Changing the opening side of the refrigerator door is not just an aesthetic decision, but often a necessary measure to optimize the kitchen space. Equipment owners Atlant face this problem when they plan to rearrange furniture or discover that the handle interferes with free passage. Fortunately, the design of most models of the Belarusian brand provides the possibility of reverse installation wings, which allows you to adapt the unit to a specific kitchen layout without loss of functionality.
The process requires care and adherence to the sequence of actions, since incorrect installation of hinges can lead to distortion and leakage. Before starting work, it is important to make sure that the kit contains all the necessary plugs and fasteners that are usually supplied with a new refrigerator. If the equipment has already been in use, you may have to purchase additional decorative elements to cover the holes from the old fittings.
It is worth noting that not all modifications have symmetrical holes for hinges, so a visual inspection of the case is a mandatory first step. In some cases, it may be necessary Drilling new holes or the use of adapters if the factory equipment does not imply versatility. Below we will discuss in detail how to safely and correctly perform this operation.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before proceeding with the dismantling of heavy elements, it is necessary to ensure the safety of the process and prepare the tools. A refrigerator is a large and heavy unit, so it is better to carry out work together to eliminate the risk of equipment falling or damaging the floor covering. Clear some space around the device and make sure you have a stable surface for storing removed parts.
To complete the work, you will need a basic DIY kit, which can be found in most apartments. The main tool will be hex wrench or a set of screwdrivers, since they are the ones most often used in fasteners Atlant. It would also be a good idea to prepare a soft cloth or cardboard to cover the floor under the door when removing it.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any disassembly work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical network. This is critical if the model is equipped with an electronic display on the door or a system
No Frostwith opening sensors to avoid short circuits.
The list of required tools and materials is as follows:
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat-head) or a screwdriver with the appropriate bits.
- 🔑 A set of hex keys (often a size of 4 or 5 mm is required).
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
- 📦 A container for storing small screws and bolts so that they do not get lost.
If your model has a complex system for attaching handles, you may need socket wrench. Read the instructions for your specific model in advance, since the fasteners included may differ depending on the year of manufacture and series of the refrigerator.
Design features of doors of different Atlant models
Technique Atlant is available in various modifications, and the design loops can vary significantly. In classic two-chamber models, there is often an option where the upper hinge is fixed with three bolts, and the lower one has a more complex system with a pin. In models with the system No Frost the need to disconnect the sensor wires is added, which requires special care.
Particular attention should be paid to models with plastic decorative overlays on hinges. They can be fragile and break easily if handled carelessly. Metal hinges are more durable, but require precise adjustment when reinstalling so that the door does not sag. Some series use hidden hinges, access to which is possible only after removing the decorative panels.
Nuances of old models
In Atlant refrigerators of older years, the holes for the hinges may not be through, but have a thread directly into body. In such cases, it is important not to overtighten the screws so as not to strip the threads in the metal wall.
Below is a table that helps identify the type of fastening depending on the series:
| Refrigerator series | Top hinge type | Availability wires | Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| KSh-212, KSh-213 | Open, 3 bolts | No | Key 10 mm |
| XM-4008, XM-4009 | Hidden, plastic cover | Yes (lamp/display) | Hexagon |
| Atlas No Frost | Reinforced, complex | Yes (sensors) | Screwdriver set |
| MHM-1700 | Standard metal | No | 8 mm wrench |
Understanding type of construction will allow you to avoid mistakes during dismantling. If you are not sure about the type of hinges, it is better to find the technical data sheet of the device, where the hardware specification is indicated.
Dismantling the top hinge and removing the door
The process begins from the top of the refrigerator, since it is the top hinge that holds the main load. First you need to remove the decorative plug, if present. Usually it is simply pryed off with a flat screwdriver or removed with light pressure. Underneath it are hidden mounting bolts that need to be unscrewed counterclockwise.
After loosening the bolts, the door is still held on the pin or lower axis. It is important here that a second person holds the door, since after unscrewing the last bolt it can tilt sharply. In models with electronics, at this stage you need to carefully disconnect the connectors of the wires going to control unit or indicators.
☑️ Safe dismantling
Not Place the removed door on the floor on its side - place a blanket or thick cardboard under it so as not to scratch the enamel or damage the seal. If the door has a handle that also needs to be moved, it is better to do this now while the door is in a horizontal position. To do this, the screws are unscrewed from the inside, and the handle is moved to the opposite side, where there are threaded holes.
