Moving the Indesit refrigerator door to the other side: instructions with photos and tips

Moving the refrigerator door Indesit to the other side is a problem faced Many owners, when moving, renovating, or simply wanting to optimize kitchen space. Despite the apparent complexity, the procedure is quite doable at home if you know the key nuances: from the peculiarities of fastening the hinges to the correct positioning of the seal. In this article we will analyze a step-by-step algorithm for models with upper and lower location of the freezer, indicate typical errors and give recommendations on tools.

It is important to understand that the door design Indesit may differ depending on the series and year of manufacture. For example, models Indesit BIA 18 or Indesit DF 4180 use a quick hinge removal system, while older versions (before 2015) may require complete disassembly of the facade. We took these differences into account and prepared universal instructions with an emphasis on critical points that are often overlooked.

Preparing for work: tools and safety

Before you start rehanging the door, make sure you have everything you need at hand. The minimum set of tools includes:

• 🔧 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers (the size depends on the screws on the hinges)
• 🔨 Hex key (for some models, for example, Indesit ITF 118)
• 📏 Tape measure or ruler (for checking gaps)
• 🧲 Magnet or telescopic grip (so as not to lose the screws inside the case)
• 🧴 Silicone grease (for the rubber seal after installation)

Pay special attention turning off the refrigeratorIt is not enough to simply remove the plug from the socket - you need to wait until the compressor will stop completely (usually takes 5-10 minutes). This will prevent power surges if it is accidentally turned on during operation. Also, clear the space around the refrigerator in advance: remove magnets, stickers and other objects from the door, and cover the floor nearby with cardboard or cloth to avoid scratching.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Indesit is equipped with a system No Frost, after reversing the door, additional adjustment of the defrost sensors may be required. In models with electronic control (for example, Indesit ITF 161) this is done through the service menu - look for details in the section on setting.

Step 1: Dismantling the top hinge and removing the door

Start with upper hinge —it usually fixes the main load. In most models, Indesit the hinge is attached to the refrigerator body with 2-3 screws, which are hidden under the decorative cover. To remove it:

1. Pry up. cover with a flat-head screwdriver on the side (carefully so as not to leave scratches).
2. Unscrew the screws while holding the door with your hand - it may drop sharply.
3. Lift the door up and remove it from the lower pin.

If the door is “jammed” and cannot be removed, do not force! Most likely, the problem is in lower pin, which could be deformed. In this case:

• 🔧 Check whether the sealing rubber is in the way (sometimes it sticks to the body).
• 🕳️ Inspect pin for rust or dirt - clean it with alcohol.
• 🔄 Try to slightly swing the door left and right while lifting it.

Step 2: Transfer the hinges to the other side

After removing the door, you need to move the hinges to the opposite side. There are two key points here:

1. Symmetrical holes: In most models Indesit the holes for the hinges are already provided on both sides. They are closed with plugs that can be easily removed with a flat screwdriver. If there are no holes, this is a sign that the model is not intended for hanging. (for example, some series Indesit Linea).
2. Marking for new holes: If there are no plugs, use a template from the old fastener. Attach the loop to the new side, outline with a pencil and drill the holes with a drill with a metal drill (⌀ 3-4 mm).

When transferring loops, keep in mind that:

• 🔄 Upper and lower loops not interchangeable —they have different designs.
• 📏 Distance between loops and the edge of the door should be the same on both sides (usually 2–3 cm).
• 🔧 The hinge fastening screws may differ in length - do not mix them up when reassembling!

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Indesit with display on the door (for example, Indesit ITF 161), after rehanging, it may be necessary to reconfigure the position of the sensors. If after assembly the display does not work or shows an error, refer to the section “Setting up electronic models.”

Step 3: Transferring the handle and sealing rubber

The handle on the door Indesit is usually attached to two screws hidden under the decorative trim. To remove it:

1. Pry the trim out from the side with a thin screwdriver.
2. Unscrew the screws and remove the handle.
3. Move it to the opposite side, aligning the holes.

C sealing rubber situation more difficult. In most cases, it does not need to be removed, but if the door does not fit well after hanging, you will have to adjust or replace the seal. Signs of a problem:

• 🌬️ Draft when the door is closed (check with a sheet of paper - if it is easily pulled out, the seal is not working). sealed).
• 💧 Condensation on the walls of the refrigerator.
• 🔊 Extraneous noise (hum) due to a loose fit.

To adjust:

1. Heat the seal with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C) to make it more elastic.
2. Bend the rubber band and check if any debris has gotten under it.
3. If the seal is deformed, replace it with a new one (the article number for Indesit usually starts with C001...).

Step 4: Assembly and leak testing

After transferring the hinges and handle, you can begin reassembling:

1. Place the door on the bottom pin, holding it by the top edge.
2. Secure the top hinge with screws, but do not tighten them completely - first check that the door hangs level.
3. Adjust the position of the door: it should open smoothly, without distortion. If the door “falls” to the side, loosen the screws and level it.
4. Tighten all fasteners and check the tightness (see the previous section).

