Refrigerator Atlant is one of the most popular brands in the post-Soviet space, known for its reliability and maintainability. However, even such devices require periodic maintenance, especially when it comes to refrigerant system. The amount of freon in the refrigerator is a critical parameter on which the cooling efficiency, energy consumption and service life of the equipment depend.
Many owners are faced with the question: how much refrigerant should be in their model? The answer depends on the type of compressor, the volume of the chambers, the year of manufacture and even the climate class. In this article we will analyze freon charging standards for different lines Atlant, we will tell you how to determine a leak and what to do if the refrigerator stops freezing. And you will also find current tables with accurate data on models - from classic MHM-1703 to modern NRMseries.
⚠️ Attention: Refrigerant charging data may differ for refrigerators manufactured after 2020 due to changes in environmental standards (transition from R134a to R600a). Check the information in the device passport or on the official website Atlant.
1. What refrigerant is used in Atlant refrigerators?
Until 2010, most models Atlant were charged with freon R12 - a refrigerant with high ozone depletion potential (ODP), which is today prohibited for use in new devices. From 2010 to 2018, the main refrigerant became R134a (tetrafluoroethane), and since 2018 the plant switched to R600a (isobutane) - an environmentally friendly gas, but requiring special care when refueling due to the fire hazard.
Today you can find refrigerators on sale Atlant with three types of freon:
- 🔹 R134a —in models 2010–2020. (for example MHM-1705, XM-4021). Refill volume - from 60 to 120 grams.
- 🔹 R600a - in modern lines (NRM, Status). Volume - from 40 to 80 grams.
- 🔹 Mixed refrigerants (for example, R404A) - rarely, in industrial models.
⚠️ Attention: Refrigerant R600a is explosive at a concentration in air of more than 1.3%. Refilling must be carried out by a certified technician in a ventilated area!
2. Freon charging rates for Atlant models
The exact amount of refrigerant is indicated on the compressor nameplate or in the refrigerator passport (section “Technical Specifications”). However, if the documentation is lost, you can rely on the average values from the table below. The data is relevant for household models with a volume of 150 to 400 liters.
| Model/Series | Refrigerant type | Charge volume (g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MHM-1703, MHM-1705 | R134a | 80–90 | Single-chamber, compressor DXM-5 |
| XM-4021, XM-4026 | R134a | 100–110 | Double-chamber, volume 300–350 l |
| NRM-1601, NRM-1802 | R600a | 50–60 | No Frost, inverter compressor |
| Status 308, Status 312 | R600a | 65–75 | Premium line, dual-circuit cooling |
| MX-280, MX-282 | R134a/R600a | 70–80 | Depends on the year of manufacture (before/after 2018) |
If your model is not in the table, use the formula:
Refrigerant volume (g) ≈ fridge compartment volume (l) × 0.3 (for R134a) or × 0.2 (for R600a).
For example, for Atlant XM-4426 (350 l) with R134a the filling rate will be ~105 g.
3. Signs of a lack or excess of refrigerant
How to understand that there is an incorrect amount of freon in the refrigerator? Pay attention to the following symptoms: Atlant Incorrect amount of freon? Pay attention to the following symptoms:
- ❄️ Weak cooling: the temperature in the chambers is higher than the set one, food spoils faster.
- ⏳ Long compressor operation: the motor runs without stopping or turns on too often (cycle less than 10 minutes).
- 🔥 Condenser overheating: the rear grill of the refrigerator is hot to the touch (normal: warm, but not scalding).
- 💧 Evaporator freezing: in models with
No Froston the back Ice forms on the wall. - 🔊 Atypical sounds: gurgling, hissing or whistling from the compressor (may indicate a leak).
An excess of freon is no less dangerous than its lack. Signs:
- ❄️ Excessive freezing pipes and evaporator.
- ⚡ Increased energy consumption (the meter “winds up” 30–50% more).
- 🛑 The compressor turns off after 1-2 minutes after startup (pressure protection is triggered).
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator operates unstably after charging the refrigerant, air or moisture may have entered the system. In this case, a complete refill with vacuum is required!
4. How to check the freon level without equipment?
Accurately measure the amount of refrigerant can only be done using manometric manifold, but there are several methods of indirect diagnosis:
- Leakage test with soap solution:
Apply soap foam to the soldering joints of the tubes (especially at the bottom of the back wall). If bubbles appear, there is a leak. Caution: Do not use open flame to check R600a!
