Reversing the refrigerator door Indesit to the other side is a task that many owners face when moving, renovating or changing the kitchen layout. Despite the apparent complexity, the procedure is quite doable with your own hands if you know the key nuances. The main thing is to take your time, prepare the necessary tools and follow step-by-step instructionsadapted for the specific model of your refrigerator.
In this article we will analyze the rehanging process for the most common series Indesit: with upper freezer (for example, C 132 G or TN 116) and with bottom freezer (series BIAA 13, DF 4180). We will pay special attention to points that are often missed in standard instructions: how to remove decorative plugscorrectly without damaging the plastic, where the hidden fasteners are located, and how to avoid warping the door after installation.
If your refrigerator Indesit was produced after 2018, most likely, the kit already includes spare plugs and bolts for hanging. For older models (before 2015), you may need to purchase additional fasteners - we will also talk about this below.
Preparation: tools and conditions
Before you start work, make sure you have everything you need. Without the right tools, you risk stripping the threads of the fasteners or scratching the body of the refrigerator.
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2 size is the most popular for household appliances).
- 🔨 Hex wrench (usually 5 or 6 mm - depends on the model).
- 🔍 Flat screwdriver or plastic pick for removing plugs.
- 🧲 Magnet or pallet for small parts (bolts, washers are easily lost!).
- 📏 Level (optional, but will help avoid skewing the door).
Also prepare the workspace:
- Unplug the refrigerator and defrost it (if the door is not removable in the freezer, ice may stir).
- Pull the refrigerator 50–70 cm from the wall so that you have access to the hinges.
- Put a soft cloth or cardboard on the floor - this will protect the door from scratches when removing.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Indesit with a system No Frost, after re-hanging the door, it may be necessary reinstallation of the seal —it cannot simply be turned over, since it has directional channels for air circulation.
For models with display or electronic control (for example, Indesit ITF 118) before removing the doors, it is necessary to fix the wiresgoing to the panel. They should not be pulled or twisted - this can damage the touch buttons.
Fastening diagram: where and what to unscrew
For refrigerators Indesit Door hinges are attached according to different principles depending on the location of the freezer. Below is a universal diagram for most models:
| Refrigerator type | Number of hinges | Attachment location for the upper hinge | Attachment location for the lower hinge |
|---|---|---|---|
| With top freezer (C 132 G, TN 116) | 2 (top + bottom) | Under the decorative cover on the body | On the bottom of the refrigerator (front) |
| With bottom freezer (BIAA 13, DF 4180) | 3 (top + middle + bottom) | Under the cover on the body | On the middle partition and bottom |
| Side-by-Side (SB 167) | 4 (2 for each door) | Upper and lower corners of the body | — |
On all models Indesit the hinges are closed decorative plugs. They need to be removed carefullyby prying them up with a flat screwdriver or a plastic pick. Start with the top hinge - it is usually fixed with 2-3 bolts, the bottom one may have additional ones adjusting nuts for alignment. doors.
Important point: on some refrigerators (for example, Indesit BIA 18) the lower hinge is attached not only to the body, but also to compressor compartment. When unscrewing the bolts there, you need to hold the door so that it does not fall sharply.
What to do if the bolt does not unscrew?
If the bolt is stuck or does not give way, do not apply excessive force - this can strip the thread. Try:
1. Apply WD-40 or a similar lubricant, wait 5-10 minutes.
2. Use a screwdriver with an extended blade for better results. lever.
3. Heat the bolt with a hairdryer (carefully, without overheating the plastic!).
If all else fails, contact service, as drilling may be required.
Step-by-step instructions: remove the old door
Now we move on to the most important stage - removing the door. Follow the algorithm to avoid mistakes:
Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and defrost|Remove the decorative plugs from the hinges|Unscrew the bolts of the upper hinge (holding the door)|Carefully remove the door from the lower hinge (an assistant may be required)|Put the door on a soft surface-->
More details about each step:
- Removing the plugs. Start from the top hinge. Pry the plug from the side with a flat-head screwdriver - it should come out with a characteristic click. Be careful: on models Indesit after 2020, the plugs can be secured with latches that are easy to break.
- Unscrewing the bolts. The upper hinge usually has 2-3 bolts (one of them can be hidden under the cover). The lower hinge is secured with 1-2 bolts + an adjusting nut. Do not lose the washers and gaskets - they provide the correct gap between the door and the body!
- Removing the door. Lift the door up to remove it from the grooves of the lower hinge. If the door is “jammed”, check if there is an unnoticed bolt or retainer.
For refrigerators with two doors (freezer + main chamber) the process is repeated separately for each. Start with the upper door (freezer), since the lower one can be blocked by a mechanism Door-in-Door.
⚠️ Attention: On models Indesit with touch panel (for example, ITF 118 W) before removing the door, you must disconnect power cable from the body. It is usually fixed with a plastic latch - do not pull the wires, but press the latch!
Moving the hinges to the other side
After removing the door, you need to move the hinges to the opposite side:
- 🔄 Upper hinge. On the refrigerator body on the other side there are already holes for the bolts (they are closed). plugs). Remove the plugs and move the hinge, not forgetting rubber gaskets —they prevent vibration.
- 🔄 Bottom hinge. This may be required rearranging the mounting plate (it is fixed with 2-4 bolts). On models with No Frost the plate can be part of the ventilation system - do not lose the seal!
