Many owners of household appliances are faced with a situation where the standard configuration of a refrigerator is no longer suitable. This is often due to the redevelopment of the kitchen or a change in the arrangement of furniture, due to which the door opening to the left begins to interfere with free movement. In such cases, the only rational decision is hanging the door to the opposite side. For brand equipment Indesit this procedure is quite doable at home, if you strictly follow the algorithm of actions and observe safety precautions.
Modern models of the Italian manufacturer, be they classic Indesit C 132 or newer series Indesit DF, designed with the possibility of changing the opening side. However, the design of hinges and fastenings may vary significantly depending on the year of manufacture and the specific modification. It is important to understand that improper performance of the work can lead to sash misalignment, failure of the seal, or even damage to the housing. Therefore, before starting manipulations, it is necessary to carefully study the design of the fastening unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail the process of dismantling and installing door leaves on different sides. We will look at the necessary tools, the sequence of actions for different types of hinges and the nuances of adjustment. The key point is the correct positioning of the pins and a tight fit of the magnetic seal after reinstallation. Following all recommendations will allow you to adapt the refrigerator to the geometry of your kitchen without calling a specialist.
Preparation workplace and the necessary tools
Before you begin to physically impact the equipment, you need to prepare the workspace. The refrigerator is a large and heavy unit, so for comfortable operation it is necessary to ensure easy access from all sides. It is recommended to move the device at least one meter away from the wall. This will allow you to freely walk around the device and not miss a single part that may fall out during dismantling.
Particular attention should be paid to fixing the position of the case. When removing the hinges, the top of the refrigerator may become unstable, so it must be securely fixed. The method of placing wooden blocks or wedges under the bottom on the opposite side from the work is often used. It is also extremely important de-energize to remove the plug from the socket to eliminate the risk of short circuit or electric shock if the wiring is accidentally damaged.
To perform the work you will need a standard home handyman kit. Depending on the model Indesit, different types of keys may be required, since manufacturers often use specific fasteners. Prepare all the tools in advance so as not to interrupt the search process.
- 🔧 A set of open-end wrenches (usually sizes 8, 10, 12 mm) or an adjustable wrench.
- 🔩 Screwdrivers: Phillips (PH2) and flat for removing decorative plugs.
- 🔨 Hex keys (imbus) are often used to adjust hinges.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
⚠️ Attention: Some models Indesit are equipped with hinges with self-tapping screws. Reusing old screws may not provide adequate fastening strength. When rehanging, it is recommended to use new fasteners of the appropriate strength class.
It would not be superfluous to lay soft cloth or cardboard on the floor. This will protect the floor from scratches if a tool or fastener is dropped. Also, have a container ready to store screws and washers so they don't get lost. Small parts tend to roll under the baseboard at the most inopportune moment.
☑️ Preparing to rehang the door
Design features of Indesit refrigerator hinges
Structurally, refrigerator doors Indesit are divided into several types depending on the fastening system. Most classic models use top and bottom hinges that rigidly fix the position of the sash. The upper loop is often aligned with the axis of rotation, and the lower one serves as a support. In more complex models with the system No Frost there may be additional finishing mechanisms or hidden fastenings.
It is important to distinguish between the types of hinges, since the algorithm for their dismantling is different. There are hinges that are screwed directly to the door body and the end of the cabinet, and there are options where the door is hung on pins (pins) that fit into special holes. In models Indesit there is often a combined option: the upper hinge is removable, and the lower one is an axis inserted into the body.
When studying the design, pay attention to the presence of plastic bushings or washers. They serve to reduce friction and noise when opening. The loss of these elements will lead to creaking and rapid wear of the mechanism. Also, some models have magnetic latch or a mechanical lock, which also requires rearrangement when changing the opening side.
Hidden fastening elements
In some Indesit models, additional fastening screws are hidden under the decorative strip at the end of the door pens. If the handle interferes with access to the hinges, it must first be dismantled by unscrewing the hidden fasteners.
It is worth noting that in two-chamber refrigerators the order in which the doors are hung may be different. Sometimes it is necessary to first remove the bottom freezer door to gain access to the top refrigerator door mountings. In other cases, the doors are removed independently of each other. Always focus on a visual assessment of the design of your specific device.
Removing the upper door of the refrigerator compartment
The process of removing the upper door usually begins with dismantling the decorative elements. On many models Indesit the upper loop is closed with a plastic plug or decorative cover. Carefully pry it up with a flathead screwdriver and remove it. Underneath you will find mounting bolts that hold the hinge in place. Before unscrewing, make sure that the door is not loaded with anything.
After removing the fasteners, the top hinge must be released. However, it is not possible to simply remove the door - it is held on by a pin on the bottom hinge. Therefore, first loosen, but do not completely unscrew the bolts of the upper hinge, then lift the door to disengage from the lower axis. At this point, you will need an assistant, since the door is heavy and may fall.
The following is the procedure for installing the plugs. The holes that were previously occupied by the hinges on one side will now become visible. They must be closed with special plastic plugs that come with the refrigerator. If the supplied plugs are lost, you can use the plugs from the opposite side, having first rearranged them.
- 🔓 Unscrew the bolts securing the upper hinge and remove it.
- 🚪 Lift the refrigerator door, removing it from the lower pin.
- 🕳️ Install decorative plugs into the vacated holes on the body.
- 🔄 Move the door handle to the opposite side, if the design allows for this.
