Reversing the doors on the refrigerator Stinol is a task that almost every owner of this equipment 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 models Stinol (including popular series STN 165, STN 175, STN 190) structurally provide for this possibility. However, the process requires accuracy and knowledge of key nuances - from the correct dismantling of hinges to adjusting the new position of the door.
In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photosa list of necessary tools, as well as answers to typical questions: how to avoid door skewing, what to do if the hinges do not match the holes, and is it possible to rehang the door on older models? Stinol without the help of a wizard. We will also look at models with a water dispenser. If you have never done this kind of work, don’t worry: with the right approach, the process will take no more than 1–1.5 hours. features of re-hanging for two-chamber refrigerators and models with a water dispenser. If you have never done this kind of work, don’t worry: with the right approach, the process will take no more than 1–1.5 hours.
Before you begin, please note: improper re-hanging can lead to k poor fit of the sealwhich will entail increased energy consumption and a reduction in the service life of equipment. Therefore, carefully follow the recommendations and do not skip the adjustment steps!
Preparation for work: tools and safety measures
Before you begin dismantling, prepare everything you need. Most tools can be found in your home arsenal, but some items (for example Hex keys) may require purchase. Here is the complete list:
- 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (size PH2) - for most hinge screws.
- 🔧 Hex wrench (usually 5 or 6 mm) - for adjusting the top hinge on some models.
- 🔧 Wrench (10 or 13 mm) - for lower hinges and door fastening.
- 📏 Ruler or tape measure - for checking gaps.
- 🧲 Magnet or screwdriver with a magnetic tip —to avoid losing small screws.
- 🧴 Silicone grease (optional)—for processing hinges after rehanging.
- 📦 Cardboard or soft fabric —to avoid scratching the floor and the body of the refrigerator.
Also prepare a work space:
- 🚪 Give access to the refrigerator from all sides - you will need room for maneuver.
- 🔌 Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and wait until it is completely defrosted (if required).
- 🧊 Remove all products and shelves from the door - they may fall out during dismantling.
- 📸 Take a photo of the current position of the hinges and fasteners - this will help with reassembly.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Stinol is equipped with a system No Frostbefore re-hanging the door required wait for complete defrosting (at least 12 hours). Otherwise, condensation may damage the electronics or the seal.
Some models (for example, Stinol STN 185) have hidden fasteners under decorative plugs. If you're not sure where the screws are located, check your refrigerator's manual or find a diagram for your model online. Usually, the plugs are easy to pry off with a flat screwdriver.
Door hanging diagram: upper and lower hinges
The process of hanging a door on a refrigerator Stinol includes several key steps. The main rule: start with the top hinge, since it usually fixes the door in a vertical position. Below is a universal diagram suitable for most models:
- Removing the top hinge:
- 🔧 Unscrew the decorative hinge cover (if any) using a flat-head screwdriver.
- 🔧 Using a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the screws securing the hinge to the refrigerator body.
- 🔧 Carefully remove the hinge, holding the door (it may fall!).
- Removing the door:
- 🔧 Ask have an assistant support the door while you unscrew the bottom hinge.
- 🔧 Remove the door and place it on a soft surface (for example, a blanket).
- Rearranging hinges:
- 🔧 Transfer the hinges to the opposite side, using symmetrical ones holes.
- 🔧 If there are no holes, they need to be drilled (more on this below).
- 🔧 Place the door on the lower hinge, then fix the upper one.
- 🔧 Adjust the gaps (more details in the next section).
- Use a metal drill with a diameter
4–5 mm. - Apply markings along template from the old side.
- After drilling, file the edges of the holes.
An important nuance: on some models Stinol (for example, STN 200) the top hinge has adjusting screwwhich allows you to adjust the vertical position of the door. Do not tighten it too tightly - this may deform the seal.
