The situation when, after installing the refrigerator, it turns out that the handle rests against the wall or the door cannot open completely because of the kitchen furniture, is familiar to many. This is not a reason to get upset or, worse, change the layout of the kitchen, since most modern models of household appliances provide the ability to change the opening side. This procedure is technically simple, but it requires care, a basic set of tools and an understanding of the structure of the hinged mechanism.
Before taking active steps, you need to make sure that your unit really supports this function. As a rule, manufacturers, be it LG, Bosch or Indesit, include the possibility of reinstallation in the design, however, in budget models or old Soviet refrigerators, there may be no holes for fasteners on the opposite side. A careful inspection of the frame and instructions is the first step to a successful upgrade.
It is also important to understand that re-hanging the door can take from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the design of the hinges and the presence of additional elements, such as a display or system No Frost. There is no need to rush, as incorrect installation can lead to distortion of the sash, disruption of the seal and, as a result, increased energy consumption.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
For quality work, you will need to prepare the workspace and tools in advance, so as not to look for the right thing at the most inopportune moment. The main tool will be screwdriver or a set of screwdrivers with different attachments, since the types of screws from different manufacturers can differ significantly. In some cases, especially when working with models Samsung or Electrolux, hex keys of a certain size may be required.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply and empty the door shelves of food, to reduce the load on the mechanism.
It is also recommended to prepare masking tape or soft cloth to protect surfaces from scratches, as well as a container for folding fasteners. The loss of even one small screw can turn a simple process into a long search for an analogue in hardware stores.
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers (phillips and flat) or a screwdriver with bits.
- 🔧 Wrenches or a set of hexagons.
- 🧤 Work gloves for protecting hands from sharp edges.
- 🧼 Clean rags for wiping mechanisms.
Particular attention should be paid magnetic tape to the seal, which should not be damaged or bent too much during dismantling. If the refrigerator came with decorative plugs for the holes, it is also worth finding them in advance in order to immediately close the fastening points that have become superfluous.
Analysis of the design and type of hinges
Before you start unscrewing the bolts, you need to clearly understand what type of fastening you have matter. Designs vary: from simple overhead hinges to complex hidden mechanisms with closers. In models with an upper freezer, the classic scheme with two or three loops is most often found, while in refrigerators Side-by-Side the mechanism can be much more complex.
Inspect the side surface of the case: if on the opposite side there are threaded holes closed with plastic plugs, then alteration is possible without additional difficulties. If there are no holes, or they are smooth (without threads), then, unfortunately, the manufacturer did not provide such an option, and you cannot change the opening side.
It is also worth checking for the presence of an electronic control module on the door. If the display is located on the leaf, additional operation will be required to transfer the cables and resolder the contacts, which requires higher qualifications. In such cases, it is better to contact the service center specialists so as not to damage the electronic board.
Models with a freezing system, where tubes or cables can pass through the door, deserve special attention. It is critical here not to pinch communications during a new installation. Study diagrams in the technical data sheet of the device will help to avoid fatal errors.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling the door
The process of removing the door always begins with the top fastening, since it is this that holds the main weight of the structure. First you need to remove the decorative panel if it covers the bolts, and then carefully unscrew the fasteners, holding the sash so that it does not fall. It is best to perform this operation together, especially if we are talking about a heavy two-chamber refrigerator.
After removing the upper hinges, the door is carefully lifted and removed from the pins of the lower support. At this stage, it is important not to pull sharply, so as not to damage the seal or internal shelves. If the model is equipped with an intermediate loop between the freezer and refrigerator compartments, it must also be dismantled or rearranged in accordance with the instructions.
☑️ Dismantling checklist
The dismantled door is best laid on a prepared soft surface (for example, on a blanket or cardboard) with the outer side down. This will protect the front panel from scratches and chips. Next, you should remove the handle, if the design allows this to be done separately, and clear the holes for the fastenings.
⚠️ Attention: Never place the removed door vertically, resting it on an angle - this can lead to deformation of the body and disruption of the door geometry.
During the dismantling process, it is recommended to lay out all screws and washers in the order in which they were removed or sign them, since the length of the bolts may differ for the top and bottom loops. Using magnetic tray or a container with cells will greatly simplify subsequent assembly.
Rearranging the fittings and installing them on the new side
The most critical stage is installing the fittings on the new side. First you need to rearrange the mating parts of the hinges on the refrigerator body. To do this, unscrew the plugs from the working side and screw them into the vacated holes on the opposite side. If there are smooth plastic pistons in place of future fastenings, they need to be replaced with threaded bushings, which are often included in the kit.
Next, attention turns to the door itself. It is necessary to rearrange the lower support pin (if it is removable) and move the handle. In some models, the handle is attached with screws from the inside, in others - with latches. You need to act carefully so as not to break the plastic clips.
When installing the door in a new location, it is important to align the holes correctly. The door is installed on the lower pin, after which it is leveled and fixed with the upper hinge. It is not recommended to tighten the bolts immediately “all the way” - first they need to be tightened in order to be able to adjust the position.
What to do if the holes do not match?
