Changing the opening side of the refrigerator door is one of the most popular operations when rearranging kitchen furniture. It often happens that a new set or a change in the kitchen layout dictates its own conditions, and the standard door location becomes inconvenient. Equipment owners LG often wonder whether it is possible to perform this procedure themselves without calling a technician. Fortunately, the design of most models of the South Korean brand provides for this possibility, although it requires attention to detail.
The rehanging process is not a trivial task, as it might seem at first glance. This is due to the fact that hinges, handles even some internal elements may be asymmetrical. Before starting work, you need to make sure that your specific model LG supports reverse. If there is no direct prohibition in the instructions for the device, then you can begin preparation. It is important to understand that the wrong sequence of actions can lead to damage to the decorative panels or a violation of the seal.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages of refrigerator transformation. We will look at the necessary tools, features of dismantling old fasteners and the nuances of installing fittings on a new side. We will pay special attention to models with a system No Frost, where the design may differ in the presence of additional sensors or air supply channels. Tips will also be given on how to adjust the tightness of the seal so that the equipment works economically and quietly.
Necessary tools and workplace preparation
Before picking up a screwdriver, you should organize a safe space around the refrigerator. You will need free access to the device from all sides, since you will have to walk around the unit during operation. Be sure to clear shelves and drawers to reduce weight and prevent food from falling when the cabinet is tilted. To work, you will need a standard home craftsman's set, which is found in every household.
The basic list of tools includes Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, as well as a set of wrenches or sockets. Often, refrigerators come with a special wrench for adjusting the support legs, but it is better to have an adjustable wrench on hand in case you need to tighten the fasteners. It will not be superfluous to have a soft rag or cardboard on hand to cover the floor and not scratch the floor covering or the body of the equipment itself. LG There is already a special wrench for adjusting the support legs, but it is better to have an adjustable wrench on hand in case you need to tighten the fasteners. It would be a good idea to have a soft rag or cardboard on hand to cover the floor and avoid scratching the floor covering or the body of the equipment itself.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on dismantling the doors, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical network! This is critical for safety, since you will be working in close proximity to electrical components and wiring.
It is worth mentioning the need for a helper. The doors of modern refrigerators, especially wide models Side-by-Side or French windows, can be quite heavy. Even if you have considerable physical strength, the risk of dropping the door or damaging the hinge mechanism when working solo is too great. A second person will help fix the body and hold the removable panel in a horizontal position.
☑️ Preparing for rehanging
Dismantling the top hinge and removing the door
The process begins from the top of the refrigerator, since that is where the main load-bearing hinge is located. First you need to remove the decorative cap, if it is present on the top panel above the door. It is usually held on by latches or a weak adhesive layer, so you need to pry it off carefully using a flat-head screwdriver wrapped in cloth so as not to leave marks on the plastic.
After accessing the fasteners, you will see several bolts securing the top hinge. Their number can vary from two to four depending on the model LG. Use a suitable wrench or socket to remove the bolts counterclockwise. Do not rush to remove the fasteners too far - you will need it to install the hinge on the other side, although in some cases it may be necessary to replace the bolts with longer or shorter ones included in the kit.
When the bolts are unscrewed, the upper hinge becomes free. However, you shouldn’t remove it right away. First you need to lift the door to release the lower pin or pin, if the design requires it. In most cases, the door is simply lifted upwards after the top fastening is loosened. Here again, the help of a second person will be required: one holds the door, the second finally removes the fasteners and removes the hinge mechanism.
The removed door must be carefully placed on a prepared soft surface, face up. This will protect the glossy finish or metal from scratches. If shelves are installed on the door, it is better to remove them first to reduce the load and avoid breaking the glass if moved carelessly. Now you can move on to working with the lower part of the structure.
What to do if the bolts are rusty?
If the mounting bolts do not unscrew due to corrosion, try applying a penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) to them and wait 10-15 minutes. Do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the thread.
Flipping the door handle and moving the fittings
The most difficult step for many models LG is moving the handle. Unlike old Soviet refrigerators, where the handles were symmetrical, in modern devices they often have a specific shape and fastening. If the handle is integrated into the body (hidden), then this step can be skipped. If the handle is external, it must be dismantled and installed on the opposite side.
To remove the handle, you usually need to remove the plugs on the ends or the inside of the door. The fastening screws are hidden under them. After unscrewing them, the handle is removed. On the back of the door you will find corresponding holes or, conversely, empty spaces that will need to be closed. The refrigerator often comes with plastic plugs for the holes, which will become redundant after being turned over.
Installing the handle in a new place requires precision. Make sure you use the correct holes for that side. Sometimes manufacturers drill universal holes, closed with threaded bushings. In such cases, you just need to rearrange the bushings or unscrew the locking screws on one side and tighten them on the other. For models with touch panels on the door (InstaView), this stage may be impossible or limited.
⚠️ Attention: Be extremely careful when working with handle fasteners. The plastic used to make the inner bushings can be brittle. Excessive force when twisting can lead to a crack, and then the handle will dangle.
In parallel with the handle, it is worth checking the magnetic latches and latches. Sometimes they also need to be rearranged so that the door closes with a characteristic click and holds tightly. If your model has a door closer, make sure that its mechanism is not blocked by new fasteners.
