Changing the kitchen layout or simply wanting to optimize the space often leads to the need to change the direction of opening the refrigeration door. For equipment owners Indesit this procedure is not critically complicated, but it requires care and adherence to a certain algorithm of actions. Hanging doors this is a standard operation provided for by the design of most modern models, and it usually takes no more than an hour of time.
Unlike old Soviet units, modern two-chamber models require careful handling of plastic elements and seals. Improper dismantling may damage hinges or deform elastic sealwhich will lead to loss of tightness. In this article we will analyze the rearrangement process in detail, focusing on specific points specific to the brand Indesit.
Before starting work, you need to free up space in front of the refrigerator and prepare a flat surface for temporary placement of the removed parts. Make sure you have adequate lighting as some fasteners may be hidden in dark recesses of the cabinet. Competent preparation is the guarantee that the process will take place without scratches on the floor or lost screws.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
The quality of the work performed directly depends on how correctly the tool is selected. Refrigerators Indesit most often require a standard DIY kit, but there are also specific points. The main tool will be screwdriver or a set of screwdrivers with different attachments, since fasteners can be combined.
You will definitely need a flat screwdriver to carefully remove decorative plugs that often hide the attachment points. It will also not be amiss to have on hand building levelto check the horizontal installation after completion of installation, and a soft rag for wiping parts.
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat) or a screwdriver with a bit.
- 🔧 Open-end wrenches (often a size of 8 or 10 mm is required).
- 📏 Construction level for checking the geometry of the installation.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
⚠️ Attention: Before Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! This is not only a safety requirement, but also a way to prevent accidental activation of the compressor while manipulating wiring or sensors.
Organize the work area so that removed parts do not interfere with movement. It is best to prepare a box or container in advance for folding screws, as they tend to get lost at the most inopportune moment. Cleanliness and order around the refrigerator will significantly speed up the assembly process.
Removing the top door of the refrigerator compartment
The process always begins with the top of the unit, that is, from the refrigerator door. On most models Indesit the upper loop is hidden under a decorative plastic cover. Carefully pry it off with a flat screwdriver or knife, being careful not to damage the paintwork of the case.
After removing the plug, you will see the top hinge and, possibly, the handle fasteners. If the handle is secured with screws at the top, they must be unscrewed. In some modifications, the handle can be glued or held on by hidden latches, which requires special attention.
Features of fastening handles
In some Indesit models, the handle is secured not only with screws, but also with a powerful adhesive. If there are no screws, try gently heating the mounting area with a hairdryer at a minimum temperature to soften the glue, and pull the handle towards you.
Ask an assistant to hold the door or use special stops so that it does not fall on your feet and damage the floor.
After unscrewing the bolts of the top hinge, remove it along with the bracket. The door can now be carefully lifted and removed from the lower support sleeve. Place the removed door on a prepared soft surface with the outer side down so as not to scratch the front panel.
Removing the bottom door of the freezer
After the top part is freed, move on to the bottom door of the freezer. Here the design may differ slightly depending on the specific series Indesit. Often the bottom hinge is hidden at the bottom of the case or covered by a plinth.
If your model has a removable plinth, it must be removed first. It is usually held on by latches or a couple of screws. After gaining access to the bottom support hinge, unscrew it, having first secured the freezer door.
Removing the bottom door requires special care, since it is often in this area that control cables or sensors pass. No Frost. If you see wires running, do not pull the door sharply under any circumstances. Carefully disconnect the connectors, having previously photographed their location.
- 📸 Take a photograph of the connection of all electrical connectors before disconnecting.
- 🔌 Carefully move the wires to the side so as not to damage them during removal.
- 🚪 Also place the removed freezer door on soft surface.
Now you have cleared the entire front opening of the refrigerator. This is the ideal moment to wipe the ends of the doors and the places where the hinges are installed from dust and dirt accumulated during operation.
Moving hinges and fittings to the opposite side
The most critical stage is transferring the fastening elements to the other side. On the opposite side of the refrigerator body Indesit there should already be technological holes closed with plastic plugs. They need to be removed.
Take the removed top hinge and install it on the new side using the corresponding holes. In some cases, it may be necessary to turn the loop itself over or use mirrored holes. Fixing bolts There is no need to tighten them completely yet, just tighten them.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse the upper and lower loops! They have different geometries and are not interchangeable. The lower hinge is usually more massive and has an axis on which the door is placed.