After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and observe its operation for 1-2 hours. Pay attention to:

• 🌡️ Temperature in the chambers (must correspond to the set one).
• 🔊 Compressor noise (there should be no extraneous sounds).
• 💧 Condensation on the seal (if it appears, additional adjustment).

What to do if the door does not close after rehanging?

If the door does not close tightly, check:

- Correct installation of the hinges (they should be mirrored).

- Integrity of the seal (perhaps it has moved or torn).

- Position of the magnets in the seal (in some models they are sewn in and can interfere).

- Tilt angle of the refrigerator (it should stand level, without distortions forward/backward).

Setting up electronic models (with display)

Refrigerators Indesit with electronic control (for example, Indesit ITF 161 or Indesit BIAA 13) may require additional adjustments after reversing the door. This is due to the fact that the door position sensors and display are calibrated to the original opening side.

To reconfigure the system:

1. Turn on the refrigerator and wait for the compressor to start.
2. Press and hold the button Super Cool (or Eco, depending on the model) for 5 seconds until the indicator lights up Al.
3. Use the buttons +/– select item dOOr (or SEt → dOOr in newer models).
4. Confirm the selection and wait until calibration is completed (the display will show End).

If after setting the display shows an error (for example, F04 or F05), this may mean:

• 🔌 Problems with the power supply of the door sensor (check it fastening).
• 🔄 Incorrect position of the magnet in the seal (needs to be reinstalled).
• 🛠️ Malfunction of the control board (master diagnostics required).

⚠️ Attention: In models with the function Smart Inverter (for example, Indesit ITF 181) after re-hanging the door, the compressor operation algorithm may go wrong. If the refrigerator starts to turn on more often or cools worse, reset the settings: turn off the power for 10 minutes, then turn on and start the mode Holiday for 1 hour.

Typical errors and how to avoid them

Even if you carefully follow the instructions, you can make mistakes that will lead to problems. Here are the most common ones:

• 🔧 Confused. hinges: The upper and lower hinges are not interchangeable! If you install them incorrectly, the door will sag or not close.
• 📏 Mismatch of holes: If you drill new holes, make sure that they perfectly match the hinge fastenings. Even the slightest shift will lead to misalignment.
• 🧲 Damaged seal: When removing the door, it is easy to tear the rubber If this happens, do not try to seal it. replacement.
• 🔌 Forgot to turn off the power: Working under voltage can lead to electric shock or electronic failure.
• 🔄 The door was not adjusted after installation: Even if everything is visually smooth, check the fit with a sheet paper.

If after rehanging the refrigerator began to freeze worse, check:

• 🌡️ Temperature sensors: They could have moved or been damaged.
• 🔇 Compressor noise: Extraneous sounds may indicate overload due to a loose door.
• 💡 Backlight: If it does not turn off when closing, the problem is in the sensor.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to re-hang the door on an Indesit refrigerator with a freezer at the bottom?

Yes, but the process is more complicated than in models. with an upper freezer. You will need:

1. Remove both doors (refrigerator and freezer).
2. Move the hinges to the other side, taking into account that the bottom hinge of the freezer is often attached to the baskets.
3. Adjust the position of the drawer guides.

Models Indesit BIAA 13 i Indesit BIA 18 have symmetrical holes for this, but older versions may require drilling.

What to do if the door does not close tightly after rehanging?

Reasons and solutions:

• 🔧 Diskewed hinges: Loosen the screws and level the door.
• 🧲 Deformed seal: Replace it or adjust (heat with a hairdryer and shape it).
• 🏗️ Uneven floor: Adjust the legs of the refrigerator.

If the problem remains, check the magnets in the seal - they may have moved.

Do I need to call a technician to re-hang the door?

In most cases no. No exceptions:

• 🛠️ The refrigerator is under warranty (self-repair will void it).
• 🔌 Models with electronic control, if errors appear on the display after rehanging.
• 🔧 There are no holes for the hinges on the other side (drilling is required). and the risk of damage to the case).

The cost of a technician’s service is from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, depending on the region and complexity.

How often can you rehang the door of an Indesit refrigerator?

Technically - as many times as you like, but:

• 🔄 Each relocation weakens the hinge fastenings.
• 🧲 The seal wears out faster with frequent manipulations.
• 🛠️ In models with hidden hinges (for example, Indesit ITF 181) repeated rehanging may require replacement parts.

Optimally - no more than once every 2-3 years.

Where can I find plugs for holes after rehanging?

Plugs usually come with the refrigerator (in a package with documentation. If they are not there:

• 🛒 Buy universal plugs at a home appliance parts store (select according to hole diameter).
• 🔧 Use silicone inserts or sealant for masking (temporary solution).
• 📞 Order original plugs from the manufacturer (the article number is indicated in instructions).

For models Indesit plugs from Ariston or Hotpoint are suitable (they are produced at the same factory).