Modern kitchen dictates its own rules of ergonomics, and it often happens that that the refrigerator Atlantbought several years ago no longer fits into the updated interior or simply interferes with free passage. The situation when the door opens in the wrong direction is familiar to many owners of household appliances. Fortunately, the design of most models of this brand initially provides the possibility reversing the doorsthat allows you to change the direction of their opening without loss of functionality.
This process does not require calling a specialist and expensive repairs, as it is done independently using a minimal set of tools. However, in order to avoid damage to the hinges, facade or violation of the tightness of the seal, it is necessary to strictly follow the sequence of actions. Rearranging hinges is a mechanical operation that requires care, especially when working with heavy structural elements.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various models Atlant, including two-chamber and single-chamber options. You will learn what nuances exist when working with models equipped with a display, and how to correctly adjust the position of the sash after installation so that it fits snugly to the body. The main thing is to take your time and prepare the workplace.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before starting dismantling, you need to prepare all the tools so as not to be distracted during the work process. You will need a standard DIY kit, which can be found in almost any apartment. The main tool will be hex wrench (usually 4 or 5 mm), since it is this that is most often used for fastening hinges in technology Atlant.
You also cannot do without a flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers. A flathead screwdriver is useful for removing decorative plugs and caps that hide fasteners. Some models may require a 10mm open-end wrench if the hinge nuts are configured accordingly. It is important that all tools are in good working order and of the correct size so as not to strip the threads or edges of the bolts.
In addition to the tools, take care to protect the floor covering. The refrigerator door is a heavy element, and accidentally dropping it can leave a dent in the linoleum or crack the tiles. Place thick cardboard, an old blanket or a thick towel under the work area. This will also help to carefully place the removed door without damaging its outer surface.
- 🔧 Hex key (4-5 mm) - the main tool for hinge bolts.
- 🪛 Flat screwdriver - for removing plugs and decorative elements.
- 🔩 Open-end wrench (10 mm) - may be required for some hinge models.
- 🧤 Work gloves - to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
Procedure for models without a display
If your refrigerator Atlant is not equipped with an electronic display on the top door, the hanging process is much easier and faster. In this case, you do not need to worry about wires, cables and electrical connections. All work comes down to the mechanical transfer of metal fastening elements.
Start by emptying the refrigerator of food and disconnecting it from the power supply. Although we won't need electricity, safety comes first. Remove any shelves or containers from the door you plan to remove to reduce its weight. This will make the work easier and reduce the risk of the structure falling.
☑️ Preparation for rehanging
Next, you need to remove the top cover of the refrigerator if it structurally blocks access to the top hinge. In some models Atlant the top panel is simply removed by moving it backwards, in others it requires unscrewing the mounting screws from the back. After gaining access to the top hinge, unscrew the fastening bolts, but do not remove them completely yet, so that the door does not fall sharply.
Holding the door with one hand (or asking an assistant), finally unscrew the bolts of the top hinge and remove it. Carefully lift the door and remove it from the bottom stud. Now you can begin to move the lower support pin to the opposite side of the body. At the end of the case you will see symmetrical holes closed with plastic plugs. Remove the plugs and reposition the pin.
⚠️ Attention: The lower support pin is often conical in shape. Make sure that you insert it with the correct side and all the way, otherwise the door will not stand level or begin to creak when opening.
Features of hanging doors with a display
Owners of models Atlant with electronic control or a display on the facade need to be extremely careful. In such refrigerators, the control cablepasses through the top loop, connecting the display panel to the main control unit. Incorrect actions can lead to a break in the cable or damage to the contacts.
The first step here is also to disconnect the device from the network. Then the top cover is removed. Below it you will see a connector coming from the door. It must be carefully disconnected. Depending on the model, this may be a chip with a latch or a screw clamp. Do not pull the wires, act only with the connector.
After disconnecting the cable, the sequence of actions is similar to models without a display: remove the upper hinge, dismantle the door, and rearrange the lower pin. When installing the door on a new side, the cable is carefully routed through the provided hole in the frame or hinge. It is important not to pinch the wire and prevent tension.
What to do if the cable is short?
In some older models, the length of the cable may be limited. If you feel a strong pull when lifting, do not force yourself. It may be necessary to carefully release the supply of wire from the inner cavity of the door by removing the plastic trim, but this requires high skill.
When assembling, make sure that the wire does not get under the moving parts of the hinges and does not rub against the metal. After connecting the connector, check the functionality of the display by turning on the refrigerator before finally fixing all the screws. If the screen lights up and shows the correct data, you can continue assembly.
