The need to get to the internal components of refrigeration equipment often arises when the thermostat breaks down, the start relay fails, or extraneous noise appears. In brand models Atlant the top cover, or the so-called “hood”, hides the compressor, capacitor and electrical control circuit. Dismantling this part is the first and mandatory stage of any serious repair.
Many owners are afraid to start disassembling, for fear of damaging the fragile plastic or breaking the tightness of the system. However, the design of Belarusian units is quite logical and allows you to perform this procedure at home. The main thing is to follow the sequence of actions and use the right tool so as not to leave deep scratches on the surface.
In this instruction we will analyze in detail the process of removing the cover for various modifications, paying special attention to the nuances of fastening and precautions. The key feature of most Atlant models is hidden fastening of the cover behind the side walls of the housing, which requires a specific lifting angle during dismantling. Careful study of the material will help you avoid common mistakes.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before starting physical impact on the housing, it is necessary to ensure safe working conditions. The refrigerator is a large appliance, and access to its rear must be free from all sides. Move the equipment away from the wall at least 70-80 centimeters so that you can move freely around it and see the mounting points.
To work, you will need a minimum set of a home handyman. The main tool will be a Phillips screwdriver, preferably with a magnetic tip, as screws can fall into hard-to-reach places. Also, a flat-head screwdriver with a wide blade will not be superfluous, which is convenient to use for neatly snapping off plastic latches.
- 🔧 Medium-sized Phillips screwdriver (PH2) for unscrewing screws.
- 🛠️ Flat screwdriver or plastic spatula for working with latches.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
- 🔦 Flashlight for illuminating the interior space under the lid.
Be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with electrical appliances voltage is strictly prohibited, even if you only plan to remove cover. Internal wiring may have insulation damage that is invisible to the eye, and accidental contact with live parts can lead to electric shock.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Features of the design of the lid of different models
Refrigerators Atlant have been produced for several decades, and during this time the design of the top part has changed. In older models, often popularly referred to as “Minsk”, the cover could be attached to visible screws on the top or side. Modern two-chamber units have a more streamlined shape, where the fasteners are hidden.
It is important to understand what your “hood” is made of. This is usually sheet metal, painted to match the body color, or durable plastic. Metal lids are heavier and have sharper edges, so you need to wear gloves when handling them. Plastic elements are more fragile in the cold, but are easier to dismantle.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to forcefully bend the edges of the cover if it does not give way. Modern models may have additional hidden latches that must first be unlocked, otherwise you will break the mounting lugs.
The design may vary depending on the series. For example, in models with a system No Frost under the cover there is not only a compressor, but also additional ventilation ducts or sensors that require more careful handling. In classic models with a weeping evaporator, the space under the cover is occupied primarily by a motor-compressor and a condenser grille.
What is the difference between old and new models?
In old Atlant models, the top cover was often fixed with two screws that were visible from the top at the end. In the new series (after 2010), the screws are placed in niches on the sides, and the cover itself is held on by a tight fit and hooks, which requires more careful removal with loosening.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the top cover
The dismantling process requires consistency. First you need to find all the fixation points. Carefully inspect the top end of the refrigerator. Most often, there are two holes closed with decorative plugs, or screws are screwed directly into the metal.
Unscrew all visible fasteners. If the screws are in deep recesses, use a magnetic screwdriver to prevent them from falling inside the case. After all visible fasteners have been removed, the cover can still remain in place, held by the side hooks.
To remove it, you need to grab the cover by the front edge (from the door side) and slightly lift it up, while simultaneously pushing it back towards the rear wall. This action will release the front hooks from the slots. Then, without releasing the back, gently pull the cover towards you. It should come off the guides without excessive force.
| Work stage | Action | Important detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Inspection | Search for screws and plugs | Pry up the plugs with a thin needle |
| 2. Dismantling the fasteners | Unscrewing the screws | Place the screws in a container |
| 3. Release | Raising the front edge | Act without jerking |
| 4. Removing | Moving backwards and upwards | Check the wires (if any) |
Fixing the position covers during reassembly occurs in the reverse order: first, the rear edge is placed under the protrusions, then the front part is lowered. Make sure that the cover is seated evenly and is not distorted before tightening the screws.
