Many owners of Belarusian-made equipment are wondering whether it is possible to completely turn off the freezer compartment, leaving the refrigerator compartment active. This need often arises when you are away for a long time or when you need to free up space to store only fresh food. However, the design features of most models Atlant do not provide for independent shutdown of the compressor for one of the chambers.
The cooling system in these units is usually tied to one engine, which pumps refrigerant through both circuits. Trying to isolate one of the compartments in software is impossible, since the control electronics are designed to work together. However, there are ways to minimize the operation of the freezer or switch it to economy mode.
In this article we will analyze in detail the technical nuances of the operation of two-chamber refrigerators, consider the possibility of setting the temperature to the highest possible values and discuss why completely deactivating one chamber can lead to breakdown. You will learn how to properly operate household appliancesto extend its service life.
The principle of operation of the Atlant refrigeration system
Understanding the physics of processes inside the refrigerator helps to avoid errors during operation. In classic models Atlant with one compressor, freon circulates along a single circuit, passing first through the condenser, then through the evaporator of the freezer and then into the refrigerator. A thermostat or electronic sensor reads the temperature in one of the compartments (usually in the refrigerator) and gives a command to start or stop the engine.
If you try to artificially “deceive” the system by blocking the cold supply to the freezer, this will lead to an imbalance in the thermal balance. The compressor will run idle or, conversely, will not turn on, which will cause defrosting of the products in the main compartment. Refrigerant must circulate freely throughout the entire system for correct heat exchange.
⚠️ Attention: Attempts to physically compress the tubes or block the dampers (if they exist) without special knowledge can lead to depressurization of the circuit and the release of freon. This requires expensive professional repairs.
Modern models with the system No Frost or “Full No Frost” have a more complex air flow structure. Here the fan drives cold air from the evaporator into both chambers through special channels. The adjustment occurs through dampers controlled by a stepper motor. Even in such systems, the manufacturer, as a rule, does not provide complete software shutdown of one zone.
Possibilities of electronic temperature control
Owners of electronically controlled refrigerators are luckier, since they can flexibly adjust operating parameters. The control panel usually contains indicators or a display that allows you to set the temperature in each compartment separately. However, the range of adjustments is limited by the logic of the controller.
For a freezer, the minimum temperature is usually -18°C or -24°C (Super Freeze mode), and the maximum is about -6°C or -8°C. By setting the value to maximum, you will actually turn the freezer into a compartment for short-term storage of products that do not require deep freezing, but you will not be able to completely stop the cooling process.
Why can’t you set 0 degrees in the freezer?
The controller logic will not allow you to set the temperature above the freezing threshold of water in the freezer compartment, as this will disrupt the compressor operation algorithms and may lead to the formation of condensation and ice in the air supply channels.
Mechanical thermostats, presented in the form of a rotary knob with numbers from 1 to 7, work differently. Here the numbers do not indicate degrees, but the intensity of cooling. Position “1” or “Min” corresponds to the lowest cooling capacity. Moving the handle to this position is the only available way to “turn off” the freezer as much as possible in older models.
The “Vacation” mode and its effect on the operation of the cameras
Many users confuse the “Holiday” mode with the ability to turn off the freezer. This function is indeed present in many models Atlant, but its purpose is diametrically opposite. When the “Vacation” mode is activated, it turns off refrigerator compartment, and the freezer continues to operate in normal mode.
This is done to save energy and prevent the appearance of mold and odor in the empty main compartment while the owners are away. The freezer remains on to preserve frozen food supplies. You can activate this mode through the control panel by holding down the corresponding button for a few seconds.
An attempt to use this mode for the opposite effect (turning off the freezer) will not work. The system will continue to maintain a low temperature in the upper (or lower, depending on model) compartment. The only way to stop the freezer is to completely disconnect the device from the network.
Mechanical thermostat control
In models with mechanical control, such as the popular series Atlant MXM, adjustment is carried out by a thermostat. This device responds to temperature changes and opens or closes the electrical circuit of the compressor. By turning the knob you change the moment of contact activation.
When the regulator is set to the minimum cold position, the compressor will turn on less often, and the temperature in the freezer can rise to -6...-8°C. This is not sufficient for long-term storage of meat or fish, but is acceptable for ice or ice cream in the short term. It is important to understand that thermostat does not turn off the camera completely, but only changes the response threshold.
