Rearranging furniture or changing the layout of the kitchen often dictates its own conditions, and the standard opening of the refrigerator door can become an obstacle. Owners of equipment from the Belarusian brand Atlant face this need regularly, since the design of many models initially allows for re-hanging. This is not a complex engineering task that requires calling a specialist, but a completely accessible procedure that can be performed independently with a basic set of tools.
The process reversing the door requires care and accuracy so as not to damage the enamel coating or hinges. Modern two-chamber models, such as the series XM-4008 or XM-4425, have symmetrical holes in the body, which greatly simplifies the task. However, older single-chamber units may require more careful preparation and testing of components.
In this article we will analyze a step-by-step algorithm of actions that will allow you to change the side of the door opening in one hour. You will learn what tools needed, how to properly dismantle the fittings and what to pay special attention to during installation. Compliance with the sequence of operations ensures that the refrigerator will work properly, and the sealing rubber will ensure tightness.
Necessary tools and workplace preparation
Before starting work, it is extremely important to prepare everything you need so as not to be distracted in the process. To dismantle and install the hinges, you will need a wrench (usually 10 mm), a flathead and Phillips screwdriver, and a knife to carefully remove the plugs. Some models Atlant are equipped with hinges that require the use of a hexagon, so check the equipment of your device in advance.
Free up space around the refrigerator: you need to freely walk around the unit on all sides. Determine in advance a place to store the removed parts so as not to lose small screws or bushings. If you are working on a slippery floor, lay down a mat or cardboard to prevent the fallen part from scratching the coating and rolling into an inaccessible place.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work with electrical appliances, be sure to unplug the refrigerator from the power supply. This is a basic rule safety precautionsthat cannot be ignored, even if you are only changing mechanical parts.
It is also recommended to free the door shelves to reduce its weight and the load on the hinges at the time of unscrewing. Heavy bottles or cans can shift the center of gravity, complicating the removal process. Make sure you have a rag on hand to wipe off dust and lubricate if you need to service the hinges.
☑️ Preparing to rehang
Removing the top panel and fittings
The process begins by removing the top cover of the refrigerator, if it is structurally provided in your model. In most cases, it is attached with two screws at the front or held on with latches. Carefully unscrew the fasteners and slide the cover back, then lift it up. Under the cover you will find the top hinge of the refrigerator door.
Next you need to clear the holes for a new installation. On the front side of the case, where the hinge is now located, there are decorative plugs. They need to be carefully pryed off with a knife or thin screwdriver. On the opposite side, where you plan to hang the door, these holes will be closed with the same plugs - they also need to be removed, but to install fasteners there fasteners.
Unscrew the screws holding the top hinge. Please note that in some models Atlant the screws may be of different lengths, so it is important to remember or write down which screw went where. After removing the hinge, the refrigerator door is released, and it can be carefully lifted and removed from the lower axis.
What to do if the screws are rusty?
If the fasteners do not give in, do not use excessive force so as not to strip the threads. Treat the joint with a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) and leave for 10-15 minutes. After this, try to carefully remove the screw from its place by lightly tapping the handle of the screwdriver.
Do not forget to rearrange the handle if the design of your model allows this. Often the handles are symmetrical, but may require moving the fasteners from one side to the other or turning them 180 degrees. To do this, it is usually enough to unscrew the screws securing the handle from the inside of the door or remove the decorative trims.
Re-hanging the freezer door
If you have a two-chamber refrigerator, the freezer compartment is next. The principle of operation is similar, but there are some nuances. First, remove the middle hinge, which usually connects the door mounts or is located between the chambers. In models with a separate freezer door, the steps are repeated: unscrewing, removing, rearranging the plugs.
It is important to correctly orient the door when removing. In some modifications Atlant the freezer door is removed along with the lower hinge, which is then transferred to the other side. In others, the hinge remains on the body, and the door is simply removed. Carefully inspect the structure: if the axle is pressed into the door, it will need to be removed and rearranged into the lower hole on the other side.
- 🔧 Unscrew the middle hinge and remove the freezer door.
- 🔩 Move the lower support hinge to the opposite one side of the body.
- 🚪 Install the freezer door on the new axis and secure the middle hinge.
- 🔍 Check the tightness of the seal around the entire perimeter.
When installing the door in place, make sure that it sits correctly on the hinge pins. A slight misalignment may result in the door not closing completely or opening on its own. If the door is in place, but is crooked, do not tighten the screws completely before making adjustments.
