Moving the refrigerator door to the other side: instructions with photos and video

Re-hanging the refrigerator door is a task that almost every appliance owner faces sooner or later. The reasons may be different: inconvenient opening due to the layout of the kitchen, a change in the arrangement of furniture, or a banal desire to update the interior. Fortunately, most modern models (Atlant, Bosch, Liebherr etc.) support this function, but the process requires accuracy and knowledge of key nuances.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photosan analysis of the features for different brands, as well as list of errorsthat beginners most often make. We won't convince you that the process is simple - moving the door can take from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the model. But you will save 1,500–3,000 ₽, which the master asks for this service.

Important: if your refrigerator is under warranty, Moving the door yourself may void the manufacturer's warranty. Check this point in the documents or with the official service center before starting work.

Preparation: tools and conditions

Before you begin dismantling, prepare everything you need. Without the right tools, you risk damaging the fasteners or the door itself. Here is the minimum set:

• ⚒️ Screwdrivers: cross (PH2) and flat (3–5 mm) - for most models; for some Samsung and LG you may need a hexagon (4 mm).
• 🔧 Wrench or a 10 mm socket - for hinge fastening bolts.
• 📏 Level (bubble or laser) - to check the evenness of the installation of the new hinge.
• 🧲 Magnet or tape - for fixing small parts (screws, washers).
• 🧴 Lubricant (for example, WD-40) - if the fasteners are rusty or stuck.

Also prepare the work space:

• 🚪 Clear the passage to the refrigerator - you will need to completely open and remove the door.
• 🧊 Remove all food and unplug the refrigerator at least 2 hours before before starting work (this is necessary to defrost the seal).
• 📦 Lay cardboard or fabric - this will protect the floor from scratches if the door accidentally falls.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with water dispenser (for example, model Samsung RF23 or LG InstaView), the process becomes more complicated. Additional dismantling of tubes and electrical wiring will be required - without experience, it is better to contact a specialist.

Step 1: Dismantling the old door

Start with the top hinge - it usually fixes the main load. Algorithm of actions:

1. Remove the decorative plugs from the hinges (they can be latched or screwed on).
2. Unscrew the fastening bolts top hinge (usually 2-3 pieces). Hold the door - after removing the last bolt, it may drop sharply.
3. Carefully remove the door from the bottom hinge and place it on a prepared surface (for example, on a table covered with a blanket).
4. Unscrew the bolts lower hinge and remove it.

On some models (Indesit, Ariston), the lower hinge may be hidden under the decorative panel. To remove it, pull the panel towards you - it is secured with latches.

Make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged|

Prepare a place for the door (soft surface)|

Check that all tools are present|

Take a photo of the location of the hinges and bolts-->

If the bolts do not budge, do not apply excessive force - this will risk stripping the threads. Treat the fasteners with lubricant WD-40 and wait 10–15 minutes. For models with hidden hinges (for example, Liebherr CN), you may need to remove the top cover of the refrigerator.

Step 2: Transfer the hinges to the other side

Now you need to rearrange loops on the opposite side. There are a few key points here:

• 🔄 Symmetrical holes: Most refrigerators have hinge holes already drilled on both sides. They are closed with plugs - remove them with a flat-head screwdriver.
• 📐 Alignment: Use a level to ensure the hinges are level. A misalignment of even 2-3 mm will lead to a loose fit of the seal.
• 🔩 Bolts: Do not tighten them all the way at once - first tighten all the fasteners, then tighten them.

For models Bosch and Siemens may be required replacing hinges —the kit includes universal parts for both sides. The instructions for the refrigerator usually contain a diagram of their installation.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with electronic display (for example, Samsung Family Hub) when moving the door, the calibration of the sensors may be lost. After installation, check the temperature readings during the day.

Step 3: Installing the door on the new side

When the hinges moved, you can hang the door back. Do this in the following order:

1. Place the door onto lower hinge, holding it in a vertical position.
2. Align the upper part and attach bolts top hinge.
3. Close the door and check for distortions. If the door itself opens or closes with difficulty, adjust the hinges.
4. Tighten all the bolts, but do not overdo it - too much tightening can deform the metal.

After installation, check seal: it should fit evenly around the entire perimeter. To check the tightness, use a test with a sheet of paper:

• Close the door by holding a sheet of paper between the seal and the body.
• Pull the sheet towards you - if it comes out without resistance, the seal needs to be adjusted.