- 🔄 Middle hinge (for models with a bottom freezer). Its fastenings are often hidden under a decorative overlay on the partition between the chambers. Remove the cover by unscrewing the 2 bolts at the back.
When moving the hinges, pay attention to thread direction. On some refrigerators Indesit the bolts have left thread (marked with an arrow on the head). If you twist them clockwise, they will come out!
After installing the hinges, check them alignment using a level. If the hinges are skewed even by 1–2 mm, the door will not close tightly, and the seal will quickly wear out.
Installing the door on the new side
Now all that remains is to hang the door on the rearranged hinges. This step seems simple, but this is where the most errors occur. Follow the algorithm:
- Place the door on the lower hinge. Lift it so that the pins fit into the grooves. If the door does not sit, check whether the seal or decorative trim is in the way.
- Align with the top hinge. The door should sit smoothly, without distortions. If it "falls" to the side, loosen the bolts of the top hinge and adjust the position.
- Tighten the bolts. Start with the bottom hinge, then fix the top. Do not overtighten - a tight fit without play is enough.
For refrigerators with two doors install the top (freezer) first, then the bottom. Check that there is a gap of 2-3 mm between the doors - this will prevent friction when opening.
After installation, check:
- 🔹 The door opens and closes smoothly, without squeaks.
- 🔹 The seal fits evenly around the entire perimeter (you can check it with a sheet of paper - it should hold tightly when the door is closed).
- 🔹 No distortions - if the refrigerator is on a flat surface, the door should not open spontaneously.
⚠️ Attention: If after rehanging the door does not close tightly, do not try to “pull” it by force. Most likely, the problem is improper installation of hinges or a worn seal. In this case, you need to loosen the fastenings and align the position of the door again.
Adjustment and final checks
Even if the door is visually level, it is needed adjust for a perfect fit. This is especially important for refrigerators Indesit with automatic ice maker or water dispenser —loose closure will lead to freezing or leaks.
How to adjust:
- Upper hinge. Loosen the bolts and slightly move the door in the desired direction (left/right or up/down). Tighten the bolts and check the result.
- Bottom hinge. There is usually adjusting nut here (for a hexagon). Turning clockwise raises the door, counterclockwise lowers it.
- Checking the seal. Close the door and run your hand around the perimeter - there should be no gaps or cold air. If the seal “comes off”, it can be glued with special glue for rubber.
For models with No Frost after adjustment, turn on the refrigerator and check the operation of the fan. If it makes unusual sounds, it means that the door is pressing on the air ducts - you need to loosen the hinges and move it back.
Also pay attention to:
- 🔌 Display wires (if any) - they should not be stretched or bent.
- 💧 Drainage hole —after rehanging, check if it is clogged (especially important for models with drip defrosting).
- 🔊 Noise when work —if a new sound appears (creaking, knocking), it means that the hinges are tightened too tightly or are skewed.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, you can make mistakes that will lead to problems in the future. Here are the most common ones:
| Error | Consequences | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| Decorative plugs on the other side are not removed | The bolts do not screw in, the hinges are stuck crooked | Remove the plugs, check the holes for the bolts |
| Lost washers or gaskets | The door vibrates, the hinges wear out quickly | Choose similar ones in size or order from the manufacturer |
| Hinge bolts are overtightened | Creak when opening, door deformation | Loosen the bolts, lubricate the hinges with silicone grease |
| The middle hinge fastenings are not transferred (for models with a bottom freezer) | The door sags and does not close | Disassemble and move the hinge according to the instructions |
Another typical problem is seal damage when removing the door. If the rubber is torn or deformed, it must be replaced. For refrigerators Indesit seals are sold by model (for example, for C 132 G rubber is suitable 4812480000). Before purchasing, check your refrigerator - it is indicated on the nameplate inside the chamber. check: serial number your refrigerator - it is indicated on the nameplate inside the chamber.
If after re-hanging the refrigerator becomes more noise, check:
- Is the door touching the internal shelves or drawers.
- Are the compressor fastenings loose (vibration can be transmitted to the door).
- Is the fan jammed (relevant for No Frost).
FAQ: answers to popular questions
Is it possible to hang the Indesit refrigerator door yourself if you have no experience?
Yes, the procedure does not require special skills, but you need to strictly follow the instructions. The main thing is to take your time and carefully handle the decorative plugs and seal. If in doubt, practice unscrewing the bolts without. removing the door.
How long does it take to rehang the door?
On average - from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the model. Refrigerators with three hinges (bottom freezer) require more time due to additional fastenings.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator? before rehanging the door?
It is advisable, especially if the freezer is covered with ice. This will make it easier to remove the door and prevent damage to the seal. For models with No Frost defrosting is not necessary, but it is recommended to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
What to do if the door does not work after rehanging. closes tightly?
First check that the hinges are level (use a level). If the problem is in the seal, you can heat it with a hairdryer (no higher than 60°C) and shape it. If the door is skewed, loosen the bolts and adjust the position.
Where to buy spare bolts or plugs if you lost them?
Original parts can be ordered at service centers Indesit or on spare parts websites (for example, 4service.ru, zapchasti365.ruIndicate the model of the refrigerator - bolts of different diameters are used for different series (usually M5 or M6).