Reversing the refrigerator door is a task faced when moving, renovating a kitchen, or a banal desire to optimize space. It would seem that what is so difficult here? But improper dismantling can lead to damage to the hinges, freon leakage or even compressor breakdown - especially when we are talking about models with a system No Frost or a built-in ice maker. In this article, we will look at how to safely change the opening side of the door on refrigerators Atlant, Samsung, Indesit and other popular brands, what tools will be needed and what to pay attention to before work begins.
Important: not all refrigerators support hanging doors. For example, some models Liebherr with touch screens or two-chamber units with a single hinge between the freezer and the main compartment may have a rigidly fixed mount. Before you take the screwdriver, check user's instructions - usually there is a section "Reversing the Door" or an icon with a picture of a door and arrows.
1. Which refrigerators can be outweighed and which cannot
Manufacturers provide in advance the possibility of changing the opening side, but there are key limitations:
- ✅ Support overhanging: most single-chamber and double-chamber refrigerators with mechanical hinges (for example, Biryusa, Stinol, Beko). Also, many models Samsung series RB and RL, LG with system DoorCooling+.
- ❌ Do not support: refrigerators with hidden loops (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30R), models with built-in water dispenser (tube relocation required), as well as some retro models (for example, Smeg FAB28).
- ⚠️ Partially supported: two-chamber refrigerators with separate hinges for the freezer and the main compartment - here you will have to rehang each door separately.
If the product passport does not contain information about rehanging, inspect the hinges: on supported models there are hinges on the back side of the case plugs for fasteners (usually closed with plastic plugs). Also pay attention to location of the drainage hole - if it is only on one side, repositioning may be required after reweaving.
2. Tools and materials: what you will need
You don’t need professional tools for the job - a basic set is enough. The main thing is that the screwdrivers and wrenches are the right size for the fasteners of your model (usually phillips PH2 or flat). 5 mmFull list:
| Tool/material | Purpose | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Phillips screwdriver (PH2) | For unscrewing hinges and handles | Preferably with a magnetic tip |
| Flat screwdriver (3–5 mm) | For prying up decorative plugs | May be needed to adjust hinges |
| Wrench (8–10 mm) | For hinge fastening bolts (if any) | Some models use hexagons |
| Plastic spatula or mediator | For careful removal of the seal | Helps avoid damage to rubber |
| Making tape | Fixing the door during work | Prevents the door from falling when unscrewing |
Additional may be needed:
- 🔧 Hex key (for models Electrolux or AEG).
- 🧴 Silicone lubricant for hinges (if they creak after rehanging).
- 📏 Level to check the evenness of the door installation.
3. rehang the refrigerator door
The rehanging process takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the model. The main rule: do not remove both hinges at the same time. —the door may fall and damage the seal or body. Follow the algorithm:
Unplug the refrigerator and defrost (if there is ice)
Remove all food and shelves from the door
Prepare the work space (towel, tools)
Secure the door with masking tape to the body-->
Step 1: Removing the top hinge
On most models, the top hinge is secured with 2-3 bolts. Carefully unscrew them with a screwdriver, holding the door with your hand. If the hinge “sits” tightly, lightly tap it with a rubber hammer. In models Samsung you may need to remove the decorative one first. the hinge cover (it snaps into place).
Step 2: Removing the door
After unscrewing the top hinge, the door will be held on the bottom. Ask an assistant to hold it or secure it with tape. Unscrew the bolts of the bottom hinge and carefully remove the door, placing it on a soft surface (for example, a blanket). Do not place the door on the seal —this can deform the rubber.
Step 3: Transfer the hinges to the other side
On the opposite side of the body you will see plugs - remove them with a flat screwdriver. Transfer the hinges in the mirror. display, using the same bolts. In some models (for example, Indesit BIAA 13) it may be necessary rearrange the opening limiter —it is mounted on one bolt next to the hinge.
Step 4: Installing the door
Place the door on the lower hinge, then fix the upper one. Do not tighten the bolts all the way - first check that the door is hanging straight. If it is skewed, loosen the fasteners and adjust the position. data-i="145">dispenser dispenser (For example, LG GC-B247JLV) the water supply tube may need to be relocated.
Step 5: Checking the seal
After installation, check whether the rubber seal fits tightly. If there are gaps, heat it with a hairdryer (temperature no higher than 50°C) and press it. In old refrigerators, the seal may have become “stiff.” it is better to replace it.
What to do if the door does not close after rehanging?
If the door does not close tightly, check:
1. The levelness of the hinges —use a level.
2. Condition of the seal —it could have moved or deformed.
3. Attaching the limiter —if it is installed crookedly, the door will touch the body.
4. Hinge bolts —they must be tightened evenly, but not overtightened.
If the problem persists, try slightly loosening the top hinge and adjusting the door position manually.
4. Overhanging features for different brands
Each manufacturer has its own design nuances:
Atlant i Stinol
In most models (for example, Atlant MHM 1708) the loops are symmetrical, so rehanging does not cause any difficulties. However, in refrigerators with electronic display (for example, Atlant XM 6025-031), it may be necessary to relocate the wiring harness - it is usually attached to clips inside the case.
Samsung i LG
Models with the system DoorCooling+ or Twin Cooling have additional air ducts in the door. When rehanging, you need to:
- 🔌 Disconnect the display power connector (if any).
- 💧 Rearrange the drainage hose (in models with No Frost).
