Refrigerators Atlant are known for their reliability and simplicity of design, but even with them, maintenance issues sometimes arise. One of the most common is how to safely remove shelves for cleaning, replacing or rearranging. It would seem that what is so difficult here? However, incorrect actions can lead to damage to glass elements, scratches on the inner walls, or even breakage of fasteners.
In this article we will figure out how to dismantle shelves in models Atlant of different series (single-chamber, double-chamber, with system No Frost), what tools may be needed and what to pay attention to in order not to damage the refrigerator. You will also learn how to properly wash removed shelves and what to do if they become stuck or jammed.
Important: the design of shelves in refrigerators Atlant may vary depending on the year of manufacture and model. For example, in old Soviet modifications metal grilles were used, while modern ones used glass shelves with plastic rims. We will consider all options.
Preparation for dismantling: what needs to be done before removing the shelves
Before you start removing the shelves, make sure that the refrigerator unplugged. This is not only a safety issue, but also to prevent accidental activation of the compressor during work. Also:
- 🧊 Defrost the refrigeratorif there is ice on the shelves. It is better to transfer them to a cooler bag or other cool place.
- 📦 Unload all the products and boxes. It is better to transfer them to a cooler bag or other cool place.
- 🧽 Prepare tools: soft cloth, warm water with detergent, plastic spatula (if the shelves are stuck), screwdriver (for some models).
- 📸 Take a photo of the location of the shelves - this will help to install them back correctly.
If your refrigerator Atlant has a system installed No Frost, it is not necessary to defrost it, but it is still worth removing condensation from the shelves. In models with a drip system (Atlant XM-4021, Atlant XM-4426), ice on the back wall is normal, but it is also better to remove it before dismantling.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use sharp objects (knives, metal spatulas) to remove ice from the shelves - this can damage the anti-corrosion coating of the refrigerator compartment.
If the shelves were not removed for a long time, their fastenings could “stick” or become covered with a layer of dirt. In this case, do not try to pull them out by force - it is better to pre-treat the joints with a warm soapy solution and wait 5-10 minutes.
Types of shelves in Atlant refrigerators: how they differ
The design of shelves in refrigerators Atlant depends on the model and year of manufacture. Main types:
| Shelf type | Material | Refrigerator models | Mounting features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass with plastic rim | Tempered glass + ABS plastic | Atlant XM-6021, Atlant XM-4424, new series | Plastic guides with locks, can be removed by moving towards you |
| Glass without rim | Tempered glass | Atlant XM-4010, Atlant XM-4523 | Metal brackets, require careful lifting up |
| Plastic grilles | Food-grade plastic | Old models (before 2005), Atlant MHM-1705 | Inserted into grooves, can be deformed under strong heat |
| Metal gratings | Galvanized steel | Atlant-2M, Atlant-126 (Soviet) | Attached on hooks, removed by moving upwards |
Most modern models (Atlant New Wave, Atlant Style) use glass shelves with plastic rims. They are more hygienic, but require careful handling - with a strong impact, the glass can crack, even if it is tempered.
Plastic shelves are less common and are usually installed in budget or compact models. Their advantage is lightness and resistance to falls, but over time the plastic can turn yellow or deform from high temperatures.
Step-by-step instructions: how to remove glass shelves with a plastic rim
This type of shelf is most common in refrigerators Atlant over the last 10–15 years. To remove them:
Open the refrigerator door to the maximum angle - this will give better access to the fasteners.
Inspect the ends of the shelf: there should be plastic clips on each side (usually white or transparent).
Carefully pull the shelf towards you, slightly lifting its front edge. The latches should come out of the grooves.
If the shelf does not budge, try pressing the latches on both sides at the same time (you can use a plastic spatula or a blunt knife).
After removing the first side, tilt the shelf slightly and pull the second side out of the fasteners.
In some models (for example, Atlant XM-6026), the shelves are fixed not only in the front, but also in the back. In this case:
- 🔧 First, pull the shelf towards you until it stops.
- 🔝 Then lift it up so that the rear latches come out of the grooves.
If the shelf “jammed”, do not use excessive force - it’s better to check if there is any protrusion or ice in the way. As a last resort, you can slightly heat the clamps with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than 50°C) so that the plastic becomes more elastic.
The shelf is empty (no products)|The clamps are not blocked by ice|The door is open to the maximum|There is a soft bedding at hand (in case of a fall)-->
⚠️ Attention: B refrigerators Atlant with a system No Frost (for example, Atlant NMF-6208) the back wall may be close to the shelves. When removing, do not press on it - this may damage the air channels.
How to remove glass shelves without a rim (old models)
In refrigerators Atlant manufactured before 2010, glass shelves without plastic frames were often installed. They are mounted on metal brackets, which are inserted into grooves on the side walls. To remove them:
Lift the shelf up 1-2 cm to free it from the front brackets.
Tilt the shelf towards you (an angle of approximately 30°) and pull the back part out of the grooves.
If the shelf does not budge, check whether it is caught on the back wall or ventilation grilles (in models with No Frost).
In some modifications (for example, Atlant XM-4012) the brackets can be fastened with screws. In this case, you will need a Phillips screwdriver:
- 🔩 Loosen the screws on the brackets (do not unscrew completely!).
- 🔄 Lift the shelf and move it forward.
Be careful: glass without a plastic rim is more fragile. If the shelf is cracked, do not try to repair it - replace it with a new one. In service centers Atlant you can order original spare parts by article number (usually it is indicated on a sticker inside the refrigerator compartment).
