The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door Atlant often arises when moving or remodeling a kitchen. The standard factory configuration assumes that the handle is on the right and the hinges on the left, which is not convenient for every interior. The process of changing the hanging side is technically simple, but it requires attention to detail and adherence to the sequence of actions.
Before starting work, it is important to understand that the design of your unit may differ depending on the year of manufacture and the specific series. Models with one compressor and two-chamber systems with No Frost have their own dismantling features. In this material we will analyze a universal algorithm applicable to most domestic refrigerators made in Belarus.
The main task is to carefully transfer mounts the fittings to the opposite side of the case. Errors at the preparation stage can lead to door misalignment or damage to the seal. Therefore, we strongly advise you to free up the space around the equipment and prepare the necessary tools in advance.
⚠️ Attention: Before any manipulations with metal elements, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with electrical appliances requires compliance with basic safety measures.
Preparation of the workplace and tools
The quality of work directly depends on the preparation. You will need a set hex keys (usually 4, 5 and 6 mm), since these are the ones most often used to tighten the hinge screws in the technique Atlant. Also, a flat-head screwdriver will be useful for removing decorative plugs and plastic elements.
In addition to tools, take care of the safety of the floor covering. The refrigerator door is a heavy item, and if it falls, it can leave dents in laminate or tile flooring. Place thick cardboard, an old blanket or soft cloth under the work area. This will also protect the door itself from scratches when temporarily placed on the floor.
Free up the interior space of the camera. It is better to remove shelves, drawers and containers immediately to reduce the weight of the structure and avoid breaking glass if moved carelessly. If the model has a system No Frost, access to some fasteners may be hidden behind plastic panels, which will also have to be removed.
☑️ Tools and preparation
Dismantling the upper part and removing the door
The process begins with the top hinge, since it is this that holds the main weight of the sash. First of all, you need to remove the decorative cover that hides the mounting bolts. Usually it simply snaps on or is held on by one screw that needs to be unscrewed.
After removing the cover, you will see the top hinge bolts. Don't rush to unscrew them completely right away. Loosen them first to make sure the door is not jammed but still holds. Then, holding the door with one hand (it’s better to ask an assistant), completely turn out fasteners and remove the top hinge.
Now you can carefully lift the door and remove it from the bottom pin. Place the sash in a safe place, having first removed the magnetic handle and magnetic sealfrom it, if the design requires it. On some models, the handle is rearranged separately, on others - together with the door.
Rearranging the lower support and hinges
The lower part of the structure requires special attention, since there is often a pin on which the door rests. Depending on the model Atlant, the pin can be pressed into the metal or screwed into the thread. If the pin is removable, it must be carefully knocked out or unscrewed and rearranged into a symmetrical hole on the other side.
It is important to check the condition of bushings the washers. When rearranging, they must also be transferred to the new side. Often, plastic plugs are included with the refrigerator or in the technological openings of the case. Those holes that are freed after moving the hinges must be closed with these plugs to preserve aesthetics and protect from dust.
The lower hinge, which was previously part of the body or a separate bracket, must be twisted to the opposite side. Make sure all holes line up and threads are not stripped. If you feel strong resistance when tightening, do not use excessive force - check whether you have chosen the correct direction of the thread. key and thread direction.
⚠️ Attention: When rearranging the lower stud, make sure that it is installed strictly vertically. A misalignment of even 1-2 millimeters will result in the door not closing tightly or starting to open spontaneously.
Features of models with two doors
If you are the owner of a two-chamber refrigerator Atlant with a separate freezer, the process is complicated by the presence of an intermediate loop. It connects the upper and lower doors and is a key structural element. In this case, dismantling is done from top to bottom: first the upper door is removed, then the intermediate hinge, and only then the lower one.
When rehanging doors on two-chamber models, it is critically important to correctly move rod or the magnetic closure sensor, if it is located in the area where the chambers meet. Incorrect installation can lead to the fact that the refrigerator will not “understand” that the door is closed, and the compressor will work continuously.
The rearrangement of the handle on the middle part of the body deserves special attention. In some models it is solid and covers both doors, in others it is separate. If the handle consists of two parts, make sure that after rearrangement the gap between them remains uniform, otherwise there will be problems with tightness.