The nuances of working with the thermostat and wiring
Often the purpose of removing the cover is to replace the thermostat. In refrigerators Atlant the temperature regulator may be located inside the chamber, but its electrical part and contacts are often located under the top cover or in a niche next to it. Use extreme caution when working in this area.
Wiring in older models can be stiff and brittle. If the plastic insulation is cracked, any careless movement will result in a short circuit. Before disconnecting the terminals, take a photo of the connection diagram or sketch the colors of the wires. This is critical information for proper assembly.
If there are wires coming to the cover (for example, from an indicator lamp on the ceiling of the chamber or from the defrost sensor in some models), they should not simply be pulled. You need to find the connector and carefully disconnect it by pressing the latch. Wires can pass through special holes in the metal, protected by rubber bushings.
- 📸 Take a photo of the wire connection before disconnecting.
- 🔌 Use plastic terminal pullers to avoid damaging the contacts.
- 🧵 Check the integrity of the insulation of the wires running to the compressor.
When installing a new part, make sure that the wires are not pinched by the edges of the metal cover when it is returned to its place. This is a common cause of repeated breakdowns immediately after repair.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and location of components may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification. Always check the technical documentation for your model before tampering with the electrical circuit.
Typical errors during dismantling and how to avoid them
The most common mistake is the use of excessive force. If the cover does not come off, it means that you have not found all the attachment points or have not chosen the correct angle for applying the force. A sharp jerk can lead to deformation of the metal, after which the lid will no longer fit tightly, and the refrigerator will hum more strongly due to resonance.
The second mistake is the loss of fasteners. Screws Atlant often have a non-standard head or length. Replacing them with regular self-tapping screws from a hardware store may result in the cap not fitting into the secret hole, and the lid will be crooked. Use original fasteners.
The third mistake is ignoring the condition of the seals. Under the cover there may be rubber feet or gaskets that dampen vibration of the compressor. They may become dislodged or fall out when the cover is removed. Make sure that during assembly all shock-absorbing elements fall into place.
Assembly and checking the result
After repair work or diagnostics, the assembly stage begins. Replace the cover, making sure it fits snugly all the way around the body. Gaps are unacceptable, as they disrupt the aerodynamics of engine cooling and increase the noise level.
Tighten all fastening screws. Do not overtighten them: the plastic may burst and the threads in the metal will break. Enough tight fit. If the model includes decorative plugs, install them last.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen to its operation. There should be no extraneous sounds, rattling or knocking. If you removed the cover to replace the thermostat, check how the refrigerator gains and maintains temperature over several hours of operation.
Visually inspect the assembled device. The cover should look like a factory part, without distortions or protruding parts. High-quality work guarantees long and trouble-free service of your equipment in the future.
Is it possible to remove the cover without moving the refrigerator completely?
Theoretically, it is possible if you have a very narrow and long screwdriver, and also enough space between the back wall and the furniture. However, this is extremely inconvenient and increases the risk of dropping the screws behind the refrigerator or damaging the wall. It is better to spend 5 minutes to move the unit.
What to do if the screws are rusty and do not spin?
Do not use force right away. Treat the threads with a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40) and leave for 10-15 minutes. Try lightly tapping the tip of the screwdriver to break up the oxide layer. If the cap is licked off, use an extractor or carefully use a file to make a new slot.
Do you need to remove the cover for defrosting?
No, for scheduled defrosting you do not need to remove the top cover. It is removed only to repair internal components: replacing the compressor, relay, thermostat or eliminating serious mechanical damage.
Where can I find original screws for the Atlant cover?
Original fasteners can be purchased at authorized service centers of the brand or specialized stores of spare parts for household appliances. Universal sets of screws for household appliances with a similar thread pitch are also suitable.