How to change the opening side of refrigerator doors: instructions for all models

Re-hanging refrigerator doors is a task that many owners face when moving, renovating, or simply wanting to optimize space in the kitchen. Inconvenient opening can interfere with passage, touch furniture, or simply be an annoying daily inconvenience. Fortunately, most modern models Samsung, LG, Indesit, Atlant and Beko support this function, and the procedure does not require calling a specialist.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photosan analysis of the nuances for different types of refrigerators (single-chamber, double-chamber, Side-by-Side), as well as tips on choosing tools and preventing common mistakes. We will tell you how to complete the task in 30–60 minutes without damaging the seal or compromising the seal of the chamber. And if your model does not support overweight, we will explain why and what to do in this case.

Preparation: tools and conditions

Before you start work, make sure that you have everything you need. Most manufacturers supply refrigerators with a hanging kit (screws, plugs, hinges), but if this is not available, purchase additional parts from an authorized dealer. Here minimum set of tools:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2) or screwdriver with attachment
• 🔨 Hex key (for some models Bosch i Siemens)
• 📏 Tape measure or ruler (to check gaps)
• 🧲 Magnet or screwdriver with a magnetic tip (to avoid losing screws)
• 🧴 Silicone grease (for the seal after rehanging)

Also prepare your workspace:

• 🚪 Clear access to the refrigerator from all sides (move furniture, remove magnets).
• ❄️ Unplug the refrigerator 1-2 hours before work so that the ice on the seal melts.
• 📦 Remove all products and shelves from the door (they may fall out when removed).
• 🧊 Place cardboard or a towel underneath - condensation may leak when removing the door.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator No Frost with electronic control (for example, Samsung RB30J3000 or LG GA-B489), after rehanging it may be necessary resetting the settings. Find in advance the section on calibrating the sensors in the instructions or save the current temperature settings.

Step 1: Removing the top door (for two-chamber models)

Let's start with the most important part - dismantling the top door. In most refrigerators (for example, Atlant MXM 2808 or Indesit DF 4180) it is attached to two hinges: the top (with a decorative cover) and the middle (connecting). data-i="84">Atlant MXM 2808

1. Remove the decorative cover of the upper hinge. It is usually fixed with latches or one screw from the bottom. Pry it off with a flat screwdriver if there are no special slots for fingers.

2. Unscrew the screws holding the upper hinge (usually 2-3 pieces). models Beko a hexagon is used here.

3. Holding the door, carefully remove it from the bottom pin of the middle hinge. Do not pull the door towards you - it is heavier than it seems and can damage the seal.

If the door “jammed” and cannot be removed, check:

• 🔍 Did you forget to unscrew the screw on the middle hinge (it may be hidden under the plug).
• 🔧 Is the door warped - try lifting it slightly up.
• 🧲 Is there any magnetic resistance (in models with powerful seals, for example Liebherr).

Step 2: Transferring the hinges to the other side

After removing the door, you need to move the hinges to the opposite side two key nuances:

1. Symmetrical holes. In most refrigerators (for example, Samsung RL34 or Gorenje NRK 6191) holes for hinges are already provided on both sides and closed with plugs. If they are not there, rehanging is impossible without drilling (which will void the warranty).

2. Type. loops. In budget models (for example, Biryusa 10), the hinges are universal, and in premium ones (for example, Miele K 12020) they are different for the left and right sides!

Transfer instructions:

1. Remove the plugs on the opposite side (pry them off with a screwdriver or knife).

2. Move the top and middle hinges to the new holes, tighten the screws without tightening (so as not to tear them off thread).

3. If the kit contains new screws or washers, use them. For example, LG GA-B429 for the right side there are longer screws.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators s display on door (for example, Samsung Family Hub) after repositioning, it may be necessary to reconfigure the touch buttons. In some cases, the display will have to be reprogrammed through the service menu (instructions are in the user manual).

Step 3: Installing the door on the new side

Now you need to hang the door on the new hinges. This step requires care, since incorrect installation can lead to skewed proceed as follows:

1. Place the door on the lower pin of the middle hinge, holding it by the upper corner.

2. Align the door vertically - the gaps between the body and the seal should be the same along the entire perimeter (check with a ruler).

3. Tighten the screws of the top hinge, but not completely. Check whether the door opens easily.

4. Adjust the position of the door using the adjusting screws (if any). Models Bosch KAN92VI30R have special grooves for this.

If the door opens or closes on its own, this is a sign of incorrect adjustment. Correct the position:

• 🔄 If the door opens - lower the top hinge a little.
• 🔄 If the door closes - lift the upper hinge or loosen the lower one.

Step 4: Hanging the bottom door (for two-chamber models)

The bottom door (freezer) is hung in the same way, but there are some subtleties here:

• 🔧 In most models (Atlant, Indesit) the bottom hinge non-removable —it needs to be completely removed and rearranged to the other side.
• ❄️ If there is ice on the sealin the freezer, be sure to remove it with a hairdryer (not a knife!), otherwise the door will not stand up straight.
• 🧲 In refrigerators No Frost (for example, LG GA-B489) after rehanging it may work hazard alarm - this is normal, it will reset in 1-2 hours.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Remove the decorative panel from the bottom (it is usually secured with latches).

2. Unscrew the screws of the bottom hinge and remove it. Be careful - in some models (Beko GNE114620) the temperature sensor cable passes here temperature sensor cable.

