Owners of two-chamber refrigerators Belarusian-made products are often faced with the need to carry out general cleaning or remove an ice plug without affecting the main refrigeration compartment. This is a completely reasonable desire, since completely turning off the device requires unloading all products, including perishable ones, and waiting for the temperature regime to be restored in the entire volume. Fortunately, the design of most models Atlant allows you to carry out manipulations more flexibly, using the features of the control system.
However, before taking active steps, you need to clearly understand the type of your device. Older models with mechanical controls and a single compressor physically cannot be partially turned off, since the cold is generated in the freezer and transferred to the refrigerator compartment. In such cases, we are talking about a temporary increase in temperature or the use of special modes, if they are provided by the electronics. New units with a system No Frost or electronic control provide more opportunities for selective maintenance.
It is also important to consider that any procedure associated with disruption of the normal operating cycle of the compressor must be carried out with caution. Incorrect actions can lead to engine overload or thermostat failure. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithms of action for various series of equipment so that you can safely and effectively cope with ice.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the device from the electrical network, unless the instructions suggest otherwise. Working with live electrical wiring or internal components is prohibited and life-threatening.
Design features of Atlant refrigerators
Understanding the operating principle of your model is the key to success. Equipment Atlant is divided into several large groups according to the type of cooling. In classic two-chamber models with a drip system (“weeping wall”), the evaporator is located behind the rear wall of the freezer. This is where the main process of ice formation occurs. The refrigeration compartment in such devices often depends on the influx of cold from above or from the side.
Modern modifications equipped with the system No Frostare designed differently. In them, the evaporator is hidden and blown by a fan. Ice should not form in the working chamber, but in practice, due to a loose seal or frequent opening of the doors, freezing still occurs. Defrosting such models requires a special approach, since water must flow freely into the drainage hole without freezing in the channel.
Models with two compressors deserve special attention. This is the most convenient option for the user who wants to isolate the freezer. In such units, the cooling circuits are completely independent. You can turn off one compressor while leaving the second one running normally. This allows you to store food in the refrigerator compartment while the freezer goes through a defrosting and washing cycle.
Is it possible to turn off only the freezer
The question of whether it is possible to defrost the freezer separately in the Atlant refrigerator without turning off the refrigerator compartment has a positive answer only for older models. If your device is equipped with electronic control and two compressors, this problem is solved programmatically or by physically turning off one of the units. In models with one compressor and a mechanical thermostat, it is technically impossible to turn off the cold completely in one chamber and keep it in another without disrupting the work cycle.
In devices with an electronic display, there is often a “Vacation” or “Holiday” function. Although initially it is designed to save energy during a long absence of owners (turns off the refrigerator compartment, leaving the freezer), in some advanced models Atlant with a freshness zone or zero chamber, the logic can be inverted or adapted by the user through the service menu. However, you should not rely on this without consulting the manual for a specific series.
If you have a model with one compressor, but you want to clean only the freezer, you will have to use a trick. You can leave the refrigerator on, but open the freezer door and forcefully raise the temperature in it, while the lower compartment remains cold due to inertia and the operation of the thermostat. But this method is ineffective for completely defrosting ice.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to resolder the freon circuits yourself or install additional taps on the cooling system. This will void the warranty and a possible refrigerant leak.
Preparation for the defrosting procedure
Regardless of the method chosen, the preparatory stage is critical for the safety of food and cleanliness in the kitchen. First you need to empty the freezer of its contents. If you do not turn off the refrigerator compartment, food from it can be temporarily moved to the freezer, if there is free space and the temperature allows, or use cooler bags.
Next, you should prepare a place to collect water. Melt water can be in large volumes, especially if the ice crust is thick. Cover the floor around the refrigerator with absorbent rags or towels. Prepare a shallow bowl or baking tray that can be placed under the drainage hole or placed on the bottom shelf.
You will also need the following tools and products:
- 🧽 Soft sponge and microfiber cloths to remove moisture and dirt.
- 🧴 Dishwashing liquid or a special spray for refrigerators (non-abrasive).
- 🌡️ Hairdryer (only for models without plastic, which requires careful handling, and with caution).
- 🧹 Wooden or plastic spatula for carefully chipping ice.
☑️ Checklist preparation
Step-by-step defrosting instructions for different models
The defrosting process depends on the type of control. For models with a mechanical regulator (a knob inside the chamber), the algorithm is simple: you unplug the device from the outlet or twist the regulator to the “0” or “Off” position. If you have a two-compressor model, look on the cabinet or inside (often in the upper right corner of the refrigerator) for the compressor switch. Turn off the one that controls the freezer (usually marked with a snowflake).
