Owners of refrigerators Atlant with two compressors are often faced with the need to change the operating mode of the equipment, especially in winter or during a long absence. The design feature, where a separate one is responsible for cooling each chamber, provides a unique opportunity to control them independently. This allows you to save energy by leaving only the refrigeration compartment working while the freezer is idle. unit, provides a unique opportunity to control them independently. This saves energy by leaving only the refrigerator compartment running while the freezer is idle.
However, simply unplugging the appliance from the outlet is not enough if you want to store food in the upper compartment. For correct operation, an understanding of the principles refrigerant circulation and temperature control is required. In this article we will analyze in detail mechanical and electronic adjustment methods, as well as precautions that will help avoid equipment breakdown.
The principle of operation of a dual-circuit cooling system
The key difference two-compressor models from single-compressor systems consist in complete autonomy of the circuits. While one chamber has its own compressor evaporator, cooling can be completely turned off in the second. This is achieved due to the presence of two separate thermostats or electronic control units.
It is important to understand that thermostat in such models is usually responsible only for its circuit. Turning the regulator knob to its extreme position (usually counterclockwise all the way or to the number 0) breaks the electrical circuit of the particular compressor that serves the freezer. At the same time, the main unit continues to function normally.
⚠️ Attention: Not all two-compressor models have a mechanical freezer switch. In some modern series Atlant control is carried out exclusively through an electronic display, where physical shutdown of the circuit is impossible without resetting the settings.
The independence of the circuits also means that when one of them is turned off Freon the second continues to circulate without changes. This eliminates the risk of the main compartment defrosting, which often happens in models with one motor and a No Frost system when trying to use it economically.
Mechanical shutdown through a thermostat
The most common way to deactivate the freezer in classic models Atlant —use of a mechanical temperature controller. It is usually located inside the camera or on the top panel of the case. You need to find the handle that is responsible specifically for the lower compartment.
The shutdown process requires precision. It is necessary to smoothly turn the handle counterclockwise. At a certain moment you will feel a slight click - this is the contacts opening thermostat. Further rotation (if it is possible by design) moves the regulator to the “Off” or “0” position.
After turning off, the freezer compressor will stop humming. However, to ensure the success of the operation, listen to the operation of the equipment after 10-15 minutes. If it stops getting cold in the chamber and the motor is silent, it means circuit successfully isolated.
- 🧊 Find the regulator marked with a snowflake icon or the word “Freezer”.
- 🔙 Turn the knob against clockwise until a characteristic click.
- 🔇 Make sure that the lower compressor has stopped making operating sounds.
- 🌡️ Check that there is no cold in the chamber after a few hours.
It is worth noting that in some older models, complete shutdown may require setting the knob to the “minimum” position, which is actually stop position for electric motor.
Setting up electronic control and display
In more modern series Atlant temperature control is placed on an external panel with LED display. Here, mechanical shutdown is impossible, since the electronic module is responsible for all processes. To turn off the freezer, you need to switch it to the maximum temperature mode.
Using the control buttons, select the freezer circuit (often indicated by a snowflake or asterisk symbol). By successively pressing the “Temp” button or the arrows, increase the temperature value to the maximum possible limit, usually this +5°C or +8°C. With these values, the compressor will not turn on, since the sensor will not detect exceeding the threshold.
⚠️ Attention: In some models with electronics, when the temperature reaches higher 0°C an alarm may sound. This is normal, but you will have to manually turn off the sound alert every few hours.
If your model supports the Vacation function, using this mode is the safest way. The system itself optimizes operation algorithmsby turning off the freezer and switching the refrigerator to economy mode.
Table of temperature conditions and their influence
Understanding how different settings affect operation compressorwill help avoid mistakes. Below is a table showing the dependence of the motor operation on the set parameters in dual-circuit systems.
| Regulator position | Temperature range | Compressor condition | Energy consumption |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum (Min) | Above +10°C | Off | 0 W |
| Average (3-4) | -12°C ... -18°C | Cyclic operation | Normal |
| Minimum (Max) | Below -24°C | Continuous operation | Maximum |
| Super Freeze mode | Forced cold | Work without stopping | High |
As can be seen from the data, for full shutdown it is necessary to reach the area where the thermostat breaks the circuit. In electronic models, this corresponds to setting the temperature above the freezing point of water. It is important not to confuse the modes in order to prevent defrosting of food in the main compartment.
