The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door often arises when rearranging furniture or changing the layout of the kitchen. Equipment owners Biryusa face this issue regularly, since the design of many models allows them to perform this operation independently. The process requires care and adherence to a certain sequence of actions so as not to damage the fittings.
In most cases, the procedure takes no more than one hour if you have a basic set of tools. It is important to understand that modern models may have differences in hinge design from older versions. Before starting work, it is necessary to clear the space around the unit and prepare the working area.
There are critical points, ignoring which can lead to skewing of the canvas or damage to the seal. Be sure to make sure that your refrigerator model has mounting holes on the on the opposite side of the body, since not all modifications of Biryusa are symmetrical. Next we will look at a detailed algorithm of actions for various types of structures.
Preparation of tools and workplace
Quality performance of work directly depends on preparation. You do not need complex specialized equipment, but a standard home craftsman's kit will be sufficient. It is recommended to collect everything you need in advance so as not to interrupt the search process.
The main tool will be an open-end or socket wrench, the size of which depends on the diameter of the hinge bolts (most often 8, 10 or 12 mm). In some cases, a Phillips screwdriver may be required to remove decorative plugs or plastic elements.
- 🔧 Set of open-end wrenches or ratchet heads
- 🪛 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- 📏 Construction level (preferably)
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands
Ensure good lighting of the work area. The refrigerator should be stable; it is advisable to move it away from the wall at arm's length. If the floor is slippery, place thick cardboard or a rubber mat under the legs.
Removing the top panel and preparing the case
The first step is always removing the top cover of the refrigerator compartment, if it is structurally provided for in your model. This is necessary to gain access to the upper fasteners and to be able to easily remove the door leaf. In some modifications Biryusa the cover can be secured with latches.
Carefully push the cover back or lift it, releasing it from the latches. Do not use excessive force to avoid breaking the plastic guides. If the cover is metal and screwed on, use an appropriate screwdriver.
⚠️ Attention: Before removing any parts of the case, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical outlet to avoid short circuits or damage to the electronics.
After removing the cover, inspect the top of the case. You will see holes covered with plastic plugs. This is where the loops will be transferred. Pull out the plugs on the right side (if the door is on the left) and install them in the vacated holes on the left side to maintain an aesthetic appearance.
What to do if the plugs are lost?
If the decorative plugs are lost or broken, they can be replaced with universal furniture plugs of a suitable diameter or carefully painted over the holes with a furniture marker in the color of the body. This does not affect functionality, but improves the appearance.
Removing the door leaf and dismantling the hinges
The most crucial moment is removing the door itself. Refrigerator doors Turk have significant weight, especially the lower freezer compartment. It is recommended to perform this operation with an assistant or use a stable stand.
Start with the top loop. Unscrew the bolts securing it to the body, but do not remove the hinge itself from the door completely yet. Then carefully lift the door to remove the axle from the lower slot. If there is a pin in the design, it must first be knocked out or unscrewed.
- 🚪 Hold the door with one hand while unscrewing the upper fastener
- 📏 Fix the position of the lower hinge before removing
- 🔄 Remove the door and put it in a safe place
After removing the canvas, dismantle the mating part of the lower loop. Clean the threaded holes from dust and dirt. Check the condition of the bushings and washers - if they are worn, it is better to replace them with new ones to avoid squeaking in the future.
☑️ Check before installation
Installing fasteners on the new side
Now you need to move all the fittings to the opposite side. Carefully study the design of the removed hinges. They are often symmetrical, but may require reversing or replacing the pins with mirrored ones.
Install the bottom hinge in a new place. Insert the axle into the socket and temporarily secure the bolts without tightening them all the way. This will allow you to adjust the position of the door when hanging. Use a level to check the horizontal position.
For the upper part, the procedures are similar. Screw the pin or install the upper hinge into the prepared holes. Tightening the bolts should be done consistently and evenly to avoid metal distortion.
| Element | Action | Tool | Tightening torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom loop | Installation in socket | Key 10 mm | Medium |
| Top hinge | Attachment to body | 8 mm key | Strong |
| Plug decor | Replacement sides | Hands/Screwdriver | - |
| Door handle | Transfer (if necessary) | Hex | Medium |
Don't forget rearrange the handle if the refrigerator model requires its symmetrical installation. To do this, you usually need to remove the decorative trims and twist the fastening screws from one side to the other.
Hanging the door and final adjustment
We return the door leaf to its place. Carefully slide the bottom hole of the door onto the hinge pin. Make sure that the door is level and not warped. Now you can fix the upper hinge with bolts.
The main task at this stage is to achieve a tight fit sealing rubber along the entire perimeter. If the door is warped, there will be gaps in the corners through which the cold will escape. Adjustment is made by loosening the hinge bolts and slightly moving the blade.
⚠️ Attention: When adjusting, do not overdo it with force. Excessive tension can deform the metal of the door or lead to rapid wear of the hinges.
Check the operation of the door: it should open smoothly, without creaking or jamming. When released from an opening angle of about 30 degrees, the door should close automatically under the action of the magnetic seal.
Frequent errors and ways to eliminate them
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, errors are possible. Most often, users encounter loose closure. This can be caused not only by misalignment, but also by debris getting under the seal or deformation of the rubber itself after transportation.
Another common problem is the door hitting the internal shelves or drawers when opening. This can be solved by more precise adjustment of the stops or by checking the correct installation of the internal guides of the freezer.
- ❌ The door does not hold: check the tightness of the top hinge bolts
- ❌ Whistle when closing: lubricate the seal or check the ventilation holes
- ❌ Creak: the hinges need to be lubricated and the axle checked
If you notice that after rehanging the refrigerator began to freeze worse, check whether the temperature sensor cable has been pinched (if it is laid) inside the door). In rare cases, adjustment of the thermostat may be required.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging the doors?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you are working quickly. However, if there is a lot of ice in the freezer compartment, it is better to defrost the unit in advance so that water does not flow out when tilting the case during work.
Is it possible to hang the door by one person?
Technically possible, but highly not recommended. Refrigerator doors Biryusa are heavy and oversized. The risk of dropping the unit or damaging the floor is high. It’s better to call an assistant.
What to do if the holes on the new side do not match?
In the factory, all holes must be drilled. If they are not there, then your model does not provide for overweight. Drilling new holes yourself is dangerous - you can damage the internal circuit or freon tube.
How long does the glue take to dry if I glued the seal?
If you replaced the seal, let the glue dry for at least 2-3 hours before closing the door for the first time. Complete polymerization takes about 24 hours, during this time try not to open the refrigerator unless absolutely necessary.