The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door Atlant often arises when remodeling the kitchen or buying new furniture, when the standard arrangement becomes inconvenient. This process does not require calling a specialist, since the design of Belarusian refrigerators provides for the possibility of independently changing the hinge to the opposite side. Correctly performed rearrangement will optimize the space and make the use of the unit more ergonomic.
Before starting work, it is important to make sure that the chosen installation location allows the door to open to its full width without obstacles. Modern models single-chamber and double-chamber of refrigerators of this brand have symmetrical holes in the body, which greatly simplifies the task. However, there are a number of technical nuances, ignoring which can lead to skew of the canvas or damage to the seal.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various models, including series with No Frost and the classic defrosting system. You will need a minimum set of tools and about an hour of free time to do the job well. Following the instructions will help you avoid common mistakes and maintain the warranty on the device.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
The success of the operation directly depends on the availability of suitable tools and the correct organization of the space around the refrigerator. For dismantling and subsequent installation of hinges you will need a set of wrenches or heads, the most commonly used sizes are 8, 10 and 13 mm. It would also be a good idea to have a flathead and Phillips screwdriver on hand, as well as a hex wrench, which often comes with the appliance.
Particular attention should be paid to surface preparation, since the removed refrigerator door Atlant has significant weight and dimensions. Cover the floor with thick cardboard or a soft blanket to avoid damaging the floor covering and the equipment itself when temporarily placing removed elements. If work is carried out on a glossy floor, an additional backing will prevent the unit from slipping.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to unplug the refrigerator from the power supply and defrost the chambers if ice has accumulated in them. Working with wet or icy mechanisms can be hazardous.
To fix the position of the housing and ease of installation, the help of a second person is often required, especially when working with two-chamber models. One person will hold the heavy door while the second unscrews the mounting bolts, which will eliminate the risk of the metal sheet falling on the feet or the floor.
☑️ Tools for hanging
Design features of Atlant refrigerator doors
Refrigerators Atlant are distinguished by a reliable hinge design, however, their fastening pattern may vary depending on the series and year of manufacture. On most models, the top hinge is secured with a decorative cover that must be carefully removed before accessing the bolts. The lower support often has an adjustment mechanism that allows you to compensate for uneven floors and ensure a tight fit of the seal.
It is important to distinguish between the types of handles, since in some models they are part of the door leaf and require dismantling along with it, while in others they are attached separately. When rehanging, it may be necessary to move the handles themselves or the plugs to the opposite side in order to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the facade. The design magnetic lock may also require moving the mating part to a new end of the case.
Nuances of models with the No Frost system
In refrigerators with the No Frost system, additional adjustment of sensors or air ducts is often required when removing the door. Make sure that when reinstalling, you do not pinch the corrugated air supply hose running inside the housing.
Models with displays or control buttons on the door deserve special attention. In such cases, it is necessary to handle extremely carefully wiring cablesrunning inside the hinges. Before completely removing the panel, be sure to disconnect the electrical connectors, first remembering or photographing their location to avoid a short circuit when turned on.
Step-by-step dismantling of the door leaf
The process of removing the door begins with releasing the upper part of the structure. First, remove the decorative trim, if present, and unscrew the top hinge mounting bolts. Hold the door so that it does not fall, carefully lift it, moving the lower shaft out of the bushing. In two-chamber models, this process is performed sequentially: first, the door of the freezer compartment is removed, then the refrigerator compartment.
After removing the panel, it is necessary to remove the mating parts of the hinges from the refrigerator body. To do this, unscrew the bolts securing the lower support and remove it together with the bushing It is recommended to put all removed bolts and small parts in a magnetic tray or labeled containerso as not to lose them during operation. At this stage, the body is completely freed from hinged elements on one side.
