Moving the refrigerator door to the other side: instructions with photos and videos

Reversing the refrigerator door to the opposite side is a task faced when moving, changing the kitchen layout, or a banal desire to optimize space. At first glance, the procedure seems simple: unscrew the hinges, rearrange them, screw them back. However improper installation can lead to door misalignment, cold leakage or even compressor failure due to leakage.

In this article - step-by-step algorithm for refrigerators Atlant, Samsung, LG, Indesit and other popular brands, including nuances for models with a water dispenser or system No Frost. We will look at what tools you will need, how to avoid common mistakes (for example, forgetting to rearrange seal or adjusting the hinges incorrectly), and what to do if the door does not close well after rehanging.

⚠️ Important: Design of hinges and mounts may differ even for models of the same brand. If your refrigerator was manufactured before 2010 or belongs to the premium segment (for example, Liebherr with electronic control), check the manufacturer's instructions - there may be additional latches or door position sensors.

1. Preparation: tools and safety precautions

Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need. Most refrigerators are equipped with key for hanging doors (usually a 5 or 6 mm hexagon), but if it is not there, prepare the tools in advance.

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) - for most modern models.
• 🔧 Hex wrench (5–6 mm) - for hinges and clamps.
• 🔧 Wrench (10–13 mm) - if the hinges are secured with bolts.
• 📏 Level (bubble or laser) - to check the evenness of the installation.
• 🧴 Silicone grease - for processing the seal after installation.
• 🧲 Magnet - will help hold small parts (screws, washers).

You will also need assistant —the refrigerator door weighs 15–30 kg, and holding it with one hand while simultaneously twisting the hinges is inconvenient and dangerous. If you work alone, use supports from a book or boardto secure the door in the open position.

⚠️ Attention: Do not turn the refrigerator on its side or back - this may cause oil from the compressor to enter the cooling circuit. If you need to reach the lower hinges, tilt the unit a maximum of 45° and lock it.

2. Removing the old door: step-by-step algorithm

Start by disconnecting the refrigerator from the network. Next, proceed according to the scheme:

1. Remove the decorative plugs from the hinges (they are usually snapped or screwed with self-tapping screws). The mounting bolts are hidden under them.
2. Unscrew the top hinge —they hold the main weight of the door. Place a support (for example, a chair) under the door so that it does not fall.
3. Remove the middle hinge (if any) and the bottom. In some models (Samsung RB30J3000, LG GA-B489), the lower hinge is attached through plastic retainer —it must be carefully pulled out with a flat screwdriver.
4. Detach the door from the body, by lifting it up (for models with a top mount) or sliding it to the side.

Some refrigerators (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30) have hinges hidden under plastic lining, which are secured with latches. To remove them, pry them off with a screwdriver from the end, as shown in the photo:

Photo

how to remove the hinge cover: On most models, the cover is secured with two latches - on top and bottom. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry it off, starting from the top corner, then carefully remove it by pulling it towards you. Do not use excessive force - the plastic may crack!

If the door is equipped with water dispenser or electronic display, disconnect the power connectors and hoses. They are usually fixed with plastic clips - press them and pull the wire to the side.

Make sure the refrigerator is unplugged|

Place a soft cloth under the door (so as not to scratch the floor)|

Prepare a container for small parts (screws, washers)|

Take a photo of the location of the loops and wires (if there is a dispenser)-->

3. Transferring hinges and fastenings to the other side

After dismantling the door, holes from the old hinges will remain on the refrigerator body. On the opposite side there are usually plugs or threaded bushings for fastening - they need to be removed.

• 🔨 If the plugs are plastic, pry them off with a screwdriver and pull it out.
• 🔨 If the bushings are metal, they can be threaded (unscrew with a wrench) or pressed in (carefully knock them out with a hammer through a wooden spacer).
• 🧹 Clean the holes from dust and debris - this is important for a tight fit of the new ones fastenings.

Now transfer the loops to the other side. Please note:

• 🔄 Upper and lower loops are often not interchangeable - they may have marks L (left) and R (right).
• 🔄 In models with French Door (two-door) it may be necessary rearrange the middle hinge to synchronize the opening mechanism.
• 🔄 If there are no holes for hinges on the other side, they need to be drill (diameter is indicated in the instructions). To do this, use drill for metal and a drill at low speeds.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with No Frost when rehanging the door, the air ductresponsible for the circulation of cold air may move. After installation, check whether the door is blocking its opening (usually located in the upper corner of the chamber).

4. Installing the door on the new side

Now you can begin reassembly. Proceed in this order:

1. Install the lower loop (if there is one) and fix it with bolts without fully tightening it.
2. Put it on door on the lower pin (or insert it into the grooves if the fastening is different).
3. Align the door level - it should hang evenly, without distortions. If necessary, adjust the position of the hinges.
4. Tighten the top hinge and tighten all bolts. Check that the door opens smoothly, without creaking.

