Reversing the Indesit refrigerator door: instructions with photos and expert advice

Hanging the refrigerator door Indesit is a task that almost everyone faces sooner or later every owner. 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 models Indesit (for example, C 132 G, TN 3305 or BIAA 13) structurally provide for the possibility of transferring loops to the opposite side. However, without preparation, the process can result in damage to the seal, distortion of the door, or even breakage of the fasteners.

In this article we will examine not only the standard rehanging procedure, but also the nuances that are kept silent in the official instructions. You will learn what tools are needed for models with electronic display, how to avoid the door sagging over time, and what to do if, after rehanging, the refrigerator begins to freeze worse. And for those who are afraid of making a mistake, we have prepared checklist with a step-by-step check of each stage.

Preparation: tools and conditions for work

Before you begin before dismantling, make sure you have everything you need. For most models Indesit a standard set is sufficient, but some refrigerators (for example, with a system No Frost or built-in ones) may require additional accessories.

• 🔧 Screwdrivers: cross (PH2) and flat (3-4 mm) - for hinge screws and decorative plugs.
• 🔨 Wrench (usually 10 mm) - for the bottom hinge bolts on models with a counterweight.
• 📏 Ruler or square - to check the evenness of the door after rehanging.
• 🧲 Magnet or screwdriver with a magnetic tip —for ease of working with small screws.
• 🧴 Silicone grease (optional)—for processing hinges after installation.

Also prepare your work space:

• 🚪 Give access to the refrigerator from all sides - you will need room to maneuver.
• 🔌 Turn off the power and let the refrigerator stand for 10-15 minutes (this will prevent the compressor from accidentally turning on during operation).
• 🧊 Remove all food from door shelves and drawers - the door will be heavier than it seems!

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is Indesit equipped with water dispenser (model series SBIA or TIA), re-hanging the door will require additional reconfiguration of the hoses. Without experience, it is better to contact a service center - incorrect connection can lead to leaks.

Step 1: Dismantling the old door and hinges

Start with the top hinge - it is usually easier to handle. Carefully remove the decorative cap (if equipped) with a flat-head screwdriver. Under it you will find 2-3 screws - unscrew them with a Phillips screwdriver. Hold the door so that it does not fall after removing the last screw!

The bottom hinge is more difficult: it often uses a bolt with a nut, which requires a wrench. On models Indesit s with a counterweight (for example, BIAA 16) additional fasteners may be hidden under the decorative cover. Take your time - if the hinge does not budge, check that all the screws are unscrewed.

Make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged|

Place a soft cloth on the floor (in case the door falls)|

Prepare an assistant to support the door|

Check for hidden screws under the plugs-->

After removing the hinges, carefully remove the door and place it on a flat surface (for example, on a table covered with a blanket). Do not place the door vertically - this may deform the seal. If the door has electronic display (models Indesit ITF), handle it especially carefully so as not to damage the wires.

Step 2: Transfer the hinges to the opposite side

On the refrigerator body and the doors you will see symmetrical holes for the hinges - they are closed with plugs. Carefully pry off the plugs with a flat-head screwdriver and move them to the empty spaces on the other side. Don’t lose them - without plugs, the holes will collect dust and moisture.

Now move the hinges:

1. Attach the upper hinge to the opposite upper corner of the door (screws usually come with the refrigerator, but if they are not there, use original ones).
2. Install the lower hinge mirrored relative to the previous position. It is important here not to confuse the side - on some models Indesit the left and right hinges have different configurations.

⚠️ Attention: On refrigerators with two-chamber system (models Indesit TIA 25 and similar) the lower hinge can be attached to the middle partition. In this case, you will have to remove it too - prepare a fastening diagram in advance (you can take a photo).

After installing the hinges, check their evenness using a level. Even a slight misalignment (1-2 mm) can lead to the door opening on its own or, conversely, not closing well.

Step 3: Door installation and adjustment

Door installation is the most critical step. Have a helper hold the door while you install the screws. Start with the top hinge, but do not tighten it all the way - the door should “play” a little for precise adjustment.

After preliminary fastening, check:

• 🔄 Door movement: it should open and close without effort, but not “fall” down.
• 🚪 Gaps: there should be a uniform gap of 2-3 mm around the entire perimeter (check with a sheet of paper - it should be pulled out with slight effort).
• 🔊 Sound: if you hear a creaking or knocking sound, the hinges require lubrication.