Removing and installing handles and plugs
One of the visual aspects of rehanging is moving the handles and installing plugs on the vacated holes. Handles on refrigerators Atlant are usually fastened either with screws on the inside of the door or snapped onto special latches. To access the internal screws, it is often necessary to remove the decorative trim.
If your model has hidden screws, look for access holes, often closed with small round plugs. By prying them off with a flathead screwdriver, you will gain access to the fasteners. After unscrewing the screws, remove the handle. There should be symmetrical openings on the opposite side of the door. If they are covered with decorative inserts, remove them and install the handle there.
| Mounting type | Screw location | Tool | Nuances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidden | Inside the door | Phillips screwdriver | You need to remove the plugs |
| Open | Outside, under overlay | Hexagon | Visible after removing the decor |
| Latch | Absent | Without tools | Requires effort to remove |
| Mortise | At the end of the door | Flat screwdriver | A rare option for Atlant |
After rearranging the handles, it is necessary to close the holes on the old opening side. To do this, use the complete plastic plugs that come with the refrigerator. If you have lost them, you can order new ones or use universal analogues, selecting them by color and diameter. This will return the aesthetic appearance of the appliance.
Adjusting the position of the doors after installation
After the door is installed on the new side, it may be required adjustment. It often happens that the door is not parallel to the body or does not fit tightly to the seal. This can be easily fixed without starting the process all over again. The main method of adjustment is to change the height of the support legs of the refrigerator itself or tighten the hinges.
If the door is skewed vertically (one corner is higher than the other), adjust the front legs of the refrigerator. By rotating them, you can raise or lower the corresponding corner of the body, achieving the ideal horizon. To check, use a building level, placing it on the top edge of the door.
If the tightness of the seal is broken, you can slightly loosen the screws securing the middle or lower hinge (if the design allows), correct the position of the door and tighten the fasteners again. Do this gradually, turning the screws half a turn and checking the result. Do not overtighten the bolts so as not to strip the threads in the aluminum hinge body.
⚠️ Attention: Make adjustments only after the refrigerator has been in a vertical position for at least 2-3 hours. The oil in the compressor must drain into the crankcase, otherwise turning on the device may cause damage.
Common mistakes and safety tips
When doing work with your own hands, it is easy to make mistakes that can lead to additional costs. One of the most common problems is loss of fasteners. Bolts and washers for different hinges may differ in length and diameter. Sort the fasteners immediately after dismantling, laying it out in groups for each hinge.
Another mistake is ignoring the weight of the door. Double-chamber refrigerators Atlant have heavy structures, and it is almost impossible to hold the door with one hand while unscrewing the bolts. Always work with a helper or use supports. Falling the door can deform the metal, and then it will be very difficult to restore the tightness.
- 📏 Do not forget to rearrange the plastic stops-clamps, if your model has them.
- 🧼 Before installation, wipe the hinges and fastening points from dust and old lubricants.
- 🔍 Check the integrity of the seal after all manipulations; it should not have any creases.
- 🛠 Use only original fasteners or their high-quality analogues to avoid corrosion.
It is also worth mentioning the maintenance of the warranty. By opening technical components, you do not violate the warranty if you do not break parts. However, if during the rehanging process you break the plastic handle or strip the thread, this will be considered a warranty issue. Proceed carefully and without using excessive force.
In conclusion, hanging the refrigerator door Atlant is a very real task for a person with basic skills in handling tools. The main thing here is attention to detail, the presence of an assistant and adherence to the sequence of operations. Properly done work will allow you to enjoy the updated ergonomics of the kitchen for many years.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging the doors?
Full defrosting is not necessary, if you work fast. However, if there is a lot of ice or food in the refrigerator, it is better to remove them to lighten the weight of the door. It is also recommended to disconnect the device from the mains for safety.
Is it possible to hang the door on an Atlant refrigerator with the No Frost system?
Yes, you can. The hinge design of models with No Frost and a drip system is usually identical. The main difference may be the presence of additional air ducts, but they, as a rule, do not interfere with the re-hanging process.
What to do if, after re-hanging, the door does not fit tightly?
Check the adjustment of the legs of the refrigerator - it should stand with a slight tilt back. Also make sure the seal is clean and not deformed. If necessary, you can heat the seal with a hairdryer to restore its elasticity.
Where can I get new plugs if the old ones are lost?
Plugs can be purchased at authorized service centers Atlant or ordered through online stores of spare parts for household appliances, indicating the model of your refrigerator. Universal furniture plugs of a suitable color are also suitable.