The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door often arises when moving to a new apartment or after remodeling the kitchen space. Equipment owners Biryusa may encounter a situation where the standard arrangement of handles interferes with free passage or installation of the unit in a niche. Fortunately, the design of most models of this Russian brand allows you to do rehanging the door itself, without contacting a service center. This will not only save your budget, but will also allow you to customize the opening mechanism perfectly to your layout.
The process requires care and adherence to a certain procedure so as not to damage fittings or the sealing rubber. Before you begin, it is important to ensure that your refrigerator comes with the necessary spare parts, such as plugs for holes that may be required after dismantling. It is also worth preparing the workplace in advance, freeing up space in front of the equipment for easy access to fasteners.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various models, including single-chamber and double-chamber units. You will learn what tools you will need, how to properly remove the old hinges and install them on the opposite side. We will pay special attention to the nuances of adjusting the gaps, since the tightness of the sash and, therefore, the energy efficiency of the compressor depends on this.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
To successfully complete the task of changing the opening side, you will need a minimum set of tools, which is usually found in every home. The main tool will be screwdriver or a set of screwdrivers with different attachments, since fasteners can have different types of heads. Some refrigerator models Turquo use hex bolts, so having a corresponding key will also be useful.
In addition to the main tool, prepare a soft bedding, for example, a thick blanket or several towels This is necessary in order to lay the removed door on the floor without the risk of scratching the decorative coating or breaking the glass shelves inside if you decide not to remove them in advance. You may also need a spirit level to check level after installation, although in most cases a visual inspection will suffice.
- 🛠️ Set of screwdrivers (phillips and flathead) or screwdriver with bits
- 🔧 Wrench or set of sockets (size 8 or 10 mm is often required)
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges
- 🧹 A piece of fabric for wiping the hinges from old grease
It is important to note that some models may be equipped with a special adapter for the handle, which will need to be rearranged. If your kit does not contain such parts, and the holes on the other side are closed with decorative plugs, carefully remove them. In older models of Biryusa refrigerators, the holes for the hinges may not be drilled on the back side, which makes re-hanging impossible without drilling the case, which is not recommended.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from power grid! Remove the plug from the outlet to eliminate the risk of electric shock and damage to electronics if it is accidentally shorted out.
Removing the top hinge and removing doors
The process should begin from the top of the refrigerator compartment, since this is where the main support mechanism is located. First, remove the decorative cap that hides the top hinge fasteners. It can be made in the form of a plastic cover or simply a closing cover, which is pryed off with a flat screwdriver. Be careful not to break the plastic clamps of the plug.
Once access to the fasteners is cleared, you must lock the door in the open position or have an assistant support it. Then, using a suitable tool (usually an 8 or 10mm wrench), remove the bolts holding the top hinge in place. Do not remove the hinge pin completely if the design does not require it; simply loosen the fastening to remove the element.
Carefully lift the door, removing it from the lower support pin. This is the most crucial moment, since the door can be heavy and have sharp edges. Place the removed sash on a previously prepared soft surface with the inside facing up. Now you can begin rearranging the handles and preparing for installation on the other side.
☑️ Dismantling the upper part
If your refrigerator is a two-chamber one, then after removing the upper door of the refrigerator compartment, a similar procedure must be carried out with the lower door of the freezer. The principle of operation remains the same: removing the plugs, unscrewing the fasteners of the top hinge of a particular door and carefully removing it.
Rearranging the handles and preparing the holes
The next step is to move the handle to the opposite side of the door. On most models Biryusa the handles are attached to screws on the inside of the blade. You need to remove these screws and remove the handle. In the vacated space there will be through holes that need to be closed.
To close the old holes, use special plugs that come with the refrigerator. They usually have a color that matches the color of the body. If the plugs are lost or missing, you can use plastic plugs of the appropriate diameter or even carefully paint over the holes if aesthetics allow. The main thing is to prevent moisture and dust from getting inside the door.
Now inspect the opposite side of the door. There should be technological holes closed with factory plugs. Remove them and install the handle, securing it with screws from the inside. Make sure that the handle sits tightly and does not wobble, as ease of use depends on this.
- 🔩 Unscrew the screws securing the handle from the inside
- 🚫 Close the free holes with the plugs from the kit
- 👐 Install the handle on the prepared holes on the other side
- ✅ Check the reliability of the handle fixation
In some cases, it may be necessary to rearrange the mating part of the lock or magnetic lock, if the design of your model allows for this. Typically this element is located on the opposite end of the door and also has symmetrical holes for installation. Rearrange it, if necessary, following the same logic of dismantling and installation.
Installing hinges on the opposite side
After preparing the doors, you can begin installing hinges on the new side. Please note that the left and right hinges may differ in design, so it is important not to confuse them during installation. The lower support sleeve usually has threads or splines for height adjustment, which will be useful during the final adjustment stage.
Install the lower hinge in its new location by screwing it into the holes provided for this purpose. Do not tighten the bolt all the way right away; leave a small gap for later adjustment of the door position. Place the freezer door (if you have a two-chamber one) onto the bottom pin and hold it.