In models with electronic control (Atlant XM-4425, XM-6025 and analogues), you must use the control panel. Press and hold the on/off button for a few seconds, or use a combination of buttons to enter setup mode. Find the freezer light and turn it off. Some models require entering the service menu, where you can force defrost.
If you use a hair dryer to speed up the process, keep it at least 30 cm away from plastic parts and never direct a stream of hot air directly at glass shelves or temperature sensors. Sudden temperature changes can cause cracks. It is best to let the ice melt naturally by placing a container with warm water inside.
| Model type | Shutdown method | Defrost time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanics (1 compressor) | Turn the regulator to 0 | 12-24 hours | The entire refrigerator turns off |
| Electronics (1 compressor) | Button on the panel | 8-12 hours | Quick defrosting mode possible |
| Two compressors | Compressor switch | 4-6 hours | The refrigerator is working, freezer is turned off |
| No Frost | Power off | 2-4 hours | Ice melts quickly, drainage is important |
What to do if the drainage hole is frozen?
If the water does not go away, but stands in The puddle at the bottom of the freezer is most likely clogged in the drainage channel. Take a soft syringe with warm water and try to gently clean the canal. You can use the special brush that comes with the kit, but be careful not to pierce the tube.
Speed up the process and remove ice
Natural defrosting is the safest, but long way. If time is pressing, you can use auxiliary means. The most effective and safest method is to place containers of hot water on the freezer shelves. Steam will be deposited on the walls and speed up the melting of the ice. Change the water as it cools.
Using a hair dryer is acceptable, but requires extreme caution. Turn it on to the minimum temperature and constantly move it without stopping at one point. Strictly prohibited use a knife, screwdriver or other sharp metal objects to chip the ice. One wrong move can puncture the evaporator, and the refrigerator will have to be sent in for expensive repairs with refilling with freon.
After the bulk of the ice has disappeared, thoroughly wipe all surfaces. Pay special attention to the rubber seals on the door. Dirt and mold in the folds of the seal impair the seal, which is a common cause of re-formation of ice. Wash the gum with warm water and soap and wipe dry.
Completing the procedure and starting the refrigerator
When all the ice has melted and the surfaces have been washed, you need to thoroughly wipe the camera dry. The remaining moisture will turn back into ice when turned on. Make sure the drainage hole is clear. Now you can return the refrigerator to operating mode.
If you turned off only one compressor or used the “Vacation” mode, return the settings to their original position. Turn on the power. Don't load products right away. Let the equipment run idle for at least 2-3 hours (for No Frost models) or up to 6-8 hours (for drip systems) so that the required temperature conditions are formed.
Check the operation of the unit. The compressor should cycle on and off without excessive noise. There should be no condensation or frost on the walls during the first hours of operation. If you notice repeated rapid accumulation of ice, check the tightness of the door seal.
Frequent errors and prevention
Many users make the mistake of loading warm foods into the freezer. This causes a sharp jump in humidity and the formation of a “fur coat”. Always cool food to room temperature before storing. Also, don't overcrowd the camera; For air circulation (especially in No Frost), a gap between the food and the walls is necessary.
Another common problem is the skew of the refrigerator. If the unit is not level, the door may not fully adhere to the body, allowing warm, moist air to pass through. Adjust the legs of the refrigerator so that the door closes tightly and with little force.
Check the condition of the seal regularly. If it cracks or loses elasticity, it must be replaced. A cheap folk method of “resuscitation” is to warm the gum with a hairdryer or pour boiling water on it so that it straightens out, but this is a temporary measure.
How often do you need to defrost the Atlant refrigerator?
Models with manual defrosting require cleaning once every 4-6 months, or when the ice thickness reaches 5 mm. No Frost systems do not formally require defrosting, but a preventive shutdown (once a year) for washing and disinfection will only benefit the equipment.
Is it possible to defrost a refrigerator without unplugging it?
Technically, this is only possible for two-compressor models, where you turn off one circuit. For single-compressor models, a complete power shutdown is necessary so that the compressor does not try to idle or does not turn on while the sensors show a high temperature.
Why does the refrigerator not turn on for a long time after defrosting?
This is a normal situation. The thermostat needs time to register the temperature increase inside the chambers to a threshold value. Models with electronics may have protection against frequent switching on (delay up to 10-15 minutes). If the refrigerator does not turn on for more than an hour, check the power connection.
What to do if an unpleasant odor appears after defrosting?
The smell may come from stagnant water in the drain pan or compressor tray (located at the bottom rear). Rinse the tray with warm water and disinfectant. Also check whether water has entered the thermal insulation layer through cracks.