Disassembling the two-chamber Atlant refrigerator: a complete guide with photos and diagrams

Two-chamber refrigerators Atlant are one of the most popular in the post-Soviet space due to their reliability and maintainability. However, even such equipment requires maintenance over time: replacing the seal, cleaning the drainage system or repairing the compressor. If you are faced with the need to disassemble the unit, but have never done it, this article will help you avoid typical mistakes and save on calling a technician.

We will analyze in detail step-by-step disassembly taking into account the features of the models Atlant (series MHM, NRM, HM and etc.), we will indicate key differences between systems No Frost and drip defrosting, and also warn against dangerous actions that can lead to breakdown or injury. We will pay special attention hidden fastenersthat beginners often miss, and give advice on organizing the workspace.

Before you start, answer two questions: why you are disassembling the refrigerator (diagnostics, replacement of parts, cleaning) and what model you have. The set of tools and the depth of disassembly depend on this. For example, to replace the backlight lamp, it is enough to remove the lampshade, and to repair the evaporator, you will need to dismantle the internal panel of the freezer.

1. Preparing for disassembly: tools and safety measures

Start with disconnecting the refrigerator from the mains and completely defrosting it (if the model is not No Frost). Even if you plan to work only on mechanical parts, there is still a risk of short circuiting when exposed to moisture. Remove all products, shelves and containers - they will interfere with access to the fasteners.

Minimum set of tools for disassembly Atlant:

• ⚒️ Phillips and flathead screwdrivers (for screws securing the panel and compressor casing).
• 🔧 Set of socket wrenches (most often, sizes 8, 10 and 13 mm are needed to dismantle the compressor).
• 📏 Plastic spatula or mediator (for removing decorative plugs without scratches).
• 🔌 Multimeter (for checking circuits, if disassembly is related to electricity).
• 📸 Smartphone for taking photographs (fix the location of wires and parts before dismantling!).

Pay special attention space organization: place screws and small parts in containers (for example, egg containers) and label them with a marker. Models Atlant often use screws of different lengths - if you mix them up during assembly, this can lead to damage to the plastic panels or a loose seal.

⚠️ Attention! If your refrigerator Atlant was released before 2010, it can use R-12 refrigerantwhich requires special equipment for refueling. An attempt to independently repair the cooling circuit in such models is fraught with freon leakage and the need to completely recharge the system.

2. Removing the door and sealing rubber

Removing the door is the first step if you need to get to thermostat, evaporator or replace the seal. In models Atlant the door is attached to two hinges: top and bottom. Start with the top:

1. Open the door 90 degrees and place a support under it (for example, a stack of books) so that it does not fall when disconnected.
2. Remove the decorative plug of the hinge (pry it with a plastic spatula).
3. Unscrew the hinge mounting bolts (usually 2-3 pieces) and carefully remove the door from the lower pin.

The sealing rubber is attached either to screws (old models), or on glue (new). In the first case, simply unscrew the screws around the perimeter. In the second, heat the gum with a hairdryer (temperature 50-60°C) and carefully pry it with a spatula, starting from the corner. Do not use a knife or sharp objects - this will damage the plastic case and the need to replace it.

Make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged|

Prepare a support for the door|

Take a photo of the location of the hinges|

Mark the upper and lower parts of the door with a marker (so as not to confuse it during assembly)-->

3. Disassembling the internal panels: access to the evaporator and drainage

The internal panels of the refrigerator and freezer compartments hide key elements: evaporator, drainage hole, fan (in models with No Frost) and thermostat. Their dismantling requires caution - the plastic of the panels is fragile, especially after many years of use.

For models with drip system (for example, Atlant MHM 1708):

1. Remove the shelves and drawers.
2. Unscrew the screws securing the inner panel (they may be hidden under plugs).
3. Carefully detach the panel, starting from the top edge. Under it you will see the evaporator (aluminum radiator) and the drainage hole.

