How to re-hang the refrigerator handle yourself: instructions with photos and videos

Removing the refrigerator handle is a task that almost every owner of the equipment faces. The reasons may be different: from a banal desire to change the way the door opens to the need to optimize space in the kitchen. Fortunately, most modern models allow you to do this without calling a specialist. However, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of the nuances - from the type of handle fastening to the features of the seal. Samsung, LG, Indesit, Atlant And Beko allow you to do this without calling a specialist. However, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of the nuances - from the type of handle fastening to the features of the seal.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions taking into account different designs of refrigerators, a list of necessary tools, as well as unique tips for avoiding mistakes that lead to damage to the door or sealing gum. We'll look at how to reposition the handle on single-chamber and double-chamber models, what to do with the magnetic seal, and why sometimes after reversing the door begins to close poorly. If your refrigerator is older than 10 years or belongs to the premium segment (for example Liebherr or Siemens), be sure to check the warnings section - there are critical nuances there!

Preparation: tools and safety precautions

Before you start work, make sure you have everything you need. Most refrigerators come complete key for hanging doors (usually it comes with documentation), but if it’s not there, it doesn’t matter. Here is a complete list of tools:

• ✅ Phillips screwdriver (PH2 or PH3) - for most screws
• ✅ Flat screwdriver - for prying up decorative plugs
• ✅ Hex wrench (usually 4 or 5 mm) - for models Bosch i Siemens
• ✅ Wrench (10 mm) - if the handle is secured with bolts
• ✅ Masking tape - for fixing the seal
• ✅ Silicone grease - for processing the loop after rehanging

Important: if your refrigerator has a system NoFrost, unplug it for 30-60 minutes before work. This is due to the fact that when the door is open, moisture can condense on the electronic boards. For models with drip defrosting (Indesit, Atlant), it is enough to simply remove the food from the door shelves.

⚠️ Attention: Do not use power tools (screwdriver, drill) to unscrew the door screws! The applied force can deform plastic fasteners or break threads in metal hinges. This is especially true for refrigerators LG with thin aluminum frames.

Types of handle fastening: how to determine your model

The design of the handle depends on the brand and year of manufacture of the refrigerator. Here are the main options:

To accurately determine the type of fastening, inspect the handle on both sides. If you see plastic plugs, this is the first type. If there are no plugs, but the handle “sits” tightly, most likely the bolts are hidden under the top panel. For models Samsung with a display on the door (series Family Hub), you may need to turn off the power cable - read about this in the section about electronic doors.

How to check the type of fastening without disassembling?

Shine a flashlight on the side of the handle. If you see metal screw heads, this is an open type. If nothing is visible, but the handle wobbles when pressed, most likely the fastening is latched.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the handle

The algorithm of actions depends on the type of fastening. Below are universal instructions that are suitable for 80% of refrigerators. If your model belongs to the premium segment or has a non-standard design (for example, Samsung Bespoke with modular doors), skip this section and read further about specific brands.

Make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged|

Take a photo of the location of the screws and plugs|

Prepare a container for small parts (screws, plugs)|

Seal the seal with masking tape to avoid damaging it-->

Step 1. Removing decorative plugs

If there are plastic plugs on the handle (usually round or rectangular), pry them off with a flat-head screwdriver. Move carefully to avoid scratching the coating. In models Atlant the plugs may be on latches - they need to be moved to the side and not pulled towards you.

Step 2. Unscrewing the screws

After removing the plugs you will see the screws. In 90% of cases these are Phillips screws PH2. Unscrew them counterclockwise, holding the handle with your other hand - it may fall after loosening the last screw. For refrigerators LG with an aluminum frame, use a screwdriver with a magnetic tip to prevent the screws from falling inside the door.

Step 3. Removing the handle

After removing all the screws, pull the handle toward you or up (depending on the model). If it does not budge, check to see if there are any hidden latches. In models Beko sometimes you have to slightly shake the handle left and right to release it from the latches.

⚠️ Attention: If the handle is glued to the door (found in older models Stinol or Biryusa), do not try to tear it off! In this case, you will need a hair dryer to soften the glue or a special solvent. Without experience, it is better to contact a specialist.

Re-hanging the door: nuances for different brands

After removing the handle, you need to move the door itself to the other side. There are critical differences here depending on the manufacturer:

Samsung and LG: electronic doors with a display

In models with a display (for example, Samsung Family Hub or LG InstaView) before rehanging it is necessary:

1. Disconnect the power cable that goes from the door to the case. It is usually hidden under the top cover.
2. Carefully remove the cable from the connector (do not pull the wires!).
3. After rehanging, connect the cable back, making sure that the contacts are not bent.

If after assembly the display does not work, check whether the wires are pinched between the door and body. In refrigerators LG with the function Door-in-Door additional adjustment of the inner door may be required.

Indesit, Atlant, Beko: mechanical hinges

In budget models the process is simpler:

1. Remove the top cover of the refrigerator (usually it is attached 2–4 screws).
2. Unscrew the door hinges on one side and move them to the other. Pay attention to adjusting screws —their position must be remembered or photographed.
3. Hang the door, making sure that it fits on its hinges without distortion.

In refrigerators Atlant Sometimes there are hinges with left and right threads - do not confuse them when rearranging!

