Changing the kitchen layout or rearranging furniture often poses a difficult question for owners of household appliances: how to adapt the door opening to new conditions? The model range Candy is distinguished by its ergonomics, but the factory configuration does not always coincide with the desired one. Fortunately, the design of most units provides the opportunity reversing the hinges to the opposite side without loss of tightness.
This procedure requires accuracy and a minimum set of tools, but allows you to avoid calling a technician and additional costs. It is important to understand that the internal structure of different series may differ, so before starting work you need to study design features exactly your model. In some cases, it may be necessary to dismantle additional elements of the fittings.
In this guide, we will analyze in detail the process of changing the opening side, paying special attention to the nuances that beginners often miss. You will learn how to properly prepare the work area, what tools you will need and how to avoid common mistakes that can damage seal or the body. Following the algorithm guarantees the preservation of the factory warranty and the durability of the mechanism.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
The first step is to free up the space around the refrigerator. You will need access from all sides, as some models Candy require tilting or removing back panels to access the hardware. Remove the rugs, protect the floor with cardboard or soft cloth so as not to scratch the floor covering and the unit itself.
To carry out the work, you will need a standard home handyman's kit. The main tool will be hex key or a Phillips screwdriver, the size of which depends on the specific series. It is also a good idea to prepare a level to check the horizontal installation after installation is complete.
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flathead) for removing various types of screws.
- 🔧 Hex keys (usually 4 mm or 5 mm) for adjustment hinges.
- 📏 Building level for checking the position of the door after installation.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any 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 the wiring, if it is affected.
☑️ Preparing for rehanging
Do not attempt to use inappropriate tools, such as pliers instead of screwdrivers, as this may cause damage. torn bolt heads. If the screws are too tight, it is better to use penetrating lubricant and wait a few minutes rather than apply excessive force. Taking good care of the fasteners will save you time looking for a replacement.
Removing the top panel and freeing the hinges
The process begins with removing the top cover of the refrigerator, if it is structurally provided for in your model. Candy. In most cases, it is secured with two screws on the back or sides. Carefully unscrew them and slide the panel forward or up, freeing access to the top bracket.
Next, you should release the top hinge. Do not remove it completely at once - first loosen the fasteners so that you can adjust the position. The door at this moment should be closed, but not locked, so as not to create unnecessary stress on the lower hinge.
Nuances of removing decorative plugs
On some models, the screws are hidden under plastic plugs. They need to be carefully pryed off with a thin screwdriver or knife, being careful not to break the plastic clips. Save the plugs; they will be needed for installation on the other side.
After loosening the top fastening, you can begin to remove the handle if it interferes with access to the fasteners. In some modifications, the handle is part of a decorative strip that needs to be snapped off. Proceed with caution, as plastic becomes fragile and may crack at low temperatures.
Removing the door and rearranging the fittings
Now comes the most crucial moment - physically removing the door. It is better to perform this operation with an assistant, since refrigerator doors Candy can be heavy and bulky. One person holds the door while the other finally removes the top hinge screws.
After removing the door, set it aside in a safe place on a soft surface. Now you need to dismantle the bottom hinge and move it to the opposite side. Pay attention to the location thrust pins —they also need to be moved to the other side so that the door rests correctly.
| Element | Action | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Upper hinge | Dismantling and transfer | Requires removal of the decorative cover |
| Lower stop | Repositioning the pin | It is important not to lose retaining ring |
| Handle | Dismantling and turning over | It may be necessary to re-glue the plugs |
| Door stopper | Repositioning | Located at the bottom end |
If your model is equipped with a system No Frost, make sure that when rearranging you do not pinch the air ducts or wires going to the sensors. In two-chamber models, it is often necessary to remove the middle partition between the chambers in order to gain access to hidden fasteners.
Installing hinges on the new side
Installation on the new side is carried out in the reverse order. Place the bottom loop on the opposite hole, making sure it fits snugly and without distortion. Use the old holes if the design provides for symmetrical seats, which is typical for most modern ones. Candy.
When installing the top hinge, it is important not to tighten the screws all the way right away. Tighten them first to leave some play for adjustment. This will allow you to later align the door perfectly level with the body. A misalignment of even a few millimeters can lead to problems with sealing.