Nuances for refrigerators with. dispenser and ice maker

Models with water dispenser or ice maker (for example, LG GR-B247, Samsung RS68A8841) require additional manipulations:

• 💧 Water supply pipes: They must be carefully moved to the other side, avoiding kinks. In some cases, you will need to lengthen the hoses.
• ⚡ Electrical wiring: Dispenser sensors and buttons are connected to the control board. When moving the door, the wires may become stretched - they need to be repositioned and fixed.
• ❄️ Ice maker: In models with automatic ice supply (for example, Whirlpool), the mechanism may need to be reconfigured.

If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to call a specialist. Errors when working with water pipes can lead to leaks, and incorrect connection of wires can lead to a short circuit.

What to do if the dispenser does not work after transfer?

If after installing the door the dispenser stops dispensing water, check:

1. Connecting the tubes to the pump (they could be bent).

2. Contact tightness on the control board.

3. Refrigerator settings - sometimes a reset to factory settings is required (Settings → Reset).

If the problem persists, contact a service center - self-repair of electronics can lead to breakdown.

Common errors and how to avoid them

Even with careful work, you can make mistakes that will lead to problems. Here are the most common of them:

• 🔧 Overtightened bolts → deformation of the hinges or body. Solution: Tighten the bolts crosswise without applying excessive force.
• 🚪 Door misalignment → loose closing. Solution: Use a level and adjust the hinges gradually.
• 🔌 Damage to the wiring (in models with a dispenser). Solution: Secure the wires with electrical tape before moving.
• 🧊 Forgot to defrost the seal → the door is not sealed. Solution: Warm the seal with a hairdryer or let the refrigerator stand closed for 12 hours.

Another typical problem is creaking when opening. if the hinges are not sufficiently lubricated or are not installed at the level. This can be eliminated by applying silicone grease to the hinge axes.

1. The door seal may have moved.

2. Compressor mounting - vibration could be transmitted. on the body.

3. Installation level of the refrigerator (use adjustable legs).-->

Moving the door in Side-by-Side refrigerators

Refrigerators of type Side-by-Side (Samsung RF24, LG GC-B247) have two doors, which complicates the process. It is important here:

1. Remove and hang the doors one by one - first the left one, then the right one.
2. Check hinge synchronization - if one door is higher than the other, the seals will wear out quickly.
3. Take into account door weight - they are heavier than in conventional models, so it is better to work with an assistant.

B some Side-by-Side doors are equipped magnetic locks for automatic closing. After transfer, they may need to be adjusted - information about this is in the instructions for the model.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about moving the refrigerator door

Is it possible to rehang the door on a refrigerator older than 10 years?

In older models (for example ZIL, Minsk), holes for hinges may be missing on the opposite side. In this case, you will need to drill the housing yourself, which can damage the insulation. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to leave the door in place or contact a specialist.

Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before moving the door?

Yes, required. The seal must be soft so as not to be damaged during dismantling. In addition, ice on the walls can get on the electrical contacts (in models with No Frost), which will lead to a short circuit. It is enough to turn off the refrigerator 2-3 hours before work.

What to do if after moving the door does not close tightly?

There may be several reasons:

• Distortion of the hinges - adjust them according to the level.
• Deformation of the seal - warm it with a hairdryer or replace it.
• Debris gets into the lock mechanism - clean and lubricate.

If the problem remains, check the geometry of the door - it may have bent during dismantling.

How much does the transfer cost? doors at the service center?

The cost of the service depends on the region and model of the refrigerator:

• Regular models (Atlant, Indesit) — 1 500–2 500 ₽.
• Refrigerators with a dispenser (Samsung, LG) — 2 500–4 000 ₽.
• Side-by-Side — from 3,500 ₽.

The price usually includes a technician, but parts (for example, new hinges) are paid separately.

Is it possible to move the door yourself if the refrigerator is under warranty?

Technically yes, but the warranty will be voidif a fault is later discovered in the refrigerator Manufacturers. (Bosch, Liebherr etc.) consider moving the door to be an intervention in the design. If the refrigerator is new, it is better to contact an authorized service center.

Moving the refrigerator door is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. If you followed the instructions, but something went wrong (for example, the door creaks). or does not close), do not panic. In most cases, the problem can be resolved by adjusting the hinges or replacing the seal. The main thing is not to rush and check each stage.

If your refrigerator model was not mentioned in the article, study the operating instructions or find a video analysis on YouTube (specify the exact model for the search). electronics, sometimes it is cheaper and safer to entrust the work to a professional.