Situations when the standard location of the refrigerator door becomes inconvenient arise quite often. This may be due to kitchen remodeling, furniture rearrangement, or interior features that dictate their own conditions. Equipment owners Indesit often wonder whether it is possible to change the opening side to provide more ergonomic access to products.
Fortunately, most modern models of the Italian brand, such as series Indesit C 130, Indesit DF and Indesit NBS, provide for this possibility at the design stage. The design of the hinges allows them to be dismantled and installed on the opposite side, which makes the process of adapting the equipment to the room quite realistic.
However, it is worth understanding that the work requires accuracy and the availability of a basic set of tools. Improper dismantling may result in damage to the housing or failure of the seal. In this article, we will analyze each stage in detail so that you can complete the job efficiently and safely.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before you begin to physically impact the equipment, you need to prepare the workspace. Clear space around the refrigerator to allow easy access from all sides, especially the sides. The floor must be smooth and clean so that accidentally dropped parts do not get lost or scratched.
To complete the task, you will need a standard DIY kit. A Phillips head screwdriver (PH2) and a flathead screwdriver are usually sufficient. In some cases, especially for models with recessed handles or complex fittings, you may need a wrench or hexagon.
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver for unscrewing the main screws securing the hinges.
- 🛠️ Flat screwdriver or spatula for carefully removing decorative plugs.
- 📏 Construction level for checking the horizontal installation after completion of work.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
It is important to clear the shelves on the door in advance to reduce the load on the hinges during dismantling. It is better to put heavy bottles and cans in another place so that they do not break if accidentally dropped.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Unplug the plug from the socket to eliminate the risk of electric shock or accidental starting of the compressor during maintenance.
Diagram of hinges and attachment points
Understanding the design will help avoid mistakes. The refrigerator door Indesit is attached to the body using upper and lower hinges. Some models also have a middle hinge if you have a two-chamber unit with a separate freezer.
On the opposite side where you plan to move the door, there are usually factory holes closed with plastic plugs. This is where the main fastening units will be moved. It is important not to confuse the left and right sides during installation.
Design features of Indesit models
In older models of Indesit refrigerators, the hinges can be welded rather than screwed. In this case, it is almost impossible to rehang the door yourself without special equipment and welding. Make sure that your model has threaded connections.
It is worth noting that asymmetrical handles may require additional manipulations. If the handle is made in the form of a single unit on one side, you will have to look for components for the other side or put up with the fact that the handle will look upside down.
Below is a table describing the main mounting points for different types of models:
| Model type | Number of hinges | Screw location | Nuances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single chamber (C 130) | 2 (top/bottom) | Hidden under plugs | Simple design |
| Two-chamber (DF, NBS) | 3 (top/middle/bottom) | On the side wall | Door support needed |
| No Frost | 2 or 3 | Reinforced fastenings | Heavy door |
| Built-in | 2 or 3 | Complex system | Requires removal of the facade |
Dismantling the door and removing the fittings
The process of removing the door requires care. Start with the top loop. Carefully pry up the decorative cover (if there is one) and unscrew the mounting bolts. After this, the door can be lifted slightly to remove it from the lower axis.
If you have a two-chamber refrigerator, first remove the upper door (refrigerator compartment), then the lower one (freezer). Do not try to remove both doors at the same time - it is too difficult and inconvenient.
☑️ Removal procedure
When removing the hinges, pay attention to the washers and bushings. Their order and arrangement are extremely important for the correct operation of the mechanism in the future. It is best to arrange the parts in the order in which you removed them, or photograph the process.
Pay special attention sealing rubber. Try not to touch it with tools or stretch it excessively. Damage to the seal will lead to loss of tightness and increased energy consumption.
Transferring fastening elements to the other side
Now we move on to preparing the new side. At the end of the case, where there was previously no door, you will find holes closed with plastic plugs. Carefully remove them using a flat-head screwdriver.
The plugs removed from the working side must be installed in the vacated holes. This is not only an aesthetic point, but also protects the internal insulation from moisture and dust. Make sure that they fit tightly and do not protrude beyond the dimensions of the case.
If the refrigerator came with special bushings or adapters for hanging, install them now according to the diagram in the instructions. In some cases, it is necessary to turn the hinge itself over, as it may have a specific shape.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when tightening the screws into the case. The metal of the housing is thin, and you can easily strip the threads or deform the wall, which will make further operation impossible.
Installing the door and adjusting the position
After the hinges have been transferred to the new side, you can begin hanging the door. It is better to perform this step with an assistant, since the refrigerator door Indesit weighs quite a lot, and it will be difficult to hold it straight with one hand.
Insert the lower hinge axis into the corresponding hole on the door, then align the upper holes. Carefully insert the mounting bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow you to adjust the position of the door.
- 🚪 Check the vertical installation of the door using a level.
- 🔩 Tighten all fasteners evenly, moving diagonally.
- 👀 Make sure that the gap between the door and the body is the same throughout perimeter.
The key point is adjustment fit tightness. The door should close tightly, but without unnecessary effort. If the door closes too tightly or, on the contrary, does not hold, it is necessary to adjust the height of the legs of the refrigerator.
Final check and elimination of distortions
The final stage includes a thorough check of all systems. Plug in the refrigerator and listen. There should be no extraneous sounds of friction or knocking that could arise due to misalignment.
Check the operation of the door opening sensor (if your model has one). The light inside should light up when opening and go out when closing. If the sensor does not work, the door may be warped and does not press the button.
Leave the refrigerator empty for several hours until it returns to normal. Then check to see if ice is forming in the corners or on the seal. This is a sure sign that the door does not fit tightly and the hinges need to be adjusted again.
What to do if the Indesit refrigerator door does not close tightly after hanging?
Most likely, the installation geometry is broken. Check if the refrigerator is level on the floor. If the floor is uneven, adjust the front support feet. Also check if the seal in the corners of the door is twisted.
Is it possible to hang the door if the refrigerator is built into the kitchen unit?
This is possible, but much more difficult. It will be necessary to completely dismantle the façade panels and provide access to the side walls. Often for built-in models, it is necessary to remove the entire structure from the niche.
Do I need to wait before turning it on after rehanging?
No special waiting is required, since the compressor was not disconnected. However, if you tilted or laid down the refrigerator during work, it is recommended to let it stand upright for 2-4 hours before starting.
Where should the old hinge holes go?
They are closed with plastic plugs that were originally located on the “unnecessary” side. If the plugs are lost, they can be ordered from a service center or carefully painted over with enamel of a suitable color.
Does re-hanging the door affect the warranty?
Re-hanging the door yourself, as a rule, does not void the warranty on the compressor and electrical equipment, unless you damage the housing and wiring. However, if you break the thread or break the plastic, this damage will not be covered under warranty.