Check that all decorative plugs are installed in the vacated holes on the old side. This will not only improve the appearance, but also prevent dust and moisture from getting inside metal case. If the plugs do not match the color or shape, they can be painted over or ordered new ones.
Adjusting the door position and checking the tightness
After installing all the elements in place, it is necessary to carry out a thorough adjustment. Open and close the door several times, checking for smooth operation. If the door touches the body or warps, loosen the hinge mounting bolts and level the position using a building level. Pay special attention to checking the sealing rubber. It should fit snugly around the entire perimeter of the body. To check, close the door with a sheet of paper: it should be pulled out with force along its entire length. If the paper falls out freely, then additional building level.
Pay special attention to checking the sealing rubber. It should fit snugly around the entire perimeter of the body. To check, close the door with a sheet of paper: it should be pulled out with force along its entire length. If the paper falls out freely, it means you need additional adjustment of the hinges is needed.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use hot water or a hair dryer to straighten out dents on the seal immediately after installation! Allow the rubber to reach room temperature and expand naturally for several hours.
In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the door stopper at the bottom end. It prevents the door from swinging too wide and damaging the hinges. Make sure that it is installed correctly and limits the stroke in the desired range.
Frequent errors and troubleshooting
One of the most common mistakes is the incorrect sequence of actions, leading to damage to the plastic. For example, attempting to remove a door without first loosening all fastenings may result in breakdown plastic bushings. Always proceed in stages.
Also, users often forget to reposition the magnetic stopper or pin at the bottom, which leads to loose closure. If after assembly you notice that the door does not stay closed, check this particular element. Sometimes you just need to turn it over to the other side.
If you notice that after rehanging the refrigerator has become noisier, check whether the door is touching the body or pipes from behind. Vibration from an incorrectly installed door can be transmitted to the entire body. In this case, repeated position adjustment is required.
Specifics of models with a display and electronics
Owners of models Candy with a door display or system Smart Touch should be extremely careful. In such refrigerators, wires often pass through the loop, connecting the control board to the module on the door. They must be carefully disconnected before removing the door.
When reinstalling the wires, they must be laid so that they do not fall into the friction zone of the hinges. A pinched cable can cause display failure or electronic malfunction. Use standard cable channels if they are provided for by the design.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator model has a built-in display or complex electronics in the door, it is strongly recommended that you check the official instructions for the specific series before starting work. The design may have unique connection features.
After connecting the cables, be sure to check the operation of all indicators before final assembly of the panels. This will avoid re-parsing in case of connection error. Electronics Candy is sensitive to the quality of contacts.
Completion of work and initial startup
After all elements are installed, checked and adjusted, you can proceed to the final stage. Wipe the door and body to remove fingerprints and grease. Make sure all screws are tight and decorative elements are in place.
Plug in the refrigerator and let it run idle for 2-3 hours. During this time, you can ensure that the installation is correct by checking whether condensation appears and whether the unit maintains its temperature. Only then load products.
How long to wait before loading?
It is recommended to wait at least 4-6 hours before fully loading food so that the refrigerator reaches operating mode and stabilizes the temperature.
Now your refrigerator Candy fully adapted to the new kitchen layout. Correctly re-hanging the doors will not only improve ergonomics, but will also extend the service life of the seal, since the door will close more naturally for your usual movement.
Do I need to call a technician if I am afraid of damaging the hinges?
If you are not confident in your abilities or do not have the necessary tools, it is better to contact a service center. However, if you follow the instructions and act carefully, most users can do it on their own in 30-40 minutes.
Is it possible to hang the door without removing the refrigerator completely?
Yes, in most cases it is enough to move the refrigerator 50-60 cm away from the wall to provide access from the back and sides. Complete removal from a niche is rarely required, only if access is very limited.
What to do if the holes for the hinges on the other side are closed?
On some models, the holes may be closed with factory plugs or decorative film. They must be carefully removed. If there are physically no holes (rare models), then re-hanging is impossible without drilling, which is not recommended.
Does re-hanging the door affect the warranty?
Independent re-hanging of the door, as provided for by the design, usually does not void the warranty unless you damage the unit. However, if problems arise with tightness after your actions, the service may refuse free repairs.
Why does the door open by itself after rehanging?
Most likely, the refrigerator is not installed at the level. For proper closing by gravity, the top of the refrigerator should be slightly higher than the bottom. Adjust the legs.