Changing the layout in the kitchen often puts owners of household appliances in a dilemma: where to put the refrigerator if the door now swings open in the wrong direction? For equipment owners LG this problem can be solved, since most modern models structurally provide for the possibility of re-hanging the sash. However, the process itself requires care and adherence to a strict sequence of actions so as not to damage expensive mechanisms.
Before starting work, you must clearly understand that you are dealing with heavy constructionthat requires physical strength and precision. Improper dismantling can lead to damage to the seal, breakage of plastic fasteners, or even deformation of the housing. In this article, we will look in detail at how to safely and correctly hang a refrigerator door LG, what tools are needed and what to pay special attention to.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a door display or system Door-in-Door, the procedure may become significantly more complicated due to the presence of electrical loops. In such cases, we strongly advise you to check the official instructions for the specific model, since disconnecting the wires requires special care.
Preparation of tools and workplace
The success of the operation directly depends on how well you prepare for the process. You will need not only a standard DIY kit, but also free space to maneuver. Before using screwdrivers, clear the area around the refrigerator and ensure good access from all sides of the unit. This will allow you to walk freely around the equipment and not miss a single detail.
For work you will need the following tools: Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, a set of open-end wrenches (most often sizes 8, 10, 14 mm), pliers and masking tape. It is also a good idea to prepare a container for storing screws so that they do not get lost in the process. Remember that fasteners different models may differ in diameter and length, so sorting is required.
- 🔧 A set of screwdrivers with different attachments for screws of different calibers.
- 🔑 Open-end wrenches for unscrewing hinge bolts.
- 🧣 Thick fabric or cardboard to protect the floor and body from scratches.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges.
Pay special attention door latches. Before starting any work, the refrigerator doors must be securely locked in the closed position. To do this, you can use masking tape or special belts. This will prevent spontaneous opening of the sash when the fasteners are loosened, which is especially important when working with top hinges.
Removing the top panel and hinges
The process begins with removing the top cover refrigerator, if it structurally blocks access to the top hinge. In models LG the cover is usually held on by latches or screws on the reverse side. Carefully pry up the edge of the cover with a flat-head screwdriver, after protecting the surface with a cloth so as not to leave marks. After removing the cover, you will have access to the upper bracket.
Next, you should unscrew the bolts holding the upper hinge of the main door. Do not remove them completely at once - loosen the fasteners to make sure that all bolts unscrew properly. Then remove the screws completely and remove the hinge. Now you can remove the door itself: it is better to do this with an assistant, since the door is heavy and easy to drop or scratch the floor.
After removing the main door, go to middle loop (if you have a two-chamber refrigerator) or immediately to the bottom one, if the model is single-chamber. The principle of operation is similar: unscrew the fasteners and remove the element. It is important not to lose any bushings or washers that may be inside the hinge mechanism. They often fall out unnoticed, which creates problems during reassembly.
☑️ Checklist before dismantling
Moving fastening elements to the other side
The most important stage is preparing the opposite side of the case for installing the hinges. At the end of the refrigerator, on the side where you plan to hang the door, there are technological holes closed with plastic plugs. They must be carefully removed. To do this, use the thin blade of a flat-head screwdriver, prying the plug from the edge.
Do not throw away the removed plastic plugs - you will need them to close the vacated holes on the other side. Install hinge mechanisms to the corresponding slots on the new side. Make sure they fit snugly and don't wobble. In some models LG the hinge pin may need to be repositioned: it must be removed from the old hole and inserted into a new one, having previously been lubricated graphite lubricant for silent operation.
| Element | Action during transfer | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Top loop | Dismantle and move to the opposite side | Critical |
| Bottom hinge | Replace with a mirror one or turn the existing one over | Critical |
| Door stop | Move to the hole on the other side body | High |
| Decorative plugs | Close the old hinge holes with them | Aesthetics |
⚠️ Attention: When rearranging the bottom hinge, make sure that you use exactly the side of the mechanism that is designed to open in the direction you choose. Some hinges asymmetricaland their incorrect installation will result in the door not fitting tightly.