Pay special attention seal. When removing the door, be careful not to damage the rubber contour. If there are traces of adhered ice or dirt on the seal, it is better to remove them immediately while the door is removed. This will ensure better sealing after installation.
⚠️ Attention: Do not leave the refrigerator open for a long time without a door. Internal plastic panels and seals can be deformed under their own weight or due to temperature changes if the room is hot.
Hanging the bottom door of the freezer
The bottom door leading to the freezer often has its own mounting features. In models Indesit with a bottom freezer, this door can be mounted on a separate axis or integrated into the overall system. If your refrigerator has a partition between the chambers, then the bottom door is attached to it. In this case, it is necessary to remove the middle loop.
To dismantle the middle hinge, it is often necessary to remove the top door completely, since it blocks access to the fasteners. After removing the top sash you have access to the middle hinge bolts. Unscrew them and remove the metal strip. Then remove the bottom door by lifting it up. Be careful not to damage shelves or drawers if they have not been removed previously.
When installing a door on a new side, it is important to set the gaps correctly. Adjustment is made using eccentrics or washers. If the door is skewed, magnetic valve will not be able to provide a tight fit, which will lead to the formation of ice and increased load on the compressor.
| Element | Action during dismantling | Installation action | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper hinge | Unscrew 2-3 bolts | Screw into new holes | Required fixing the door with an assistant |
| Middle hinge | Remove after the top door | Install and align | Often has an adjusting screw |
| Bottom support | Unscrew from the housing | Screw into a new hole | Lubrication may be required |
| Plugs | Remove from new holes | Install into old ones holes | Important for aesthetics and protection |
After installing all elements, check for smooth movement. The door should not slam on its own or require excessive force to open. If there is a squeak, apply a small amount silicone grease to the rubbing parts of the hinge.
Adjusting the position of doors and seals
The final and, perhaps, the most important stage is an adjustment. Even a perfectly executed overhang does not guarantee correct closing without final adjustment. Refrigerator doors Indesit should close tightly around the entire perimeter. Check this with a piece of paper: press it between the door and the body at different points. If the sheet is removed too easily or, conversely, with difficulty, adjustment is required.
To change the tilt of the door in the vertical plane, adjusting screws are used on the lower support or middle hinge. By rotating them clockwise or counterclockwise, you can raise or lower one of the door corners. The horizontal gap is adjusted by moving the hinge itself on the body if the design provides oval holes for fastening.
If after adjusting the hinges there are still gaps in the seal, you can try to warm up the rubber. Gently pour hot water (not boiling water) over the deformed area or use a hair dryer on the lowest setting. This will restore elasticity rubber profile and help it take the desired shape.
- 📏 Check the gap between the doors (in two-chamber models) - it should be uniform.
- 🧲 Make sure the magnetic valve is activated when pressed lightly.
- 👀 Visually assess the parallelism of the door lines relative to the body.
- 🔄 If necessary, repeat the adjustment procedure after 2-3 hours.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use aggressive chemicals or abrasives to clean the seal during adjustment time. This can damage the rubber structure and break the seal.
Typical errors and troubleshooting
In the process of self-repair, users often make mistakes that nullify all efforts. One of the most common is the loss of fasteners. Small screws can easily get lost in carpet or grass when working outdoors. Always use a magnetic tray or jar to stack parts.
Another common mistake is overtightening the bolts. Excessive force can cause the threads in the aluminum housing to slip off or the plastic bushings to break. Tighten the fasteners tightly, but without fanaticism. If a torque wrench is used, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for tightening torque.
There are also cases when, after being overweight, the door begins to touch the body or shelves inside. This indicates incorrect installation of gaskets or a violation of the assembly sequence. In such cases, it is necessary to disassemble the assembly again and check the presence of all washers and bushings.
If you notice that the refrigerator has started to work louder or turn on more often after hanging, check the tightness. Most likely, there is a gap somewhere through which the cold escapes. Use the method with a sheet of paper or a candle flame to find leaks.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before re-hanging the door?
Yes, this is highly recommended. Ice in the evaporator and on the shelves increases the weight of the door and body, which complicates dismantling. In addition, when the device is tilted (which is inevitable during operation), melt water can flow into the mechanisms or onto the floor. Complete defrosting and drying will take about 24 hours, but will protect the equipment.
What to do if the plastic plugs for the holes are lost?
Plugs can be ordered at the service center Indesit according to the catalog number of your model. As a last resort, you can use plugs from another, invisible part of the refrigerator, or paint the holes to match the body with special enamel if they do not interfere with functionality. However, it is better to preserve the original look.
Is it possible to reverse the door on a refrigerator with a built-in handle?
On most models Indesit with integrated (hidden) handles, reversing is possible, but requires rearranging the handle itself or using symmetrical holes. In some budget models, the handle profile may be asymmetrical, which makes overweight impossible without replacing the door itself. Check the instructions for the specific model.
Why does the door not stay open after being overweight?
This may be due to the tilt of the refrigerator itself. For the closing/opening mechanism to work properly, the refrigerator must stand strictly vertically or with a slight tilt back (adjustable by the front legs). If the unit is tilted forward, the door will close on its own. Also check whether the door is touching the floor or rug.
Does overweighting the door affect the warranty?
According to consumer protection legislation, overweighting the door on your own is not grounds for voiding the warranty unless other components of the unit were damaged in the process. However, if you strip a thread or break a hinge, that particular assembly will not be covered under warranty. Save all removed parts.