Owners of household appliances Atlant are often faced with the need to maintain the internal systems of the unit, especially when it comes to drainage and condensate removal. The question of where the tray is located in the Atlant refrigerator becomes relevant when an unpleasant odor appears, water leaks on the floor or scheduled general cleaning. Understanding the structure of the drainage system allows you to avoid calling a technician and solve the problem on your own in a matter of minutes.
The design of refrigerators of this brand, especially models with the system No Frost or Mix Frost, assumes the presence of a special tank for collecting melt water. This element is hidden from the user's eyes, which often causes difficulties when searching. Unlike open containers in older models, here you need to know the exact location of the components so as not to damage the plastic fasteners or outlet tubes.
In this article we will analyze in detail the architecture of the refrigeration cabinet, indicate the exact location of the tray for different series of equipment and provide a step-by-step algorithm for removing and cleaning it. In Atlant refrigerators, the condensate collection pan is always located in the lower part of the case, directly above the compressor. Compliance with safety rules and sequence of operations guarantees safety of the guarantee and serviceability of the equipment.
Design of the drainage system of Atlant refrigerators
To effectively remove moisture generated during the operation of the refrigeration unit, engineers have developed a complex system of channels and containers. In models with manual defrosting, water flows down the back wall into a hole and then through a tube into the evaporation tank. In more modern versions with automatic defrosting or system No Frost the principle of operation is similar, but the volume of condensate may be greater due to the operation of fans and defrosting of the evaporator.
The key element here is the drainage tray, which is installed in the high temperature zone. The heat emanating from a running motor-compressor is sufficient to quickly evaporate moisture. This prevents the container from overfilling and the need for manual cleaning during normal operation. However, over time, salts, dust and organic residues can accumulate in the water, which leads to the formation of plaque.
It is important to distinguish between the concepts of an internal tray and an external evaporator. Internal elements can be located directly behind the back panel of the freezer or refrigerator, collecting water before discharging it. The outer pan, which is most often discussed when asked “where is it located,” is the end point of the water route. It is its condition that affects the absence of puddles under the equipment.
Why does the water not evaporate completely?
In some cases, for example, with high humidity in the room or frequent opening of doors, the volume of incoming moisture may exceed the rate of natural evaporation. This is also affected by the serviceability of the defrost heating element (in No Frost models) and the tightness of the door seals.
The exact location of the tray: where to look
If you are looking for the answer to the question, where is the tray in the Atlant refrigerator, get ready to look at the bottom of the device. In the vast majority of models, including the popular series XM-4008, XM-6021 i XM-4625, this element is structurally located above the engine compartment. To gain access to it, you do not need to disassemble the inside of the refrigeration chamber; it is enough to work with the outer perimeter of the unit.
The water collection container is mounted on a frame or special slides passing above the compressor. It can be made of black or white plastic, sometimes with the addition of metal elements for better heat transfer. The shape of the tray usually follows the geometry of the engine compartment, occupying the free space above the unit, but without directly touching the hot parts to avoid deformation.
Sometimes users confuse the compressor pan with the drip tray inside the refrigeration chamber. The latter is a groove at the bottom of the back wall, from where water leaves through the drainage hole. If the problem is related to freezing of the internal hole, you need to clean it, and not the lower pan. However, if water flows along the floor, attention should be paid to the lower zone.
Step-by-step instructions for removal and cleaning
The process of removing the tray in refrigerators Atlant does not require specialized tools, but does require accuracy. The design may differ slightly depending on the year of manufacture of the model, but the general algorithm remains the same. First, you need to provide access to the rear wall of the unit by moving the refrigerator away from the wall at a sufficient distance.
Next, remove the protective rear panel of the engine compartment. It is attached with screws or latches. In some modifications, the panel can be divided into two parts: the top (covering the condenser) and the bottom (covering the compressor). We are interested in the lower section or the entire panel, if it is single. After removing the fasteners, carefully set the panel aside.
The pallet itself is usually removed by moving it towards you or by slightly lifting it if it is fixed in the grooves. Be careful: there may be water in the container. Once removed, wash it with warm water and a mild detergent. To remove stubborn plaque or mold, you can use a weak solution of soda or citric acid.