What to do if the shelf is cracked?
If a crack appears on the glass shelf, it must be replaced - even a small one damage can lead to complete destruction of the glass under the weight of the food. A temporary solution may be to seal the crack with silicone sealant (food grade!), but this does not guarantee safety. Article numbers of original shelves for Atlant usually begin with letters ATL or XM (for example, ATL-6021-001 for model XM-6021).
Dismantling of plastic and metal shelves
Plastic shelves are found in budget or compact models Atlant (for example, Atlant MHM-1708They are lightweight and easier to remove than). glass:
Find the grooves on the side walls of the refrigerator into which the edges of the shelf are inserted.
Slightly squeeze the shelf from the sides (if it is flexible) and pull up.
If the shelf does not budge, try moving it forward and then lifting it.
Metal grilles were installed in old Soviet refrigerators (Atlant-2M, Atlant-126). data-i="181">Atlant-2M
- 🔝 Lift the front edge of the grille up.
- 🔄 Move it a little towards you so that the rear hooks come off the protrusions.
- 🧲 Be careful: the metal may be sharp or rusty (in very old models).
After removal, metal grates can be cleaned of rust using a vinegar solution (1:1 with water) or special products for metal. Plastic shelves are washed only with warm water and a mild detergent - abrasives or hot water can damage them. deform.
Cleaning and putting shelves back
After removing the shelves, you need to wash them thoroughly. To do this:
- 🧼 Use warm water (not higher than 40°C) with liquid detergent (for example,
FairyorType). - 🧽 Wash with a soft sponge or microfiber - hard brushes can scratch glass or plastic.
- 🚫 Do not use chlorine-containing products (such as
White) - they can damage plastic parts and leave an odor. - 💧 After washing, rinse the shelves with running water and wipe dry with a soft towel.
Before installing the shelves back, check:
- 🔍 Cleanliness of the grooves —there should be no crumbs or debris in them.
- 📏 Symmetrical fastenings —if the clamps on one side are higher, the shelf may stand crooked.
- 🧊 No condensation on the walls of the refrigerator (in models with a drip system).
Install the shelves in the reverse order:
For glass shelves with a rim: insert the back part into the grooves, then lower the front until the latches click.
For shelves without rim: place the back part into the grooves, then lower the front part onto the brackets.
Check that the shelf is level and does not wobble.
⚠️ Attention: If after installation the shelf sag or creaks, it means that the latches are not fully seated in the grooves. Remove it and repeat the installation, making sure that all the fasteners are secure. latched.
Frequent problems and their solutions
When removing or installing shelves in refrigerators Atlant the following difficulties may arise:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The shelf cannot be removed, the latches are pressed | Ice or dirt in the grooves | Treat the joints with warm water, wait 5-10 minutes and try again |
| After installation, the shelf wobbles | The latches do not snap into place or are deformed | Remove and reinstall, if necessary, replace the latches |
| The glass shelf cracked when removed | Sharp movement or impact | Replace with a new one (original or universal) |
| The plastic shelf is deformed | Exposure to high temperatures (for example, washing with hot water) | Align under a press (put under a heavy book for a day) or replace |
If in your refrigerator Atlant the shelves are “stuck” due to old dirt or grease, you can use citric acid (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water). Apply the solution to problem areas, wait 15 minutes and carefully pry the shelf with a plastic spatula. Never use WD-40 or other technical lubricants - they are toxic and can spoil the products.
In models with the system No Frost (Atlant NMF-6208, Atlant NMF-4626there is sometimes a problem with the rear shelf clamps - they can cling to the ventilation grilles B. In this case, carefully bend the grill with your hand or a plastic spatula.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about shelves in Atlant refrigerators
Can I put an Atlant in the refrigerator? shelves from other models?
Theoretically, it is possible, but only if they match:
- 📏 Dimensions (width, depth, distance between fasteners).
- 🔧 Type of clamps (plastic latches or metal brackets).
- 🏋️ Maximum load (indicated in the instructions).
It is better to use original spare parts or universal shelves suitable for Atlant (for example, from Nord or Biryusa).
How to find out the article number of the shelf to order?
The article number is usually indicated:
- 🏷️ On the sticker inside refrigerator compartment (next to the serial number).
- 📄 In the operating instructions (section "Spare parts").
- 🔍 On the shelf itself (sometimes engraved on the plastic rim).
If there is no sticker, take a photo of the shelf and fasteners - in the service department center Atlant will help you choose an analogue.
What to do if, after washing the shelves, a smell appears in the refrigerator?
Possible causes and solutions:
- 🧼 Residues of detergent - rinse the shelves and the chamber clean water.
- 🦠 Mold in the grooves - treat with soda solution (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water).
- 🧤 The smell from new plastic shelves - ventilate the refrigerator for 1-2 days with open door.
Can the shelves be washed in a dishwasher?
Depends on the material:
- ✅ Plastic shelves —you can (mode up to 40°C, without aggressive detergents funds).
- ❌ Glass shelves —not recommended (risk of cracks from temperature changes).
- ❌ Metal gratings —not allowed (rust, deformation).
Why do new shelves squeak when moving?
The creaking usually occurs due to:
- 🔧 Loose fit of the latches —remove and reinstall.
- 🧴 Lack of lubrication —wipe the grooves silicone grease (food grade!).
- 🏗️ Camera deformation - check the geometry of the refrigerator (it may be uneven).