Modern two-compressor models of the brand's refrigeration equipment Atlant are deservedly popular due to their reliability and the ability to independently control the temperature in different compartments. However, even the most advanced technology, be it a classic moisture removal system or a more advanced No Frostrequires periodic maintenance. Many owners mistakenly believe that the presence of two compressors completely eliminates the need to defrost the unit, but this is not entirely true.
The accumulation of ice crust in the freezer not only reduces the useful volume, but also forces the engine to work with increased load, which leads to an increase in energy consumption. In this article, we will analyze in detail how to correctly and safely carry out the defrosting procedure specifically for dual-circuit cooling systems in order to extend the life of your device.
Why do you need to defrost a two-compressor Atlant
The main reason for the need for regular defrosting lies in the physics of the processes of moisture evaporation from products. Even in systems with partial No Frost, where the fan circulates air, water still condenses on the walls of the evaporator, hidden behind a plastic panel. Over time, this layer of ice becomes too thick, and the standard defrosting system can no longer cope with its removal.
If you ignore the appearance of ice, the efficiency of heat transfer decreases. The compressor has to work longer to maintain the set temperature, which can lead to premature wear. In addition, a thick layer of snow impairs the tightness of the door, which can lead to spoilage of food in the refrigerator compartment.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that the refrigerator has begun to hum louder than usual or the switching cycles have become noticeably more frequent, this may be the first signal of critical icing of the evaporator.
Timely maintenance allows you to avoid the formation of so-called “ice plugs”, which can mechanically damage the fan blades or clog the drainage channels. Regular cleaning is an easy way to prevent serious damage.
Determining the type of cooling system in your model
Before taking active steps, you need to clearly understand what kind of modification Atlant you are dealing with. Two-compressor models may be equipped with different defrosting systems, and the approach to them will be different. The most common combination is: a drip system in the refrigerator compartment and Full No Frost or Low Frost in the freezer.
In Full No Frost systems, ice should not accumulate on the back wall of the chamber at all - it forms on the hidden evaporator and is removed automatically. If you see ice on food or walls, this may indicate a malfunction or violation of operating rules, and not normal operation.
How to distinguish Full No Frost from partial?
In the Full No Frost system, there are no protruding elements or holes on the back wall of the freezer, it is smooth. In systems with a partial No Frost or drip system, a plastic gutter or holes for water drainage are visible on the back wall.
For models with a classic drip system (or mixed type), defrosting is a mandatory procedure that must be carried out manually when the ice thickness reaches 3-5 millimeters. Ignoring this rule will result in the door no longer closing tightly.
Preparation for the defrosting procedure
Quality preparation takes longer than the thawing process itself, and guarantees the safety of your products and the safety of the room. The first step should always be to unplug the appliance. Remove the plug from the socket - this is a mandatory safety requirement for any manipulations with electrical wiring and water.
Next, you need to empty the cameras of their contents. All frozen food should be removed. If you plan to store them for later use, prepare thermal containers, cooler bags, or simply wrap the food in several layers of blankets and hide it in the coldest place (for example, on a balcony in winter).
- 🧊 Prepare containers in advance for collecting melt water: wide basins or baking sheets.
- 🧽 Find absorbent ones materials: old towels, cotton rags or paper napkins.
- 🧼 Prepare a mild detergent for final cleaning of the internal surfaces.
- 🚪 Provide access to the refrigerator from all sides by moving it away from the wall.
Remember to remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, egg trays and door containers. It is better to wash them separately in warm water using gentle products to avoid the appearance of foreign odors inside the chamber.
☑️ Ready for defrosting
Step-by-step process of natural defrosting
The safest method recommended by manufacturers is This is natural thawing. After you have turned off two-compressor the unit and removed the food, leave the freezer and refrigerator doors completely open. Air circulation will start the process of ice melting.
Depending on the thickness of the ice shell and the temperature in the room, the process can take from 3 to 24 hours. Do not try to speed it up with aggressive methods, since a sharp temperature change is dangerous for the materials from which the evaporator and internal plastic are made.
| Stage | Action | Important nuances |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Start | Opening the doors | Secure the doors so that they do not slam shut. |
| 2. Collecting water | Laying rags | Put absorbent material on the bottom of the chamber and in front of the threshold. |
| 3. Control | Replacing rags | Change rags when they get wet so that water does not flow onto the floor. |
| 4. Final | Removing residues | Wipe all surfaces dry before turning on. |
During the melting process, regularly check the condition of absorbent materials. If water begins to leak outside the chamber, immediately replace the rags or add additional containers. Water should not get on the electrical components or the compressor located in the lower part.
What absolutely should not be done when defrosting
There are a number of common misconceptions and dangerous tips that can lead to fatal consequences for your Atlanta. The most important rule is never use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, scrapers) to chip ice. The aluminum evaporator tubes are located very close to the surface, and it is easier to break through them than it seems.
⚠️ Attention: Damage to the evaporator will lead to freon leakage and moisture entering the system. Repair in this case will be difficult, expensive and often economically unfeasible.
It is also prohibited to use a hair dryer to speed up the process, especially if it is not an industrial one. A hot blast of air can deform the plastic housing, melt door seals or damage wiring. In addition, sudden heating is dangerous for the refrigerant in the system.
It is not recommended to pour boiling water into the chamber. Although this appears to be effective, this thermal shock can cause cracks in the plastic or compromise the seal of joints. Use only warm water to soak especially strong pieces of ice, and then with great care.
Care for seals and drainage system
While the chambers are free of food and ice, it’s time to pay attention to hygiene. The rubber seal around the perimeter of the doors is a key element in keeping the cold out. Wipe it with a soft sponge and soapy water, removing any dirt or grease that may have accumulated.
Pay special attention to the drainage hole, which is usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. If it is clogged with crumbs or mold, the condensation will not go away, but will begin to accumulate at the bottom or under the vegetable drawers. You can clean it using a special flexible brush or a cotton swab.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean cloth. Remaining moisture can quickly turn into a new layer of ice as soon as the compressor is turned on. Allow the refrigerator to dry completely for 15-20 minutes with the doors open.
Completing the process and first start-up
When all surfaces are dry and the elements are removable washed and returned to their places, you can start launching. Place the refrigerator in place, maintaining the necessary clearances for ventilation of the rear wall. Plug in the device.
Two-compressor models Atlant are characterized by the possibility of independent settings. It is recommended to first start the freezer by setting the control to the middle position and let it run for 30-40 minutes without loading food. This will allow the initial cold to form.
After the chamber has cooled down, you can gradually load in the products. You should not fill the freezer with warm food or load it completely during the first hours of operation - this will put extra stress on the system. Allow the equipment to return to operating mode within 24 hours.
How long does it take to defrost a two-compressor refrigerator?
The time depends on the thickness of the ice and the temperature in the room. Typically the process takes from 4 to 10 hours. If the ice crust is very thick (more than 1 cm), it may take up to 24 hours for the hidden elements to completely thaw.
Is it necessary to defrost an Atlant refrigerator with the No Frost system?
The No Frost system involves automatic defrosting of the evaporator. However, once every 1-2 years it is recommended to carry out a complete defrosting and washing to maintain hygiene and check the operation of the system, even if there is no visible ice.
What to do if after defrosting the refrigerator does not turn on?
Check whether the doors are tightly closed (in some models the light does not light up and the compressor does not start if the door sensor is not pressed). Also make sure that the plug is firmly inserted into the outlet. If after 30-40 minutes there is no work, contact the service.