☑️ Checklist before rehanging the door
Nuances for different models Stinol
Although the principle of reversing the doors is the same for most refrigerators Stinol, some models have features. The table below shows the key differences:
| Model | Weighing features | Additional tools |
|---|---|---|
| Stinol STN 165/175 | Symmetrical holes for hinges are already there. Only the decorative plugs need to be transferred. | Flat screwdriver for the plugs |
| Stinol STN 185/190 | The lower hinge is attached to 2 bolts, the upper - to 3. You need to carefully rearrange the seal. | 5 mm hexagon |
| Stinol STN 200 | Top hinge with height adjustment. Fine adjustment is required after installation. | Level for checking horizontal position |
| Stinol with dispenser | It is necessary to disconnect the water supply tubes and move them to the other side. | Pliers, sealant |
For models older than 2010 (for example, Stinol-101 or Stinol-103) may be required drilling new holes. In this case:
If your model is equipped with electronic display (for example, Stinol STN 260), before rehanging the door required turn off the power and wait until the capacitors discharge (10–15 minutes). Otherwise, there is a risk of a short circuit.
⚠️ Attention: On refrigerators Stinol with a system Full No Frost (for example, STN 220) overhanging the door may affect the operation of the fan. After installation, check whether the door is blocking the air passage at the top of the cabinet.
Adjusting the door after rehanging
Installing the door on new hinges is only half the battle. Correct adjustment guarantees a tight fit of the seal and no distortions. Here's how to do it:
- Checking the gaps:
- 📏 The gap between the door and the body should be the same around the entire perimeter (usually
2–3 mm). - 🔍 If the gap is larger on one side, loosen the hinges and adjust the position.
- 📏 The gap between the door and the body should be the same around the entire perimeter (usually
- Adjusting the top hinge:
- 🔧 Loosen the screws on the top hinge and slightly raise or lower the door.
- 🔧 Tighten screws, holding the door in the correct position.
- 🧲 Run your hand around the perimeter of the door - uniform magnetic pressure should be felt.
- 📄 If the seal comes off, warm it with a hairdryer (temperature
50–60°C) and shape. - Place a sheet of paper between the seal and the body.
- Close the door and try to pull out the sheet.
- If the sheet comes out easily, the seal needs to be adjusted or replaced.
To check the tightness, use test with a sheet of paper:
On models with two doors (freezer and refrigerator compartments) start the adjustment with the freezer compartment, since its door is usually heavier. After adjustment, check whether it catches on the refrigerator compartment handle when opening.
What to do if there are no holes for the hinges?
In some models Stinol (especially old or budget ones), holes for hinges are provided only on one side. In this case, you need to drill them yourself. Here's how to do it without the risk of damaging the refrigerator:
- Marking:
- 📏 Transfer the location of the holes from the opposite side using a ruler and marker.
- 🔍 Make sure that the marking is symmetrical - an error even
1–2 mmcan lead to misalignment.
- Drilling:
- 🔨 Use a metal drill with a diameter of
4 mm(for most hinges). - 🛠️ Drill at low speeds so as not to deform the body.
- 🧲 After drilling, remove metal shavings with a magnet.
- 🔨 Use a metal drill with a diameter of
- 🔧 Screw the screws into the new holes without using excessive force.
- 🔍 If the holes are too large, use threaded bushings.
If you are not confident in your drilling skills, you can use alternative method installing hinges on screws with a press washer. They are securely fixed in the metal without the need for precise drilling. However, this method is only suitable for lightweight doors (for example, a refrigerator). cameras).
⚠️ Attention: When drilling holes on models with built-in electronics (for example, Stinol STN 260Z), avoid areas where wires pass. They are usually located. around the perimeter of the door and in the upper part of the case. If in doubt, use a metal detector.
What to do if the drill slips and damages the case?
If a scratch is formed during drilling or a dent, it can be masked with special paint for household appliances (sold in cans). For deep damage, use metal putty, and then paint the restoration area.
Reversing the door on a Stinol two-chamber refrigerator
Two-chamber refrigerators Stinol (for example, STN 195 or STN 200) require a special approach, since they have two doors: a refrigerator and a freezer. The rehanging process here is more complicated, but can be done with your own hands. Follow this algorithm:
- Removing the freezer door:
- 🔧 Start with the bottom hinge - it is usually fixed with two bolts.
- 🔧 Carefully remove the door and set it aside.
- Removing the refrigerator door:
- 🔧 Unscrew the top hinge (it may be hidden under decorative overlay).
