Re-hanging the refrigerator door LG to the other side is a task that many owners face when moving, renovating or simply wanting to optimize kitchen space. Despite the apparent complexity, the procedure is quite doable with your own hands if you know the key nuances: from differences in fastening models No Frost and drip systems to correct transfer hinge mechanism i sealing rubber. This article contains a step-by-step analysis taking into account typical errors, a table of tool compatibility and answers to questions that arise after installation (for example, why the door does not close well or condensation has appeared).
It’s worth clarifying right away: not all models LG support overweight. For example, some Side-by-Side or refrigerators may have rigidly fixed hinges. Therefore, before starting work, be sure to check water dispenser may have rigidly fixed hinges. Therefore, before starting work, be sure to check instructions for your model (usually the information is indicated in section "Installation" or "Technical characteristics"). If the documentation is lost, use the online catalog LG by serial number (located on the sticker inside the camera or on the back of the case).
Important: The procedure will take from 1 to 3 hours depending on experience and model. If your refrigerator is under warranty, re-hanging the door yourself may invalidate it - check this point with the manufacturer before start of work.
1. Preparation: Tools and Safety
Before you begin dismantling, prepare your workspace and tools. The refrigerator should be unplugged at least 30 minutes before starting work - this will prevent the risk of electric shock from accidental contact with the wiring (especially important for models with electronic control, for example LG InstaView or Smart ThinQ). Also make sure that there are no fragile products in the chambers - vibration when removing the door can damage them.
Minimum set of tools:
- ⚒️ Phillips screwdriver (PH2 is usually suitable) - for most models LG.
- 🔧 Wrench (size 10 or 12 mm) - for bolts on hinges.
- 📏 Ruler or square - to check the evenness of the installation of the new hinge.
- 🧲 Magnet or tape - for temporary fastening of removed parts (screws, washers).
- 🧴 Silicone grease (optional) - for processing the seal after installation.
For models with touch display (for example, LG Instaview Door-in-Door) you will additionally need a plastic spatula - it is convenient for them to pry up decorative panels without damaging the electronics. If your refrigerator is equipped ice maker, prepare a container to drain the remaining water from the system.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with a system Linear Cooling (linear cooling) after re-hanging the door may be required recalibration of temperature sensors. This function is available in the service menu - look for instructions on how to activate it in the technical data sheet.
2. Dismantling an old door: step-by-step instructions
Start with the top hinge - it usually fixes the main load. Carefully remove the decorative caps (if present) using a flathead screwdriver or knife. Underneath them you will find the bolts that hold the hinge in place. Most models LG use 3-4 bolts per hinge, but in refrigerators with double door (for example, LG Door-in-Door) there may be more of them.
Procedure:
- Unscrew the bolts of the upper hinge, holding the door (it is heavier than it looks!).
- Remove the door from the lower pin and carefully place it on a soft surface (for example, a blanket) so as not to scratch.
- Repeat the procedure for the bottom loop. Please note: in some models, the lower hinge is secured not only with bolts, but also with a fixing pin - it needs to be pulled out with pliers.
- Remove the decorative trims from the refrigerator body (if they interfere with access to the holes for the new hinge).
At this stage they often make a mistake: they try to remove the door without unscrewing all the bolts. Remember: in models LG s automatic closing (function Door Alarm), the hinges may have hidden fastenings under plastic covers. If the door “does not budge”, check for additional screws on the inside of the case.
☑️ Checklist before removing the door
3. Transferring the loops to the other side
Now you need to move the loops to the opposite side. There is an important nuance here: the holes for fastenings on the refrigerator body LG are usually symmetrical, but in some models (for example, LG GB-B509SLQZ) they may be required additional plugs, which are included in the kit. If they are not available, use bolts of the same length as the original ones.
Transfer algorithm:
- 🔄 Move the top and bottom loops to the mirror holes on the other side.
- 🔩 Tighten bolts not all the way —first you need to level the door.
- 📐 Check the verticality using a level. The door should hang evenly, without distortions.
- 🔧 Tighten the bolts crosswise (like the wheels of a car) to avoid deformation.
For refrigerators with French door (two doors on top) the process is more complicated: you will have to remove both doors one by one and move the central one loop. In this case, it is recommended to mark the position of each hinge with a marker before dismantling - this will simplify reassembly.
What to do if there are no holes on the other side?
In some older models LG (until 2015) holes for alternative fastening of hinges may be closed with plastic plugs or completely absent. In this case, you will have to drill new holes, but this is risky - you can damage the cooling system. Alternative: use extended bolts with washers, but such installation is less reliable.
4. Installing the door and adjusting the seal
After transferring the hinges, carefully hang the door on the lower pin, then fix the upper hinge. Do not rush to tighten the bolts - first check how the door closes. It should fit evenly around the entire perimeter, without gaps. If you notice a distortion, loosen the fastenings and adjust the position.
Pay special attention sealing rubber. In refrigerators LG it is attached on a magnetic basis, but after hanging it can become deformed. Carry out a test:
- Close the door and try to stretch a sheet of paper along the seal.
- If the sheet passes easily, the elastic does not fit tightly.
- In this case, heat the seal with a hairdryer (temperature no higher than 50°C) and shape it with your hands.
For models with Fresh Air Filter system (for example, LG GC-B247SLQV) after reweighing, filter resetmay be required. This is done through the menu: Settings → Care → Reset filter. If you ignore this step, the refrigerator will display an error CF (filter clogged).
