The situation when after installation refrigeration equipment it turns out that the door opens in the wrong direction is familiar to many. This may be due to the layout of the kitchen, the location of outlets, or simply personal comfort. Fortunately, most modern models allow you to change the opening side, but this process requires care and adherence to technology.
Before starting work, it is important to understand that not all units are universal. Some budget or specific models, especially those with French Door type doors or complex control systems, may not have factory-installed hinge holes on the other side. In this case, independent alteration is impossible without violating the warranty and integrity of the case.
The main difficulty lies in the correct dismantling of the fittings and maintaining the tightness of the seal. Incorrect installation can lead to misalignment, which will cause the camera to stop closing tightly and begin to work in emergency mode. To avoid mistakes, you must strictly follow the instructions adapted to the type of your device. compressor will start working in emergency mode. To avoid mistakes, you must strictly follow the instructions adapted to the type of your device.
Preparation of tools and workplace
The quality of the work directly depends on the preparation. You will need not only a basic DIY kit, but also some specific tools. Clear the space around the refrigerator in advance so that you can access it from all sides, and unplug the appliance from the power supply.
Usually, a flat-head or Phillips-head screwdriver is sufficient for removal. However, premium models, such as LG or Samsung, often use hex bolts. You may also need a socket wrench or ratchet to tighten heavy hinges to avoid stripping the threads when reinstalling.
⚠️ Attention: Be sure to lay a soft covering or cardboard on the floor. Removed doors and shelves are heavy, and if they fall, they can damage the floor covering or break themselves, especially if it glass shelves.
☑️ Necessary tools
Don’t forget about security. The metal parts of the hinges may have sharp edges, so wearing protective gloves is a wise idea. In addition, before starting disassembly, take a photo of all connections - this will help you not get confused in the assembly sequence if you are doing this for the first time.
Design features and model analysis
Before taking up the tools, carefully examine the body of the device. The presence of hidden technological holes is a key factor. They are usually closed with decorative plugs that need to be carefully removed. If there are holes on one side, but not on the other (smooth metal or plastic), then reweighing is impossible.
There are several types of hinge fastenings. In classic models, the upper hinge is bolted from above, and the lower hinge from below. In more complex systems, for example, in two-chamber models with No Frost, it may be necessary to dismantle the intermediate jumper or even remove the entire front control panel.
Nuances of hidden hinges
In some models of refrigerators, the top hinge is hidden under a decorative cover, which is secured with latches. Do not use excessive force if the cover does not come off - perhaps unscrew a hidden screw or move the panel to the side.
It is also important to pay attention to the design of the handle. If it is integrated into the door leaf or has an asymmetrical shape, then after rehanging the handle will end up on the bottom or side, which will look unaesthetic. In such cases, additional replacement of handles or purchase of special plugs is required.
Step-by-step instructions: dismantling and moving the fittings
The process begins by removing the door. Do not try to unscrew the hinges while holding the door suspended - it is heavy and can tear the fasteners out of your hands. It is best to have an assistant hold the blade while you remove the bolts. First, the upper hinge is removed, then the door itself is carefully lifted and removed.
After dismantling the upper part, we move on to the middle and bottom. If you have a two-chamber refrigerator, the sequence of actions is similar, but requires greater care with the central axis. It is better to immediately place all removed parts, including screws and plugs, in a separate container so that nothing is lost.
When all the elements are removed, move the hinges to the opposite side. Pay attention to the orientation of the parts - some of them are asymmetrical and must be flipped 180 degrees. Make sure that all the holes match and secure the fittings, but do not tighten them all the way yet.
Nuances for models with a display and the No Frost system
Modern refrigerators are often equipped with electronics, the cables of which run inside the door leaf. When re-hanging the door, it is necessary to disconnect the wire connectors. This must be done extremely carefully, fixing the position of the connectors so as not to damage contact groups.
In models with the system No Frost it is important not to confuse the direction of air flow during assembly. Sometimes it is necessary to rearrange the dampers or adjust the position of the sensors. If you are not confident in your abilities when working with electricians, it is better to limit yourself to the mechanical part or call a specialist.
⚠️ Attention: Wire loops are very fragile. Never pull on the wires to disconnect them - only use the connector locking clips. Damage to the wiring may result in a short circuit or failure of the control panel.
After connecting all communications, check the operation of the display and buttons before final assembly. If the screen does not light up, the connector may not be fully inserted or pinched. In such situations, it is better to correct the error immediately than to reassemble the unit.
Comparative table of work complexity
To estimate the amount of work to be done, it is useful to familiarize yourself with the differences in the design of different types of refrigerators. Below is a table showing the approximate complexity of the process.
| Refrigerator type | Required tools | Complexity | Execution time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single chamber (classic) | Screwdriver, key | Low | 15-20 min |
| Double-chamber (No Frost) | Set of keys, pliers | Average | 30-45 min |
| With display on the door | Full set, gloves | High | 45-60 min |
| Side-by-Side | Socket wrench, assistant | Very high | 60-90 min |
As can be seen from the table, simple models require a minimum of effort, while complex systems with electronics require deeper intervention. Owners of models Side-by-Side often require the help of a second person due to the size and weight of the doors.
Adjustment and leak testing
After the door is installed in a new location, it is necessary to make a final adjustment. The hinges should not be tightened “tight” right away - first make sure that the door hangs straight and is not warped. The gaps around the perimeter should be the same.
Pay special attention sealing rubber. It should fit snugly to the body along the entire contour. If you notice any leaks, the door may be warped or the rubber may have become deformed during storage. In the latter case, you can heat the rubber with a hairdryer or pour boiling water into the gap so that it straightens.
A leak test can easily be done using a sheet of paper. Squeeze the sheet with the door and try to pull it out. If it comes out easily without resistance, it means that the pressure in this place is insufficient. Adjust the height of the refrigerator leg or the position of the hinges.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to rehang the door if there are no holes on the body on the right side?
Unfortunately, no. If the manufacturer does not provide holes and fasteners on the reverse side, then drilling the housing yourself will violate thermal insulation and aesthetics, and will also lead to loss of warranty. In such cases, the opening side remains unchanged.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Yes, this is a mandatory procedure. When tilting or moving the unit, water and oil from the compressor may leak from the chambers. In addition, an empty refrigerator is easier and safer to move, and the risk of damaging the shelves is minimal.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not close completely?
Most likely, the angle of the case is broken. The refrigerator should be installed with a slight tilt back (the back legs are higher than the front legs) so that the door closes under the influence of gravity. Check the adjustment of the support legs.
Will the warranty remain valid after re-hanging it yourself?
Officially, any intervention in the design that is not described in the user manual may be grounds for denial of warranty service. If you are not sure, it is better to call an authorized technician who will do the work and put a mark in the service book.
Is it possible to change the opening direction of a built-in refrigerator?
For built-in appliances, this process is more complicated, since the door is attached to the facade of the kitchen unit. Often it is necessary to rehang not only the refrigerator door, but also to redo the fastenings of the furniture facade, which requires carpentry skills.