Situations when the standard location of the refrigerator door LG is no longer satisfactory arise quite often. This may be due to moving to a new kitchen, remodeling the space, or simply wanting to improve the ergonomics of the workspace. Fortunately, the design of most modern models of the Korean brand provides for the possibility of reversing the door on the other side.
The procedure hanging the door requires care, the presence of a basic set of tools and adherence to a certain sequence of actions. Carelessness in work can lead to damage to the case or a leak in the cooling system, so it is important to strictly follow the algorithm. In this article, we will analyze in detail all the stages so that you can complete the work efficiently and safely.
Preparation of the workplace and the necessary tools
Before starting any manipulations with household appliances, it is necessary to ensure free access to all sides of the unit. Move the refrigerator away from the wall at a distance sufficient to comfortably walk around it. Be sure to empty shelves and drawers to reduce the weight of the structure and prevent products from falling during tilts.
To perform the work, you will need a minimum set of tools, which are usually found in every home. The main element will be a wrench or a set of sockets, since the fastening bolts in models LG often have a specific size. It would also be a good idea to prepare a flat-head screwdriver for removing decorative plugs.
- 🔧 A wrench or ratchet with heads (usually 8 mm or 10 mm).
- 🪛 Flat and Phillips screwdrivers.
- 📦 Assistant for holding the door (weight can reach 30-40 kg).
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to try to rearrange the door alone if you do not have experience in such work. The refrigerator door is heavy and can break out of your hands, damaging the floor or toes.
Dismantling the top panel and removing the door
The process should begin by dismantling the top cover of the refrigerator compartment. Depending on the model LG, it can be mounted with screws from the front or back. Carefully unscrew the fasteners and remove the panel to gain access to the upper hinge cover.
After removing the cover, the fastening mechanism will open in front of you. Before unscrewing them, you must securely lock the door in the open position or have an assistant hold it firmly.
After unscrewing the top hinge bolts, carefully lift the door to remove it from the bottom pin. This is a critical moment that requires physical strength and coordination. Place the removed part on a soft surface covered with cardboard or a blanket so as not to scratch the enamel.
☑️ Check before removal
Flipping the central hinge and axis
The next step is to work with the central part of the structure. Double-chamber models LG often use a common axis or system that requires reinstallation of the central fastener. You will need to remove the decorative plug on the opposite side where the door will be moved.
Sometimes the hinge axis may be pressed in or have a specific fixation. In such cases, it may be necessary to lightly tap or use pliers to remove the pin. Be careful not to damage the threads or plastic housing of the refrigerator.
After removing the axle, you must turn it over or move it to the new side according to the instructions for your specific series. Some models are equipped with reversible hinges that simply need to be rotated 180 degrees.
⚠️ Attention: When working with metal axles and bolts, there is a risk of dropping small parts inside the refrigerator body. This may lead to a short circuit or damage to the compressor when starting.
Features of models with a display and the No Frost system
Owners of modern models LG with a display on the door or system No Frost should take special care. The presence of electronics requires an additional step to disconnect the power and control cables. It is impossible to simply remove the door without disconnecting the wires.
Cables usually run inside the body and are brought out in the area of the top hinge. Before removing the door, you need to find the connector, carefully press the latch and disconnect the contacts. Do not pull on the wires, act only on the plastic part of the connector.
When moving the door to the other side, the cable may require relocation or use of a hole in the housing. In some cases, the length of the standard wire may be limited, which requires special care during assembly.
| Model type | Presence of a cable | Complexity of work | Required actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical control | No | Low | Mechanical dismantling only |
| Electronic control (display) | Yes | High | Disconnecting cables, moving wires |
| Side-by-Side | Yes (often) | Average | Removing the entire section, working with loops |
What to do if the cable is short?
In some LG models, the wire length is designed for only one side. If the wire is missing when you turn it over, you may need to extend the cable or contact a service center for official revision. Do not try to extend the wires yourself without insulation, it is dangerous.
Installing door handles and plugs
After the main mechanical part has been moved, it is necessary to reinstall the handles. In most cases they are symmetrical, but can be attached to hidden screws on the inside of the door. You will have to open access to the fasteners by removing the decorative trims.
The holes remaining on the old side after removing the handle must be closed. Complete with the refrigerator LG usually supplied are plastic plugs matched to the color of the body. If they are lost, you can order them separately or use universal analogues.
Make sure that the handles are screwed tightly and do not wobble. Weak fasteners can lead to the door skewing when opening and subsequent leakage. Use a thread locker if the mounting holes are developed.
Adjusting the position and checking the tightness
The final stage is installing the door in a new location and adjusting. Hang the door on the bottom hinge, insert the pin and secure the top hinge. Do not immediately tighten the bolts all the way, leave a small gap for adjustment.
Use a building level to check the vertical installation. If the door is skewed, it will not close well or, conversely, open by itself. Height adjustment is usually carried out by tightening the support legs of the refrigerator itself or the screws on the hinges.
After the final tightening of all bolts, check the tight fit seal along the entire perimeter. A sheet of paper sandwiched between the door and the body must be pulled out with force. If the paper falls out freely, additional adjustment is required.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to rearrange the door on an LG Side-by-Side refrigerator?
In most Side-by-Side models rearranging the doors is impossible or extremely difficult due to the complex system of hinges and the central partition. However, there are rare models with reversible doors. Exact information can be found in the instructions for the specific device.
Do I need to defrost the refrigerator before moving the door?
Yes, this is a mandatory requirement. Re-hanging the door takes time during which the refrigerator must be turned off. In addition, the ice in the chamber can crumble and clog the drainage when the unit is tilted.
What to do if, after rearranging, the door does not close completely?
Most likely, the tilt angle of the housing is broken. Try lifting the front of the refrigerator a little by unscrewing the front adjustment feet. Gravity will help the door slam shut tighter.
Will the warranty remain valid after re-hanging the door yourself?
According to the law, the consumer has the right to self-repair if it does not lead to a breakdown. However, if you damage the cable or break the thread, warranty service may be denied. Be extremely careful.