For models with No Frost (for example, Atlant NRM 6208):

• 🌀 After removing the back panel of the freezer, you will find fan and defrost heater.
• 🔌 Before by dismantling, disconnect the fan power connectors (usually they are fixed with plastic latches).
• ❄️ The evaporator in such models is hidden behind foam insulation - to get to it, you will need to remove an additional layer of protection.

⚠️ Attention! In systems No Frost during disassembly it is easy to damage defrost sensor or fuse, which are attached to the evaporator. If after assembly the refrigerator does not turn on, check the integrity of these elements with a multimeter (the sensor resistance should be within 4-6 kOhm).

4. Dismantling the compressor and condenser: nuances for different series

The compressor is the heaviest and most important component of the refrigerator. In models Atlant it is usually located in the lower part of the rear wall and is mounted on four bolts with shock-absorbing springs. Before removing the compressor, be sure to:

• 🔌 Disconnect the starting relay (it is attached to the compressor with clips).
• 📏 Measure the resistance of the windings with a multimeter (the norm for a working compressor: 15-40 Ohms between contacts).
• 🔧 Prepare a container for the oil - when dismantling the tubes, some of it may leak out.

The condenser (grid on the rear wall) is secured with screws or latches. In older models (Atlant before 2015), it is often welded to the compressor tubes - in this case, replacement will require resoldering of the circuit, which is impossible without special equipment.

What to do if the compressor is not disconnected from the tubes?

If the tubes are stuck to the compressor, do not try to break them off - this will lead to a freon leak. In this case:

1. Heat the joint with a hair dryer (temperature 200-250°C).

2. Use a special pipe cutter for copper pipes (not a grinder!).

3. After disconnecting, immediately plug the tubes to avoid moisture and dust.

In models with inverter compressor (for example, Atlant NRM 8209), dismantling is complicated by the presence of an electronic control unit. Before disconnecting the wires, photograph their location or mark them with adhesive tape.

5. Disassembling the No Frost system: fan, heater and sensors

The system No Frost in refrigerators Atlant includes three key elements: fan, defrost heater and temperature sensor. Their disassembly requires care - especially when working with a heater, which is fragile and can crack under mechanical stress.

Sequence of actions:

1. Remove the back panel of the freezer (secured with 4-6 screws).
2. Disconnect the fan power connector (usually a white plastic connector with 2-3 contacts).
3. Unscrew the fan mount (2 screws) and remove it from the axis. Pay attention to direction of the blades —if installed incorrectly, it will blow in the opposite direction.
4. To access the defrost heater, remove the protective casing (it is secured with latches).

The defrost sensor is usually located next to evaporator and is mounted on a plastic holder. To remove it:

1. Disconnect the connector (it may be hidden under the insulation).
2. Carefully remove the sensor from the holder, do not pull the wires!

6. Cleaning the drainage system: why is it important

Clogged drainage hole is one of the most common problems in refrigerators Atlant with a drip system. If the water does not drain into the drip pan, it will accumulate under the vegetable drawers and then leak out onto the floor. Cleaning the drainage does not require complete disassembly, but it must be done regularly (once every 6-12 months).

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Remove the bottom shelf of the refrigerator and find the drainage hole (usually located in the center of the back wall).
2. Use special brush (included with the refrigerator) or wire with a diameter of 2-3 mmto clean the hole. Do not use sharp objects - they can damage the plastic tube.
3. Rinse the system with warm water and soap, using a syringe or syringe without a needle.
4. Check that water flows freely into the pan above the compressor.

If the blockage is severe and the brush does not help, you may need to remove drainage tube from the back wall of the refrigerator. To do this: Drainage tube data-i="237">🔄 Put the tube back, making sure that it fits tightly into the grooves (otherwise condensation will leak).

• 🔧 Unscrew the screws securing the bottom panel (under the vegetable drawers).
• 🧹 Carefully remove the tube from the grooves and rinse it under running water.
• 🔄 Place the tube back, making sure that it fits tightly into the grooves (otherwise condensation will leak).