☑️ Algorithm for cleaning the tray
Table of characteristics of drainage systems of different series
Different models of refrigerators Atlant may have design features in the drainage system. Below is a comparative table to help identify the type of system in your unit and understand the service features.
>No Frost
| Refrigerator series | System type | Tray location | Access features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant XM-4008 | No Frost / Mix Frost | Above the compressor, rear | Removal of the rear metal panel is required |
| Atlant XM-6021 | No Frost | In the engine compartment | Access through the lower grille or panel |
| Atlant KSh-280 | Drip (manual) | Above the motor | Standard removable tray |
| Atlant XM-4625 | Integrated into the frame | Requires careful removal from the grooves |
As can be seen from the table, in most cases access is through the rear wall. Models with the system No Frost produce more condensate in defrost mode, so the cleanliness of the pan is critically important for them. A clogged drain or dirty pan can cause increased humidity inside the engine compartment, which leads to corrosion of metal parts.
Typical problems and methods for eliminating them
One of the most common problems that users encounter is the pan overflowing and water leaking onto the floor. This can happen for several reasons: clogging of the drain tube, displacement of the pan itself, or a violation of the tightness of the connections. If you notice a puddle under the refrigerator, first of all check whether the container is level.
Another common problem is the appearance of an unpleasant odor. In the warm and humid environment of the pallet, bacteria and mold actively multiply. Even if the water evaporates, microorganisms remain on the walls and begin to emit an odor during the next defrost cycle. Regular disinfection solves this problem.
- 🚿 Clogged tube: Water does not have time to drain into the pan and flows out over the edge of the internal gutter. The drainage hole needs to be cleaned.
- 🧊 Icing: In No Frost models, the drainage tube may freeze and water flows past the pan. It is necessary to defrost the unit completely.
- 🔧 Capacity displacement: When moving the refrigerator, the tray could jump off the guides. You need to correct its position.
⚠️ Attention: If, after cleaning the pan and checking the tubes, water continues to accumulate inside the refrigerator compartment or flow out, this may indicate a more serious malfunction, for example, a breakdown of the freon tube in the partition or a malfunction of the defrost system. In such cases, diagnostics by a specialist is required.
Prevention and care of the water drainage system
To prevent the question “where is the tray in the Atlant refrigerator” from arising too often due to emergency situations, it is recommended to carry out preventive measures. They do not take much time, but make life much easier for the owner of the equipment. The main enemy of the drainage system is debris and grease that gets into the drain hole.
When washing the refrigerator inside the chamber, pay attention to the drainage hole on the back wall. Periodically wipe it with a soft cloth or a special brush, which often comes with the equipment. This will prevent the formation of plugs that cause water to overflow over the edge of the internal gutter and ultimately end up in the pan in excess.
Also monitor the installation level of the refrigerator. If the unit is tilted backwards, water may not flow into the drainage, but may spread over the shelves. The correct tilt is strictly vertical or with a minimal slope back to close the doors tightly, but while maintaining water flow.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator without a tray installed?
It is strictly not recommended. Without a pan, condensation will drip directly onto the hot compressor and electrical contacts, which can cause a short circuit, metal corrosion and equipment failure. This will also lead to increased humidity in the room.
Why is the tray in the Atlant refrigerator full, but the water does not evaporate?
This may indicate a malfunction of the defrosting system (the heating element does not heat), due to which too much water enters the tray in one cycle, or that the tray itself is deformed and has cracks. Also, the reason may be the lack of ventilation around the engine compartment.
How can you tell if the drain tube is clogged?
Signs of a clog include water at the bottom of the refrigerator, under the vegetable drawers, or an ice coat in the bottom corner of the freezer. The water does not go into the pan, but remains inside the chambers.
Is it necessary to lubricate the pan with oil for better sliding?
No, there is no need to lubricate the pan. Oil can break down plastic and create a breeding ground for bacteria. If the tray is difficult to remove, check whether it is stuck in the guides and carefully release it without using force.