Changing the installation location of refrigeration equipment often becomes a necessity when moving or remodeling a kitchen space. Equipment owners Nord are faced with a situation where the standard right-hand door hinge interferes with the comfortable use of the unit. Fortunately, the design of most models provides the ability to change the opening side, which allows you to adapt the device to new conditions.
The rehanging process requires care and a minimum set of tools, but even a non-professional can do it. The main thing is to strictly follow the sequence of actions so as not to damage hinges or break the tightness of the seal. In this article, we will look in detail at how to rearrange the doors on a Nord refrigerator, taking into account the nuances of different series and modifications.
Before proceeding with dismantling, you need to make sure that the chosen installation location allows the door to open to a full angle. It is also important to prepare a flat surface for temporary placement of removed elements. You should not ignore preparation, as haste can lead to damage accessories.
Necessary tools and workplace preparation
To successfully complete the work of changing the attachment, you will need a standard home craftsman's kit. The main tool will be screwdriver or a set of screwdrivers with different attachments, since the mounting screws may differ in the diameter and shape of the head. In some cases, you may need wrench or hexagonif the model is equipped with specific bolts.
In addition to the main one tool, it would be a good idea to prepare a soft rag or cardboard to cover the floor in front of the refrigerator. This will protect the flooring from scratches and fallen parts from damage. It is also recommended to have on hand silicone grease to treat rubbing surfaces after installation.
It is important to ensure good lighting of the work area in order to clearly see the fastening points and not confuse the holes. Make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged and that all shelves and drawers have been removed for ease of construction.
- 🛠️ Screwdriver or set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat head)
- 🔧 Wrench or socket set (often 8 mm or 10 mm)
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges
- 📦 Container for storing small screws and plugs
Pay special attention to the stability of the unit during work. If the floor is slippery, it is better to place anti-slip mats under the legs or ask an assistant to hold the body.
Removing the upper door and fittings
The process should begin with the upper chamber, since it is the support point for the entire door structure. First you need to remove the decorative plugs that hide the fasteners of the top hinge. They are usually made of plastic and can be easily removed with a thin screwdriver or knife.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use excessive force when removing the plugs, as the plastic can be brittle, especially on older models. Nord. A sudden movement can split the element, and then it will be difficult to find a replacement.
After freeing access to the fasteners, carefully unscrew the screws securing the top hinge. It is best to hold the door with your other hand or ask an assistant to prevent it from falling after loosening the last bolt. The removed door should be put in a safe place, having previously sealed the doors with masking tape so that they do not accidentally open.
Next, the upper hinge itself is dismantled. Depending on the model, it can be attached directly to the body or have intermediate elements. All removed parts must be placed in a prepared container so as not to lose a single screw. Fasteners Different units may differ in length, so it is advisable to remember or photograph the location of each element.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Working with the bottom door and freezer camera
After removing the top element, we move to the bottom part, where the freezer is usually located. The algorithm of actions is similar, but there are some nuances related to the weight and dimensions of the sash. First, the handle is removed if it is not part of the canvas, and then the lower loop is unscrewed.
In some models Nord with a system No Frost or improved insulation, sensor or indicator wires may be connected to the lower loop. In this case, you need to act extremely carefully so as not to damage cable route. If wires are present, they must be carefully disconnected, having first remembered the color marking of the connectors.
The lower door is often heavier than the upper one, so it is better not to do this without the help of a second person. After removing the hinge, the door itself is also removed to the side. Now the case is completely freed from hanging elements, and you can begin preparing the holes for the new configuration.
If there are factory plugs on the opposite side, they need to be removed. Often on new refrigerators, these places are already prepared in advance and covered with decorative inserts, which simply change places.
Installing hinges on the new side
The most critical stage is installing the fittings on the opposite side of the case. It is necessary to move all dismantled hinges and fasteners to new locations. Make sure the holes line up and the threads are not stripped. When screwing in the screws, do not tighten them all the way at once, just tighten all the elements first.