7. Assembling a refrigerator: how to avoid mistakes

Assembly is no less important stage than disassembly. Typical mistakes that beginners make:

• ❌ Mixed-up screws —use only those that were screwed into a specific hole (they may differ in length).
• ❌ Not connected connectors —for example, a temperature sensor or a backlight.
• ❌ Incorrect installation of the seal —it should lie flat, without folds or gaps.
• ❌ Forgotten parts —small plugs or gaskets are often lost.

The assembly order should be reverse disassembly. Start by installing the interior panels, then reconnect the electrical connectors (if disconnected), then install the door and seal. Before final assembly:

• 🔌 Check the integrity of the circuits with a multimeter (if you worked with an electrician).
• 🧲 Make sure that no metal parts touch the freon tubes (this can cause corrosion).
• 📏 Check the gaps between the door and the body - they should be the same around the entire perimeter.

After assembly, plug in the refrigerator and let it run idle for 1-2 hours (without food). Pay attention to:

• 🔊 Compressor noise — it should be uniform, without knocking or vibration.
• ❄️ Temperature in chambers —the refrigerator compartment should cool to +5°C in 2-3 hours.
• 💧 Condensation —if ice forms on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, check the door for tightness.

8. Typical breakdowns after improper disassembly

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes encounter problems after disassembling the refrigerator. Here are the most common of them and ways to eliminate them:

If after assembly the refrigerator does not work correctly, do not rush to disassemble it again. To get started:

1. Disconnect it from the network for 10-15 minutes, then turn it on again (sometimes failures in the operation of electronic units are eliminated by rebooting).
2. Check the thermostat settings - it may have gone to the maximum mode.
3. Make sure that the refrigerator is level. (use a level).

⚠️ Attention! If, after disassembling, the refrigerator Atlant starts to get very hot at the back or the compressor runs non-stop, immediately unplug it! This may indicate freon leak or turn-to-turn short circuit in the compressor windings. In this case, you will need the help of a professional.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions for disassembling Atlant refrigerators

Is it possible to disassemble the Atlant refrigerator without disconnecting from the network?

No, this is extremely dangerous! Even if you only work on mechanical parts (for example, removing a door), the risk of a short circuit due to accidental contact with wires remains. Always remove the plug from the socket and discharge the start relay capacitor (by short-circuiting its contacts with a screwdriver with an insulated handle).

How to remove the back wall of the Atlant refrigerator if it is glued?

In some models (for example, Atlant MHM 2835) the back wall may be glued to the body with polyurethane foam. To remove it:

1. Warm the seam with a construction hairdryer (temperature 60-80°C).
2. Carefully pry the wall with a plastic spatula, starting from the top corner.
3. If the foam is not lends itself, use a thin string (for example, a guitar), stretching it along the seam.

After dismantling, clean the remaining foam with sandpaper before reinstalling.

What to do if the plastic latch breaks during disassembly?

Plastic latches on panels refrigerators Atlant often break due to careless dismantling. If this happens:

• Use epoxy glue or plastic welding for repair.
• If the latch is completely lost, replace it with a similar one from another equipment or make a homemade one from a plastic plate.
• As a last resort, fix the panel with screws (by drilling holes in the case).

Avoid using superglue - it can damage the plastic during subsequent disassembly.

How to check if I have damaged the circuit with freon during disassembly?

Signs of circuit damage:

• 🛠️ Visible cracks or dents on the tubes.
• 💨 Hissing sound during operation (freon leakage).
• ❄️ Compressor runs non-stop, but the refrigerator does not cool.

If you suspect a leak, do not try to charge the system yourself - this requires special equipment and certification. Contact the service center.

Do I need to disassemble the Atlant refrigerator to replace the lamp?

No, in most models the backlight lamp is located under the lampshade on the top panel of the refrigerator compartment. To replace it:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the lampshade by prying it with a screwdriver (it is secured with latches).
3. Unscrew the lamp (usually a standard base E14 or E27).
4. Install a new lamp with a power of no more than 15 W (for E14) or 25 W (for E27).

Do not use LED lamps without a radiator - they can overheat in a closed lamp.