If the holes do not match perfectly, this may indicate deformation of the case or improper installation of the refrigerator. Check that the unit is installed horizontally using a level. Sometimes slight loosening of all bolts before final tightening is required.
Final tightening is carried out only after you are sure that the door closes tightly and fits evenly around the entire perimeter. Pay special attention seal: it should touch the body equally along the entire length.
Adjusting gaps and checking tightness
After installing the door in a new place, there is often a need for adjustment. Even the slightest misalignment of a fraction of a millimeter can lead to the refrigerator closing poorly or, conversely, opening on its own. Adjustment is usually made by tightening the bolts on the top hinge or special adjusting screws.
To check the tightness, you can use a simple test with a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet between the door and the body at different points around the perimeter and try to pull it out. If the paper is pulled out with force, the seal is good. If the sheet falls out or is pulled out too easily, tightening the hinges or replacing the seal is required in this area.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| The door does not close completely | Distortion of hinges or obstacle | Adjusting the height of the screws |
| Strong gap at the top | The upper hinge is not tightened enough | Tightening the fasteners |
| The door comes off at the handle | Deformation of the seal | Warming with a hairdryer or replacement |
| Difficult to open the door | Pressing too hard | Loosening the screws |
Do not forget that after rearranging the refrigerator may take time (from 2 to 4 hours) to stabilize the temperature, especially if it was turned off during work. During this period, you should not load it with food.
Features of models with a display and complex electronics
Owners of modern refrigerators LG, Samsung or Bosch with a display on the door you have to deal with additional difficulties. In such models, the cable going to the control panel is often laid inside the door and has a connector that may not reach the new connection point.
In some cases, it is necessary to extend the wire or resolder the contacts on the control board inside the refrigerator body. This is a task for advanced users, since careless handling of electronics can lead to a short circuit. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better not to risk it.
⚠️ Attention: When working with electrical components, make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged for at least 15 minutes to discharge the capacitors.
Often, special adapters or additional ones are included with such models cables for changing sides. Check the contents or contact the service center for original spare parts. Twisting wires yourself with electrical tape is unacceptable due to the risk of fire.
It is also worth considering that in some models the light button or door open sensor are located asymmetrically. When rehanging the door, it may be necessary to move these elements or mechanically block them if the new design does not provide for this.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring the floor level. If the refrigerator is not level, then even a perfectly hung door will open on its own or warp. Always start and finish your work by checking that the unit is installed horizontally using a building level.
Another mistake is losing fasteners or using the wrong screws. Do not try to replace the original bolts with the first ones you come across from a hardware store, as the thread pitch and length may differ, which will lead to the thread breaking in the body or damage to the hinge.
- ❌ Forget to remove the shipping bolts (if any) before installation.
- ❌ Tug the door forcefully when removing, risking damage pins.
- ❌ Tighten the bolts without first aligning the position.
- ❌ Ignore the condition of the seal after installation.
Remember that sealing rubber is a critical element. If during rearrangement you notice any creases or cracks on it, it is better to immediately order a new one. Saving on this part will lead to constant operation of the compressor and high electricity bills.
Is it possible to rehang the door in a built-in refrigerator?
In built-in models this is extremely difficult or impossible to do due to the design of furniture facades and fastenings. An individual assessment of the situation is required.
Maintenance after changing the opening side
After successfully changing the opening side, it is recommended to periodically check the tightness of the door during the first week. The mechanism may "settle" a little in its new location, and a final tightening of the bolts may be required. It is also worth listening to the operation of the refrigerator: the absence of extraneous sounds when closing is a good sign.
Regularly wipe the seal with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water to maintain its elasticity. Dirt and grease that accumulate on the rubber can impair the seal, ruining all your efforts to install correctly.
If you notice that after a while the door begins to sag again, this may indicate excessive load on the shelves. Try not to store too heavy items (such as water bottles or heavy pots) on door shelves, especially on the top ones.
Following these simple operating rules will allow your refrigerator to serve long and efficiently, keeping food fresh, no matter which way its door opens.
Do you need to call a professional to re-hang the door?
If you have basic skills in working with tools and a standard refrigerator model, you can do it yourself. However, for models with a display, system Side-by-Side or built-in refrigerators, it is better to turn to professionals.
What to do if there are no threaded holes on the new side?
This means that the manufacturer has not provided the possibility of re-hanging for this model. Drilling new holes yourself is dangerous - you can damage the insulation or cooling system.
Can re-hanging the door void the warranty?
According to the law, self-service (unless damage is caused) should not void the warranty. However, if you break the thread or damage the body when trying to rehang the door, the warranty case for these damages will not be considered.
Why does the refrigerator door open on its own after rehanging?
Most likely, the refrigerator is installed tilted back or the angle of the body is not adjusted. Try unscrewing the front adjustable feet a little to create a slight tilt back.
How to remove the handle if the screws are not visible?
Often the screws are hidden under decorative plugs or are located under the handle itself, accessible after removing the protective strip. In some models, the handle is held on by powerful latches and is removed with a sharp but gentle upward movement.