Re-hanging door handles or completely changing the opening side of the refrigerator door Atlant is a standard procedure necessary when remodeling a kitchen or changing the interior. It often happens that after purchasing equipment, it turns out that the configuration installed from the factory is inconvenient for the specific arrangement of furniture in the room. In such situations, the owners decide to dismantle the fittings and install them on the opposite side.
This process does not require calling a technician from the service center, since the design of Belarusian refrigerators provides for the possibility of independent maintenance. However, it is important to understand that re-hanging the handle may be part of a more complex operation to change the opening side of the entire door, or a separate procedure if you do not plan to touch the hinge mechanism. In any case, you will need a basic set of tools and attention to detail.
In this article we will analyze in detail all stages of the work, pay attention to the features of various models and tell you how to avoid common mistakes. Correctly performed actions will ensure that the door will close tightly, and the handle will not creak or wobble after a week of operation.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to prepare the work area and tools. A refrigerator Atlant is a large appliance, so there should be enough space around it for comfortable work. You will need a free area with a radius of about one meter so that you can walk around the unit from all sides.
For dismantling and subsequent installation of elements you will need the following set:
- 🛠️ Flat screwdriver (slotted) for prying up decorative plugs.
- 🔧 Set of Phillips screwdrivers of different sizes (PH1, PH2) for fastening screws.
- 🔩 10 mm wrench or socket head (often required for hinges).
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
It is also important to provide good lighting. Shadows should not fall on the handle mounting area, as there are small holes and hidden screws that can be easily missed in dim light. If you plan to change the entire opening side of the door, be sure to enlist the help of a second person, since the weight of the door with shelves can be significant.
Design features of Atlant refrigerator handles
Refrigerators Atlant are produced in various modifications, and the design of the handles may differ depending on the series and year of manufacture of the model. Most modern units use mortise handles, which are mounted directly into the body of the door, or overhead elements fastened with screws on the back side of the door leaf.
It is worth noting several key design features:
- 📐 Symmetrical: many door models have factory-made holes for fastening handles on both sides, closed with plastic plugs.
- 🔩 Hidden fasteners: in some series, the screws are hidden under decorative overlays, which require careful handling when removing.
- 🔄 Versatility: the fastening mechanism often allows you to use just one and the same holes for the left and right sides, which simplifies the process of turning over.
Before starting work, it is strongly recommended to study the technical data sheet of your device. It may contain a diagram of the location of mounting holes specifically for your model. Ignoring the specifics of the design can lead to damage to the plastic elements or breakage of the threads in the metal of the door.
Removing the old handle: a step-by-step algorithm
The process of removing the handle begins with a visual inspection. Find the mounting points. In most cases, they are hidden under decorative plugs or plastic covers, the color of which matches the color of the case. These plugs are usually located at the end of the handle or on its inner side, facing the door.
Proceed sequentially by performing the following steps:
- Carefully pry off the decorative plug with a flat-head screwdriver. Do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the plastic.
- After removing the plug, you will see the mounting screws. Use an appropriate screwdriver (usually a Phillips screwdriver) to unscrew them.
- If the handle does not come off immediately after unscrewing the screws, it may be stuck on tight seats. Gently rock it from side to side.
- Remove the fasteners and put them in a separate container so as not to lose them.
⚠️ Attention: If the screws are rusty or stuck, do not try to unscrew them by force. Treat them with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and wait 10-15 minutes. A sudden force can lead to the screw head being licked off, which will significantly complicate further dismantling.
After removing the handle, inspect the hole in the door. There may be an O-ring or bushing left there. They also need to be removed if the new handle is equipped with its own set of seals, or left if the design requires it. Clean the installation site from dust and dirt.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
Installing the handle on the new side
Installing the handle on the opposite side is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling, but taking into account the new seats. If you change the door opening side completely, make sure that the holes on the new side match the geometry of your handle. In refrigerators Atlant holes for handles are often duplicated on both sides of the door leaf.
The installation process is as follows:
- 🔍 Align the mounting holes of the handle with the holes in the door.
- 🔩 Insert the screws into the holes and begin to tighten them by hand without using a tool to get into the threads.
