How to flip the refrigerator door to the other side: step-by-step guide with photos and diagrams

Reversing the refrigerator door is a task that almost every appliance owner faces sooner or later. The reasons may be different: rearranging the kitchen, inconvenient opening due to the location of the furniture, or simply a desire to optimize the space. Fortunately, most modern models Samsung, LG, Indesit, Atlant and Beko support this function, but the process requires accuracy and knowledge of key nuances.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with illustrationsan analysis of common errors, as well as tips on choosing tools. We will consider the features of rehanging for single-chamber and double-chamber refrigerators, as well as models with electronic display or system No Frost. If you have never done such repairs, don’t worry: with the right approach, the task will take no more than 1-2 hours.

Before you begin, make sure that your model really supports overhang. This is usually indicated in operating instructions (section "Installation" or "Installation"). If the documentation is lost, check the presence plugs for fastenings on the opposite side of the case - their presence indicates the possibility of changing the opening side.

Preparation for work: tools and safety precautions

The first step is collecting the necessary tools. Without them, the process may be delayed or lead to equipment damage. Here is the minimum set:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (usually PH2) - for most fastening screws
• 🔧 Hex wrench (usually 4 or 5 mm) - for models Bosch or Siemens
• 🔧 Socket wrench (10 mm) - for the lower hinges of some refrigerators
• 🧲 Magnet or bowl - so as not to lose small parts (screws, washers)
• 📏 Level - to check the evenness of the door installation after overhang
• 🧴 Silicone grease —for processing hinges after assembly

Important: if your refrigerator is equipped with ice maker or water dispenser, additional parts will be required. For example, for models Samsung RS6*** you need to purchase in advance tube transfer kit (the article number is usually indicated in the instructions). Without it, overhanging will lead to water leakage.

⚠️ Attention: Some refrigerators with Inverter Compressor (for example, LG GA-B489) have features for attaching the door to body. If you do not turn off the power before operation, the electronic unit may block the opening mechanism. Always unplug the plug from the socket 10-15 minutes before starting work!

Also prepare the work space:

• 📦 Empty the refrigerator of food (just put them in a cooler bag or thermal bag).
• 🧹 Remove rugs and objects that may get in the way (for example, a trash can or stool).
• 🪟 Organize good lighting - you will have to work with small parts.

Scheme for hanging a door: universal algorithm

Despite the differences in designs, the general procedure is the same for 90% of models. We will analyze it using the example of a classic two-chamber refrigerator Atlant MXM-1708, and then we will indicate the nuances for other brands.

1. Remove the top cover of the case. It is secured with 2-4 screws from the back. Carefully slide it forward and set it aside.
2. Unscrew the top hinge. Usually it is secured with 2-3 bolts. Hold the door so that it does not fall!
3. Remove the door from the bottom hinge. Lift it up at an angle of 30-40° and remove it from the pin.
4. Move the decorative plugs. They cover the holes on the opposite side. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully remove them.
5. Install the hinges on the other side. Screw the bolts into the mirror holes (they are already in the case).
6. Hang the door on the new lower hinge. Make sure it sat smoothly, without distortions.
7. Secure the upper hinge. Adjust the gaps (there should be 2-3 mm between the door and the body).
8. Return the top cover. Check that everything the latches are in place correctly.

For refrigerators with display on the door (for example, Samsung RB37J5***) you will additionally need:

• 🔌 Disconnect the display power connector (usually it is located under the top hinge).
• 🔄 Move the wiring harness to the other side, following the markings on the case.
• 🔌 Reconnect the connector after installing the door.

Nuances for different brands and models

Each manufacturer makes its own adjustments to the design of hinges and fasteners. The table below shows the key features for popular brands:

For refrigerators with No Frost system (for example, Indesit DF 5201) it is important not to damage air ductsthat pass through the door. They are attached with plastic latches - remove them before hanging, otherwise you risk breaking the clips.

⚠️ Attention: In models Liebeherr with function BioFresh door The freezer compartment is hung separately from the main one! If their position is not synchronized, the seal will not fit tightly, which will lead to freezing.

If your refrigerator is older than 10 years (for example, Stinol 101 or Minsk 126), you may need replacing hinges. In Soviet models, they often wore out and could not withstand the weight of modern shelves. In this case, it is better to buy a repair kit in advance (cost - from 500 to 1500 rubles).

What to do if there are no plugs for holes?

If the plugs are lost, they can be replaced with ones of suitable diameter furniture plugs (sold in hardware stores). An alternative is to use silicone sealant to mask the holes, but this is less aesthetically pleasing.

Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even with instructions, many make mistakes that then have to be corrected. Here are the most common:

1. Door skew. Arises if the hinge bolts are unevenly tightened. Check the gaps around the entire perimeter - they should be the same (2-3 mm). Use a level!
2. Damage to the seal. The rubber gasket is easy to tear if you pull the door with force. Before removing, warm it up with a hairdryer (temperature 40-50°C) - this will make it more elastic.
3. Loss of screws or washers. In refrigerators Whirlpool or Electrolux screws with non-standard threads are often used. If you lose it, it will be difficult to find analogues.
4. Incorrect connection of the display. In models with electronic control (for example, Samsung Family Hub), mixed up connectors can damage the panel.
5. Ignoring the adjustment. After rehanging, the door may open spontaneously. This means that you need adjust the tilt using screws on the hinges.

Another common problem is creak of hinges after rehanging. This means they are not lubricated enough. Use silicone grease (not machine oil!), applying it to the hinge pins. For models with Door-in-Door (for example, LG InstaView), also lubricate the guides of the inner door.

