperature sensor.
☑️ Checklist before dismantling
When removing the thermostat, pay attention to exactly how secured capillary tube. It can be pressed with a metal bar or inserted into a special socket. Remember or take a photo of the route of its installation, since when installing a new element it will need to be laid in exactly the same way so that it correctly reads the temperature.
Diagnostics and signs of malfunction
Understanding what exactly has gone wrong comes with experience, but there are a number of obvious signs indicating a problem with thermostat. The most obvious symptom is that the compressor either does not turn on at all or runs non-stop, ignoring the settings. In the first case, the products will flow, in the second, they will turn into ice.
For mechanical thermostats, a click is typical when switching modes. If you turn the handle and there is no characteristic sound of the contacts opening, this may indicate sticking contacts or a broken bellows seal. Also, a sign of a malfunction may be a short circuit, in which the machine in the panel knocks out when you try to turn on the refrigerator.
Checking functionality a mechanical thermostat can be carried out at home using a multimeter in dial mode. To do this, you need to remove the thermostat, immerse its sensitive part (capillary tube) in a container with cold water (about +5°C) and ring the contacts. They should call. Then lower the tube into water with ice - the contacts should open (the sound will disappear).
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| The refrigerator does not turn on | Open circuit of the thermostat | Replacing the thermostat |
| Continuous operation of the compressor | Contacts do not open | Checking and replacing the sensor |
| Weak cold in the chamber | Early opening of contacts | Adjustment or replacement |
| Sparking inside the chamber | Breakage to the housing | Urgent electrical repair |
Is it possible to temporarily bypass the thermostat?
Theoretically, if you connect the wires going to the thermostat, the compressor will start working directly. However, this is dangerous: the refrigerator will freeze indefinitely until you turn it off manually. Use this method ONLY for short-term diagnostics, but not for permanent operation.
Replacing the thermostat: key points
If diagnostics confirm a malfunction, replacing the thermostat becomes inevitable. When purchasing a new spare part in a store, be sure to check the labeling. Even if the dimensions are the same, the length of the capillary tube and the temperature response range may differ. Installing an unsuitable thermostat will lead to incorrect operation of the refrigerator.
Installing a new element is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. Pay special attention to fixation capillary tube. It should fit snugly against the evaporator or fit into the mounting hole to the full depth specified in the instructions. If the tube dangles in the air, the thermostat will read the air temperature in the chamber with a delay, which will lead to large temperature differences.
After assembling all the plastic panels and installing the handles, you can turn on the refrigerator. Don't load products right away. Let the unit idle for 2-3 hours to get into operation and make sure that the compressor cycles on and off are normal. Check the temperature in the chamber using a separate thermometer.
⚠️ Attention: The characteristics of refrigeration equipment and the availability of spare parts may vary depending on the year of manufacture and modification. Before ordering a spare part, check the full model code (located on a sticker inside the chamber or on the back) with the catalog number of the thermostat in the official reference book or with the supplier.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to repair the thermostat, or only change?
In 99% of cases thermostat it is a non-separable unit, especially modern models. Violation of the bellows tightness or wear of the contacts cannot be properly restored at home. It is cheaper and more reliable to buy a new original or high-quality analogue.
Why did the refrigerator start to turn on frequently after replacing the thermostat?
Perhaps a thermostat was installed with a different temperature response range. Also, the cause may be incorrect installation capillary tube: if it is not in close contact with the cooling element, the sensor responds to temperature changes with a delay.
Where is the thermostat located in two-compressor Atlant models?
B two-compressor models usually have two independent thermostats installed: one for the refrigeration chamber and one for the freezer. They are located in the corresponding compartments (top right) and control their compressors.
How to understand that it is the thermostat that is broken and not the compressor?
If when you turn the thermostat knob to the "maximum" position and lightly tap on the refrigerator body, the compressor does not starts, but the light in the chamber is on, there is a high probability of a malfunction of the thermostat or start relay. An accurate diagnosis will only be obtained by testing the contacts with a multimeter.