Changing the layout of the kitchen or simply the desire to optimize space often dictates new requirements for the location of household appliances. Owners of Candy units are often faced with the need to change the opening direction of the door to make access to products more convenient. This is a completely solvable task that does not require calling a specialist if you act carefully and consistently. Rehanging the door is a standard procedure for most modern models, provided for by the design.
However, the process requires attention to detail, since the fittings may differ for different series. Incorrect actions can lead to damage casings or loss of tightness, which is critical for maintaining cold. Before starting work, it is important to prepare the tools and clear the space around the device. Below we will analyze all the stages in detail so that you can do the job efficiently.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
To successfully complete the task, you will need a minimum set of tools, which are usually found in every home. The main element will be screwdriver (a cross and a flat head are often needed), as well as a wrench or socket head, the size of which depends on the model of your Candy equipment. In some cases, you may need hexagonthat comes with the refrigerator upon purchase.
Be sure to clear access to the unit from all sides. You'll need to walk around it, so it's best to remove rugs, chairs, or other obstacles in advance. Check in advance for free space for temporary storage of removed parts so as not to lose small screws or plugs.
- 🔧 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers for removing fasteners.
- 🔩 Wrench or socket set (usually 8 mm or 10 mm).
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- 🧹 Clean rags for wiping the hinges from old grease.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! Unplug the plug from the outlet to avoid short circuit or electric shock if the wiring is accidentally damaged.
Make sure the floor under the equipment is level and clean. If the floor has a slippery surface, lay down cardboard or thick cloth to prevent tools from rolling away and you from slipping. Preparation working area is the key to the safety and speed of the operation.
Removing the top part and handle refrigerator
The process begins from the top of the unit, where the main supporting loop is usually located. First you need to remove the decorative cover or plug hiding the mounting bolts. On Candy models it is often held in place by latches or a single screw that needs to be unscrewed. Be careful not to break plastic clips.
After removing the cover, access to the top hinge will open. Don’t rush to unscrew it completely right away. First you need to dismantle handle the door if it interferes with access to the fasteners or if the design of your model requires it. In some series, the handle is removed together with the door, in others - separately. Inspect the mounting points: they may be hidden under decorative caps.
Sequence of actions:1. Remove the top decorative panel.
2. Unscrew the bolts securing the upper hinge (do not remove it completely).
3. Loosen, but do not remove completely.
It is important to support the top of the door with your hand when you finally unscrew the hinge bolts, as it may tilt sharply. The weight of the door is significant, and holding it with one hand can be difficult, so it is better to work with two people or use a stop.
Nuances of the design of the handles
In some Candy models, the handle is integrated into the body and cannot be removed separately, being part of the door panel. In other cases, it is secured with two screws from the inside, access to which is only possible after removing the door. Carefully inspect your model before starting disassembly.
Removing the door and rearranging the fittings
When the top hinge is loosened, you can carefully lift the door and remove it from the bottom support pin. Place the removed part on a prepared soft surface (for example, a blanket or cardboard) to avoid scratching enamel or the glass. Now attention turns to the lower part.
The lower support (pin) is usually screwed into the body. It must be unscrewed and moved to the opposite side, where there is a threaded hole closed with a plug for this purpose. The same operation must be done with stop the door, if it is located below. All vacated holes on the old side are closed with plastic plugs, which are often included or remain from the previous installation.
| Part | Action | Where to install |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom stud | Unscrew | Into the hole on the other side |
| Door stop | Rearrange | To the opposite side |
| Plugs | Extract | Into the vacated holes |
Now take care of the handle. If the design allows, move it to the other side or turn it over if it is symmetrical. Often this simply requires moving the fasteners. Make sure that all screws are tightened tightly, but without excessive force, so as not to strip the threads in the plastic.
☑️ Check before installing the door
Installing the door on the new side
After preparing the lower support, you can begin hanging the door. Carefully lift the door and place it on the bottom pin. Make sure it sits straight and tight. Now you need to fix the top part. To do this, the upper hinge is moved to the opposite side of the body.
Insert the hinge into the groove, align the holes and tighten the bolts. Do not tighten them all the way straight away. First you need to align the position of the door so that the gaps around the perimeter are the same. Adjusting the gaps is a key point for the correct operation of the refrigerator. If the door is skewed, it will not fit tightly, which will lead to ice freezing.
Use a level or simply visually assess the symmetry. If everything is smooth, you can finally tighten the top hinge fasteners. Check that all bolts are tightened evenly. If necessary, tighten them after a few hours of operation, when the metal “settles” a little.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use excessive force when tightening the bolts in the plastic bushings. This can lead to cracks in the hinge body, which will require replacement of the entire part.
Adjusting magnets and checking tightness
One of the important parts is the magnetic lock or striker, which is often located in the middle part of the door or on the body. It also needs to be moved to the new side. Find the plug on the end of the door or sidewall, remove the magnet and install it in the prepared hole on the other side.
After installing all the elements, check the tightness of the seal around the entire perimeter. The door should close with a characteristic bang, but without excessive force. If you notice a gap through which air can pass, adjust the height of the support legs of the refrigerator itself.
- 👀 Visually check the tightness of the seal.
- 👐 Run your hand along the joint - there should be no noticeable gaps.
- 🧪 Use a sheet of paper: clamp it with the closed door, it should be removed with force.
If the door does not close tightly, try slightly turning the adjusting screws on the hinges (if the model allows) or tighten the front legs of the refrigerator to change the angle of the body. This often helps solve the door gravity problem.
Frequent errors and troubleshooting
When doing work on their own, beginners often make common mistakes. One of them is the loss of stubs. If you have lost a plastic cover, it is better to cover the hole with a decorative sticker or find a similar part, since an open hole breaks thermal insulation.
Another common problem is door misalignment. This happens if the top hinge bolts have been tightened without first being aligned. In this case, you will have to loosen the fasteners and repeat the adjustment procedure again. Also make sure that the wiring (if the door has a display) is not pinched or strained.
If, after rehanging, the refrigerator begins to make noise or the door begins to open on its own, check the angle of inclination of the entire device. Perhaps, when moving the equipment, you lost the settings of the legs. Return the slight tilt back and gravity will help the door close on its own.
What if the repositioning holes don't fit?
In rare cases, on very old or specific Candy models, the holes may be covered with factory foam or may not have threads. Carefully read the instructions for your specific model. If there is no thread, an additional set of fittings may be required, which must be ordered separately from the manufacturer.
Is it possible to rehang the door if it has a built-in display?
Yes, it is possible, but it is more difficult. You will need to disconnect the wire harness before removing the door. Be sure to take a photo of the connector connections before disconnecting so you can put everything back together correctly. Be extremely careful with electronics.
Do you need to wait after installation before turning it on?
If you did not tilt the refrigerator much or transport it, there is no need to wait. However, if during the work the unit was tilted strongly, it is recommended to let it stand for 2-4 hours before turning it on, so that the oil in the compressor can drain into place.