Refrigerator owners Atlant often face a dilemma: what value to set the thermostat to so that the food does not spoil and the motor does not wear out. Incorrect settings can lead to rapid spoilage of perishable products or, conversely, to the formation of an ice crust on the rear walls of the chamber. Understanding the principles of operation of the No Frost system and the drip system, as well as knowledge of the features of a particular model, is the key to the durability of the equipment.
In this article we will look in detail at how to properly regulate the temperature, what the numbers on the scale mean and what factors influence the choice of the optimal mode. Thermoregulator - this is not just a knob, but a complex sensor that controls the on and off cycles compressor. Errors in setting it up can cost you a ruined dinner or expensive repairs.
Different models of refrigerators Atlant may have different scale markings: from 1 to 5, from 1 to 7, or even electronic control. It is important not to confuse these values with degrees Celsius. The number on the regulator is a conventional unit of cooling power, and not an exact temperature. Let's figure out how to find the "golden mean" for your kitchen.
The principle of operation of the thermostat in Atlant refrigerators
The thermostat in refrigerators Atlant works on the principle of opening and closing an electrical circuit depending on the temperature inside the chamber. When the temperature rises above a preset threshold, the contacts close and compressor starts working, pumping refrigerant. As soon as the temperature drops to the set minimum, the circuit opens and the refrigerator goes into standby mode.
Mechanical regulators, which are a rotary knob with divisions, control the tension force of the spring inside the sensor. The higher the number you set, the more the spring compresses, requiring a lower temperature threshold to open the circuit. This means that the compressor will work longer and more often.
⚠️ Attention: Infinitely rotating the control knob towards maximum values will not make the refrigerator “cooler” indefinitely. There is a physical limit after which a further increase in power will only lead to freezing of the evaporator and overloading the engine, but not to a decrease in the temperature of the products.
In modern models with electronic control (Smart Control), the process looks different. Here you set the exact temperature in degrees Celsius, and the microprocessor itself decides when to turn on the compressor and how to regulate the operation fan. However, even in such systems there are nuances associated with the distribution of cold air.
Why is the scale not in degrees?
Mechanical thermostats are calibrated at the factory for a certain type of refrigerant and insulation. The numbers on the scale (1-7) correspond to a certain temperature range, but this range can “float” depending on the ambient temperature (temperature in the room) and the degree of filling of the chambers with products.
Deciphering the digital scale: what do the divisions mean
The most common question from users is: “Which is better, 2 or 4?” To answer this, you need to understand the logic of labeling. In most models Atlant with mechanical control, the scale goes from 1 to 7 (sometimes up to 5 or 9). The rule applies here: the higher the number, the lower the temperature inside the chamber.
- 🌡️ Division 1: Minimum cooling. The temperature in the main chamber can reach +8...+10°C. Suitable for storing vegetables in a cool room or when the refrigerator is almost empty.
- ❄️ Division 3-4: Optimal mode. The temperature is kept within +3...+5°C. This is the standard for storing most products: milk, meat, ready meals.
- 🧊 Division 6-7: Maximum cooling ("Super Freeze" mode or close to it). Temperatures can drop to 0°C or below. Continuous operation in this mode is not recommended.
It is important to note that the divisions are not linear. The difference between 1 and 2 can be 2 degrees, and between 6 and 7 - less than 0.5 degrees, but the load on the motor when switching to 7 increases significantly. The critical zone is considered to be setting the regulator to the maximum value (7 or Max) for a constant workas this often leads to the compressor simply not turning off.
Some models, for example, series KSH 200 or MX 2800, may have dual regulators: one for the refrigerator, the other for the freezer. In such cases, the setting of each circuit affects the overall energy efficiency of the device.
Optimal settings for different seasons
The ambient temperature directly affects the operation of the refrigerator. In summer it can be +28°C in the kitchen, but in winter it can be only +18°C. These fluctuations require adjustment of the thermostat settings to maintain a stable microclimate inside the chambers.
In the summer, when the ambient temperature is high, heat flow through the walls of the refrigerator increases. The compressor has to work harder. If the regulator is left at high settings (5-7), the engine may not be able to cope with heat dissipation or may not stop working. It is recommended to set the value 3 or 4.
In winter the situation is the opposite. If the refrigerator is in a cool kitchen, heat gain is minimal. However, if the room temperature drops below +16°C (for single-compressor models), problems may arise with starting or, conversely, defrosting the evaporator. In winter, it is optimal to keep the regulator at level 2 or 3.
☑️ Seasonal check of settings
It is also worth considering the location of the refrigerator. If it is located near a battery or in the sun, even in winter it may require a more powerful operating mode. Conversely, in a cold corner room in the summer, minimal settings may be sufficient.
Setting the freezer and Super Frost mode
The freezer requires special attention, especially in models with the system No Frost. Here the temperature should remain stably at -18°C and below. The freezer regulator (if it is separate) usually also has a scale, where large numbers mean a lower temperature.
Function Super Frost (Super Freeze) is designed for quick freezing of fresh food. When this mode is activated (by turning the knob to the red zone or pressing a button), the compressor operates continuously, ignoring the temperature sensor readings.
⚠️ Attention: Do not keep the Super Frost mode on all the time! This will lead to rapid wear of the compressor and excessive energy consumption. Use this mode only for 24 hours after loading a large batch of fresh products, then be sure to return the regulator to normal mode.