If there are still fastening elements for handles or locks at the end of the door, they also need to be rearranged. Some models Atlant use symmetrical holes closed with plastic plugs. Carefully remove the plugs from the new side of the installation and close the vacated holes on the old side with them using a knife or thin screwdriver.
| Element | Action during dismantling | Action during installation |
|---|---|---|
| Upper hinge | Unscrew the bolts, remove the cover | Install on the new side, tighten |
| Lower support | Remove from the axle, unscrew from the body | Screw into a new hole in the body |
| Door handle | Move to the opposite end | Fix in a new place |
| Plugs | Remove from new sides | Install into old holes |
Installing hinges and hanging the door
Installation begins by installing the lower support on the opposite side of the body. Screw the pin or plate into the prepared holes, making sure that the thread fits tightly and without distortion. The stability of the entire structure and the absence of vibration during compressor operation depend on the quality of fixation of the lower point.
Then carefully install the door leaf on the lower axis, making sure that the holes for the upper hinge match. At this stage, it is highly desirable to have an assistant who will hold the door in an upright position. Insert the top hinge into the grooves and tighten the mounting bolts by hand, without fully tightening them, to allow for final position adjustment.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when tightening the bolts, so as not to strip the threads in the aluminum case. Use a torque wrench or act carefully with a regular tool.
After preliminary fixation, check the door movement and the tightness of the seal around the entire perimeter. If the door opens too tightly or, conversely, does not stay open, you will need to adjust the angle of the body or the position of the hinges. Models Atlant often provide the ability to change the height of the legs to compensate for tilt.
Adjustment and checking the tightness
The final stage is to fine-tune the door position. If you notice gaps between the seal and the body, slightly loosen the top hinge fasteners and move the door in the desired direction. Check the operation magnetic valve: the door should fit snugly to the body around the entire perimeter without visible gaps.
To check the tightness, you can use a simple test with a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet with the door at different points of the perimeter; if it comes out with noticeable force, then the seal is ok. If the paper falls out or slides freely, additional adjustment or replacement of the sealing rubber is required in this area.
Also make sure that when the door is closed, the indicator lights up (if provided by the model) and a characteristic click of the light switch is heard. Failure of these elements may indicate improper installation or misalignment of the mechanical parts of the lock. After completing all work, let the refrigerator stand turned off for 15-20 minutes before starting it for the first time.
Frequent errors and ways to eliminate them
One of the common errors is ignoring the floor level, which leads to spontaneous opening of the door. If the floor is uneven, be sure to use the adjustable feet on the legs of the refrigerator Atlantto set a slight slope back. This will ensure natural closing of the door under the influence of gravity.
Another common problem is overtightened hinge bolts, causing metal deformation and jamming of the mechanism. If the door moves tightly, try loosening the fasteners half a turn and lubricating the axle. In cases where the seal interferes with closing, you can warm it up with a hairdryer or carefully straighten it manually, giving it the desired shape.
Sometimes users forget to rearrange the plastic plugs or decorative elements, which spoils the appearance of the equipment. Carefully inspect the body from all sides after completion of work. If you have lost any fastening element, do not use temporary replacements (for example, wire), but contact the service center for original spare parts.
What to do if, after rearranging, the door does not close tightly?
Check whether the contents of the shelves or food containers are in the way. If there are no mechanical obstructions, inspect the seal for dirt or damage. You may need to heat the rubber with a hairdryer or replace it if it has lost its elasticity.
Do you need to call a specialist to rehang the door?
In most cases, calling a specialist is not required, since the design allows you to do it yourself. However, if you do not have the skills to work with tools or the refrigerator model has a complex electronic panel on the door, it is better to entrust the work to professionals.
Is it possible to rearrange the door on a refrigerator with a display?
Yes, but this requires special care. You must carefully disconnect the display power cables before removing the door. Make sure that the wires are long enough to connect on the other side, or the cable will need to be extended.
How often should you check the tightness of the door?
It is recommended to carry out a visual inspection of the seal and check the tightness every 3-6 months. Regular cleaning of rubber from dirt will extend its service life and ensure the energy efficiency of the refrigerator.