Owners of household appliances are often faced with a situation where the usual hum of a working unit is replaced by alarming sounds. If you are wondering why the Atlant refrigerator is cracking, then it is important to immediately determine the nature and frequency of these sounds. Extraneous noise It can be either a sign of normal operation of the system or a signal of a serious breakdown that requires the intervention of a specialist.
Models of the Belarusian manufacturer are known for their reliability, but even they are not immune from wear of parts or manufacturing defects. Atlant refrigerators can make a cracking sound due to thermal expansion of materials, problems with the compressor or malfunctions of the defrost system. Understanding the physics of processes will help you distinguish normal from a critical situation.
In this article we will examine in detail the main sources of sound, from harmless bursting of plastic to electrical faults. You will learn how to carry out initial diagnostics and find out in which cases it is necessary to call a specialist, and when you can handle it yourself.
Natural physical processes: thermal expansion
The most common reason why a refrigerator makes a cracking sound is a banal physical phenomenon. The inner walls of the chamber, shelves and back panel are made of plastic or thin metal, which change their geometric dimensions with a sharp change in temperature. This process is called temperature expansion compression. When you have just turned on the unit or loaded warm products into it, the temperature difference is maximum, which provokes characteristic clicks and crackles.
This effect is especially noticeable in models with a system No Frostwhere defrost cycles occur regularly. The plastic elements of the inner lining may be slightly deformed, clinging to each other or on the metal body. Typically, such a sound is heard sporadically and does not pose a threat to the functionality of the device. If the crackling noise is heard rarely and only when the compressor is turned on or off, there is nothing to worry about.
However, if the crackling noise becomes constant and is accompanied by vibration, it is worth checking the tightness of the panels. Sometimes factory assembly defects or careless transportation lead to the fact that the fastenings become loose and parts begin to rub against each other at the slightest vibration. In this case, it may be necessary to tighten the screws or reinstall the interior trim.
⚠️ Attention: If the cracking sound is accompanied by a burning smell or smoke, immediately unplug the device. This may indicate a short circuit in the wiring or overheating of the insulation.
Noises from the compressor and start relay
The heart of any refrigerator is the compressor, and it is this that most often becomes the source of noise. Modern models, such as Atlant XM-4008 or series 4500, use different types of motors. If you hear a loud metallic clanging or cracking sound when you start up, the problem may lie in start relay. This component is responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings, and if it malfunctions, the contacts can spark, producing a characteristic crackling sound.
Wear of the compressor piston group also leads to the appearance of extraneous sounds. If the unit has been running for many years without maintenance, the metal parts inside the motor could wear out, causing backlash. When starting, the piston begins to beat against the cylinder walls, which is audibly perceived as a strong knock or crackling sound. Unlike thermal expansion, this sound is rhythmic in nature and coincides with the cycles of motor operation.
It is important to distinguish between humming, which is the norm, and crackling. Humming is the sound of an electric motor, and crackling is a mechanical effect or an electrical discharge. If a crackling sound is heard only in the first seconds after the start attempt, and then the motor goes silent, this is a sure sign that the starting relay cannot start the compressor, and it goes into protection.
- 🔊 Sparking of contacts: A dry crackling sound is heard in the rear of the case.
- 🔨 Mechanical knocking: rhythmic beats that increase over time.
- ⚡ Insulation breakdown: rare clicks accompanied by the smell of ozone.
Diagnostics of a compressor requires skills in working with a multimeter and knowledge of electrical schemes If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better not to take risks, since an incorrect connection can completely damage the motor.
Problems with the refrigerant and circulation system
The circulation of refrigerant through the system pipes can also be accompanied by sound effects. Normally, you may hear a slight gurgling or hissing sound, especially immediately after the compressor stops. This freon flows from a high pressure zone to a low pressure zone. However, if a loud cracking or whistling sound is heard, this may indicate the presence of air in the system or clogging capillary tube.
Clogging often occurs due to moisture trapped in the circuit or oil breakdown products. When passing through a narrow section of the capillary, a mixture of refrigerant and foreign inclusions creates a noise similar to a crackling or whistling. In models Atlant with one compressor, this phenomenon occurs less frequently than in two-compressor systems, where the discharge pressure is higher.