- ⚙️ Reconfigure the door opening sensor (there is a diagram in the instructions).
Indesit i Beko
In budget models (for example, Indesit DS 4180 W), the hinges are often attached to plastic bushings - they are easy to break with excessive force. Also in some refrigerators of this brand there are no plugs for hinges on the back side, so you will have to drill the holes yourself (diameter). usually 8 mm).
Liebherr and Bosch
Premium models (for example, Liebherr CNef 4315) often have automatic closing of doors. After rehanging, you may need mechanism calibration through the service menu (instructions in the passport). In refrigerators Bosch series, the loops may be asymmetrical - they cannot simply be rearranged, you need to order a mirror kit from the manufacturer. KGE the hinges can be asymmetrical - they cannot simply be rearranged; you need to order a mirror set from the manufacturer.
5. avoid
Even if you carefully follow the instructions, you can make mistakes that will lead to breakdown. Here are the most common ones:
⚠️ Attention: If, after rehanging, the refrigerator begins to buzz loudly or does not turn off, immediately return the door to its original position. compressor). bending the freon circuit tubes (relevant for models with an overhead compressor).
- 🔨 Tightening the bolts. hinges —leads to deformation of the housing or cracks in the plastic. Tighten the fasteners "halfway", then check the play.
- 🚪 Ignoring the opening limiter — without it, the door may open too wide and damage the wall or furniture.
- 🔌 Forgetting to reconnect the opening sensor —because of this, the backlight or alarm may not work.
- 🧊 Do not check the drainage hole —if it remains on the “old” side, water will accumulate at the bottom of the chamber.
Another typical problem— warping of the door after installation To avoid this:
- Check that both loops are tightened evenly.
- Use a level to control horizontality.
- If the door “falls” down, slightly loosen the top hinge and tighten the bottom one.
6. Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?
It depends on the type of cooling system:
- ❄️ Drip system (regular defrosting): defrosting is necessary! Ice in the freezer adds weight to the door, and when dismantling it can damage the seal.
- ❄️ No Frost: defrosting is not required, but the refrigerator must be unplugged. for at least 10 minutes before work.
- ⚠️ Full No Frost with an ice maker: In addition to defrosting, you need to drain the water from the system and disconnect the supply hose (instructions in the passport).
If you have not defrosted a refrigerator with a drip system, when removing the door the ice may break off and damage evaporator —this will lead to freon leakage. In models with electronically controlled (for example, Samsung RL-60) after switching on after defrosting, you may need to reset errors through the service menu (error code E1 or E2).
7. When is it better to call a professional instead of doing it? yourself
Some situations require professional intervention if:
- 🔧 The refrigerator is under warranty - re-hanging it yourself may void the warranty.
- ⚡ Model with inverter compressor - incorrect dismantling of the door can damage it. electronics.
- 💧 There is a suspicion of a freon leak (the refrigerator does not cool after hanging).
- 🔌 It is necessary to move electrical components (for example, a display or sensors in models Liebherr).
Cost re-hanging the door in the service ranges from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles, depending on the region and the complexity of the model. For example, for Samsung RB-37 J5240SA with a dispenser, the price can reach 5,000 rubles due to the need to move the tubes.
⚠️ Attention: If after re-hanging the refrigerator began to consume more electricity or uncharacteristic noise appeared, this may indicate kink of the capillary tube (thin copper tube going from the compressor to the evaporator). It is impossible to fix this yourself - soldering equipment and refilling with freon are required.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about re-hanging the door refrigerator
Is it possible to reverse the door on a refrigerator with a water dispenser?
Yes, but it is more difficult than in conventional models. You will need:
- Disconnect the water supply hose from the back wall.
- Move the tube inside the door (it is usually attached to clips).
- Reinstall the dispenser control unit (in some models LG it is removable).
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to call a specialist - an error when connecting the hose can lead to a leak.
What to do if after rehanging the door does not closes tightly?
Causes and solutions:
- The seal is deformed → Warm it up with a hairdryer (max 50°C) and press for 10-15 minutes.
- The hinges are tightened unevenly → Loosen the fastenings and adjust the position of the door according to the level.
- The refrigerator body is deformed → This can happen if the hinges have been overtightened. The solution is to replace the hinges or the body.
Is it necessary? rehang both doors in a two-chamber refrigerator?
Yes, if the design involves separate hinges for the freezer and the main compartment (as in Atlant MXM 2835). If the hinge is common (for example, in Samsung RB-30 J3200), then it is enough to rehang only it, but the freezer door will remain in the same place.
In models with French door (two doors on top and a drawer on the bottom), re-hanging is possible only in the service center - complete disassembly of the facade is required.
How often can you rehang the refrigerator door?
Technically - as many times as you like, but in practice:
- Every time you rehang the holes for the hinges wear out in the case.
- The seal loses elasticity after 3-4 dismantlings.
- In budget models, plastic hinge bushings can crack after 2-3 rearrangements.
Optimally - no more than once every 2-3 years.
Is it possible re-hang the door on a built-in refrigerator?
In 90% of cases - no. Built-in models (for example, Bosch KIV38X20) have rigidly fixed hinges, since the facade is attached to the furniture body. An exception is some models Liebherr with universal fastening, but even there they require reconfiguration. furniture facade.
If you need to change the opening side, you will have to redo the kitchen unit or buy a new refrigerator.