The need to change the opening direction of the refrigerator door Atlant often arises when remodeling a kitchen or moving to a new apartment. The design of these units initially provides for the possibility of re-hanging, which makes the procedure accessible even to a non-professional. However, the process requires accuracy, a basic set of tools and strict adherence to the sequence of actions so as not to damage the fittings or plastic case.
Before starting work, it is important to understand that models may differ in the design of the hinges and the location of the mounting holes. In some cases, it is enough to simply rearrange the elements, in others, you will need to replace the plugs and dismantle additional panels. Ignoring technical nuances This may lead to a loose seal or misalignment of the door leaf, so carefully study the features of your device before taking a screwdriver.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various modifications of refrigerators Atlant, including two-chamber models and units with the system No Frost. You'll learn what tools you'll need, how to properly adjust the gaps, and what to do if the door doesn't close properly after reinstallation. Following the instructions will help you save time and avoid calling a technician.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
High-quality door rehanging is impossible without proper preparation. First of all, you need to free up the space around the refrigerator in order to have access to it from all sides. Disconnect the unit from the power supply and completely empty the shelves of food and removable elements. This will not only make the work easier, but will also reduce the risk of damaging the contents or falling heavy objects during the installation process.
To complete the task, you will need a minimum set of tools, which are usually found in every home. The main working tool will be a wrench or a set of sockets corresponding to the diameter of the mounting bolts (most often 8, 10 or 13 mm). You will also need flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers for removing decorative panels and working with small-diameter screws.
☑️ Preparing for rehanging
It is recommended to prepare soft rags or cardboard in advance to cover the floor under the door. When dismantling heavy metal hinges or the panel itself, there is a risk of dropping them, which can lead to damage to the floor covering or the piece itself. In addition, it is worth having on hand silicone grease to treat rubbing mechanisms after installation.
Design features of Atlant refrigerator doors
Refrigerators Atlant are produced in various modifications, and the design of their door blocks has its own characteristics. In classic two-chamber models with separate doors for the refrigerator and freezer compartments, re-hanging is done independently for each door. This means that you will have to repeat the procedure twice, being careful when working with the top hinge, which often connects both doors.
In models with the system No Frost or Frost Free the situation is complicated by the presence of electrical wires. The door of such refrigerators is equipped with opening sensors and lighting control buttons, which are connected to the main unit by wiring. When rehanging, you must carefully disconnect the connectors so as not to damage the wires, and then lay the cable through special channels in the opposite wall of the case.
⚠️ Attention: In models with electronic controls and a display on the door, the wires may be stretched. Do not use excessive force when disconnecting the chips, so as not to break the contacts or break the plastic latches of the connectors.Models with one common door or a non-standard arrangement of handles deserve special attention. Here it is important to correctly rearrange the lock mate and magnetic latches. If your model has a handle built into the end of the door or has a complex shape, make sure that after rehanging it will remain functional and ergonomic.
Why are plastic plugs needed?
Plastic plugs (decorative covers) cover unused holes for hinges. When rehanging, they must be moved to the opposite side in order to preserve the aesthetic appearance of the refrigerator and protect the inside of the case from dust and moisture. They are often lost, so when purchasing used equipment, check their availability.
Step-by-step instructions: dismantling the door
The process of removing the door begins with dismantling the top hinge. In two-chamber models, the refrigerator door is first removed, since it is attached to the middle hinge, which simultaneously holds the freezer compartment. Carefully unscrew the mounting bolts, supporting the door with your other hand to prevent it from falling. It is better to perform this operation with an assistant, since the weight of the canvas can be significant.
After removing the top fastening, it is necessary to dismantle the middle hinge. It is important here not to lose washers and bushings if they are provided for in the design. In some models Atlant adjusting washers are installed between the hinges, which affect the installation height of the door. Remember their location or take a photo before removing.
The lower hinge is removed last, when the door is already separated from the body. Inspect the lower hinge axis for corrosion or mechanical damage. If burrs or rust are found, they must be cleaned with fine sandpaper and lubricated before reinstallation. This will ensure smooth running and prevent squeaks in the future.
Work stage Action Important nuance 1. Upper hinge Unscrewing the bolts Support the door with your hand 2. Middle loop Removing the lock Remember the order of the washers 3. Removing the door Separation from the body Work with a partner 4. Bottom hinge Removal from the door Check the axle for defects Re-hanging the fittings and installing plugs
After dismantling all the elements, it is necessary to move the fittings to the opposite side. There are symmetrical holes on the body of the refrigerator and on the door itself. Take the removed hinges and install them in the corresponding slots on the other side. Tighten the bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet - this will allow you to make the final adjustment of the door position.
