Modern kitchen dictates its own rules of ergonomics, and often the standard factory equipment of the refrigerator does not fit into the designed interior. The situation when the door opens in the wrong direction, interfering with passage or access to other areas, occurs very often. The solution to the problem is hanging doors, a procedure available to most owners of household appliances.
The process of changing the opening direction requires care and a basic set of tools. Unlike complex compressor repairs or refrigerant changes, no special technical skills are required. However, it is important to understand that the design of hinges from different manufacturers may differ significantly, which affects the algorithm of actions.
In this article we will analyze in detail how to independently change the opening side, what to pay attention to when working with electronic control modules and how to avoid damage to the decorative elements of the case. Properly performed work will ensure the durability of the mechanism and ease of use for many years.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before starting any manipulations with the refrigerator body, you must carefully prepare the work area. Clear space in front of the unit to ensure easy access from all sides. It is important that the floor is level and the lighting is sufficient to work with small parts.
To complete the task, you will need a certain set of tools. Although manufacturers often include a basic kit in the box, it may not be of sufficient quality or completeness to be reused. It is better to prepare in advance a reliable tool that will not tear off the slots of the bolts.
- 🔧 A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flathead of various sizes)
- 🔩 Wrenches or sockets (usually 8, 10 mm)
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges edge
- 📦 Container for folding small screws and plugs
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! This is critical for safety, especially if the model is equipped with electronic controls or a display on the door.
It is also recommended to have a soft rag or cardboard on hand to cover the floor and protect the coating from scratches if parts are dropped. If you plan to change the opening side of an already installed refrigerator, you may need the help of a second person to hold heavy door panels.
Analysis of the design of hinges and the type of refrigerator
Not all refrigerators allow you to change the opening side. Before you begin disassembling, make sure that your model provides this feature. Typically, information about this is contained in the instruction manual or is visible by the presence of hidden holes for hinges on the opposite side of the case.
Designs are divided into several types. The simplest models have mechanical hinges, where it is enough to rearrange the fasteners. More complex systems, typical for Side-by-Side or models with a freshness zone, may have additional traction and synchronization mechanisms.
Models with electronics require special attention. If there is a display or control buttons on the door, you will have to open connection cableswhen rehanging. This requires care so as not to damage thin contacts or connector latches.
How to understand that you cannot re-weigh?
If there are no threaded holes for hinges on the opposite side of the case, and there is no alternative installation diagram in the instructions, then, most likely, the design does not allow for changes sides. Attempting to drill new holes may compromise the tightness and thermal insulation.
It is also important to check the condition of the seals. When dismantling old rubber bands, you often have to warm them up or even replace them, since they could be deformed under the old opening side.
Step-by-step instructions: dismantling door panels
The process of removing doors must be carried out strictly sequentially. Usually they start from the top door if the refrigerator is two-chamber. First, the upper hinge is removed, then the upper door is released, after which they move on to the lower one.
For models with one camera, the algorithm is simpler: the upper hinge is removed, then the door is carefully lifted and removed. The main thing here is to avoid misalignment, which can lead to jamming or damage to the hinge pins.
☑️ Checklist before removing doors
When working with heavy models, such as Liebherr or Siemens, the weight of the door can exceed 30-40 kilograms. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to use stops or the help of an assistant so as not to damage the floor covering or injure your back.
After removing the doors, it is necessary to remove the mating parts of the hinges from the refrigerator body. Often they are hidden under decorative plastic covers that need to be carefully pryed off with a flat screwdriver.
Repositioning handles and response mechanisms
One of the common mistakes is forgetting to reposition the handles. If the design involves rearranging them, you need to find hidden fastening screws. They can be located under decorative plugs or inside the handle profile.
In some models, for example, the brand LG or Samsung, the handles can be integrated, and their transfer is not required, but you need to move the stoppers or plugs into the holes left from the old fastening.
It is important not Tighten the screws when installing handles in a new location, especially if the body is made of thin metal or plastic. This can lead to deformation of the seat and the appearance of play in the future.
Also at this stage it is worth inspecting the holes in the case. If there are old threads or dirt left in them, it is better to carefully clean them so that the new bolts fit in freely and without distortion.
Installing doors on the new side
Installation begins by installing the bottom hinge on the new side. Make sure that it fits into the holes provided for this purpose and fits tightly to the body. There is no need to tighten the bolts to the end yet in order to be able to adjust.
Then the lower door (in two-chamber models) or the main door is hung. The bottom hinge pin must fit exactly into the corresponding hole on the end of the door. After this, the middle or upper loop is installed.
Pay special attention wire loops in models with electronics. They must be laid so that when opening and closing the door they do not stretch or rub against the metal parts of the body.
| Stage | Action | Important nuance |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Installing the lower hinge | Do not tighten the bolts all the way |
| 2 | Installing the door | Monitor that the axis fits into the groove |
| 3 | Connecting the cable | Monitor the integrity of the contacts |
| 4 | Fixing the top hinge | Check the vertical installation |
After installing all elements, the final tightening of the fasteners is performed. The door should open smoothly, without creaking or jamming. If the door is skewed, you will need to adjust the height of the hinges.
Adjustment and checking tightness
The last and most important stage is checking the quality of the installation. The door should fit snugly around the entire perimeter of the body. Check this with a sheet of paper: clamp it between the door and the body in different places; it must be removed with force.
If gaps are found, it is necessary to adjust the position of the door. In most models, adjustment bolts in the hinges or support screws at the bottom of the refrigerator are provided for this.
After mechanical adjustment, plug in the refrigerator and check the operation of the electronics. Make sure the display is lit and the buttons are responsive. Leave the unit running for several hours, monitoring the temperature inside the chambers.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to hang a door if there is a screen on it?
Yes, it is possible, but this requires extreme caution. It is necessary to carefully disconnect the connectors of the cables, remember their position and when assembling on the new side, make sure that the wires are not pinched. In some models, the length of the cable may be limited, which requires careful installation.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, if the refrigerator is old and has ice, it is better to defrost it so that water does not flow inside the hinge mechanisms or onto the floor when the case is tilted.
What to do if you lose the plugs for the old holes?
Plugs can be ordered from the manufacturer or you can find universal analogues in furniture fittings stores. As a last resort, you can use decorative stickers of a suitable color, although this is less aesthetically pleasing.
Does re-hanging affect the warranty?
Independent re-hanging, if it is provided for in the instructions and does not require drilling new holes, usually does not void the warranty. However, if parts or cables are damaged during the process, the service center may refuse free repairs.
Why does the door not close completely after rehanging?
Most likely, the magnetic seal is installed incorrectly or the cable is twisted, which prevents a tight fit. Also, the reason may be incorrect adjustment of the angle of the body - the refrigerator should be slightly tilted back.