What to do if the holes do not match?
In old Atlant models, sometimes there was a situation when the technological holes for the hinges were only on one side. In this case, it is officially impossible to rehang the door without drilling new metal, which will violate the warranty and thermal insulation. However, in 95% of cases, hidden holes are closed with plastic plugs on the reverse side.
Comparison of procedures for different Atlant series
Different lines of refrigerators have their own design nuances. Below is a table that helps you navigate the installation features for popular series.
| Series / Model | Type of fastening of the upper loop | Presence of an intermediate loop | Dismantling feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant XM 4000 | Three hex bolts | No (single chamber) | Easy access, hidden plugs |
| Atlant XM 6000 | Two bolts + decorative cover | Yes (metal) | Exact axes alignment required |
| Atlant No Frost | Hidden fastening | Yes (plastic/metal) | You need to remove the control panel |
| Atlant KSh-200 | Open bolts | No | Minimum set tools |
As can be seen from the table, models with the system No Frost require a more delicate approach due to the presence of air ducts and plastic panels. While classic models with a “crying” wall allow you to work faster and with less risk of damaging fragile elements.
Pay attention to the material of the loops. The budget series use stamped steel, which can be easily torn off with a wrench if too much force is used. In premium lines, the fastenings are more massive and require high-quality tool tools with a good grip.
Assembling and adjusting the gaps
After all the hinges have been transferred to the new side, the reassembly stage begins. Install the bottom door (or main door on single-chamber models) onto the bottom stud. Make sure it sits evenly and without distortion. Then install the top hinge and tighten the bolts, but do not tighten them all the way right away.
Now you need to check the verticality of the installation. The door should open easily, without creaking or jamming, and when closed, fit tightly to the body around the entire perimeter. If you notice a distortion, loosen top bolts and slightly move the loop in the desired direction, then tighten the fasteners again.
The final stage is installing handles and decorative trims. Make sure that all plugs are in place and do not protrude beyond the plane of the housing. Check the operation of the magnetic lock: the door should lock when brought to the body at a distance of 2-3 cm.
⚠️ Attention: Do not plug in the refrigerator immediately after moving the doors. Allow the compressor oil to settle (1-2 hours), especially if the unit was tilted strongly during operation.
Common errors and ways to eliminate them
One of the most common errors is incorrect installation seal. When removing the door, the rubber band is often removed so that it does not interfere, but when reinstalling it, they forget to straighten it. As a result, creases form through which the cold escapes. Warm the seal with a hairdryer or hot water so that it takes its original shape.
Another problem is lost or mixed up screws. The upper and lower hinge bolts may differ in length. If you screw a long bolt into a short hole, you can pierce the wall of the refrigerator or damage the insulation. Always check the length of the fastener before tightening.
Also, users often forget about the level. If the kitchen floor is uneven and the legs of the refrigerator are not adjusted after hanging, the door may open by itself. Use a building level and adjust support legs until the ideal horizontal position is achieved.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to completely empty the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Yes, this is a prerequisite. The products create additional weight that can shift the center of gravity when removing the door, causing injury or the door falling. In addition, shelves and drawers can fall out and break.
Can a door be turned over if an electronic control panel is installed on it?
In most models Atlant with electronics on the door, relocating the panel is not provided by the manufacturer. The wires may be short, and the holes for the display may only be on one side. In such cases, it is impossible to rehang the door without losing the functionality of the panel.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not fit tightly?
Check whether the seal does not block access to the products on the shelves. If everything is in order with the products, try loosening the hinge fastenings and slightly moving the door towards the body. Warming up the seal with a hairdryer also helps to restore elasticity.
Is the warranty still valid after re-hanging it yourself?
According to the rules of most service centers, independent dismantling of structural elements such as doors and hinges is not grounds for voiding the warranty unless other components are damaged. However, it is recommended to save all removed parts.
Do the hinges need to be lubricated after installation?
Factory lubrication usually lasts a long time. If you hear a creaking sound, use a special silicone lubricant. It is better not to use lithium or graphite lubricants, as they can collect dust and thicken over time.