Then install the middle hinge (divider), if the refrigerator model assumes its presence between the chambers. Place the pin through the hinge and through the freezer door. Now you can put the main door of the refrigerator compartment back in place. Align the holes in the top hinge with the holes on the refrigerator body.
| Element | Action | Tool | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom hinge | Attachment to the body | Wrench 8-10 mm | Do not tighten completely |
| Middle loop | Installation between cameras | Screwdriver/Key | Align pin |
| Upper hinge | Fixing the upper door | Screwdriver | Check the level |
| Plugs | Closing old holes | Hands/Flat screwdriver | Select by color |
Screw in the bolts of the upper hinge, but, as in the case of the lower hinge, do not apply maximum force immediately. The door should hold, but be able to move slightly to align. Only after all the hinges are in place can you begin the final adjustment.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that the wiring inside the door (if there is a display or indication on the door) is not twisted and has sufficient length to open in the new direction. In Biryusa models with an electronic panel on the door, the cable may need to be reconnected.
Adjusting the gaps and tightness
Correct adjustment is the key to the fact that the refrigerator will work economically and will not become covered with ice. After installing all the elements, check the tightness of the sealing rubber around the entire perimeter. The gaps between the body and the door should be uniform, without sharp expansions or contractions.
To adjust the position, use the adjusting screws on the lower and middle hinges. By rotating them, you can raise or lower the corner of the door, as well as move it closer or further from the body. If the door does not fit tightly at the top, try unscrewing the upper adjustment screw a little or tightening the lower one.
Checking the quality of the fit can be done using a simple test with a sheet of paper. Squeeze the sheet with the door and try to pull it out. At different points of the perimeter the force should be approximately the same. If the sheet is pulled out too easily, tightening the hinges is required in this place.
- 📏 Check the uniformity of the gap around the entire perimeter
- 🔄 Adjust the height of the lower support sleeve
- 🧲 Make sure the magnetic lock works along the entire length
- 🚪 Check the ease of opening and closing
You should also pay attention to the opening angle. The door should open freely, without touching adjacent furniture or walls, and be independently brought to close at the last degrees of travel (if the model includes a closer). If the door is skewed, loosen the hinges, straighten the door and tighten the bolts again.
Frequent errors and troubleshooting
When re-hanging doors themselves, users often make mistakes that can lead to incorrect operation of the refrigerator. One of the most common is the loss or confusion of fasteners. To avoid this, sort the bolts by work phase or use a magnetic tray. Mixing up long and short screws can result in damage to the internal plastic or a loose fit.
Another mistake is over-tightening the hinge bolts. This can warp the metal or strip threads, especially in aluminum alloys, which are used in some components. Tighten fasteners with moderate force, using a sense of proportion. If the thread is tight, it is better to lubricate it with a drop of machine oil.
What to do if the door does not close tightly?
If there are gaps left after adjusting the hinges, check the condition of the sealing rubber. It may be dirty or deformed. Try washing it with warm water and soap or using a hairdryer (carefully!) to restore elasticity. In extreme cases, the seal will have to be replaced.
Do not forget about safety. Working with metal parts and tools requires concentration. An accidental screwdriver or falling door can cause injury. Always work in a stable position and use protective gloves.
⚠️ Attention: The characteristics and design of the hinges may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific series of the Biryusa refrigerator. If you find that the holes do not match or the design is radically different from that described, check the official instructions for your model on the manufacturer's website.
Completion of work and inspection functionality
After all adjustment work has been completed, it is necessary to carry out a final check. Plug in the refrigerator and let it run for several hours. Listen to the sounds: there are no new creaks or knocks that may indicate friction of parts.
Check the operation of the internal mechanisms, if they have been affected. Make sure the light comes on when you open the door and goes off when you close it. If there is a light switch on the door, make sure that it is pressed correctly when opening the new side.
On the first day of operation, watch for the formation of condensation or ice in the corners of the doorway. The appearance of frost may indicate that the door does not fit tightly and requires repeated, finer adjustment of the hinges. Do not ignore this sign, as the constant suction of warm air will cause the compressor to wear out.
Now your refrigerator Biryusa has been adapted to the new kitchen layout. Correctly re-hanging the door will not only improve the ergonomics of the space, but will also extend the service life of the unit itself due to the correct operation of the seal and hinges. Enjoy the updated interior and ease of use of the equipment.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to reverse the door on a Biryusa refrigerator with a display?
Yes, on most models with display overweighting is possible, but it requires more caution. You will have to disconnect the wiring harness that goes to the control panel and carefully transfer it to the other side, being careful not to damage the contacts. In some cases, it may be necessary to reprogram the board, but most often the electronics itself determines the position or does not depend on the opening side.
What to do if the plugs for the holes are lost?
If the factory plugs are lost, they can be replaced with universal plastic plugs of a suitable diameter, which are sold in hardware stores. You can also use pieces of rubber or even carefully cover the holes with a decorative sticker in the color of the case if aesthetics are not a priority in a hidden place.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, it is recommended to remove all products and shelves to lighten the door and prevent contents from falling when tilted. If there is a lot of ice in the freezer, the door may become too heavy and skewed, which will complicate the installation of the hinges, so in this case defrosting is advisable.
Why does the door open by itself after rehanging?
Most likely, the angle of the refrigerator is broken. For proper closure, the housing must be tilted slightly backwards. Adjust the height of the refrigerator's front support legs by unscrewing them until the front is raised. Also check if the door is touching the floor or rug.