For models with magnetic seal (for example, Liebherr CNef 4815) after rehanging it may be necessary to heating with a hair dryer - this will restore elasticity to the rubber and improve the fit. The temperature of the hair dryer should not exceed 50–60°C.

5. Adjusting and checking tightness

Even if the door hangs evenly, this does not guarantee a tight fit. Carry out the test:

• 📄 Test with paper: Insert a sheet of paper between the seal and the body. If it falls out or is easily pulled out, the seal is broken.
• 💡 Test with a flashlight: Shine a flashlight inside the refrigerator with the door closed. If light leaks out, the seal needs to be adjusted.

To adjust:

1. Loosen the bolts on the hinges.
2. Slightly move the door in the desired direction (left/right, up/down).
3. Tighten the bolts and repeat the test.

If the seal is deformed or torn, it will have to be replaced. To do this:

1. Remove the old seal by prying it out of the groove with a screwdriver.
2. Clean the groove from glue and debris.
3. Install a new seal, starting from the top corner. Use silicone glue for fixation.

6. Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Errors when hanging the door can lead to serious problems - from increased energy consumption to compressor breakdown. Here are the most common:

• 🚫 Failure to follow the sequence: If you unscrew the bottom hinge first, the door may fall and damage the hinges or the body.
• 🚫 Ignoring marks L/R: Hinges for the left and right sides are not interchangeable - this will lead to misalignment.
• 🚫 Excessive tightening of bolts: Can strip threads or deform plastic parts.
• 🚫 They forget to rearrange the seal: In some models (Samsung RF23) the seal is attached separately and requires transfer.
• 🚫 They do not check the tightness: Even a small gap will increase the load on the compressor by 20-30%.

Another common problem is creaking hinges after re-hanging. This occurs due to:

• Insufficient lubrication (use silicone greasenot WD-40!).
• Warpness doors (you need to adjust the position).
• Debris gets into the mechanism (clean the hinges with a brush).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Samsung Family Hub) after rehanging, the calibration of the door opening sensor may be lost. In this case, you need to reset the settings through the menu: Settings → Diagnostics → Door reset.

7. Features for refrigerators with a dispenser and No Frost

If your refrigerator is equipped with a water/ice dispenser or system, the rehanging process becomes more complicated. Here's what you need to consider: No Frost, the process of reweighing becomes more complicated. Here's what to consider:

For models with a dispenser:

• 💧 Water supply hoses you will have to move it to the other side. In some models (LG Instaview) there are special channels in the housing for this.
• 🔌 Electronic control unit The dispenser can be attached to the door - it must be carefully disconnected and reinstalled.
• ⚡ Power dispenser usually goes through a flexible cable. Do not bend it or pull the wires!

For models with No Frost:

• ❄️ Check that the new position of the door does not block air ducts (they may be hidden behind the back wall).
• 🌀 The system fan No Frost should rotate freely - if the door is in the way, adjust its position.
• 🔄 After re-hanging, start forced defrosting (Settings → Service → Defrosting) so that the system has adapted to the new position of the door.

In refrigerators Samsung with system Twin Cooling Plus (two independent cameras) reversing the door may require reconfiguring the temperature sensors. If after installation one of the chambers stops cooling, contact the service center to reflash the control module.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about reversing the door

Is it possible to rehang the refrigerator door yourself if you have no experience?

Yes, but only if you are confident in your abilities. Start with simple models without a dispenser and electronic panels (for example, Atlant MXM 1708 or Indesit DF 4180). For complex refrigerators (LG Door-in-Door, Samsung Bespoke) it is better to call a specialist - an error in installation can lead to breakdown.

How long does re-hanging take?

On average - 1-2 hours. For models with a dispenser or No Frost it may take up to 3-4 hours (including adjustment and leak testing). If you need to drill new holes, add another 30–60 minutes.

What to do if, after rehanging, the refrigerator begins to work loudly?

This is a sign tightness violations or door misalignment. Check:

• tightness of the seal (test with paper).
• evenness of the door installation (use a level).
• Tightening the hinges - they should not be loose.

If the noise does not disappear, it is possible that the refrigerant pipes were touched during installation fan No Frost or the refrigerant pipes were displaced.

Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?

Required! Even if you have a model with No Frost, unplug the refrigerator and let it stand for 2-3 hours. This is necessary for:

• Safety - eliminates the risk of electric shock.
• Convenience - the seal will become softer and easier to rearrange.
• Compressor protection - a sudden change in the position of the door under load can damage the mechanism.

Is it possible to rehang the door on a refrigerator older than 10 years?

Yes, but with reservations:

• The hinges and seal could wear out - they may need to be replaced.
• In older models (ZIL, Minsk) there may not be holes for hinges on the other side - you will have to drill.
• The risk of damage to enamel or plastic is higher - work carefully.

If the refrigerator is working properly, but the hinges are loose, it’s easier strengthen the fastenings (for example, to install longer screws) than to rehang the door.