For long-term storage of already frozen products, the standard position of the regulator corresponding to the division 3-4 on the freezer scale is sufficient. Lower temperatures (-24°C and below) are only necessary for blast freezing, but not for storage.
Table of correspondence between modes and temperatures
For ease of setup, we will provide a summary table that will help you navigate the regulator values depending on the desired result and operating conditions. Remember that these values are averaged for refrigerators Atlant with mechanical control.
| Knob position | Operating mode | Approximate temperature in the refrigerator compartment | Recommended use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Min) | Economy | +8...+10°C | Storage of vegetables, fruits, almost empty refrigerator |
| 3 (Medium) | Normal | +4...+5°C | Daily food storage, standard mode |
| 5 (High) | Intensive | +1...+2°C | Hot summer, full load, storage of meat/fish |
| 7 (Max) | Extreme | 0°C and below | Only short-term (Super Frost), risk of icing |
Using this table will allow you to quickly adapt the operation of your equipment to your current needs. However, if you notice that in position “3” the products freeze slightly, and in “2” they spoil, technical diagnostics may be required.
Typical mistakes when adjusting the temperature
Many users make the same mistakes when trying to “improve” the operation of the refrigerator. You can often hear the advice: “Put it on maximum so that it doesn’t go bad.” This misconception leads to sad consequences. Let's look at the main mistakes.
The first and most common mistake is setting the regulator to maximum immediately after turning on or defrosting. The refrigerator needs time (up to 24 hours) to stabilize the temperature. A sharp start at full power creates excess pressure in the system and stress for the compressor.
The second mistake is ignoring the filling of the chambers. An empty refrigerator and a completely stocked refrigerator require different settings. Products have heat capacity and act as “cold accumulators”. In a crowded refrigerator, air circulation is impaired, and even with strong cooling, it can be warm in the far corners.
- 🚫 Error: Continuous operation in the "Super Frost" mode. Result: Compressor failure after 1-2 years.
- 🚫 Error: Setting the minimum temperature in summer. Result: Product spoilage, bacterial growth.
- 🚫 Error: Frequent changing settings (twisting the knob back and forth every day). Result: Thermostat calibration failed, unstable operation.
It is also worth mentioning the error associated with the placement of heat-sensitive products. It is better to store milk and eggs not on the door, where the temperature fluctuates with each opening, but on the middle shelves, where the mode is most stable.
Diagnosis of problems: when the regulator does not help
There are situations when you turn the regulator knob, but the temperature inside does not change, or the refrigerator works without interruption even at minimum settings. This indicates a malfunction that cannot be solved by simple adjustment.
If the compressor hums constantly, and a “coat” of ice forms inside even with minimal settings, the thermostat (thermostat) itself may have failed. Its contacts could be “stuck” in a closed state, and it does not give a command to turn off the motor.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that the refrigerator is working around the clock, and the temperature does not drop below +10°C even at maximum, the problem may not be in the settings, but in a freon leak or blockage capillary tube. In this case, twisting the regulator is useless - you need to call a technician.
Another sign of a malfunction is turning it on and off too often (clocking). This could mean that the temperature sensor is not reading correctly or has lost contact with the evaporator. In models Atlant with a thermostat capillary tube, it is important that the tube fits tightly to the evaporator.
How to check the thermostat yourself?
There is a simple but rough method: turn off the refrigerator from the network, defrost it completely (24 hours). Then turn it on at minimum mode (1). If after 30-40 minutes the inside has not become noticeably colder, and the motor has not turned off after 1.5-2 hours, there is likely a malfunction of the thermostat or a freon leak.
Frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ)
Why does ice freeze in the Atlant refrigerator even at medium settings?
Icing can be caused by several reasons: a loosely closed door, a damaged seal, frequent opening of the door in a hot room, or a malfunction of the defrosting system (heating element or timer) in No Frost models. Also check that the food is not pressed against the back wall.
Can I leave the regulator at zero if I go on vacation?
In most mechanical regulators, the “0” position means opening the contacts and turning off the compressor. However, you cannot leave the refrigerator turned off with the door closed - mold and smell will appear. It is better to defrost, wash, dry and leave the door ajar. If you need to keep it cold, it is better to ask relatives to supervise the operation or use the "Vacation" mode (if there is an electronic module).
Which position of the regulator saves the most energy?
The most economical is position "1" or "2", but only if the room temperature does not exceed +20°C, and the food inside the chamber does not spoil. However, real savings are achieved not by reducing the temperature, but by the serviceability of the seals, timely defrosting and placing the refrigerator away from heat sources.
Why does the refrigerator take a long time to gain temperature after defrosting?
After complete defrosting, the heat capacity of the internal walls and food is high. It may take 4-6 hours for the temperature to stabilize in an empty refrigerator, and up to 24 hours in a loaded refrigerator. Do not load the refrigerator with warm food immediately after turning it on and do not set the regulator to maximum immediately - let the system enter the mode smoothly.
Does the amount of food affect the regulator setting?
Yes, it does. A full refrigerator holds cold better (food acts like a battery), but it lets cold air through worse. In a completely full refrigerator, a slightly more powerful mode may be required (for example, 4 instead of 3) so that cold air from the fan (in No Frost) or natural convection (in drip units) can effectively cover the entire volume.