We move the Bosch refrigerator door to the other side: instructions with photos and tips

Moving the refrigerator door Bosch to the opposite side is a task that many owners face when moving, renovating a kitchen, or simply wanting to optimize space. It would seem that what is so difficult here? But in practice, the process requires accuracy, understanding of the design and taking into account the nuances of a particular model. Errors in reweighing can lead to poor fit of the seal, loop distortion or even breakage fastenings —and this is a direct road to the service center.

In this article we will analyze the process step by step: from preparing tools to final adjustment. We will pay special attention differences between models with the NoFrost system and drip defrosting, as well as typical “pitfalls” that are silent about in standard instructions. For example, did you know that some refrigerators Bosch series KIN86 require a door to be moved rearrange not only the hinges, but also part of the electronic control unit? Or that the seal, after rehanging, needs to be “rolled in” manually for a perfect fit?

If you have never done such work, don’t worry. We described each stage in detail, added photographs of key points and prepared a checklist for self-control. And for those who doubt their abilities, at the end of the article there is an FAQ with answers to the most frequently asked questions.

Preparation: tools and conditions

Before you start work, make sure that you have everything you need on hand. The absence of even one tool can slow down the process or cause damage to parts. Here is the minimum set:

• ⚒️ Phillips and flathead screwdrivers (preferably with a magnetic tip - it’s easier to work with small screws)
• 🔧 Socket wrench or 10 mm socket (for some models Bosch with reinforced hinges)
• 📏 Tape measure or ruler (to check symmetry after installation)
• 🧲 Magnet or tape (to temporarily fix the removed door and not scratch the floor)
• 🧴 Silicone grease or Vaseline (for treating the seal after rehanging)

Also prepare the work space:

• 🚪 Clear access to the refrigerator from all sides - at least 1 meter of free space.
• 🔌 Unplug the refrigerator and wait until it is completely defrosted (if the model is not NoFrost).
• 🧊 Remove all products and shelves from the door - they may fall out when removed.
• 📄 Find the instructions for your model (if saved) - there may be a diagram of the location of hinges and fasteners.

⚠️ Attention: B refrigerators Bosch s display on the door (for example, series KAN92) before rehanging, you must disconnect the screen power cable. If you are not confident in your skills in working with electronics, it is better to contact the service.

Step 1: Removing the refrigerator door

Let's start with the most important stage - dismantling the door. The main thing here take your time and follow a strict sequenceis not to damage the hinges or seal.

Algorithm of action:

1. Open the door 90 degrees and fix it (you can place a book or ask an assistant hold).
2. Remove the decorative plugs from the hinges (they usually snap into place - pry them off with a flat screwdriver).
3. Unscrew the screws of the top hinge (usually there are 2-3 of them). Hold the door so that it does not fall!
4. Carefully lift the door up, sliding it off the bottom hinge pin. If the door is “jammed”, do not pull by force - check that all the screws are unscrewed.
5. Remove the door and place it on a soft surface (for example, on a blanket) so as not to scratch it.

An important nuance: in models with double door (refrigerator + freezer) the upper part is removed first, then the lower one. At the same time freezer compartment often secured with additional latches - they need to be disconnected last.

Step 2: Transferring the loops to the other side

Now you need to move the loops to the opposite side. There are two scenarios here:

1. Standard option: the refrigerator body already has symmetrical holes for hinges on the other side (they are closed with plugs). In this case, we simply transfer the hinges and twist them in a mirror image.
2. Complicated version: there are no holes, and you need to drill them yourself. This is typical for older models or refrigerators with a non-standard design.

Instructions for the standard version:

• Remove the plugs on the opposite side of the case (they are usually plastic and can be removed with a screwdriver).
• Move loops to the new side, maintaining symmetry. The top hinge should be a mirror image of the bottom.
• Tighten the screws, but not all the way - leave some play for adjustment.
• Check that the hinges are installed strictly vertical (use a level or tape measure to measure the distance from the edge of the case to the hinge at the top and from below).

If there are no holes, proceed as follows:

• Attach the loop to the attachment point and mark the centers of future holes with a pencil.
• Drill holes with a metal drill (the diameter should match the diameter of the screws).
• Cut the thread with a tap (if the screws are threaded) or use dowels for metal.
• Install the hinges and check their reliability.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Bosch s LowFrost system (for example, KGN39) freezer hinges often have reinforced fastenings with additional spacers. They need to be carried along with the hinges, otherwise the door will sag!

Step 3: Installing the door on the new side

When the hinges are moved, you can install the door back. This stage seems simple, but this is where most of the mistakes lie. The main rule: the door should “sit” on the hinges without effort. If you have to push or knock it, something went wrong.