- 🔧 Gently tighten the screws with a screwdriver or wrench. Do this evenly, alternately tightening each screw half a turn.
- 🧱 Install decorative plugs on the vacated holes on the opposite side (if they were there before).
When tightening the screws, it is important to observe the measure. Excessive force may lead to a crack in the plastic of the handle or deformation of the seat at the door. The screw should be tightened tightly so that the handle does not wobble, but the metal should not be pressed around the head.
What to do if the holes do not line up?
In some older models or when installing non-standard handles, the holes may not line up. In this case, new holes will need to be drilled. Use a metal drill bit with a diameter that matches the mounting screw. Be sure to use a template or measure the distances carefully, as an error of a few millimeters will make the handle skewed. Before drilling, apply masking tape to the location of the future hole so that the drill does not slip and damage the enamel.
Adjusting the closing mechanism and magnets
After the handle is installed, you need to check the operation of the door as a whole. Moving the point of application of force (the handle) may have a slight effect on the balance of the door, especially if it has been warped before. The main attention should be paid to the operation of the magnetic seal.
Checking the tightness is carried out visually and tactilely:
- Close the refrigerator door.
- Run your hand along the perimeter of the seal - there should be no gaps or loose fit.
- Try to pull the handle - the door should open with moderate force, characteristic of a working unit.
If, after installing the handle, you notice that the door does not close tightly or, conversely, is too tight, you may need to adjust the hinges. To do this, loosen the hinge mounting bolts, level the door and tighten them again. Also check the legs of the refrigerator: if the unit is not level, the door may open spontaneously or not close completely.
Table and methods for eliminating them
Unforeseen situations may arise during the process of self-repair. Below is a table that helps diagnose and eliminate the most common problems that arise after rehanging handles or doors.
| Problem | Possible cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| The handle is wobbly | The screws are not tightened enough or the thread is broken | Tighten the screws or use a thread lock |
| The door does not close tightly | The door is skewed or the seal is displaced | Adjust hinges and adjust the seal |
| Creak when opening | Friction of metal on metal or lack of lubrication | Lubricate the hinges and the handle fastening mechanism |
| Latching the magnet | Closing force is too strong | Check the installation level of the refrigerator |
⚠️ Attention: The characteristics and location of fasteners may vary depending on the specific modification of the refrigerator. If you encounter a design that is not described in the instructions, it is recommended that you check the manufacturer’s official diagrams or contact an authorized service center.
Recommendations for caring for fittings
In order for a new or re-hung handle to serve for a long time and maintain a neat appearance, it must be properly cared for. The plastic from which the handles are made Atlantis sensitive to aggressive chemicals and abrasive materials.
For cleaning, use the following products:
- 💧 Warm soap solution (mild detergent for dishes).
- 🧽 Soft sponge or microfiber (avoid hard brushes).
- 🚫 Special polishes for plastic (optional, for shine).
Regularly check the condition of the mounting screws. Once every six months you can slightly tighten them, since they can weaken due to vibration of the compressor and constant mechanical stress. Also keep the area around the handle clean: the accumulation of grease and dirt at the junction of the handle and the door can lead to corrosion of the metal or destruction of the plastic.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to reposition the handle without changing the opening side of the door?
Yes, this is possible if the design of your refrigerator door Atlant provides symmetrical holes for fastening. You simply remove the handle from one side and install it on the other using the corresponding holes. However, if the door opens on the left and the handle is on the right, this may be inconvenient, but technically feasible.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Full defrosting is not required just to replace the handle. However, if you plan to change the opening direction of the entire door, it is recommended to first defrost the unit and empty the shelves. This will make the door lighter and prevent food from spilling when the refrigerator is tilted.
What to do if one of the fastening screws is lost?
You should not use the first screw you come across. Measure the diameter and length of the hole, then pick up similar hardware at a hardware store. It is important that the thread and length match, otherwise you can damage the door body or not ensure reliable fastening.
Does re-hanging the handle affect the warranty?
Re-hanging the handle yourself, as a rule, does not affect the warranty if other components of the refrigerator were not damaged in the process. However, if you damage the door or hinge mechanism, the service center may refuse free repairs. Save all removed parts in case you need to return to the factory configuration.