Bosch, Siemens, Liebherr: premium segment

In expensive models the process becomes more complicated:

• ⚙️ Hinges may have automatic adjustment —after rehanging, the door itself will “adjust” to the weight.
• ⚙️ In Liebherr seals are often used magnetic latches seals - they need to be rearranged along with the door.
• ⚙️ In Bosch series VarioStyle the handle can be part of a modular system - it cannot be hung separately from the door.

Installing the handle on a new side: errors and solutions

It would seem that what could go wrong? In practice, even after successfully rehanging the door, owners encounter problems:

• 🔴 The door does not close tightly → Reason: the hinges are skewed or the seal is damaged. Solution: adjust the hinges using the adjusting screws (usually they are located at the bottom).
• 🔴 The handle is wobbly → Reason: the screws are not tightened or the thread is broken. Solution: use screws with a larger diameter or add washers.
• 🔴 A squeak appeared → Reason: the hinges are not lubricated. Solution: apply silicone grease to the hinge axes.
• 🔴 The display does not work → Reason: the cable is damaged or the connector is connected incorrectly. Solution: check the contacts and, if necessary, contact the service.

The most common mistake is incorrect installation of the seal. If the rubber band is twisted or misaligned, the refrigerator will not cool properly and condensation will appear on the door. To avoid this, before rehanging, take a photo of how the seal lies in the grooves. In models Indesit i Atlant the elastic band is attached with glue - it cannot be removed completely, only carefully bent.

⚠️ Attention: If after rehanging the refrigerator begins to operate louder, check whether it is touching case door. In some models Samsung and LG if adjusted incorrectly, the hinges may cling to the fan NoFrostwhich leads to vibration.

Features for refrigerators with a water dispenser

If your refrigerator is equipped with a dispenser (Samsung RF23, LG LRMVC2306 etc.), the process becomes more complicated due to additional tubes and electronics. Here's what you need to consider:

1. Turning off the water supply: Turn off the water supply tap and drain the remaining water from the system (press the dispenser lever until the water stops flowing).
2. Removing the dispenser panel: It is usually secured with latches. Pry it off from the side with a flat screwdriver.
3. Rearranging the tubes: The water hoses must be moved to the other side. Some models have special grooves for this.
4. Checking the tightness: After assembly, turn on the water and check for leaks at the hose connections.

In refrigerators Samsung with the system Twin Cooling Plus when reversing the door, it may be necessary to reconfigure the temperature sensors. This is done through the service menu (the combination of buttons depends on the model).

How to enter the Samsung service menu?

For most models: press and hold Power Cool + Fridge 8 seconds. In the menu, select Door Alarm and reset the settings.

When it is better to call a specialist: 5 signs

Despite the apparent simplicity, there are situations when re-hanging it yourself can lead to breakdown. Contact a specialist if:

• 🛠️ The refrigerator is under warranty - independent repair will void it.
• 🛠️ The door is equipped with electronic lock (found in models Liebherr i Miele).
• 🛠️ Door hinges welded to the body (old models Stinol or Zanussi).
• 🛠️ After re-hanging, an error appeared on the display (for example, dH or dC y Samsung).
• 🛠️ The seal is torn or has lost elasticity - its replacement requires special glue.

The cost of re-hanging a door at a service center ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles (depending on the region and complexity). For premium brands (Liebherr, Miele) the price can reach up to 6,000–8,000 rubles, however, if you are confident in your abilities, self-repair will only cost the cost of silicone grease (about 200). rubles).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to reposition the handle on the refrigerator Atlant without removing the door?

No, in most models Atlant the handle is attached to the door, and not to the body. To rehang it, you must first remove the door, move the hinges to the other side, and then attach the handle. The exception is models with symmetrical handles (for example, Atlant MHM 1705), where the handle is simply inserted into the grooves without screws.

After hanging the refrigerator door LG does not close tightly. What should I do?

Most likely the problem is in the adjustment of the hinges. Try:

1. Loosen the screws on the top and bottom hinge.
2. Adjust the position of the door. so that it fits evenly around the entire perimeter of the body.
3. Tighten the screws and check the seal - it should not be twisted.

If this does not help, check whether the door itself is deformed (for example, due to a fall. In this case, replacement will be required.

Does it need to be lubricated). hinges after rehanging?

Yes, this is necessary! The refrigerator hinges are under constant stress, and without lubrication they will begin to creak or rust. Use silicone grease (not machine oil or WD-40!) Apply 1-2 drops to the axle of each hinge and open/close the door several times to lubricate it. distributed.

Is it possible to move the handle on a two-chamber refrigerator Samsung with a French Door?

In models with a system French Door (two doors on top and a drawer from below) you can reposition the handles, but the process is more complicated:

1. You will need to remove both upper doors.
2. Rearrange the hinges and synchronize the opening mechanism (in some models the doors are interconnected).
3. Adjust the height of the doors so that they do not cling to each other.

If you do not have experience, it is better to call a specialist - an error in the adjustment can lead to damage to the mechanism.

What to do if, after rehanging, condensation appears on the seal?

This means that the seal does not fit tightly to the body. Check:

• Do not. Is the rubber band twisted?
• Is there any debris or glue underneath it?
• Is the door itself deformed (you can check with a level).

If the seal is damaged, it needs to be replaced. For a temporary solution, you can warm the rubber band with a hairdryer (temperature). 50–60°C) and correct its position.