Rearranging furniture in the kitchen or changing the layout often dictates its own conditions, and the standard opening of the refrigerator can become an obstacle. The situation when the door rests against the wall or interferes with the passage is familiar to many owners of household appliances. Fortunately, most modern models allow you to change the opening side, which solves the problem of ergonomics without the need to purchase a new unit.
The process hanging doors is not technically difficult, but requires care, accuracy and a basic set of tools. Incorrectly performed actions can lead to skew of the blade, loose seal and, as a result, breakdown of the compressor due to constant wear and tear. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various types of structures.
Before you begin dismantling, you need to make sure that your refrigerator generally supports this function. Some budget models or specific designs may have asymmetrical hinges or hidden fasteners that do not allow manipulation. Inverter models and devices with the No Frost system are most often equipped with universal fasteners, but checking the manual is a mandatory first step.
Preparation of tools and workers places
The success of the operation depends 90% on proper preparation. You don't need a complex industrial tool, but using the wrong screwdrivers can strip the screw slots, turning a simple task into a serious problem. Clear the space in front of the refrigerator in advance to ensure access from all sides.
The basic set of tools usually includes open-end wrenches, a set of screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead) and, possibly, hexagons. Some models Samsung or LG may require a special key included with purchase, which is often lost or thrown away by owners.
- 🔧 A set of screwdrivers with magnetic tips for conveniently holding fasteners.
- 🔑 Open-end keys measuring 8, 10 and 12 mm (size depends on the model).
- 📏 Construction level for checking the horizontal position after installation.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to turn off the refrigerator from the mains! This is not only a safety requirement, but also a way to prevent accidental activation of the compressor or backlight while manipulating the wiring.
It is also recommended to empty the door shelves of products and remove the glass shelves themselves to reduce the weight of the structure. Heavy bottles of drinks may fall out when the unit is tilted, so it is better to move the refrigerator to the “vacation” mode or simply defrost it in advance.
☑️ Preparing for rehanging
Removing the top panel and hinge cover
The first stage of work involves removing the top cover of the refrigerator compartment, if it is structurally provided for by the model. In double-compartment refrigerators, the top hinge is often hidden under a decorative panel that is secured with latches or screws. You must act carefully so as not to break the plastic fasteners.
After removing the decorative trim, access to the upper fastener opens. Here it is important to remember or photograph the order of the washers and bushings. When reassembling the new side, these elements must fall into place, otherwise the door will creak or close poorly.
After unscrewing the bolts of the top hinge, do not rush to remove the door. It rests only on this mount and can fall. It is better to perform this operation with an assistant who will hold the blade while you remove the hinge axis. If there is no assistant, place a stable support or frame under the door.
What to do if the screws are rusty?
If the mounting bolts do not unscrew due to corrosion, try dripping a penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) on them and wait 10-15 minutes. Do not use excessive force to avoid stripping the threads on the refrigerator body. If lubricant does not help, carefully warm the bolt head with a hair dryer.
In some models Bosch or Siemens the upper loop is integrated into the control system, and wires may come from it. In this case, you need to carefully disconnect the connectors, first remembering their color marking or position.
Removing the door leaf and rearranging the fittings
When the top hinge is released, you can remove the door. Gently lift it up to disengage the lower bushing and set it aside in a safe place. Now attention turns to the lower part of the refrigerator, where the support loop is located.
The lower support must be removed and moved to the opposite side. For this purpose, threaded holes are provided on the refrigerator body, closed with plastic plugs. Unscrew the plugs from the working side and install them in place of future holes to close the voids.
Pay special attention to the door handles. If they are not symmetrical, they will also need to be reinstalled. In most cases, to do this, you need to remove the decorative trims on the inside of the door that hide the fastening screws.
- 🚪 Remove the door and place it on a soft surface (for example, a blanket).
- 🔩 Move the opening limiter to the opposite corner of the door.
- 🧲 Check the condition of the magnetic seal and straighten it if necessary.
- 🔌 If there are wires, carefully pull them through the provided channels.
⚠️ Attention: When rearranging the handles, make sure that you do not confuse the left and right sides. Asymmetrical handles will not physically fit into place if you try to secure them incorrectly.
If your refrigerator has a display or control panel on the door, the process becomes more complicated. The cable wires may be short, and they will have to be carefully transferred to another groove or, in rare cases, extended if the design allows it. It is critical here not to damage the thin contacts.