For models with electronic controls or a display on the door, it may be necessary to extend the wires or re-route them. In such cases it is strictly not recommended extending the wires yourself, if you do not have the appropriate skills, it is better to use the standard length of the cable, carefully placing it in the provided channels.
Check the horizontal installation of the top loop. Even a slight misalignment will cause the door to close loosely or, conversely, too tightly. Use a level to control the position.
After installing the hinges in a new place, you can begin hanging the doors in the reverse order. The lower sash is installed first, then the upper one. It is important to correctly get the hinge axis into the corresponding hole at the end of the door.
Adjusting the position of the doors and seal
After the doors are installed, it is necessary to carry out a thorough adjustment. The main task is to achieve a tight fit seal along the entire perimeter. If the door is skewed, a gap may form in one of the corners through which the cold will escape.
Height adjustment is usually carried out using support legs at the bottom of the refrigerator or adjusting screws on hinges. By rotating them, you can raise or lower the corner of the door. Check the operation magnetic lock: the door should attract itself, starting from a certain opening angle.
| Problem | Possible cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| The door does not close tightly | Hinges are skewed | Loosen the screws, align, tighten |
| Strong creaking when opening | Lack of lubrication | Treat the hinges with silicone |
| The door opens by itself | Tilt the body back | Unscrew the front legs |
| Seal jamming | Incorrect installation | Warm with a hairdryer and straighten |
If the seal is deformed during the work, it can be straightened with a hairdryer. Heat the material with warm air and gently straighten it with your fingers, then press the door tightly until it cools.
Tightness check and testing
The final stage is checking the quality of the work performed. There is a simple and effective way to test for leaks using a piece of paper. Clamp the sheet with the refrigerator door in different places around the perimeter. If the paper comes out with force, the seal is good. If the sheet falls out or moves freely, additional adjustment is required.
It is also worth paying attention to the operation of lighting and other functions that depend on the position of the door. In some models Nord is installed limit switch, which should be pressed freely when closing. Make sure that the door does not press too hard on it or does not leave a gap.
⚠️ Attention: After rehanging the doors, it is recommended to let the refrigerator stand in the off state for 2-3 hours before turning it on. This is necessary to stabilize the refrigerant, especially if the unit was tilted during work.
Turn on the unit and monitor its operation during the first 24 hours. The absence of condensation on the outside, uniform cooling and silence during compressor operation indicate the successful completion of the operation.
What to do if the door slams when closing?
If you hear a loud bang, excess pressure may be created in the chamber. Check the drain hole for blockages. Also make sure that you do not slam the door too sharply - modern seals require smooth finishing.
Do not forget to periodically check the condition of the hinges in the first weeks of operation. If the screws are not tightened tightly enough, they may loosen under the weight of the door, which will require readjustment.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to reverse the door on a Nord refrigerator with the No Frost system?
Yes, on most models Nord with the No Frost system, reversing is possible. However, such units often have additional air ducts and sensors on the door, which complicates the process. Special care is required when disconnecting electrical connectors.
Do you need to call a professional to rehang doors?
Calling a professional is not necessary if you have basic skills with tools. The instructions are quite simple. However, if your model belongs to the premium series with complex electronics or built-in displays, it is better to entrust the work to a professional.
What to do if, after rehanging, there are excess fasteners left?
If after installing all the elements you still have screws or bushings, carefully check the instructions. Sometimes the kit comes with universal fastener kits for different models, and a part may actually not be needed. The main thing is that all the main hinges are securely fixed.
Why did the door begin to close tighter after rehanging?
This may be due to the fact that the new seal has not yet been developed, or the hinges are tightened too tightly. Also check that the door does not touch the cabinet or shelves. Over time, the hinges will get used to it, and the movement will become easier.
Does re-hanging the door affect the warranty?
Independently re-hanging the doors, as a rule, is not a basis for voiding the warranty if the unit components were not damaged in the process. However, if you strip a thread or break glass, there will be a cost to repair it. Keep all removed parts in case you call for service.
How to care for new hinges after installation?
Regularly wipe the hinges with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease. Once every six months, it is recommended to apply a drop of edible oil or special lubricant to the rotation axis to prevent corrosion and squeaking.