3. Move the hinge to the other side, tighten the screws.

4. Place the door on the hinge pin and adjust its position (as in the case of the top door).

What to do if the bottom door cannot be removed?

In some models (for example, Samsung RL33) the bottom hinge is blocked with a special lock. To release it, you need to simultaneously push down on the door and pull it towards you. If that doesn’t work, check to see if the screw on the top hinge is loose (it can block the mechanism).

Step 5: Adjusting and checking the tightness

After rehanging the doors required check:

1. Gaps. They should be the same along the entire perimeter of the door (1–2 mm). If there is a larger gap somewhere, adjust the hinges.

2. Sealant. It should fit evenly, without gaps. Check test with a sheet of paper: close the door by inserting a sheet between the seal and the body. If the sheet is pulled out without resistance, adjustment is needed.

3. Noise. There should be no creaks or knocks when opening/closing. If there are any, lubricate the hinges with silicone grease.

If the seal deformed or does not restore its shape after rehanging:

• 🔥 Warm it up with a hairdryer (temperature 50–60°C) and shape it with your hands.
• 🧴 Apply a thin layer silicone grease (not Vaseline!).
• 🛠️ As a last resort, replace the seal (the article number is usually indicated in the instructions).

1) The tightness of the seal.

2) The position of the temperature sensor (it could move).

3) Presence of ice on the back wall (a sign of a leak).-->

Features for Side-by-Side refrigerators and built-in models

Refrigerators type Side-by-Side (Samsung RS62R5001, LG GC-B247) and built-in (Liebherr ICBN 3366) are hung according to a different principle:

• 🔧 In Side-by-Side usually both doors are hung at the same time. The hinges here are more massive, and an assistant is needed for work (the weight of the door is 10–15 kg).
• 🔨 In built-in models, the hinges are often hidden under decorative panels. They must be removed without damaging the fastenings to the kitchen set.
• ⚡ In refrigerators with ice maker (for example, Samsung RS68A8840) after rehanging, the water hose must be reconfigured.

For Side-by-Side the instructions look like this:

1. Turn off the water supply (if there is an ice maker).

2. Remove the top panel (it is secured with 4-6 screws).

3. Unscrew the hinges of both doors, move them to the other side.

4. Install the doors, starting with the left one (it is usually heavier).

5. Connect the water hose to the new position (an extension cord may be required).

⚠️ Attention: Built-in refrigerators often have asymmetrical housing (for example, Bosch KIV38X20). Re-hanging the doors in them may be impossible without dismantling them from the niche. Before starting work, check this in the instructions or on the manufacturer’s website.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even with careful work, you can make mistakes that will lead to door breakdown or tightness failure. Here are the most common:

To avoid problems:

• 📸 Take a photo original position of loops and wires before dismantling.
• 🔧 Use only original screws —replacements may not be suitable in length.
• 🧲 Check magnetic fit the seal after installation (there should be a uniform click).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to hang the door on the refrigerator Stinol 102?

Yes, but only if the instructions indicate that the model supports this function. The hinges are universal, but the mounting holes on the opposite side are closed with plugs. You will need a Phillips screwdriver and 20-30 minutes of time. Please note: in some modifications of this model, the lower hinge is non-removable - it will have to be completely removed. Stinol 102 The hinges are universal, but the mounting holes on the opposite side are closed with plugs. You will need a Phillips screwdriver and 20-30 minutes of time. Please note: in some modifications of this model, the lower hinge is not removable - it will have to be completely removed.

What should you do if, after re-hanging, the refrigerator No Frost began to work loudly?

This is normal for the first hours after re-hanging. The reason is refrigerant redistribution in the system. If the noise does not disappear after 12–24 hours, check:

• Is the door skewed (this may interfere with air circulation).
• Is the fan hitting something (in models with No Frost it is located behind back wall).
• Are the temperature settings lost (sometimes after re-hanging they are reset to factory settings).

If the problem persists, call a technician to diagnose the compressor.

Do I need to defrost the refrigerator before re-hanging?

Required! Even if you have a model No Frost, condensation may accumulate on the seal, which, when frozen, prevents the door from being installed correctly. Minimum defrosting time:

• For No Frost: 1–2 hours (until the ice completely melts on seal).
• For drip models: 4-6 hours (complete defrosting).

Do not use a hair dryer to speed up the process - this can damage the plastic parts.

Is it possible to hang the door on a refrigerator Minsks 1990s years?

In older models (for example, Minsk-15M), the doors are hung not provided —the hinges are asymmetrical, and the body does not have holes on the other side. An attempt to re-hang the door yourself will lead to:

• Violation of tightness.
• Damage to the body (thin metal).
• Loss of the warranty (if it is still valid).

In this case, it is better to consider alternative options: move the refrigerator to another location or use corner adapter for the door (sold in hardware stores).

How to rehang door if the hinge screws are rusty?

Rusty screws are a common problem in refrigerators that are used in damp areas. To unscrew them:

1. Apply penetrating lubricant to the threads penetrating lubricant (WD-40, Liqui Moly).
2. Wait 10-15 minutes.
3. Try to unscrew the screw with a screwdriver impact mechanism or a screwdriver at low speeds.
4. If that doesn’t help, carefully drill the screw head and unscrew it with pliers.

After dismantling, replace the rusty screws with new ones (preferably stainless steel).