The need to change side opening of the refrigerator door Candy often occurs when moving to a new kitchen or after remodeling, when the standard location interferes with convenient access to products. Modern models of this Italian brand, whether built-in series or free-standing units, are most often designed taking into account the possibility of re-hanging, which significantly expands the options for installing equipment in the interior.
The process of re-hanging requires care and adherence to the sequence of actions, since the design accessories may differ for different series. Improper dismantling or ignoring small parts such as plastic bushings or pins can cause the blade to become distorted and the chamber to become unsealed. In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages of work, the necessary tools and the nuances of adjusting the gaps.
Before starting any manipulations, it is important to make sure that the model of your Candy really supports this option, since some budget or specialized versions may have rigidly fixed hinges. If you doubt your abilities or notice a complex electronic door control system, it is better to turn to specialists, but in most cases the problem can be solved with your own hands in 30-40 minutes.
Preparation of tools and workplace
Quality preparation is the key to the success of the entire operation, so collect in advance all the necessary arsenal of tools so as not to be distracted during the work process. You will need a standard DIY kit, including various types of screwdrivers, wrenches, and possibly pliers for removing the stops. Pay special attention to the stability of the refrigerator, since removing heavy doors may disrupt the balance of the cabinet.
To protect the floor covering and the unit itself, it is recommended to cover the work area with thick cardboard or old cloth. This will prevent scratches if a tool accidentally slips out of your hands or a part falls on the floor. Also prepare a container for folding small fasteners so that they do not get lost among the dust under the refrigerator.
List of necessary tools and materials:
- 🔧 A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat) for unscrewing hinge screws.
- 🔑 Wrenches or sockets on 8 and 10 mm for fastening bolts.
- 🧤 Construction gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
- 📏 Level for checking the horizontal installation after completion of work.
It is important that all tools are in good working order, and screwdriver bits are not licked, which will prevent damage screw heads when unscrewing. If you are using a power tool, set the minimum torque so as not to strip the threads in the plastic elements of the case.
☑️ Checking readiness for work
Design features of Candy refrigerator doors
Refrigerators Candy have a characteristic hinge design, which may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific series of the device. Most models use a system of two or three hinges: top, middle (if there is a separate freezer) and bottom, each of which has its own features of dismantling and installation on the opposite side.
One of the key features is the presence decorative plugsthat hide the mounting holes on the unused side. These plugs are often made of plastic in the same color as the housing and require careful removal to avoid damage during removal. In some cases, they can be fixed with latches or a light adhesive composition.
⚠️ Attention: In models with an electronic display on the door, before removing it is necessary to disconnect the cable cable, having previously de-energized the refrigerator to avoid a short circuit.
It is also worth considering the weight of the door leaf, which can be significant, especially if glass shelves or drawers are installed inside. The design of the hinges is designed for certain loads, and when rehanging it is important to avoid impacts or jerks that can deform the metal.
Nuances of models with the No Frost system
In refrigerators with the No Frost system, the doors are often heavier due to additional insulation and a complex air duct system. When removing them, be especially careful with the seals, as they may be stiffer than in drip systems.
Below is a table illustrating the typical types of hinges found in various brand models:
| Model type | Number of hinges | Mounting feature | Presence of a closer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single chamber | 2 pieces | Hidden screws under the plugs | Rarely |
| Two-chamber (low frost) | 3 pieces | Open bolts at the end | Frequently |
| Built-in series | 2-3 pieces | Special brackets for the facade | Depends on the configuration |
| Models with display | 2-3 pieces | Requires disconnecting the cable | Usually there is |
Removing the door: step-by-step instructions
The process of removing the door begins with freeing up the internal space, so remove all shelves, drawers and products to make the structure as light as possible. This will not only simplify the work, but also reduce the risk of damage to the contents or internal shelves in case of unexpected sliding of the door.
The first step is to remove the top decorative panel or plug, under which the top hinge fasteners are hidden. Use a flat-head screwdriver wrapped in cloth to gently pry the plastic open without applying excessive force. After gaining access to the bolts, loosen them, but do not unscrew them completely yet if the design requires the door to be supported.
Next, you need to fix the door in the open position or ask an assistant to hold it to prevent it from falling. Unscrew the top hinge mounting bolts and remove the hinge itself, after which you can carefully lift the door and remove it from the lower axis. If the model has a middle hinge, the sequence of actions is similar, but requires special care with the alignment of the axes.