Installing the door and adjusting the position
After preparing the seats, you can begin hanging the doors. Start with the bottom sash (in two-chamber models). Insert the lower hinge pin into the corresponding hole on the door and carefully lower the structure. Then put on the middle hinge (if there is one) and secure it with the bolts, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This will allow you to further adjust the gaps gap adjustment.
Hang the top door in the same way. Make sure that the top hinge pin fits into the hole at the end of the door. Now you can tighten all the bolts. Do this evenly, using a cross tightening pattern to avoid distortion of the metal. Check how the door opens and closes: the movement should be smooth, without creaking or jamming.
If you notice that the door is skewed or does not fit tightly to the body, it is necessary to make adjustments. Loosen the middle or bottom hinge mounting bolts slightly and move the door slightly in the desired direction. For precise adjustment, use a building level, applying it to the end of the open door. Verticality installation ensures proper operation of the self-closing system.
Features of models with a display and the No Frost system
Owners of modern models LG with a display on the door or system Door-in-Door need to be careful. In such designs, electrical wires pass through the top loop, connecting the control panel to the main unit. Before removing the door it is necessary disconnect the connectors. Do not pull the wires - find the latch lock and gently press it.
When reinstalling on the new side, make sure that the length of the wires allows you to connect them to the connector on the other side. In some cases, it may be necessary to extend the cable or reconnect it inside the refrigerator body, which is best left to a specialist. Incorrect connection can lead to short circuit or failure of the control module.
Also pay attention to the system No Frost. When re-hanging the door, it is important not to damage the cold air supply ducts that may run near the hinges. Make sure that when installing a new loop you do not crush or displace the air ducts, otherwise the freezing efficiency may be reduced.
What to do if the wires are too short?
Some models provide the ability to resolder the contacts or use an extension cord, but this will void the warranty. If the standard length is not enough, consider installing the display in a standard place (if the design allows) or contact a service center for a professional lengthening of the cable.
Final check and elimination of gaps
The final stage is a thorough check of the quality of the work performed. Visually inspect the perimeter of the door: the gap between the seal and the body should be uniform along the entire length. If in some place the door does not fit tightly, try heating this area of the seal with a hairdryer (without overheating!) and press the door tightly for a few minutes. This will help the rubber straighten and take the desired shape.
Do a test with a sheet of paper: clamp the sheet between the door and the body at different points and try to pull it out. The paper should be pulled out with noticeable force. If the sheet falls out freely, it means that in this place tightness it is broken, and additional adjustment of the hinges is required. Also check the operation of the magnetic latches - they should work clearly at the moment of contact.
Do not forget to install decorative plugs on the old holes for the hinges. This will not only improve the appearance of the refrigerator, but also protect the internal cavities from dust and moisture. After all the manipulations, let the refrigerator stand for 3-4 hours before turning it on, especially if you tilted the unit strongly during operation.
Do I need to call a technician for rehanging the LG door?
If you have basic tool skills and physical strength, you can do it yourself. However, if you have a model with a display, a Door-in-Door system, or you are afraid of damaging the seal, it is better to turn to professionals so as not to lose the warranty.
Is it possible to rehang the door without emptying the refrigerator?
Theoretically it is possible, but it is highly not recommended. Full shelves add significant weight to the door, increasing the risk of it falling or damaging the hinges. In addition, food may spill out when the sash is tilted. It is better to empty the refrigerator in advance.
Why does the door not close completely after rehanging?
Most likely, the tilt adjustment of the refrigerator is broken. Make sure the front legs are twisted out so that the body is slightly tilted back. Also check if any of the products on the shelves are preventing the door from closing tightly.
Will the warranty remain valid after self-rearrangement?
According to the law, the consumer has the right to self-repair. However, if in the process you damage the hinges, seals or electrical components, the service center may refuse to repair these components free of charge. Proceed with caution and save all removed parts.