Modification of the lower support and rotation axis
The lower part of the door rests on an axis, which can be part of the lower hinge or a separate pin inserted into the end of the door. Depending on the design LG, you may need to rearrange the lower support sleeve. It is located in the lower corner of the door and takes on the weight of the entire structure when opened.
To rearrange the support, it is often necessary to remove the decorative base of the refrigerator or the bottom drawer of the freezer. The bottom loop is hidden under it. It also needs to be dismantled by unscrewing the mounting bolts. Once the hinge is removed you will see a pin or bushing. They need to be removed from the old hole and pressed or screwed into a symmetrical hole on the other side.
In some models, the lower axis is part of the door itself. In this case, you need to find the locking screw on the side or bottom of the door leaf, loosen it and move the axle into the prepared socket on the opposite end. Don't forget to install locking plugs in the vacated holes to prevent dust and moisture from getting there.
After moving all the elements of the support, the lower hinge is installed in a new location. It is important to check that the installation is horizontal. If the hinge is skewed, the door will be warped, causing a loose seal and rapid wear of the seal. Use a level to control the position.
Installing the door on the new side and adjusting
When all the preparatory work is completed, you can begin installation. Lift the door and place it with the lower axis on the installed lower hinge. Make sure the door is level and vertical. Then the top hinge is installed on top. At this point, it is critical to hold the door in the correct position so that the holes line up without distortion.
Insert and tighten the top bolts. Do not tighten them all the way straight away. First you need to achieve the correct position of the door relative to the body. The gaps between the door and the body must be uniform over the entire height. If the door is skewed, loosen the lower fasteners and adjust the position by tightening the support legs of the refrigerator itself.
After alignment, you can finally tighten all the bolts of the upper and lower hinges. Check the door operation: it should open smoothly, without squeaks or jams. When released in a half-open position (approximately 30-45 degrees), a serviceable door of modern refrigerators LG should be brought to close itself thanks to magnets and a tilt system.
| Element | Action | Tool | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper hinge | Dismantling and transfer | Key/Screwdriver | Keep an eye on wires |
| Door handle | Repositioning | Hexagon | Do not overtighten the plastic |
| Lower support | Transfer bushings | Pliers | Lubricate with graphite |
| Sealant | Check | Hands/Hair dryer | Straighten creases |
Working with electrical components and sensors
Modern refrigerators LG are saturated with electronics. The doors may contain displays, control buttons or opening sensors. If your model has wires going to the door (for the light inside, display, or sensor), they will need to be reconnected. Usually the wires are hidden inside the case and exit through the top loop.
When dismantling the top loop, you need to be extremely careful with the connectors. They can be latched quite tightly. Do not pull on the wires; hold on to the plastic part of the connector. When installing on a new side, make sure that the wire is long enough for the new position and that it will not be pinched by the hinge mechanism when closing.
In some cases, it is necessary to relocate the door opening sensor itself (reed switch or magnet). It is usually located in the upper corner of the case. Find it, remove it from the old hole and install it in a symmetrical one on the other side. If this is not done, the refrigerator will “think” that the door is open and will not cool or will beep constantly.
Adjusting the position and eliminating distortions
After installing the door in place, the need (fine tuning) often arises. If the door does not fit tightly, check the adjusting screws on the hinges. On some models LG it is possible to slightly move the hinge left-right or back-and-forth by loosening the fixing screw.
The support legs of the refrigerator also play an important role. The front of the unit should be slightly raised relative to the rear. This ensures that the door closes automatically. Adjustment is carried out by twisting the front legs. If the door still moves away, try unscrewing the front supports a little.
Pay attention to the rubber seal. After being turned over and manipulated, it could become deformed. If you notice any creases, you can straighten them out with a hairdryer (gently heating the rubber) or simply by leaving the door closed for a day. The tightness of the fit is checked with a sheet of paper: hold it with the door and try to pull it out - it should come out with noticeable force along the entire perimeter.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and design may vary depending on the year of manufacture and series. If you do not find the described units, check the official diagram of your model in your personal account or on the manufacturer’s website.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to turn the door on an LG refrigerator with a display?
In most cases, no, or it is very difficult. If the display is integrated into the door and the wires do not have enough length to be transferred to the other side, independent reversal is impossible without resoldering the cables. For models InstaView this procedure is not officially recommended.
What to do if the door does not close tightly after turning over?
Check whether anything is interfering with the seal (food, shelves). Make sure the refrigerator is level and tilted backwards. If the problem is in the hinges, perhaps they were installed offset - try to loosen and correct their position.
Do you need to wait after turning on the refrigerator?
Yes, after transporting and manipulating the tilt of the case, it is recommended to let the refrigerator stand unplugged for 2 to 4 hours before turning it on. This is necessary so that the oil in the compressor flows into the crankcase.
Where can I get new plugs for the holes?
Usually a set of plugs comes with a new refrigerator (in a package with documents). If you have lost them, you can order them at the service center LG or use universal furniture plugs of a suitable color.
Will the warranty remain valid after turning the door over?
If you do the work carefully and do not damage the seals on the compressor and electronics, the warranty is still valid. However, if in the process you break the loop or break the wiring, the service center may refuse free repair.