When removing pay attention to the condition sealing rubber and plastic bushings that may fall out during the process. Keep all the removed parts in the order in which they were dismantled so that there is no confusion during assembly, especially if there are several hinges and they differ in design.
Re-hanging and installation on a new side
Installing the door on the opposite side begins with rearrangement hinges and fasteners to new places provided for by the housing design. In most cases, on the unused side there are already threaded holes, closed with plastic plugs, which must be removed and moved to the vacant places.
Move the top, middle and bottom hinges to the corresponding holes on the other side, using the same bolts that were removed. It is important to observe the tightening torque: the bolts must be fixed tightly, but without fanaticism, so as not to break the threads in the metal case or plastic inserts.
After installing the hinges, it is necessary to place the door leaf on the lower axis and align the holes of the upper hinge with the mating part on the body. If you are working alone, you may need to use stands or wedges to hold the door at the desired height while screwing the top hinge.
⚠️ Attention: When installing, make sure that the hinge pins or axles are accurately seated, otherwise the door will be warped and will not close tightly.
If your model is equipped with a magnetic lock or door latch, do not forget to move this element to the opposite side, following the instructions for your specific modification Candy. Often this requires simply moving the plastic tab into the adjacent hole at the end of the door.
Adjusting gaps and eliminating distortions
After installing the door in a new place, there is often a need for adjustment, since the ideal geometry of the room and gender is rare. The main parameter that needs to be checked is the tightness of the seal around the entire perimeter, which directly affects the energy efficiency of the refrigerator.
To adjust, use the adjusting screws located on the bottom hinge or at the base of the case, which allow you to raise or lower the corners of the door. By rotating these screws clockwise or counterclockwise, you can achieve a uniform gap between the door and the body along the entire length.
Checking the quality of installation includes the following points:
- 🚪 The door should open and close smoothly, without creaking or jamming.
- 🧲 The seal should evenly adhere to the body along the entire perimeter.
- 📏 The gaps between the door and the body should be the same at the top and bottom.
If the door is skewed, try loosening the fastening bolts of the middle or top hinge, align the door and tighten them again. A slight misalignment can also be compensated by adjusting the legs of the refrigerator itself, changing the angle of inclination of the entire unit.
Common mistakes and expert advice
When Beginners often make mistakes when re-hanging doors themselves, which can lead to additional problems. One of the most common is the loss or confusion of fasteners, especially when the bolts for the left and right sides have different lengths or threads.
Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the seal: if, when removing the door, the rubber seal was damaged or severely deformed, it must be replaced, since the old one will no longer provide the required tightness. Also, do not forget about checking the horizontal installation of the refrigerator itself after all manipulations.
Experts recommend:
- 📸 Take a photo of the original position of the hinges and fasteners before disassembling.
- 🧹 Clean the ends of the door and body from dust and dirt before disassembling assembly.
- 🕒 Let the refrigerator stand for 2-3 hours after installation before turning it on, if it was transported lying down.
⚠️ Attention: If after hanging the door does not close tightly or there is a gap between it and the body, do not force it to slam - this will damage the seal. It’s better to repeat the adjustment.
Remember that the design refrigeration equipment implies accuracy, and even a millimeter misalignment can over time lead to wear of the hinges or disruption of the defrost system.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before re-hanging the doors?
Complete defrosting is not necessary if you act quickly and carefully. However, if there is a lot of ice or food in the chamber, it is better to turn off the refrigerator and let it thaw so that water does not spill when tilting or removing the door, as well as to lighten the weight of the structure.
Is it possible to hang the door on a Candy refrigerator with a display yourself?
Yes, you can, but this requires more caution. The main difficulty is to carefully disconnect and then connect the cable cable going to the display. Be sure to unplug the refrigerator before working with electrical components.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door begins to close worse?
Most likely, the installation geometry is broken or the hinges are skewed. Check the level of the refrigerator itself using a level and adjust the legs. Also make sure that the seal is not curled and lies flat around the entire perimeter.
Will the warranty still apply if I move the door myself?
According to the law, the consumer has the right to self-repair or modification if this does not lead to a breakdown. However, if during the rehanging process you break the thread or damage the cable, the warranty claim for this damage will not be considered. Proceed carefully.