Adjusting the door after rehanging

Even if you managed to install the hinges perfectly, the door may require additional adjustment. Here's how to do it:

1. Check the vertical gap. It should be the same on top and bottom (optimally 2 mm). If there is a larger gap at the bottom, loosen the top hinge and lift the door slightly.
2. Adjust the seal fit. Close the refrigerator and pull the edge of the door - if resistance is felt, the seal fits well. If the door “bounces”, you need to tighten the hinges.
3. Check the horizontal level. Use a building level, placing it on the top edge of the door. If necessary, tighten the bolts on the upper or lower hinge.

For refrigerators with French doors (for example, Samsung RF23***) the process is more complicated:

• 🔧 First adjust upper axis, then the lower hinges of each door separately.
• 📐 Use laser levelso that both doors are strictly parallel.
• 🔄 After adjustment, check the opening synchronization - the doors should move simultaneously.

If after all the manipulations the door still does not close tightly, the problem may be in worn seal. In this case, it needs to be replaced. For most models, universal seals are suitable (for example, 580x1200 mm for refrigerators with a height of 160-180 cm), but it is better to choose an original part according to the model.

Hanging the freezer door

In two-chamber refrigerators, the freezer often has a separate door, which can also be hung. The algorithm is similar, but there are nuances:

1. The freezer is heavier! Its door weighs 30-50% more due to insulation. Do not remove it alone —ask an assistant or use supports.
2. The freezer hinges are attached differently. For example, in Atlant MXM-2835 the lower hinge is fixed not with bolts, but with rivets. They need to be drilled out and replaced with bolts from the repair kit.
3. The freezer seal is thicker. When adjusting the gaps, keep in mind that it should fit tighter than that of the main chamber.

In models with lower location of the freezer (for example, LG GA-B429), first re-hang the upper door, then the lower one. It is important:

• 🔧 Do not overtighten the bolts of the bottom hinge - this can deform the case.
• 🧊 After rehanging, let the refrigerator stand for 1-2 hours with the doors closed so that the seal “accepts” the new shape.

If your refrigerator is equipped with quick freezing system (for example, SuperFrost v Bosch), after rehanging, check the operation of the fan. Sometimes, if the door is installed incorrectly, it begins to make noise or turns off completely.

When is it better to contact a specialist

Although hanging the door is a task that most users can handle, in some cases it is better to call a specialist:

• 🔧 If the refrigerator on guarantees —self-repair may void it.
• 🔧 In models with vacuum insulation (for example, Panasonic NR-B***) the door is integrated into the cooling system - re-hanging it requires depressurization.
• 🔧 If the doors are damaged during removal pipes refrigerant (visible by oil traces) - this is fraught with freon leakage.
• 🔧 In refrigerators with touch control (for example, Samsung Family Hub), flashing may be required after transferring the display.

The cost of professional re-hanging in service centers:

• 💰 Single-chamber refrigerator: 1500–2500 rubles.
• 💰 Double-chamber: 2500–4000 rubles (depending on complexity).
• 💰 Models with a dispenser: 3500–5000 rubles (includes transfer of tubes).

If you decide to act on your own, but encounter difficulties, do not use excessive force. For example, if a bolt does not fit, do not try to unscrew it with pliers - this will strip the thread. It is better to treat the fastening penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) and try again after 10-15 minutes.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about re-hanging the refrigerator door

Is it possible to re-hang the door on a refrigerator with a water dispenser?

Yes, but this will require tube transfer kit (usually included with the refrigerator or purchased separately). In models Samsung i LG the tubes run inside the door, so they need to be carefully removed and reinstalled on the other side. Without this, water will flow past the glass.

For refrigerators Whirlpool or KitchenAid with an ice maker may be required reconfiguring sensorsso it is better to contact service.

What to do if, after re-hanging, the refrigerator begins to make noise?

The noise is usually associated with:

1. 🔊 Warpness doors —check the gaps and adjust the hinges.
2. 🔊 Friction of the seal —lubricate the rubber band with silicone grease.
3. 🔊 Compressor vibration —if the refrigerator is not level, the vibration increases. Align it to the level.

If the noise resembles buzzing or whistling, it may have been touched when repositioning No Frost system fan. In this case, a specialist needs to be diagnosed.

How to hang the door on a Soviet refrigerator (ZIL, Minsk, Stinol)?

Old models require special approach:

1. 🔧 The hinges in them are often attached to rivetsthat need to be drilled.
2. 🔧 The seal is usually glued and not inserted into the groove - it will have to be carefully separated by construction materials with a knife.
3. 🔧 In refrigerators ZIL-63 or Minsk-16 may be required replacing hingesas they are not designed for repeated rehanging.

For these models it is better to buy in advance repair kit for hinges and seal (cost - about 1000-1500 rubles). Also keep in mind that in old refrigerators the door is heavier due to a thick layer of insulation, so it is better to work with an assistant.

Do I need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?

Absolutely! Even if you have a model with No Frost, before work:

1. ❄️ Unplug the refrigerator.
2. ❄️ Take out all the products.
3. ❄️ Let the ice melt (if any yes).
4. ❄️ Wipe the seal and hinges with a dry cloth.

This is necessary in order to:

• 💧 Avoid water getting on the electrical contacts (for example, in models with a display).
• 🔧 Prevent corrosion of metal parts when in contact with moisture.
• 📏 Adjust the gaps more precisely - ice can interfere with proper installation.

How long does it take to rehang the door?

The time depends on model and experience:

• ⏱️ Simple single-chamber refrigerator (for example, Indesit TS 100): 30–60 minutes.
• ⏱️ Two-chamber without dispenser (for example, Atlant MXM 1842): 1–1.5 hours.
• ⏱️ Model with display and ice maker (for example, Samsung RS62R5001): 2–3 hours.

If this is your first time, allow 30–50% more time. Take your time - the main thing is that the door stands straight and without distortions.