Installation and adjustment of doors
After all the doors have been hung on the new side, the stage of final assembly and adjustment begins. Tighten all the hinge screws, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This is necessary in order to be able to set the correct position of the doors relative to the refrigerator body.
Adjustment consists of ensuring a tight fit of the sealing rubber along the entire contour. Doors should open freely, without jamming, and close tightly. If you notice a gap at the top or bottom, slightly loosen the screws of the corresponding hinge and move the door in the desired direction, then tighten the fasteners again.
Pay special attention to the opening angle. Some models Atlas are equipped with a door opening limiter, which must also be moved to the other side. It is usually located at the bottom or top of the doorway and prevents the door from hitting a wall or furniture during a sharp jerk.
| Element | Action | Tool | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top hinge | Dismantling and transfer | Key 10 mm | Remember the order of screws |
| Door handle | Rearrangement | Screwdriver | Check symmetry |
| Sealant | Check fit | Visually | There should be no gaps |
| Limiter | Transfer to the side | Screwdriver | Not available in all models |
After final tightening of all bolts, check the operation of the doors several times. They should not slam when closed if sealed properly, and should not require excessive force to open. Correct installation is the key to the energy efficiency of your refrigerator.
Nuances for different Atlant models
Although the general principle is the same for most refrigerators, the model range Atlant varied. For example, in the KShD series (two-chamber) the common middle loop is often used, which requires special attention when rearranging. At the same time, single-chamber models can have a simplified design, where the lower loop is simply inserted into a hole in the floor of the refrigerator.
In models with a system No Frost it is important not to damage the air ducts that may pass near the hinges. When removing the top cover, be careful of the wires going to the light bulb or display if it is located on the case. In such cases, it may be necessary to temporarily disconnect the connectors to completely remove the door.
⚠️ Attention: On electronically controlled models, cables may run through the door (display). Before completely removing the door, make sure that you have disconnected the electrical connector, otherwise you may damage the wiring.
If you are the owner of an older model, produced more than 10 years ago, check the condition of the plastic bushings. Over time, the plastic dries out and may crack when reinstalled. In this case, it is better to order new components in advance so as not to leave the refrigerator open.
Frequent errors and ways to eliminate them
One of the most common mistakes is the wrong sequence of actions, when the master forgets to rearrange the plugs or loses small parts. This results in the door being unable to be secured or hanging crookedly. Always lay out the parts in the order in which you removed them, or use a magnetic tray.
Another mistake is overtightening the screws. Excessive force can lead to deformation of the metal hinge bushing or even breakage of the threads in the refrigerator body. Tighten the screws tightly, but not fanatically. If the thread is tight, it is better to check whether it matches rather than to use force.
- ❌ They forgot to remove the shipping bolts (if they are in the way).
- ❌ They mixed up screws of different lengths during installation.
- ❌ They did not check the horizontal installation of the refrigerator itself.
- ❌ The enamel was damaged by a tool due to careless work.
If after installation the door does not close tightly, try tilting the refrigerator itself back a little using the adjustable support legs. This often helps solve the problem of gravity, when the door must close on its own under its own weight. Also check if there is anything inside - bottles or plates on the edges of the shelves.
What to do if a creaking appears after rehanging?
A creaking usually indicates metal-to-metal friction or a lack of lubrication. Try loosening the hinge screws again, lubricating the axle, and retightening them to ensure alignment. If the creaking remains, the bushing may need to be replaced.
Is it possible to hang the door if the refrigerator is built into the kitchen?
This is possible, but extremely difficult. You will need to completely remove the refrigerator from the niche to allow access from all sides. Built-in models often have their limitations, which are worth reading about in the product data sheet.
Do you need to wait before turning on after re-hanging?
No special waiting is required, since you did not touch the refrigerant. However, if you tilted or shook the unit strongly, it is recommended to wait 1-2 hours before starting the compressor so that the oil flows into the crankcase.
Where can I get new plugs if the old ones are lost?
Plugs can be ordered at authorized service centers Atlant or pick up universal analogues in furniture stores accessories. You can also use decorative stickers of a suitable color.
Does re-hanging affect the warranty?
Re-hanging the door yourself, as a rule, does not void the warranty if you have not damaged the components of the refrigerator. However, if problems arise with tightness or loops in the future, the service may refer to violation of operating rules.