There is a common misconception that turning the knob all the way counterclockwise (or to position 0) turns off the freezer. In most cases, position “0” means the refrigerator is completely turned off. Check the instructions for your specific model so as not to be left without food in both chambers.
Specifics of models with two compressors
The situation changes dramatically if you own a premium model Atlant with two independent compressors. In such units (often large two- or three-chamber refrigerators), each chamber has its own cooling circuit and its own engine.
Theoretically, in such systems one of the compressors can be turned off. However, this is rarely done using standard means (buttons on the panel). Most often, intervention in the electrical circuit or the use of a special service mode, available only to specialists, is required. Independently disconnecting the wire from the freezer compressor is possible, but requires skills in working with electrical wiring.
| Type of system | Number of compressors | Is it possible to turn off the freezer? | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-compressor | 1 | No (min. temperature only) | High (food spoilage) |
| Two-compressor | 2 | Yes (technically) | Medium (skills required) |
| Full No Frost | 1 or 2 | None (total air flow) | High (icing) |
| Crying type | 1 | No | Average |
If you decide to turn off the second compressor, remember safety. It is necessary to turn off the power to the device, gain access to the back wall and carefully disconnect the starting wire. After connecting to the network, only the refrigeration compartment will work. Important: after such manipulations, the manufacturer's warranty will be void.
Frequent errors and precautions
In an effort to save energy or adapt the refrigerator to suit their needs, users often make mistakes. One of the most common is sealing temperature sensors or air supply channels with tape. This leads to incorrect readings from the sensors and overheating of the compressor, as it will work non-stop.
Another mistake is storing products that require deep freezing in the freezer at elevated temperatures. In such conditions, bacteria begin to multiply faster, and the structure of the products is destroyed. If you do not need the freezer, it would be better to defrost it, wash it and keep the door ajar.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave a closed, empty but working freezer at minimum cold for a long period of time. This creates excess load on the compressor and increases energy consumption without benefit.
It is also worth mentioning the risks associated with attempts to flash control modules. Some “craftsmen” suggest changing the controller’s program code to prevent the freezer from operating. This is extremely risky: an error in the code can “kill” the control board, the cost of which is a significant part of the price of a new refrigerator.
☑️ Check before changing settings
Alternative solutions for storing food
If the purpose of turning off the freezer is to use its volume for storing vegetables or other products, that do not require freezing, it is better to consider other options. The temperature in a switched off but closed freezer (with the main compartment running) will fluctuate around +8...+12°C, which is an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria.
To store a large volume of fresh food, it is better to use the main volume of the refrigerator, optimizing the shelves. There are special containers and organizers that allow you to compactly place supplies. If there is absolutely not enough space, it is more advisable to purchase a separate chest freezer or, conversely, a refrigerator without a freezer.
In some cases, simply rearranging the products helps. Frozen convenience foods take up a lot of space. If you rarely use them, you might want to avoid storing them at home and buy fresh food as needed. This will free up space and allow you to use the freezer for its intended purpose.
⚠️ Attention: The design and operating algorithms of refrigerators may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification. Always check the technical documentation that comes with your device.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to completely turn off the freezer with the button on the panel?
Most models Atlant with one compressor do not have this function. The buttons only allow you to adjust the temperature within specified limits, but not completely turn off the cooling circuit. The exception is rare models with two compressors, where it is theoretically possible to turn off one of them, but there is usually no standard button for this.
What happens if you keep the freezer at the minimum temperature all the time?
When you set the minimum cooling mode (the maximum value on the thermostat or the highest temperature on display), the compressor will turn on less frequently. However, food in the freezer may begin to thaw if the temperature rises above -6°C. Long-term storage of meat or fish in such conditions is dangerous to health.
Why does the freezer not turn off in the "Vacation" mode?
The "Holiday" mode is designed specifically to save energy during a long absence of owners. Its logic is based on turning off the refrigerator compartment, where food can spoil and become stinky, while the freezer stores frozen stocks, consuming a minimum of energy to maintain the temperature.
Is it safe to turn off the second compressor yourself?
Technically, this is possible if you have electrical skills and access to the back panel of the appliance. However, this action will void the warranty and carries the risk of electric shock or damage to wiring. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better not to interfere with the electrical circuit of the device.
How to store a refrigerator if you do not need a freezer?
If you do not need a freezer, it is best to completely defrost the refrigerator, wash and dry all compartments. After this, leave the doors of both chambers slightly open to allow air to circulate. This will prevent the appearance of mold and unpleasant odors, and will also save energy.