- Checking the condenser temperature:
Touch the back grill of the refrigerator. Normally it should be warm (30–40°C). If it is cold, there is a lack of freon; if it is scalding hot, there is excess or clogged capillary tube.
- Control the compressor operating time:
Note the on/off cycle. Normal: 10–15 minutes of work, 5–10 minutes of rest. If the cycle is shorter or longer, there is a problem with the refrigerant.
What to do if a leak is found?
If you find a freon leak, impossible simply top up the system! Required:
1. Eliminate the cause of the leak (solder the crack, replace the tube).
2. Evacuate the system (remove moisture and air).
3. Fill the exact amount of refrigerant according to the scale.
Independent repair without experience can result in compressor failure.
5. Is it possible to refill the Atlant refrigerator yourself?
Theoretically, yes, but in practice it is risky. For refueling you will need:
- 🔧 Gauge manifold with hoses.
- ⚖️ Electronic scales (accuracy up to 1 gram).
- 🔥 Vacuum pump (to remove moisture).
- 🧊 Refrigerant cylinder (only original, without impurities).
Make sure there are no leaks|Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 4+ hours|Connect the manifold to the service pipe|Evacuate the system for 15–20 minutes|Weigh the freon cylinder before and after refilling-->
The most common mistake when refueling yourself is overflow of freon by 20–30 grams, which leads to water hammer and compressor breakdown. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact a service center. The average cost of refilling in 2026 is from 2500 to 4500 rubles (depending on the type of refrigerant).
⚠️ Attention: When working with R600a it is prohibited to use oxygen hoses or tools not intended for flammable gases!
6. Frequently asked questions about refrigerant in Atlant refrigerators
We have collected answers to the most popular questions from owners:
❓ How much does it cost to refill freon in a refrigerator Atlant?
The cost depends on the type of refrigerant and the complexity of the work:
- 💰 R134a: 2500–3500 rubles. (including diagnostics).
- 💰 R600a: 3500–4500 rub. (due to increased safety requirements).
- 💰 Leak elimination + refueling: from 5000 rubles.
❓ Is it possible to replace R134a on R600a?
Technically possible, but not recommended without modification of the system. R600a requires:
- Changing the oil in the compressor (to polyester).
- Rinsing the entire system from R134a residues.
- Installing a new filter-drier.
The cost of such an upgrade often exceeds 50% of the price of a new refrigerator.
❓ How often should you check the freon level?
Under normal conditions, the refrigerant does not evaporate. Checking is required only when:
- 🔧 Repairing the compressor or pipes.
- 🚚 Transporting the refrigerator in a horizontal position.
- ❄️ Signs of leakage appear (see section 3).
Preventive diagnostics once every 5–7 years will not be superfluous, especially for models older than 10 years.
❓ Is freon from the refrigerator harmful to health?
R134a in small concentrations they are harmless, but: R600a in small concentrations they are harmless, but:
- 🤒 R134a in large doses it can cause dizziness (displaces oxygen).
- 🔥 R600a fire hazardous - if there is a leak, ventilate the room!
If you suspect a leak, open the windows and leave the room for 15-20 minutes.
7. What to do if the Atlas refrigerator stops freezing?
If the refrigerator does not cool, the reason is not always freon. Check:
- Thermostat: turn the knob to maximum. If the compressor does not start, the sensor is faulty.
- Fan (in models with
No Frost): when the door is open, it should rotate. - Condenser: clean rear dust grill (use a vacuum cleaner or brush).
- Door seals: attach a sheet of paper to the seal and close the door. If the sheet falls out, the rubber band needs to be replaced.
If all checks are passed and the refrigerator does not work, most likely the problem is:
- 🛢️ Freon leak (refilling required).
- 🔧 Clogged capillary tube (needs cleaning or replacement).
- ⚡ Interturn compressor short circuit (repair is impractical, only replacement).
8. Where can I find official data on refilling freon?
The most accurate information is contained in the following sources:
- Refrigerator Passport (section "Technical Specifications" or "Service Information").
- Compressor nameplate (metal plate on the back wall with refrigerant marking and filling weight).
- Atlant official website:
Go to the “Support” → “Documentation” section, enter the refrigerator model. For example, for Atlant NRM-1802 there will be a file
Technical description.pdfwith data on freon. - Service manuals (for masters):
On the forums (for example, MasterGrad or Cxem.net) diagrams and charging rates for popular models are posted.
⚠️ Attention: In the operating instructions (which come in the box) there is often no information on freon - look exactly technical description or service manual.