Incorrect settings can lead to the fact that evaporator the freezer remains warm, which will provoke the growth of bacteria, even if the ice has not yet visually melted. Therefore, temperature control is required.
Features of operation in winter
Using a refrigerator Atlant in winter on an unheated dacha or balcony requires a special approach. Although the two-compressor system is reliable, compressor oil can thicken at low temperatures, making it difficult to start.
If you decide to turn off the freezer in winter to use the refrigerator as a cabinet for vegetables or drinks, make sure that the temperature in the room does not drop below +5°C. Otherwise, the main compartment thermostat may also stop turning on the motor, and the food will spoil.
Is it possible to store a refrigerator in an unheated room in winter?
You can store an empty refrigerator, but manufacturers do not recommend turning it on at temperatures below +5°C. This is due to the risk of condensation inside the wiring and thickening of the oil in the compressor.
In winter, the risk of formation ice plugs in the drainage system also increases if the humidity in the room is high. Regularly check the condition of the seals and the cleanliness of the drainage hole.
Checklist for preparing for long-term downtime of the freezer
Before leaving the freezer turned off for a long period of time, it is necessary to carry out a number of preparatory measures. This will preserve the resource of the equipment and prevent the occurrence of an unpleasant odor.
☑️ Preparing the freezer for downtime
Pay special attention sealing rubber bands. If the chamber is sealed without operation, mold may form inside. Leave a gap for air circulation or use special door latches.
It is also recommended to treat surfaces with an antibacterial compound to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms in heat. After returning to full operation, ventilate the camera for 24 hours.
Common mistakes when disconnecting circuits
Users often make mistakes when trying to save on electricity. One of the most common is an attempt to seal the temperature sensor or artificially cool it in order to turn off the compressor. This leads to incorrect operation electronics and possible failure.
Another error is turning off only one compressor when there is a common fan in the system (in rare hybrid models). In such cases air circulation may stop and the main compartment will stop cooling despite the motor running.
⚠️ Attention: Never use external timers or smart plugs to cycle the refrigerator on and off to simulate the operation of a thermostat. This is guaranteed to fail compressor due to water hammer in the system.
Always rely on the standard controls provided by the manufacturer Atlant. They are designed taking into account the thermal loads and characteristics of refrigerant.
Return to normal operation
When the need to turn off the freezer is no longer necessary, turning it on should proceed smoothly. A sudden start after a long period of inactivity can be stressful for mechanisms. Set the regulator to the middle position and connect the power (if it was turned off).
Loading with products should not be done immediately. Allow the chamber to reach temperature for 2-4 hours. Only after the mode has stabilized can you load products small portions so as not to overload the compressor.
Check that the door is closed tightly. After inactivity, the rubber seal could become deformed. If you notice a loose fit, warm the rubber with a hairdryer or treat it with silicone.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to turn off the freezer if there is only one refrigerator, but has two compressors?
Yes, this is only possible in two-compressor models. You turn off the thermostat responsible for the lower circuit, and the freezer stops working while the upper chamber continues to freeze.
Will electricity be consumed if the freezer is turned off by the regulator?
Consumption will be minimal, comparable to standby mode, if there is a display. The compressor itself and the fan (if it is separate) will not consume energy, since the circuit is open.
What to do if, after turning off the freezer, the main compartment became warmer?
In two-compressor Atlantakh the circuits are independent. If it gets warmer, check if you accidentally touched the main chamber regulator, or if the door seal is broken. It is also possible that the model has a common ventilation system, and turning off one circuit upsets the balance.
How can you tell that the freezer thermostat has actually turned off?
The most accurate sign is a characteristic click when you turn the knob and the cessation of vibration/hum of the lower compressor. You can also use a thermometer: after 2-3 hours the temperature in the chamber will begin to rise.
Is it harmful for the compressor to be turned off for a long time?
It is not harmful for the compressor itself. The main risk is moisture and corrosion of internal components if the chamber remains closed. Therefore, during prolonged periods of inactivity, it is better to keep the door ajar.