Installing the door on a new side
After all the fittings have been rearranged and the lower support is secured on the desired side, you can begin installing the door leaf. Install the door on the lower hinge, making sure that it fits tightly into place.
Next comes the most crucial moment - installing the upper hinge. Align the holes in the door with the mounting holes on the frame. Insert the bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow you to correct the position of the door if it becomes crooked.
For models with a system Super Freeze or other advanced functions, it is important to check whether the wires are pinched when closing the door. The cable should not touch sharp metal edges or refrigeration circuit tubes.
| Refrigerator type | Installation features | Required tools |
|---|---|---|
| Single chamber | Simple rearranging hinges | Screwdriver, 10 mm wrench |
| Two-chamber (No Frost) | You need to remove both doors | Set of keys, hexagon |
| With display on doors | Requires electrical work | Screwdrivers, electrical tape |
| Built-in | Complex fastening system | Full set of tools |
When tightening the top hinge bolts, use moderate force. Excessive force can warp the metal or strip threads, especially if the body is made of thin steel. After fixing, check whether the axle rotates freely.
Adjusting the position and eliminating gaps
Putting the door in place is only half the battle. Now you need to achieve a perfect fit of the seal around the entire perimeter. If the door is skewed, warm air will enter the chamber, which will lead to the formation of ice and an increase in energy consumption.
Adjustment is carried out using screws located on the hinges. By rotating them, you can raise or lower the corners of the door, as well as change its tilt forward or backward. Use a building level, applying it to the end of the door.
Check the work closer (if there is one). The door should close itself, starting from a certain opening angle (usually 30-40 degrees). If this does not happen, perhaps the refrigerator is not level or the hinges are overtightened.
A frequent problem after re-hanging is the appearance of a gap in the upper or lower corner. This can be solved by placing thin washers under the hinge or by adjusting the height of the support legs of the refrigerator itself. By twisting the front legs, you can tilt the body back, which will ensure automatic closing.
⚠️ Attention: If after adjustment you see that the seal does not fit in one place, do not try to solve the problem by forcefully closing it. This will cause the rubber to rupture. Use a hairdryer to slightly warm up and straighten the deformed area of the seal.
After installation, give them a few days to “get in” and take the desired shape. During this period, you should not load the door shelves with heavy objects.
Tightness check and testing
The final stage is checking the quality of the work performed. The easiest way to check for leaks is to test with a piece of paper. Clamp the sheet with the refrigerator door around the entire perimeter. If the sheet is pulled out with force and breaks, the seal is good. If the sheet slides freely, additional adjustment is needed.
It is also worth paying attention to the operation of the backlight and control panel. Make sure that when the door is closed, the light goes out and the opening sensor works correctly. In models Indesit or Atlant the sensor can be mechanical, and it must be positioned correctly.
Plug in the refrigerator and leave it running without loading for 2-3 hours. Listen to the compressor: it should not run continuously. If the unit hums more than usual or does not turn off, check whether the door is touching the housing or tubes from behind.
- 📄 Carry out a test with a sheet of paper around the entire perimeter of the door.
- 💡 Check the operation of the light lamp and door sensor.
- 🌡️ Make sure that after After 2 hours, the temperature rose inside.
- 👂 Listen to the absence of extraneous creaks when opening.
If all tests are successful, you can load the products. Remember that the initial freezing may take longer if the doors have just been hung and opened many times.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to reverse the doors on a built-in refrigerator?
Yes, on most built-in models this is possible, but the process is more complicated. You will have to dismantle the façade furniture trim and rehang it together with the refrigerator door. Often, special fasteners are required, which come with the furniture.
What to do if the holes for the hinges on one side do not match?
In some models, the holes may be hidden under factory plugs. If there are physically no holes, then your model does not provide for overhanging. You cannot drill new holes in the case - this will break the thermal insulation and tightness of the circuit.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?
It is advisable, but not strictly necessary if you work quickly. However, when defrosting, there will be no water inside that could spill when tilting or removing the door. In addition, an empty refrigerator is easier to maneuver.
Why does the door open by itself after rehanging?
Most likely, the angle of the body is broken. The refrigerator should be tilted slightly backwards. Adjust the height of the front support legs by unscrewing them to raise the front part of the unit.
Will the warranty remain valid after re-hanging it yourself?
Officially, any interference with the design may be grounds for denial of warranty service if the breakdown is associated with your actions. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to call a specialist from an authorized center.