Procedure:

1. Lift the door and put it on the lower pin of the hinge. Make sure that the pin fits completely into the groove.
2. Lower the door down, aligning the top hinge with the fastener. Hold the door so it doesn't fall.
3. Tighten the screws of the top hinge, but not all the way - leave room for adjustment.
4. Check how the door opens and closes. It should move smoothly, without creaks or distortions.

If the door sags or clings to the body, make an adjustment:

• 🔧 Loosen the screws of the top hinge and slightly move the door to the desired position side.
• 📏 Check the gaps around the perimeter - they should be the same (2-3 mm).
• 🔄 Tighten the screws and repeat the check.

Step 4: Adjusting and checking the seal

Even if the door is visually level, this does not guarantee tightness. The seal is the most vulnerable element after outweighing. If it does not fit tightly, the refrigerator will waste more energy, and ice will begin to build up on the walls.

How to check the tightness:

• 📄 Take a sheet of paper and squeeze it between the seal and body.
• 🚪 Close the door and try to pull out the sheet. If it comes out without effort, the seal does not fit tightly.
• 🔦 Shine a flashlight inside the refrigerator with the door closed. If light is visible, there are gaps.

How to fix problems:

• 🔧 Adjust the hinges again (see previous step).
• 🧴 Warm the seal with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C) and shape it with your hands.
• 🛠️ If the seal is deformed, replace it (the part number can be found in the instructions or on the website Bosch).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with electronically controlled (for example, Bosch KIN86AF30) after re-hanging the door, the calibration of the temperature sensor may be lost. If the refrigerator starts to work louder or turns on more often, reset the settings through the menu (usually Settings → Reset → Yes).

What to do if the seal is torn?

If the seal torn when hanging, do not try to seal it with tape or glue - this is a temporary solution. Order a new seal according to the refrigerator model (cost 1,500-3,000 rubles) and replace it completely. In most models Bosch the seal is attached with latches or screws - you can replace it yourself in 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Features for models with NoFrost and LowFrost

Refrigerators Bosch with the system NoFrost or LowFrost have their own nuances when reversing the door. The main difference is the presence of ventilation ducts and additional ones. seals that may interfere with transfer.

What to consider:

• 🌀 In models NoFrost (for example, Bosch KIN86AF30) ventilation holes may be located asymmetrically after rehanging reconfigure the direction of the air flow (yes). special dampers inside the case).
• ❄️ In refrigerators LowFrost (for example, Bosch KGN39XW20) the freezer seal often has magnetic insert. door, it must be carefully removed and reinstalled.
• 🔌 In some models, after rehanging it is required reconnect the door opening sensor (it can only be located on one side).

If your refrigerator belongs to one of these systems, before starting work be sure to check:

• Is there a section in the instructions about moving the door for your specific model.
• Do you need to reconfigure the ventilation (this can only be done by a service engineer).
• Do not does the new position of the door block access to drainage hole (if it is located asymmetrically).

Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when re-hanging the door. We have collected the most common ones and told you how to do them. prevent.

Another common problem is creaking of the door after hanging. It occurs due to:

• 🔩 Insufficient lubrication of the hinges (use food-grade silicone grease, not WD-40!).
• 🔄 Door misalignment (hinges need to be adjusted).
• 🧲 Metal shavings getting into the mechanism (if new holes were drilled).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about re-hanging the Bosch door

Is it possible to re-hang the Bosch refrigerator door yourself if you have no experience?

Yes, but only if your model has symmetrical holes for hinges on the other side. In this case, the process is reduced. to moving the hinges and adjusting. If there are no holes or the refrigerator has an electronic display, it is better to contact the service, as drilling and work with wiring will be required.

How long does it take to rehang the door?

On average - 1-2 hours, if everything goes according to plan. What takes the longest is adjusting the hinges and checking the seal. If you have to drill new holes or reconfigure the electronics, it will take up to 3-4 hours.

Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?

Required if you not NoFrost. In models with a drip system, ice on the walls can interfere with the removal of the door or damage the seal. In refrigerators NoFrost defrosting is not required, but you still need to disconnect from the network.

What to do if, after re-hanging, the refrigerator begins to operate loudly?

This may be due to:

• 🔊 Door misalignmentwhich causes the body to vibrate (adjust the hinges).
• 🌀 Ventilation failure in NoFrost models (check if the door is blocking the air channels).
• ⚡ Failure of the electronic unit (reset the settings).

If the noise does not disappear, call a technician.

You can Is it possible to re-hang only the freezer door and leave the refrigerator door in place?

Technically yes, but this is not recommendedThe doors of the refrigerator and freezer are balanced in weight, and their asymmetrical arrangement can lead to:

• 🚪 Warping of the case.
• 🔩 Accelerated wear of the hinges.
• ❄️ Violation of the tightness of the seal.

If you still need to move only one door, check the balancing after installation: the refrigerator should not wobble when opening.