If the door sags, tighten the bottom hinge. If it is skewed, loosen the top one and adjust the position. On models Indesit with magnetic seal (for example, SBIA 18), additional adjustment of the clamping force may be required - special screws on the hinges are provided for this.

Features for refrigerators with a display and No Frost

Models Indesit with electronically controlled (series ITF, EVD) require a special approach. When reversing the door, you must:

1. Disconnect the display cable from the main unit (usually it is attached to clips).
2. Move the wires through special channels in the door body (they are provided by the manufacturer).
3. Connect the cable back, making sure that the contacts are not bent.

For refrigerators with a system No Frost (for example, Indesit DF 5200) it is important:

• 🌀 Do not block the ventilation holes when installing the door.
• ❄️ Check the operation of the fan after re-hanging - if it makes noise or does not turn on, the cable may be pinched.

⚠️ Attention: On some models Indesit s touch panel (for example, ITF 118) may go wrong after re-hanging sensor calibration. In this case, you will need to reset the settings through the service menu (instructions are in the user manual).

Common errors and how to avoid them

Even with the apparent simplicity of the process, many make mistakes, which then have to be corrected at the service center. Here are the most common:

Critical error: trying to hang the door on refrigerators Indesit s built-in ice maker (series WI) without reconfiguring the water hoses. This leads to leaks and breakdown of the pump - repairs will cost more than calling a technician.

What to do if, after rehanging, the refrigerator began to freeze worse?

If the temperature in the chamber has risen, check:

1. Seal - it may have moved or been damaged.

2. Temperature sensor - on some models it is attached to the door and can become detached.

3. Ventilation grilles (for No Frost) - they could close due to a change in the position of the door.

If the problem persists, return the door to its original position and contact service.

When is it better to call a specialist

Despite the fact that the door is overhanged Indesit most users can do it, there are situations when it is better to trust professionals:

• 🔧 The refrigerator is under warranty - independent repairs can void it.
• 💡 Models with inverter compressor (for example, Indesit ECO 9) - improper handling may damage the electronic board.
• 🚰 Refrigerators with a water supply connection - special equipment is required to check the tightness.
• 🔄 If the door has already been hung before, repeated dismantling may weaken the fastenings.

The cost of the service at service centers varies from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (depending on the model and region). It's not that expensive when you consider the risks of damaging the refrigerator. For example, replacing a broken hinge will cost 2–4 times more than calling a technician to re-hang it.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to reverse the door on an Indesit refrigerator with one compressor?

Yes, but there is a nuance: on models with one compressor (for example, Indesit ST 167) may be required after reweighing recalibration of the thermostat. This is due to a change in the distribution of cold air. If the refrigerator begins to work louder or takes longer to produce cold, contact a specialist for adjustments.

Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?

Absolutely! Even if you have a model with No Frost, turn off the refrigerator 6-8 hours before work. This will prevent the formation of condensation on electronic components and will simplify dismantling (for example, if the seal is frozen to the body).

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

The reasons may be different:

1. The hinges are unevenly tightened - loosen them and adjust again.
2. The seal is deformed - try heating it with a hair dryer (maximum 50°C) or replace it.
3. The refrigerator body is skewed - check the evenness of the floor and adjust the legs.

If the problem persists, return the door to its original position - the fasteners may be damaged worn out.

How long does re-hanging take?

On average, the process takes from 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the model and experience. The most time-consuming steps:

• Dismantling hinges on models with a counterweight (up to 30 minutes).
• Reconfiguring wires on refrigerators with a display (up to 40 minutes).
• Adjusting the door after installation (10–20 minutes).

Take your time - it’s better to spend more time setting up than to eliminate the consequences later.

Is it possible to hang the door on a built-in Indesit refrigerator?

Technically, yes, but this is highly not recommended without experience. Built-in models (for example Indesit BI 16) have:

• Hidden fasteners that are easy to damage.
• Special hinges with shock absorbers for smooth closing.
• Integration with the kitchen facade - replacement may be required after rehanging decorative panels.

In this case, it is better to contact the specialists who installed the refrigerator.