A sudden loud click or a series of crackling sounds emanating from the refrigerator Atlantcan scare any owner. Often this sound resembles a gunshot or electric shock, forcing you to immediately react to the situation. In most cases, this acoustic effect does not indicate a critical breakdown, but is a consequence of physical processes occurring inside the unit body.
However, periodic clicks should not be ignored either, as they may indicate wear of parts or electrical problems. Understanding the nature of sound allows you to distinguish normal operation of equipment from harbingers of a serious malfunction. Next, we will analyze in detail all the possible causes of extraneous noise.
Physics of the process: thermal expansion of materials
The most common and absolutely safe reason why a refrigerator Atlant makes sounds similar to shots or crackling is a change in the temperature of the internal components. When cooled or heated, materials contract and expand at different rates. The plastic, metal and polyurethane foam that make up the body have different thermal expansion coefficients When the temperature difference between the walls of the chamber and the surrounding air is large, a sharp displacement of the layers occurs. This displacement causes the characteristic click. Most often, this happens immediately after the compressor is turned on or, conversely, after it is turned off. The sound may be very loud, like a pop, but it does not pose any threat..
When the temperature difference between the chamber walls and the surrounding air is large, a sharp displacement of the layers occurs. This displacement causes the characteristic click. Most often, this happens immediately after the compressor is turned on or, conversely, after it is turned off. The sound may be very loud, like a bang, but it is not dangerous.
The intensity of this cracking noise depends on the room temperature and thermostat settings. If you have just loaded a lot of warm food into the chambers, the heat exchange process will intensify and the number of clicks will increase. Over time, when the temperature stabilizes, the sounds will become less frequent or disappear altogether.
⚠️ Attention: If the crackling sound is accompanied by a burning smell or smoke, immediately unplug the device. Thermal expansion in itself does not cause chemical combustion reactions.
Operation of the start-up relay and compressor
The second most common cause of sounds resembling gunshots is the operation of the electrical part of the refrigerator. The starting relay is responsible for starting the engine compressor. When the motor is turned on or off, the contacts inside the relay may open or close with a characteristic click. In good condition, this sound is quiet, but if the mechanism is worn out, it becomes loud and harsh.
Sometimes a so-called “false start” occurs. The compressor tries to start, the relay clicks, but the engine does not pick up speed and stops. After some time, the cycle repeats. This is already a sign of a malfunction of the starting device or the motor itself. In such cases, the refrigerator Atlant may not cool the food.
If the clicks are rhythmic and repeated with a certain frequency (for example, every 10-15 minutes), this is a reason to carry out diagnostics. Check if the compressor itself is heating up. If it is hot, but does not work, but only clicks, the problem lies in the electrical start circuit.
Problems with the No Frost defrosting system
In models with the system No Frost the automatic defrosting system often becomes the source of sounds. Ice that freezes on the evaporator may break off in pieces when melting and fall onto the heater or the bottom of the chamber. The impact of ice on metal elements creates a loud, sharp sound that can easily be confused with a gunshot.
These models also have a fan. If ice has formed on the blades or the mechanism requires lubrication, the fan may make a cracking sound when rotating. This happens especially often immediately after defrosting, when there is still a lot of moisture in the system.
To check this version, you need to completely defrost the refrigerator. If after 24 hours of sitting with the doors open the sounds disappear, then the problem was ice. Regular defrosting (every 6-12 months) will help avoid the accumulation of excess ice.
Why does ice cause such loud noises?
Ice in the No Frost system forms in hidden cavities. When there is a sudden change in pressure or temperature, large sheets of ice can crack with a sound effect reminiscent of a firecracker. This is due to the release of tension in the ice crystal lattice.
Diagnostics of malfunctions: table of symptoms
To accurately determine the reason why your Atlant shoots, it is necessary to compare the nature of the sound with the accompanying symptoms. Below is a table that helps classify the problem.
| Sound type | Moment of occurrence | Probable cause | Need for repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loud cotton | Rarely, chaotically | Thermal expansion of plastic | Not required |
| Rhythmic clicks | Every 10-20 minutes | Malfunction of the starting relay | Relay replacement required |
| A loud knock | Periodically during operation | Ice falling (No Frost) | Checking the system defrosting |
| Crackling and buzzing | Constantly | Problems with the fan | Lubrication or replacement |
By analyzing the data in the table, you can significantly reduce the troubleshooting time. Remember that diagnosis must be carried out with the device turned off from the network if access to internal components is required.
The effect of incorrect installation on acoustics
Sometimes the reason lies not inside the refrigerator, but in the conditions of its operation. If the cabinet Atlant is skewed or sits too close to a wall, vibrations from the compressor can be transmitted to furniture or the floor, causing resonance. At certain moments, the amplitude of the oscillations reaches a peak, and a loud knock is heard.
Check the horizontal installation. The refrigerator legs should be adjusted so that the doors close on their own when opened slightly. Also make sure that the back wall does not touch the heating radiator or the wall.
☑️ Checking the installation of the refrigerator
Improper installation not only causes noise, but can also lead to premature wear of the compressor. An engine operating in conditions of constant vibration and overheating due to poor ventilation will fail faster.
When a technician's intervention is required
There are situations when independent repair is impossible or dangerous. If the clicking sounds are accompanied by a lack of cold, blinking indicators, or the appearance of sparks, you must call a specialist. Attempts to repair refrigerant circuit without a license and equipment are prohibited.
Also, professional help is needed if after replacing the start relay the problem does not disappear. This may mean that the compressor winding has burned out or a breakdown has occurred in the electrical control circuit. In such cases, saving on calling a technician can lead to the purchase of a new refrigerator.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to open the sealed circuit or seal the tubes yourself. The refrigerant can be flammable, and the pressure in the system is dangerous.
Prevention and care of the Atlant refrigerator
To reduce the likelihood of extraneous sounds appearing in the future, it is important to follow the operating rules. Regularly clean the drainage holes of debris and keep the condenser on the back wall clean. Dust accumulating there impairs heat transfer and causes the compressor to work with overload.
Do not load hot products into the chamber. Sudden temperature changes are the main enemy of plastic elements and the cause of thermal crackling. Let the food cool to room temperature before storing it in Atlant.
Following these simple rules will extend the life of your refrigerator and ensure silence in the kitchen. Remember that prevention is always cheaper and easier than complex repairs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can Click on the new Atlant refrigerator?
Yes, new models can make sounds of thermal expansion more intensely in the first weeks of operation, until the materials “ruze” together. The sound of refrigerant flowing is also possible.
Is it dangerous if the refrigerator clicks and does not freeze?
This is a critical situation. The combination of clicking sounds (attempts to start) and lack of cold indicates a malfunction of the compressor or start relay. Products may deteriorate and urgent repairs are required.
Why are clicks heard only at night?
At night, the overall noise level in the apartment decreases, and the sounds of equipment operation become more noticeable. In addition, temperature changes at night can be more noticeable, which provokes thermal expansion.
How often do you need to change the starting relay?
The starting relay is a consumable item, but it usually lasts 5-10 years. Replacement is required only if signs of a malfunction appear: frequent clicks, refusal to start, or humming without starting.
Does the voltage in the network affect the clicking sound of the refrigerator?
Yes, low or unstable voltage in the network can lead to the fact that the compressor will not be able to start the first time. The relay will click, trying to turn on the motor, until the voltage returns to normal or the protection works.