After removing the door, the freed upper platform of the refrigerator can be used for temporary storage of tools. Make sure there is no debris or rust left in the holes of the old hinge that could interfere with the installation of new fasteners.
Re-hanging the bottom hinge and adjusting the pin
The bottom hinge is a support one and often has a more complex design. In most models Atlant it is bolted to the bottom of the refrigerator. After unscrewing them, the loop must be removed. Pay special attention to the central pin (axis) on which the door rotated. It needs to be removed from the lower hole and moved to a symmetrical hole on the other side.
If on your model the lower hinge has an adjusting screw to compensate for uneven floors, do not forget to save it. This screw may require calibration when switching sides. In some cases, the pin may “stick” due to prolonged loading, and to remove it you will need to lightly tap with a hammer through a wooden spacer.
⚠️ Attention: When installing the pin into a new hole, make sure that it is inserted all the way and sits tightly. Axle play will cause the door to close poorly or open spontaneously.
Now install the bottom hinge in a new place, aligning the holes. Tighten the mounting bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow for final adjustment of the door position after hanging. Check that the hinge is level and parallel to the edge of the case.
Installing the door on a new side and installing the upper hinge
When the lower support is ready, you can begin hanging the door. Carefully slide the bottom hole of the door onto the installed pin. Make sure the door is vertical and fits snugly against the frame. Now you need to fix the top part. Lift the top hinge and install it in its normal place, placing the bolts in the holes.
When tightening the top bolts, make sure that the door does not move to the side. It is better to first tighten all the bolts by hand, and then gradually tighten them diagonally, evenly distributing the force. This will ensure correct positioning of the sash relative to sealing rubber along the entire perimeter.
If your model is equipped with wires, it’s time to connect them. The connectors usually have a clear geometry, so it is difficult to mix them up, but do not make sudden movements. Lay the wiring harness so that they do not fall into the movement area of the loops and are not pressed by sharp metal edges, which could damage the insulation.
After fixing the top hinge, check the operation of the door. It should open smoothly, without squeaks, and close tightly with a slight push. If the door is crooked, loosen the bottom bolts and, by rocking the door, achieve the ideal position, then finally tighten the fasteners.
Installation of plugs and final tightness check
The final stage is aesthetic design. There are holes in the places where the hinges were previously attached. The refrigerator Atlant always comes with plastic plugs that match the color of the case. Insert them into the empty holes on the old side and at the new fastening location (if there are excess technical holes left there).
After installing all the elements, you need to check the tightness of the door. This is critical for energy efficiency and food safety. There is a simple test with a sheet of paper: clamp the sheet with a door around the perimeter. If the paper is pulled out with noticeable force along the entire length, it means seal it is working correctly.
⚠️ Attention: If you find that in some place the paper is removed too easily, and in another it breaks, the door height needs to be adjusted or replaced sealing rubber. A loose fit will lead to the formation of ice.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen to the operation of the compressor. The door should close tightly, providing the necessary vacuum inside the chamber. During the first hours of operation, check whether condensation or frost appears in places where there is a loose fit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to rearrange the door on the Atlant refrigerator without an assistant?
Technically this is possible, but it is highly not recommended. The door is heavy and bulky, making it difficult to both hold and fit into the hinge holes. You risk dropping the sash, damaging the floor, or getting injured. It is better to ask someone for help.
What to do if the holes for the hinges on the new side do not match?
In 99% of cases, the factory holes are symmetrical. If they do not match, check to see if you have mixed up the left and right sides, or if you are using a hinge from a different model. You cannot drill new holes in the refrigerator body - this will break the tightness of the thermal insulation.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before moving the door?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, if there is a lot of food inside, the center of gravity will shift and the refrigerator may become unstable when the door is removed. It is better to empty the chambers or defrost them so that water does not flow when tilted.
Why does the door open by itself after rearranging?
Most likely, the refrigerator is not level. For proper closure, the housing must be tilted slightly backwards. Adjust the front legs by twisting them to raise the front of the unit. Also check if anything is interfering with the seal.
Where can I get new plugs if the old ones are lost?
Plugs can be ordered at authorized service centers Atlant or search in spare parts stores for household appliances, indicating the model of the refrigerator. As a last resort, the holes can be carefully sealed with a decorative sticker to match the color of the case.