Pay special attention to rearranging the plugs. The holes left free after transferring the loops must be covered with decorative covers. They are usually simply inserted into the holes using finger pressure or light tapping. Make sure that the plugs fit tightly and do not protrude beyond the plane of the body, otherwise the door may not close tightly.
In models with wires, at this stage they are re-positioned. Carefully pull the tourniquet out of the old channel and place it into the new one intended for the opposite side. Connect the connectors, making sure there is a characteristic click indicating reliable contact. The wires must lie freely, without tension, so that when opening the door they are not damaged.
Installing the door on the new side
Installing the door is done in the reverse order. First, secure the bottom hinge to the body, then slide the door leaf onto it. After this, the middle hinge is installed (for two-chamber models) and the upper part is fixed. As mentioned earlier, the bolts are not yet fully tightenedto be able to adjust the position of the sash.
When hanging the door, it is important to align the axes correctly. If the door is skewed even by a millimeter, it will cause problems with closing. Have a helper hold the door closed while you tighten the fasteners one by one. Start with the bottom bolts, then move to the top.
⚠️ Attention: Do not allow the door to slam shut during installation. The impact of the door on the body on unfixed hinges can lead to displacement of the axis or damage to the seal.After initial fixation, check the operation of the door. It should open and close smoothly, without squeaks or jams. If the door is installed correctly, it will fit snugly around the entire perimeter of the frame. If distortions are detected, loosen the bolts and adjust the position of the blade using washers or changing the tightening force.
Adjusting the position and tightness of the fit
The final stage is adjustment. Even with careful installation, it may be necessary to adjust the height of the door or the tightness of the seal. In refrigerators Atlant adjustment is often carried out by rotating the adjusting bolts on the hinges or adding/removing adjusting washers.
If the door warps when opening (spontaneously opens or closes), it is necessary to adjust the tilt of the body. To do this, use the adjustable feet at the bottom of the refrigerator. By twisting or unscrewing the front legs, achieve a slight tilt of the body back. This will ensure that the door automatically closes under the influence of gravity.
Check the tightness of the sealing rubber. To do this, you can use a simple test with a sheet of paper: clamp the sheet between the door and the body in different places around the perimeter. If the sheet is removed with force, then the fit is good. If the paper falls out freely or breaks when pulled sharply, additional adjustment of the loops is required.
Frequent errors and ways to eliminate them
One of the most common mistakes is mixing up the left and right loops. Despite their external similarity, they may have different axis angles or locations of mounting holes. Installing the wrong hinge will cause the door to warp and not close. Always label parts before removal or arrange them in the order of removal.
Another mistake is ignoring wires in models with No Frost. Inexperienced users often forget to reconnect the connectors or pinch the cable with the door body. This leads to the fact that the light, fan or door open sensor stops working, which causes constant operation of the compressor and icing.
Insufficient tightening of the mounting bolts is also common. Over time, vibration from the compressor weakens the connections and the door begins to sag. If you notice that the top corner of the door has dropped, simply tighten the top hinge bolts. Regularly checking the fastening will help to avoid serious problems with tightness.
⚠️ Attention: If after rehanging the door does not close tightly, do not rush to change the seal. In 90% of cases, the problem is solved by correctly adjusting the position of the door or cleaning the seal from dirt.Questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging the door?
It is not necessary to defrost the unit specifically for rehanging, unless it is required for other reasons reasons. However, if there is a lot of ice inside, food may fall out when the door is tilted. It is recommended to carry out the procedure with a minimum amount of food or after defrosting in order to lighten the weight of the structure.
Is it possible for one person to hang the door on their own?
Technically this is possible, but it is highly not recommended. The refrigerator door is heavy and bulky, making it easy to drop or damage the floor. In addition, it is difficult for one person to hold the door and tighten the bolts at the same time. Bring an assistant for insurance.
What to do if decorative plugs are lost?
Plugs can be purchased at service centers Atlant or ordered through online spare parts stores for the refrigerator model. As a last resort, the holes can be closed with ordinary plugs of a suitable diameter, choosing them according to color, or left open if aesthetics is not a priority (although dust will get in there).
Why did the door become worse to close after rehanging?
Most likely, the geometry of the installation is broken. Check that the hinges are straight, that the wires (if any) are not twisted, and that the seal is installed correctly. Also make sure that the refrigerator is on a flat surface and has the required tilt back.