Changing the layout of the kitchen or buying new furniture often dictates the conditions for the location of household appliances. The situation when Bosch refrigerator no longer fits into the allotted space due to the direction of opening of the sash is quite common. Fortunately, the design of most models of the German brand provides the ability to reversing the doorswhich allows you to adapt the device to the specific conditions of the room without calling a specialist.
This process does not require deep engineering knowledge, but definitely requires accuracy and compliance with the sequence of actions. Incorrect assembly can lead to disruption of the tightness chamber, distortion of the hinges and rapid failure of the seals. Before starting work, you must carefully study the design of your unit, since series models Maxx, Vario or built-in series may have design differences in the fastening of fittings.
You will need to prepare a workplace, provide good lighting and find free space next to the equipment. You should not try to perform this operation alone if you have a massive two-door unit - the weight of the doors can be significant. Properly performed rearrangement will not only improve the ergonomics of the kitchen, but will also extend the life of the hinge mechanisms.
Preparatory stage and necessary tools
Before proceeding with dismantling, you should make sure that you have all the necessary tools. To work with refrigerator fasteners Bosch most often you need a standard set that any home craftsman can find. However, the specifics of some models may require specific keys, for example, hexagons of a certain size or socket heads.
Pay special attention to preparing the surface on which the unit will be installed after removing the doors. The floor must be level so that the equipment does not wobble during installation. It is also important to disconnect the device from the power supply by removing the plug from the socket to avoid accidentally turning on the compressor or damaging the wiring during manipulation.
☑️ Tools for hanging the door
Check the availability of all tools in advance so as not to interrupt the process of searching for the required part. Often, to fix the position of the equipment, it is necessary to slightly raise the front part, so the presence of small bars or wedges will also not be amiss. Remember that tools must be in good working order so as not to break the threads on the bolts.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to empty the door shelves from products and removable elements. This will reduce the weight of the structure and prevent breakage of glass or plastic during careless movement.
Dismantling the top part and removing the top door
We start the process from the top of the refrigerator compartment. Depending on the model, the top panel can be removable or stationary. If the panel is removable, it must be carefully removed by unscrewing the fixing screws, which are often hidden under decorative plugs. This will provide access to the upper hinge fastenings.
Next, you should unscrew the upper hinge holding the door. It is critical here that someone holds the door, since after unscrewing the last bolt, it will remain hanging only on your support. A sharp fall of a heavy door can damage floor covering or the door itself.
Features of dismantling built-in models
Built-in Bosch refrigerators often have a front door made of furniture board. Before removing the main metal door, it is necessary to dismantle the furniture facade by unscrewing the special fasteners connecting the metal and wood. Be careful with the weight of the furniture door.
After removing the top door, you can access the middle hinge (if the model is two-chamber) or immediately proceed to preparing the lower part. At this stage, it is important not to lose the screws and washers; it is best to put them in a separate container. Hinges they may have different configurations, so remember or photograph the order of the washers.
Removing the bottom door and preparing for the revolution
The next step This involves dismantling the bottom door of the freezer. The principle of operation is similar: remove the decorative elements, unscrew the middle hinge fasteners and carefully remove the door. In some models Bosch there may be a control cable or sensor running between the doors, which must be carefully disconnected or moved to the side.
After both doors have been removed, it is necessary to remove the lower support hinge. It is she who will be transferred to the opposite side. Carefully inspect the refrigerator body: on the opposite side there should be technological holes closed with plastic plugs. These plugs must be removed and moved to the vacant places on the working side.
The process of preparing the body also includes rearranging the stops and limiters. If there are any plastic elements left on the old side that prevent the door from hitting the body, they need to be moved. This will ensure correct closing geometry after installation.
Make sure all holes on the new side are clear and ready for fasteners to be installed. Sometimes the threads in new holes can be tight, so it is recommended to carefully “drive” it with a suitable screw before the main installation, but without fanaticism, so as not to tear it off.
Installing hinges and mounting doors on a new side
Installation begins with installing the lower support hinge in a new place. Insert the loop into the prepared holes and secure with bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow you to correct the position of the door in case of slight distortions. Install the bottom door in place, aligning the holes in the end of the door with the hinge pins.
Next, install the middle hinge (for two-chamber models). It is important to correctly align the axes of rotation. After installing the middle hinge, the top door is mounted. At this stage, the structure has already been assembled, but requires final adjustment. Tightening the bolts This is done only after you make sure that the doors sit smoothly and nothing interferes with their movement.
| Element | Action | Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| Lower loop | Shift to the opposite side | Requires precise positioning |
| Upper loop | Dismantling and reinstallation | Often has an adjusting screw |
| Plugs | Repositioning into free holes | Needed for aesthetics and protection |
| Stops | Moving to a new side | Prevents door knocking |
The final tightening of all connections should be done with the force recommended by the manufacturer so that the vibrations of the compressor do not loosen the fasteners over time. Check that the hinge axes are parallel, otherwise the door will open spontaneously or, conversely, tightly.
Adjusting a tight fit and eliminating distortions
After assembly, you need to check the quality of fit of the sealing rubber bands around the entire perimeter. If you notice gaps through which cold may escape, adjustment will be required. Most models Bosch provide the ability to adjust the height of the legs of the refrigerator, which affects the angle of inclination of the entire body and, consequently, the operation of the doors.
If the door itself warps relative to the body, you should loosen the hinge mounting bolts, set the door to the correct position and tighten them again. Sometimes adjustment of the lock mate or magnetic latch is required. Tightness is a key factor in energy saving.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use force to slam the door during adjustment. This can lead to deformation of the plastic elements or damage to the seal, which will compromise thermal insulation.
Pay attention to the gap between the doors in two-chamber models. It should be uniform over the entire height. If the gap is wider at the top than at the bottom, it means that the top hinge is installed skewed. Accurate setup may take some time, but the result is worth it.
Typical errors and performance testing
In the process of self-repair, mistakes are often made that can negate all efforts. The most common of them is the loss or confusion of washers and bushings when rearranging hinges. Even one missing washer can change the fastening geometry by millimeters, which will lead to loose closure.
Another mistake is insufficient tightening of the bolts. The vibration of a running compressor gradually loosens the structure, and after a week the door may simply fall off or become askew. Also, users often forget to rearrange the plastic door travel stops, which is why the door opens too wide and can damage furniture or hinges.
After completing all work, plug in the refrigerator and let it work. After 15-20 minutes, check the temperature inside the chambers and make sure that the seal around the entire perimeter is cold (which indicates operation) and that warm air is not escaping anywhere. If everything is done correctly, the equipment will work as normal.
Do you need to call a specialist to rehang the door?
Calling a specialist is not necessary if you have basic skills in handling tools and the physical strength to hold the door. However, if you have an expensive model with a display on the door or a complex hinge system, professional help will minimize the risk of damage.
What to do if the holes on the new side do not match?
In original refrigerators Bosch the holes are always symmetrical. If they do not match, you may be using the wrong holes (there may be several rows of them for different models) or a door from a different modification. Check the instructions for the specific model.
Is it possible to hang the door without removing the refrigerator completely?
It is advisable to move the refrigerator at least 1 meter away from the wall for ease of operation. It is not necessary to completely remove it from the kitchen, but you need to provide free access from all sides and the ability to place the removed parts on a clean surface.
Does re-hanging the door affect the warranty?
According to the rules of most manufacturers, including Bosch, re-hanging the doors yourself is not grounds for voiding the warranty if the unit components were not damaged in the process. However, keep all the removed parts in case you contact service.