Similar actions are performed with the lower support hinge. Install it into the new holes on the opposite side of the case. Make sure all the holes line up perfectly without any misalignment. If the holes do not line up, check to see if the parts you are trying to install are correct.
Now you need to reposition the handles. If they are symmetrical, they can simply be rearranged. If the handle design is asymmetrical, you may need to purchase a special re-hanging kit or use the spare plugs that come with the refrigerator.
Installing doors in a new position
After preparing the hinges, it is time to reinstall the doors. We start, as during dismantling, from the top part, but in the reverse order - first we hang the bottom door (freezer), then the top door (refrigerator).
Install the bottom door on the axis of the bottom hinge. Have an assistant hold it upright. Align the top holes of the door with the holes of the intermediate or top hinge (depending on the design of your model. Indesit).
Secure the door with screws. At this stage, it is important not to overdo it with the tightening force. The metal of the doors is thin, and excessive force can lead to deformation of the hole or breakage of the thread. Tightening you must be sure, but neat.
Then install the top door. Align the holes on the top hinge with the holes on the cabinet and door. Insert the bolts and tighten them evenly. Check that the doors open freely and do not touch each other or the body.
☑️ Installation checklist
After mechanical installation, check the operation seals. The door should fit tightly around the entire perimeter of the body. If you notice a distortion, you may need to adjust the height of the legs of the refrigerator.
Adjustment and final check of tightness
The final stage is checking the quality of the work performed. Visually assess the gaps between the doors and the body. They should be uniform. If one part of the door opens more than the other, adjust the height of the refrigerator's front support legs.
You can use a simple test with a sheet of paper to check the tightness. Clamp the sheet of paper with the door in different places around the perimeter. If the sheet is removed with force, the seal is good. If the paper falls freely or comes out too easily, the hinges need to be adjusted or the rubber seal needs to be replaced sealing gum.
| Check parameter | Normal condition | Action required |
|---|---|---|
| Tightness | The sheet of paper is clamped tightly | Adjustment of hinges or legs |
| Door movement | Smooth, without creaks | Lubrication hinges |
| Self-closing | The door is completed by itself | Checking the tilt of the body |
| Gaps | Identical along the entire length | Editing the door position |
Don't forget to install decorative plugs on the vacated holes on the side where there are no more hinges. This will not only improve the appearance, but also protect the internal cavities from dust.
Plug in the refrigerator only after making sure that all tools are removed and the doors are installed correctly. Allow the unit to reach temperature before loading the products.
Common mistakes and recommendations from experts
When doing work on their own, beginners often make common mistakes. One of the most common is the loss of fasteners or mixing up screws of different lengths. To avoid this, sort the fasteners as you dismantle them.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the seals. When rehanging doors on older models Indesit the rubber band may “remember” the old position and fit worse. In this case, it is recommended to warm the seal with a hairdryer or give it time to straighten.
- ❌ Do not use an impact tool (drill in impact mode) to tighten screws into the plastic.
- ❌ Do not leave the refrigerator open for a long time unnecessarily, so as not to damage the seal.
- ❌ Do not ignore distortions, as this will lead to constant operation of the compressor.
⚠️ Attention: The design of some models may have nuances that are not described in the general instructions. If you feel resistance where there shouldn't be, stop and consult the official diagram for your specific modification.
Accuracy and consistency are the main allies in this matter. Don't rush, and you will be able to save on calling a technician.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before hanging the doors?
Yes, this is highly recommended. Complete defrosting will make the structure lighter, eliminate water leaks when the body is tilted, and allow you to thoroughly wash the ends of the doors, which will become accessible after removal.
Is it possible to hang the door by one person?
Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The doors of two-chamber refrigerators Indesit are heavy and bulky. The risk of dropping the door, damaging the floor, or causing injury is very high. Always involve an assistant.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not close tightly?
Most likely, the installation geometry is broken. Check that the refrigerator is level (use a level) and adjust the height of the front legs. Also check that the seal in the grooves is not twisted.
Where can I get new plugs for old holes?
Usually a set of plugs is included in the documentation for the refrigerator (often in a package with instructions). If they are lost, they can be ordered at service centers Indesit or pick up universal analogues in hardware stores.
Does re-hanging affect the warranty?
The process of re-hanging doors itself is a normal operation provided for by the design, and should not void the warranty. However, if parts are damaged in the process (threads are torn off, the door is broken, the wire is broken), warranty repairs may be refused.