Another reason may be vibration of the tubes themselves. If the copper lines are too close together or touch the walls of the housing, they will vibrate and hit the metal when the compressor operates. This creates a resonating crackling noise that can become louder under certain operating conditions. To eliminate it, you must carefully (with the device turned off) separate the tubes or install rubber dampers.
| Sound type | Probable cause | Danger | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gurgling | Freon movement | No | Observation |
| Whistling | Capillary clogged | High | Call the master |
| Metallic ringing | Vibration of tubes | Medium | Spreading of tubes |
| Sharp bang | Hose rupture | Critical | Disconnection, repair |
⚠️ Attention: Independent soldering of tubes or an attempt to refuel with freon without evacuation of the system will lead to to the failure of the refrigerator. These works require special equipment.
Fan malfunctions in the No Frost system
If your Atlant refrigerator equipped with an automatic defrost system No Frostthe fan may be the source of the crackling sound. This unit ensures the circulation of cold air throughout the chamber. Over time, ice can build up on the fan blades or bearings, especially if the door seal is damaged. Ice chips get into the mechanism, causing a crackling and humming noise when rotating.
In addition, the fan bearing itself may dry out and begin to creak or crack when rotating. This is mechanical wear, which is inevitable after several years of use. The sound is usually constant while the fan is running and stops immediately after it stops. In some models, the blades may become loose and touch the protective casing, producing a rhythmic knock.
For diagnostics, you need to remove the back panel in the freezer (after defrosting the refrigerator for 10-12 hours). If after complete defrosting the sound disappears, then the problem was with ice. If the cracking noise remains, the fan will need to be replaced. This is a fairly simple procedure that can be performed at home if you have a basic tool.
☑️ Fan diagnostics
Vibration of the housing and incorrect installation
Often the reason for the crackling sound does not lie inside the unit at all, but in its interaction with the surrounding space. If the refrigerator is not installed level, vibration from the operating compressor is transmitted to the floor and walls, causing resonance. Vibration noise may be perceived as a crackling or buzzing sound. This is especially true for tall models, the top of which may oscillate slightly.
Check the adjustment feet. They must be unscrewed so that the body is stable and the doors close by themselves when opened to 45 degrees. If one of the legs is hanging in the air or, conversely, the body is skewed, this will cause the frame to skew and cause squeaks. Also make sure that the back wall or sides of the refrigerator do not touch furniture or walls. A minimum gap of 5 cm is required for normal ventilation and absence of resonance.
Look at what is on the lid of the refrigerator. Small objects placed on top can vibrate and rattle, creating the illusion of internal damage. Remove all extraneous items and check if the sound has disappeared. Sometimes even a light decorative sticker on the case can peel off at the edge and vibrate in the wind due to the operation of the system.
How to check the installation level?
Take a regular building level and place it on the top lid of the refrigerator. The air bubble should be strictly in the center. If there is a deviation, tighten the adjusting feet until they are aligned.
When you need to call a technician
Despite the possibility of self-diagnosis, there are situations when professional intervention cannot be avoided. If a cracking sound occurs loss of cold in one or both chambers, this indicates a serious problem with the refrigeration circuit or compressor. Ignoring such symptoms can lead to a complete replacement of an expensive unit.
It is also worth contacting service if you smell burnt wiring or see sparking in the compressor area. Electrical faults are dangerous not only for equipment, but also for the fire safety of your home. The technician will measure the current, check the resistance of the windings and the tightness of the system.
In the case when the refrigerator is under warranty, any independent repair associated with breaking seals or violating the integrity of components will lead to loss of warranty obligations. In such a situation, the only right decision would be to contact an authorized service center Atlant.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and location of components may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. Always check the official instructions for your device before starting any work.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the new Atlant refrigerator crack when you first turn it on?
This is absolutely normal. At the first start, active cooling of the internal elements occurs, and the plastic contracts, producing a cracking sound. Also, the compressor can work in increased mode, creating more noise. After 1-2 days, the sound should subside.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it is cracking?
If the cracking is caused by thermal expansion or vibration of the case, it is possible. If the sound comes from the compressor (metallic clanging, sparking) or is accompanied by heating of the motor housing, operation should be stopped until the reasons are clarified.
How often do you need to defrost the Atlant No Frost refrigerator?
The No Frost system does not require regular defrosting to remove ice, but for hygiene and prevention of odors, it is recommended to completely defrost and wash the unit without less than once every 6-12 months.
The crackling sound is heard only at night, it is not present during the day. Why?
At night, the level of extraneous noise in the apartment decreases, and the operation of the refrigerator becomes more noticeable. Also, at night, the voltage in the network may be more stable, which affects the operation of the motor. If the cracking sound does not become louder, most likely it is just the effect of silence.