A sudden extraneous sound in kitchen appliances always causes alarm, especially if it is a loud click that disturbs the silence of the apartment. When Atlant refrigerator clicks, owners often panic, anticipating a quick expensive repair or a complete breakdown of the unit. However, these sounds do not always indicate a critical malfunction that requires calling a technician.
In most cases, a characteristic clicking or knocking sound is a consequence of the normal operation of certain components or natural physical processes occurring within the system. Understanding the nature of these sounds will help you differentiate between normal functioning and a real problem that requires attention. Below we will analyze in detail the mechanics of the compressor, the features of thermoregulation and possible malfunctions.
It is important to immediately note that the nature of the sound, its frequency and conditions of occurrence play a key role in diagnosis. Atlant refrigerators, like any other equipment, they have their own design features, which can manifest themselves in the form of acoustic effects when changing operating modes. Let's look at the main scenarios.
Normal operation of the thermal relay and start protection device
The most common cause of clicking is the operation of the compressor start relay. This small but important element is responsible for starting the engine and protecting it from overloads. When the refrigerator is turned on or when an attempt is made to start the motor, the contacts inside the relay open or close, which is accompanied by a characteristic sound. If the unit turned on it started to get cold, and there was a single click, this is an absolutely normal phenomenon.
The temperature regulator also contributes to the acoustic background of the equipment. When the temperature in the chamber reaches the set value, the sensor opens the circuit that supplies power to the compressor and you hear a quiet click. The reverse process occurs when the temperature rises above the set threshold. In older models Atlant with mechanical regulators, these sounds may be more distinct due to the design of the bimetallic plate.
⚠️ Attention: If the clicks follow a series, the motor hums for several seconds, clicks and goes silent, and no cold is produced - this is a sign of a faulty starter relay or motor windings that require diagnostics.
The frequency of such clicks depends on the temperature settings and the load of the chambers with products. The higher the temperature is set, the more frequent the on and off cycles will occur, accompanied by sound effects. Modern models with electronic control are characterized by quieter clicks of the solenoids that control the dampers.
Thermal expansion of the housing and evaporator materials
Another common reason why the refrigerator clicksis the physical phenomenon of thermal expansion. The inner walls of the chamber, plastic lining elements and metal evaporator tubes are constantly exposed to temperature changes. When cooled, materials contract, and when heated (during idle time or the No Frost system is running), they expand.
This process is often accompanied by a cracking sound, similar to the sound of bursting plastic, or dull clicks. This is especially common in new refrigerators or after defrosting, when the temperature difference is maximum. In models Atlant with a system No Frost such sounds can occur when the defrosting heating element is turned off, when the hot evaporator begins to cool quickly.
Usually such sounds do not pose any threat to equipment and stop as the temperature stabilizes. However, if the cracking noise becomes too loud and constant, it is worth checking to see if any part is pressed against the vibrating housing. Sometimes it is enough just to adjust the egg tray or shelf to eliminate resonance.
Why does plastic crack more in winter?
In winter, the room temperature is lower, and the contrast between the warm air of the room and the cold inside the chamber increases, which leads to more intense compression of materials.
Problems with the compressor and starting relay
The situation changes dramatically if the clicks are accompanied by a lack of cooling or a hum that ends abruptly. In this case, you can diagnose a problem with the start relay or the compressor itself. The relay may “stick” or have burnt contacts, which is why it cannot start the motor on the first try, making a series of frequent clicks.
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator, and its operation requires stable voltage and the working order of all protection systems. If the engine is hummingbut does not start, and then there is a loud click of the protection being turned off, this is a bad sign. In some cases, the problem lies in the interturn short circuit of the windings or jamming of the piston group.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Necessary actions |
|---|---|---|
| Single click when turned on | Normal operation of the relay | No supervision required |
| Series of clicks, the motor does not start | Malfunction of the starting relay | Replacing the relay |
| Loud knocking inside the motor | Wear of compressor parts | Replacing the compressor |
| Clicks when setting temperature | Thermal expansion | Checking fasteners |
Replacing the starting relay does not always require calling a technician if you have basic electrical skills. However, inept intervention can lead to failure of more expensive components.