- 🔧 Remove the door, holding it by the lower part.
- Moving hinges:
- 🔧 Move the hinges to the opposite side, observing the order (first the freezer, then the refrigerator).
- 🔧 Make sure that the hinges do not block the opening of the adjacent door.
- 🔧 First put on the freezer door, then the refrigerator door.
- 🔧 Adjust the gaps between the doors (should be
3–5 mm).
Pay special attention alignment of doors in height. If the freezer compartment is higher than the refrigerator compartment, this can lead to:
- 🚪 doors against each other when opening.
- 🔊 The appearance of a creaking or knocking.
- 🧊 Violation of the seal tightness.
For models with separate hinges (for example, Stinol STN 220) may be required replacing the sides of the handles. Usually they are attached to two screws, which can be easily unscrewed with a Phillips screwdriver.
Typical mistakes and how to do them avoid
Even with careful preparation, many make mistakes that then have to be corrected. Here are the most common of them and ways to prevent them:
- 🔧 Uneven. gaps: Arise if the hinges are tightened asymmetrically. The solution is to loosen all the screws and level the door.
- 🚪 The door opens spontaneously: The reason is too much forward tilt. The solution is to adjust the top hinge by slightly tilting the refrigerator back.
- 🧲 The seal does not fit: It often happens if the door is skewed or the seal is deformed. The solution is to heat the seal with a hairdryer and force it. shape.
- 🔊 Creaking or knocking when opening: Indicates insufficient lubrication of the hinges or their incorrect installation. The solution is to lubricate the hinges with silicone grease.
- 💡 The backlight does not work: On some models, the backlight contacts are located in the loop. The solution is to check the connection of the wires after rehanging.
If after re-hanging the refrigerator became stronger make noisecheck:
- 🔧 Does the door touch the housing when closing.
- 🔌 Are the compressor fastenings loose (vibration can be transmitted to the door).
- 🧊 Does the door block the ventilation grilles (relevant for
No Frost).
If you encounter a problem not described above, check:
- 📄 Is the new position of the door correct? user manual (some models do not support overweighting).
- 🔧 Are there any foreign objects left inside the case foreign objects (screws, shavings).
- 🔌 Are the wires damaged Wires (relevant for models with a display).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about rehanging Stinol doors
Is it possible to rehang the door on a refrigerator Stinol is older than 15 years?
Yes, but there are nuances. On models before 2005 (for example, Stinol-101there are often no symmetrical holes for the hinges, so you will have to drill them yourself. Also pay attention to the condition of the seal - over the years of use it may have lost elasticity and cracked. In this case, it is recommended to replace it with a new one. overhanging.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before re-hanging the door?
It is necessary if your Stinol is not equipped with a system No FrostEven if there is visually no ice, condensation inside the case can damage the electronics during dismantling. c No Frost It is enough to disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 10-15 minutes to discharge the capacitors.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not close tightly?
There may be several reasons:
- Hinges are skewed - loosen the screws and align the door is level.
- Deformation of the seal - heat it with a hairdryer (
50–60°C) and shape it. - Debris gets between the seal and the body - clean the surface.
- Incorrect adjustment of the top hinge - it should hold the door slightly in a raised state.
If the problem persists, check whether the refrigerator body is bent when moving it.
Is it possible to rehang the door on a Stinol refrigerator with a water dispenser?
Yes, but the process is more complicated. You will need:
- Disconnect the water supply tubes from the door.
- Move them to the opposite side using standard holes or drilling new ones.
- Seal the connections with silicone sealant.
- Check the system for leaks after installation.
If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact a specialist - incorrectly connecting the pipes can lead to flooding.
How much does it cost to rehang the door on a Stinol refrigerator in a service center?
The cost of work in service centers varies from 1,500 to 3,500 rubles, depending on:
- Refrigerator models (two-chamber ones are more expensive).
- The need to drill new holes.
- Region (in Moscow and St. Petersburg prices are higher).
If the seal or hinges need to be replaced, the cost will increase by the price of spare parts. Re-hanging it yourself will only cost the cost of the tools (if you don’t have them at hand).