5. Checking operation after installation
After installing the door, turn on the refrigerator and wait until it reaches operating temperature (usually 2-4 hours). Then check:
- 🔊 Noise: the appearance of new sounds (creaks, knocks) may indicate misalignment of the hinges.
- 💧 Condensation: if moisture accumulates on the seal or walls, the door is not closed tightly.
- ❄️ Ice in the freezer: in models No Frost an incorrect cover leads to freezing.
- 📱 Electronics: for refrigerators with a display, check if the settings have gone wrong (for example, mode
EcoorVacation).
If the refrigerator is equipped with door opening sensor, after re-hanging, the signal may sound Door Open even when the door is closed. This means that the magnetic contact of the sensor has shifted. Solution: carefully bend the metal plate of the sensor with pliers (it is located on the refrigerator body next to the hinge).
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with an inverter compressor (Linear Compressor) after reversing the door, it may temporarily increase energy consumption. This is normal: the system recalibrates the operating modes. After 1-2 days, the consumption will return to normal values.
6. Typical errors and how to avoid them
Even with careful installation, mistakes are possible:
| Error | Cause | How to fix |
|---|---|---|
| The door closes with force | Hinge distortion or seal deformation | Loosen the bolts, level the door, warm up the rubber |
| There is play in the hinges | The bolts are not tightened evenly | Tighten crosswise with a force of 1.5–2 Nm |
| The refrigerator is not turns on | The door sensor wiring is damaged | Check the circuit with a multimeter, if necessary, replace the cable |
| Condensation on the walls | Leaking door | Adjust hinges or replace the seal |
A separate problem is scratches on the body. To avoid them during dismantling, cover the edges of the screwdriver and keys with masking tape. If scratches have already appeared, use a special pencil for stainless steel (for example, Edding 8500).
7. Features for different LG models
The design of hinges and doors varies depending on the series of the refrigerator: Below are the key differences:
- 🍎 LG InstaView: A door with a transparent panel requires careful handling - do not press on the glass when dismantling. The hinges here are attached to 5 bolts (instead of the standard 3-4).
- ❄️ LG Door-in-Door: You will have to remove both doors (internal and external) and move the central hinge The weight of the door can reach 15 kg - work with an assistant.
- 📱 LG Smart ThinQ: After rehanging, you may need to reconnect the Wi-Fi module (it is sometimes attached to the loop).
- 🍷 LG Wine Cellar: In models with a wine area (for example, LG GC-X247CLAV) the door has an additional layer of insulation - do not overtighten the bolts so as not to damage it.
For refrigerators with with a water dispenser (LG GR-B247JVL and the like) before rehanging, you must disconnect the water supply hose and drain the remaining liquid. After installation, check the tightness of the connections - a leak can damage the electronics.
⚠️ Attention: In models LG with the functionSmart DiagnosisWhen re-hanging the door, an error may occurdH(problem with the door). To reset it, press and hold the buttonIce Plus5 seconds.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions after re-hanging
The door closes, but the refrigerator has become louder. Is this normal?
Yes, in the first day after re-hanging, the compressor may work more intensely due to a change in the distribution of cold air. If the noise does not disappear after 24 hours, check:
- The levelness of the door (misalignment is possible).
- Tightening the hinge bolts (loose fastenings vibrate).
- Fitness of the seal (the gaps cause the compressor to work for wear).
If the problem persists, contact the service - internal parts may have shifted (for example, a fan No Frost).
Is it possible to rehang the door on an LG refrigerator with an ice maker?
Yes, but the procedure is more complicated:
- Turn off the water supply and drain the remaining water from the system.
- Remove the dispenser panel (usually secured with latches).
- Move the hoses and electrical wiring to the other side (extended cables must be included in the kit).
- After installation, check the tightness of the connections - water leakage can cause a short circuit!
In models LG LRMVC2306S and similar ones, the ice maker is rigidly tied to the loop - it will have to be completely reinstalled.
How to move the door handle to the other side?
Handles in refrigerators LG are usually symmetrical, but are attached to hidden bolts. To move:
- Remove the decorative plugs from the ends of the handle (pry them off with a screwdriver).
- Unscrew the bolts and remove the handle.
- Turn it 180° and secure it to the mirror holes.
In models with built-in display (for example, LG InstaView ThinQ) the handle can be non-removable - in this in case they cannot tolerate it.
What to do if, after rehanging, condensation appears on the walls?
Condensation signals two problems:
- Leaking door —check the seal with a test with a sheet of paper.
- Temperature sensor offset - in refrigerators LG it can be attached to the door. If the sensor is now located further from the evaporator, the compressor does not work correctly.
Solution:
- Adjust the hinges for a tight fit.
- Reset the refrigerator settings to factory settings (
Settings → Reset). - If condensation remains, call a technician for reconfiguring sensors.
Is it possible to rehang the door on an LG Side-by-Side refrigerator?
In most models LG Side-by-Side (for example, LG LFXS26973S) reversing the doors not provided for by the design due to:
- Rigidly fixed hinges.
- Complex wiring system (dispenser, display, ice maker).
- Door weights (up to 20 kg each).
The exception is some models with the function Door-in-Door, but even there the process requires professional skills. We recommend contacting a service center LG.