The influence of the defrosting system on the sound background
In refrigerators Atlantequipped with an automatic defrosting system, clicks can occur at certain intervals, usually once every 8-12 hours. This is due to the operation of a timer or electronic module that switches between the “cooling” and “defrost” modes. At this moment, a clicking sound may be heard switching valves or relays.
If your model uses capillary defrosting, the sound may come from the refrigerant passing through the capillary tube, especially if there is an air lock in the system or a lack of freon. Gurgling that turns into clicks often indicates a violation of the refrigerant circulation.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and operating algorithms of defrosting systems may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific series of the refrigerator. Always check the user manual for your model.
You should also pay attention to the drainage system. If the water does not drain properly during defrost, it may freeze in the tray above the compressor. When the heater is turned on or the compressor vibrates, the ice may crack, making sounds like clicking or banging.
External factors and incorrect installation
Sometimes the source of noise lies not inside the unit, but in the external operating conditions. If The refrigerator is not level, vibration from a running compressor is transmitted to the housing and floor, causing rattling and knocking. Check the adjustable feet: they should fit snugly to the floor, ensuring stability.
The back wall of the refrigerator also requires attention. If the unit is moved too close to the wall, the vibrating compressor or pipes may touch the surface, creating a resonant knocking sound. The optimal distance to the wall should be at least 5-10 cm for free air circulation.
Foreign objects inside the chambers are another source of noise. Glass bottles, pots, or loose shelves may move when vibrating and hit the walls or each other. Make sure that all contents are placed securely and do not create additional sound effects.
☑️ Diagnostics of external noise
When you need to call a technician
Despite the fact that many clicks are safe, there are situations when they cannot be ignored. If you notice that the refrigerator has stopped freezing, ice has appeared on the walls, and the clicks have become frequent and intrusive, this is a signal of a serious malfunction. Delay can lead to product damage and more expensive repairs.
The burning smell accompanying clicks should be of particular concern. This may indicate overheating of the wiring, melted insulation, or faulty electrical components. In such cases, you must immediately disconnect the device from the network contact the service center.
The technician will conduct professional diagnostics, check the pressure in the system, the integrity of the windings and the operation of the electronics. Independent repair of complex components, such as a compressor or control board, without special equipment and knowledge can be dangerous and ineffective.
Prevention and care of equipment
To minimize the risk of extraneous noise and extend the service life of your Atlanta, it is necessary to regularly carry out preventive measures. Timely defrosting (for drip systems) prevents excessive ice buildup, which can cause mechanical stress and noise. Even if you have No Frost, complete defrosting is recommended once a year for hygienic cleaning.
Regularly check the condition of the door seals. If the rubber has lost its elasticity or is dirty, the door will not close tightly, causing the compressor to work harder and turn on more often. This increases the load on the starting relay and makes the clicks more frequent.
Keep the capacitor on the back wall clean. Dust and pet hair accumulate on the grille and impair heat transfer. The compressor is forced to work longer and with greater load, which also affects the nature of its operation and the sound. It is recommended to vacuum the condenser once every six months.
Can a new refrigerator click?
Yes, new refrigerators can make sounds due to grinding in parts, expansion of new materials and operation of the system in test mode. This usually goes away after a few days of use.
Is it normal if it clicks only at night?
At night, extraneous sounds seem louder due to the general silence. In addition, voltage drops in the network at night can affect the operation of the relay, making the clicks more noticeable.
How often should the relay click?
Normally, the compressor turns on 2-4 times per hour. Accordingly, there should be no more than this number of clicks of the start relay. More frequent switching on indicates problems with thermoregulation.
Is plastic cracking dangerous?
Plastic cracking caused by thermal expansion is not dangerous for equipment. However, if the crack is deep and breaks the seal of the chamber, this may require replacing the internal panel.