Changing the kitchen layout or simply wanting to optimize space often confronts owners with the need to change the opening direction of the refrigerator door. For equipment Beko with a digital display, this procedure requires not only mechanical transfer of loops, but also careful work with control wires. Incorrect actions can lead to damage to the cables or disruption of the chamber's seal, so it is important to strictly follow the sequence of operations.
Unlike simple models without electronics, it is critical here not to damage the contacts going to the control panel. The whole process takes from 30 to 60 minutes if you have the necessary tools and an assistant on hand to support the body during manipulation. Below we will analyze each stage in detail so that you can complete the work efficiently and safely.
Preparation of tools and workplace
Before starting any work, you need to clear the space around the unit. You will need access to the refrigerator from all sides, including the top, where the top hinge mounts are most often located. Make sure that the floor is level and that the lighting allows you to distinguish small structural details and wire markings.
The set of tools should be selected in advance so as not to be distracted by searching during the dismantling process. The main tool will be hex key, the size of which usually corresponds to 4 or 5 mm, as well as a Phillips screwdriver for removing decorative plugs. Some models may require an 8 or 10 mm socket head.
It is important to prepare a container for folding fasteners. Hinge screws often have different lengths and threads, and mixing them up during assembly can result in damage to the frame or a loose door seal. It is recommended to use a magnetic tray or several small jars with signatures.
- 🔧 Hex keys (a set or a specific size for your model).
- 🪛 Medium-sized Phillips screwdriver.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges metal.
- 📏 Level or assistant to control the tilt of the body.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with live electrical wiring is strictly prohibited, even when it comes to low-voltage display control circuits.
Removing the top loop and disconnecting the electronics
The process starts from the top of the refrigerator, since that is where the main supporting loop and the wire exit to the display are located. First, remove the decorative plug if it covers the mounting bolts. Models Beko with a display often use a plastic casing, which must be carefully pryed off with a screwdriver.
After gaining access to the fasteners, do not rush to unscrew the bolts completely. First, loosen them to see if the door is only held by them. The main task at this stage is to gain access to the wiring harness that runs through the top hinge to the door. This harness connects the main control board to the display and buttons.
The wire connectors can be snapped or simply pushed in tightly. Use a thin screwdriver or tweezers to carefully release the latches Do not pull the wires, holding only the plastic part of the connector. A sudden movement can break the thin wires inside the insulation, which will require complex electronic repairs.
Nuances of Beko connectors
In some models, the connectors may be filled with compound or have tight latches. If the connector does not budge, check if there is an additional locking tab that needs to be bent.
After disconnecting all the cables, you can completely unscrew the bolts of the top hinge and remove it. Now the door is supported only by the bottom hinge, but it is not secured from falling, so it needs to be held.
Removing the door and rearranging the handles
After removing the top hinge and disconnecting the wires, carefully lift the door to remove it from the bottom pin. It is better to perform this action with an assistant, since the door with the display and seal has significant weight and can slip out of your hands. Place the door on a prepared soft surface, for example, on a spread blanket or cardboard.
Now you need to move the handle to the opposite side. On most models Beko holes for the handle are already provided on both sides and closed with plastic plugs. Carefully remove the plugs from the new side of the installation and install them in place of the old holes.
The handle can be secured to screws on the inside of the door or through special holes. If the handle is hidden (integrated into the profile), this step is skipped. Make sure that all screws are tightened tightly, but without excessive force, so as not to strip the threads in the plastic base.
In parallel with the handle, check the condition of the magnetic seal. If it was deformed during dismantling, it can be heated with a hair dryer at a low temperature to restore elasticity and shape.
Transfer of the lower hinge and support pin
The lower hinge is responsible for the correct axis of rotation of the door. In most cases, it must be moved to the opposite side of the case. To do this, unscrew the fastening bolts and remove the hinge from its current location. Pay attention to the presence of adjusting washers or spacers - they need to be saved and transferred along with the hinge.
