Many owners of household appliances are faced with a situation where, after moving or remodeling the kitchen, the standard opening of the refrigerator becomes inconvenient. Often the door rests against walls, furniture or blocks the passage, which creates significant discomfort in everyday use. Fortunately, most models Indesit structurally provide for the possibility of reversing the sashes on the opposite side.
This procedure does not require calling a specialist and can be performed independently with a minimum set of tools. It is important to understand that the process requires care, since working with fragile fittings and heavy panels. Correctly performed re-hanging will extend the service life of the hinges and ensure a tight fit of the seal.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various series of refrigerators Indesit, we will point out the nuances of dismantling the handles and adjusting the magnetic latches. You will learn what tools are needed and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to skewed blades or damage to the body.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before starting any manipulations with the body of the unit, it is necessary to prepare the workspace. The refrigerator should be moved away from the wall to allow access from all sides, including the top and back. It is better to cover the floor with thick cardboard or soft cloth to avoid scratches if removed parts accidentally fall.
The basic set of tools usually includes a Phillips screwdriver, a wrench (most often 8 or 10 mm) and pliers. For some models with decorative plugs, a thin awl or knife may be required to carefully pry up the plastic elements without damaging them.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This will protect you from electric shock and prevent accidental starting of the compressor while manipulating wiring or sensors if they are located in the loop area.
It is also recommended to enlist the help of a second person, especially if we are talking about two-chamber models or large-volume units. Door leaves with shelves and glass have significant weight, and holding them with one hand while unscrewing the bolts is extremely difficult and dangerous.
Design features of Indesit doors
Refrigerators Indesit are produced in various modifications, and the design of the hinges may differ depending on the year of manufacture and series. Most modern models use hidden hinges that are attached to the end of the body and door, which allows you to change the opening side without visible marks on the front panel.
However, there are models where the top hinge is covered with a decorative plastic cover. In such cases, the first step is always to carefully remove this element. Often it is held on by latches, which require careful handling so as not to break the latches.
Hidden or hinged hinges?
In older Indesit models, the hinges could be completely open. In modern series (for example, Indesit DF, DS), combined options are more common, where the upper hinge is hidden under the lid, and the lower one is open or semi-closed. The design of the middle loop (for two-chamber ones) is usually universal.
An important element is the magnetic latches system. When changing the opening side, it is necessary to rearrange not only the hinges, but also the lock strike plate, as well as the plugs on the opposite side. Ignoring this stage will result in the door not closing tightly.
Step-by-step instructions: dismantling the door leaf
The door removal process begins with the top fastening. First you need to remove the top decorative panel, if present. Underneath are the bolts that secure the top hinge. After unscrewing them, the hinge is removed, but not yet removed far - it will be needed for installation on the other side.
Then you should carefully lift the door up to remove it from engagement with the lower or middle hinge. As mentioned earlier, it is better to do this together. The removed door is placed on the prepared surface with the outer side down, placing a soft cloth under it.
☑️ Checklist before removing the door
If your refrigerator has a two-chamber, the procedure is repeated for each chamber separately. First, the upper (freezer) door is removed, then the lower one. This avoids confusion and reduces the risk of damage to the lower seal when working with the upper part.
Models with displays or control buttons located on the door deserve special attention. In such cases, before completely removing the panel, it is necessary to disconnect the cable cable running from the refrigerator body to the control panel. The connector is usually located in the area of the top hinge.
Re-hanging the hinges and installing them on the new side
After dismantling all the elements, it is necessary to rearrange the hinges to the opposite side. For this purpose, symmetrical holes are provided at the end of the door and the refrigerator body. Those holes that are not used are closed with plastic plugs included in the delivery.
Install the top hinge on the new side and secure it with bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow for precise adjustment of the door position in the future. The lower hinge is also transferred to the appropriate place, and the door leaf is put on its axis.
| Element | Action when changing side | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Upper hinge | Rearrange to the opposite end | Phillips screwdriver, wrench |
| Bottom hinge | Rearrange, remove and turn over the pin | Wrench |
| Handle | Rearrange or turn over (if symmetrical) | Hexagon |
| Plugs | Close the vacated holes | Without tools |
Pay special attention to the bottom hinge pin. In some models Indesit it has an asymmetrical shape or a locking ring that must be correctly oriented during installation. A mistake at this stage will cause the door to not fit into place or to be loose.
Adjusting the position and tightness of the fit
After installing the doors in place, you need to check their horizontalness and tightness of fit to the body. If the door is warped or does not close tightly, adjustment is required. To do this, loosen the fastening bolts of the middle and lower hinges, level the canvas and tighten the fastenings again.
The tightness of the fit is checked using a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet with the door around the perimeter: it should be removed with noticeable force. If the paper falls out freely or breaks when removed, then the gap is broken.
It is also important to check the operation of the magnetic lock. When closing the door, it should be magnetized along the entire perimeter, without gaps in the corners. If there is a loose fit in the area of the handle, you may need to adjust the lock strike plate on the refrigerator body.
Typical errors and methods for eliminating them
One of the most A common mistake is losing or mixing up fasteners. The bolts for the top and bottom hinges may have different lengths and threads. Using unsuitable fasteners can damage the housing or strip the threads.
Often users forget to rearrange the plastic plugs on the handles or the front panel. This not only spoils the appearance of the appliance, but also creates places for dust and moisture to accumulate, which is especially critical for refrigerators operating in conditions of high humidity.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use force when tightening the bolts. The aluminum alloy from which hinges are often made is easily deformed. If the bolt does not fit, check that the threads are aligned and that they are not skewed.
Another mistake is ignoring the floor level. If the refrigerator is not level, even a properly hung door may open spontaneously or not close completely. Always check the position of the unit with a building level after completing the work.
Caring for the seal after rehanging
During the process of removal and installation, the door leaf experiences stress, which can affect the condition of the rubber seal. After installation is complete, carefully inspect the rubber around the entire perimeter for creases, stretching or damage.
If the seal is deformed, you can try to restore it. To do this, just warm the damaged area with a hairdryer (without overheating!) or pour boiling water from a mug so that the rubber straightens and returns its elastic shape.
Regular cleaning of the seal will extend its service life. Wipe it with a soft cloth dampened in a mild soap solution and lubricate it with silicone grease every six months. This will prevent the rubber from drying out and ensure the chamber is sealed.
Is it possible to reverse the door on an Indesit refrigerator with a display?
Yes, on most models this is possible, but the procedure is more complicated. You must carefully disconnect the cable harness going to the display before removing the door. When installed on a new side, the cable is connected to the corresponding socket if the design provides for symmetrical connectors. In some cases, it may be necessary to extend the wire or resolder the contacts, which is best left to a specialist.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not hold and opens?
Most likely, the angle of the refrigerator is broken. The door must close under the influence of gravity. Try unscrewing the front leveling feet to raise the front of the unit. Also check if anything is preventing a tight fit (products on shelves, trays).
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging the doors?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, if there is a lot of ice in the freezer, it is better to leave the unit turned off for several hours. Heavy blocks of ice can shift the center of gravity of the door when removed, which is dangerous. In addition, warm water can flow when the case is tilted.
Where can I get plugs for the holes if they are lost?
Plugs are usually supplied with the refrigerator, often in a bag with documents or attached to foam. If they are lost, you can order them at the service center Indesit according to the model of your refrigerator or select universal plastic plugs of suitable diameter in a furniture fittings store.