The support pin on which the door is placed also requires transfer. Some models Beko use an asymmetrical bottom hinge design, so simply turning it over may not work. The refrigerator often comes with a second set of fasteners or a universal hinge that allows installation on any side.
When installing the hinge in a new location, make sure that it fits into the mounting holes without distortion. Tighten the bolts gradually, tightening each one in turn to ensure even metal-to-metal contact. This will prevent squeaks and play in the future.
- 🔩 Save all original washers and bushings.
- 🔨 Check the threads in the housing holes for contamination.
- 📐 Make sure the hinge is installed strictly parallel to the edge of the housing.
If your model has the ability to flip the hinge itself (symmetrical design), make sure that the protrusions and grooves coincide with the opening direction. An error in orientation will result in the door not being able to close tightly.
Installing the door and connecting cables
After preparing the lower part, you can begin hanging the door. Place the door with the bottom hole on the support pin of the new hinge. An assistant should hold the door upright while you level the top to install the hinge.
Now comes the most important part - routing and connecting the wires. The harness must be carefully placed in the channel intended for this in the upper loop. Important: the wires should not be stretched or pinched by the metal of the loop. Leave a small margin of length for free movement when opening.
Connect the connectors, observing the color markings or the shape of the keys. Typically, connectors have a unique shape, which eliminates connection errors, but double-checking will not be superfluous. Each connector should click, confirming that the lock is locked.
☑️ Electronics connection control
After connecting the wires, install the top hinge in place and tighten the mounting bolts. Do not tighten them completely until you check the door movement and gaps.
Adjusting gaps and checking tightness
The final stage is adjusting the position of the door. The gaps between the door and the body must be the same throughout the entire height. If the door is skewed, loosen the fastenings of the lower hinge and, slightly raising or lowering the edge, achieve symmetry.
Check the tightness of the seal around the entire perimeter. To do this, you can use a sheet of paper: clamp it between the door and the body at different points. The paper should be removed with noticeable force. If the sheet falls out freely, the height of the opposite corner of the door needs to be adjusted.
In models with a display, it is also important to check the operation of the buttons and indications immediately after switching on. Make sure that when opening and closing the door, the screen does not go dark or blink, which could indicate poor contact in the connectors.
| Parameter | Normal value | Action on deviation |
|---|---|---|
| Door gap | Uniform around the perimeter | Adjustment of the lower loop |
| Wire tension | Free, without tension | Correct laying in the channel |
| Display operation | Stable display | Reconnect connectors |
| Creak of hinges | Absent | Lubricate or tighten fasteners |
⚠️ Attention: The design of the hinges and the location of the holes may vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture of the model. If the holes do not match, check the official diagram for your specific modification Beko.
Common errors and ways to eliminate them
One of the most common mistakes is overtightening the hinge bolts. This can cause the metal to warp and make it difficult to open the door. The bolts should be tightened tightly, but not fanatically. Use moderate force.
They also often forget to remove the transport locks if they have been reinstalled, or leave a protective film on the seal. Carefully inspect the assembled structure before turning it on for the first time.
If after rehanging the door does not close completely, check whether anything is interfering with the seal. Sometimes during installation, the handle may be installed skewed and touch the body of the refrigerator.
If extraneous noise appears after rehanging, check whether the door is touching protruding shelves or body elements. You may need to further adjust the tilt of the entire refrigerator using the front support legs.
Questions and answers
Do you need to completely defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, it is recommended to remove all products and shelves to lighten the weight of the door and prevent the contents from falling when the case is tilted.
What to do if the wires are too short after rehanging?
In the standard configuration, the length of the wires is designed for both opening options. If they seem short, check that you have placed them correctly in the hinge channels. It is not recommended to extend the wires yourself to avoid losing the warranty.
Is it possible to perform this operation alone?
Technically possible, but highly not recommended. The refrigerator door is heavy and inconvenient; the risk of dropping it or breaking the display is very high. Be sure to call an assistant for insurance.
Will the temperature settings be lost after a shutdown?
Modern models Beko save the settings in non-volatile memory. However, after turning on, the refrigerator will take time (up to 24 hours) to reach the set temperature.