How to move the refrigerator door to the other side (“side current”): step-by-step instructions with photos and videos

Reversing the refrigerator door to the opposite side (popularly - "side current") is a task faced when moving, renovating a kitchen, or having banal inconvenient ergonomics. Manufacturers provide this option for most models, but instructions in paper manuals are often laconic or lost. Meanwhile, improper dismantling can lead to distortion of hingesdamage to the seal or even leakage freon (in models with a door heating circuit).

This article contains a detailed analysis of the process, taking into account the nuances of different brands, a list of tools and typical mistakesthat beginners use. There is also a model compatibility table and video instructions for visual understanding.

If your refrigerator is older than 10 years, before starting work, check whether the model supports door reversal. Some old Snaige or Minsk hinges are asymmetrical, and it is impossible to rehang the door without replacing parts. In this case, you will need to purchase a set of hinges for the opposite side (cost - from 1,500 to 4,000 ₽ depending on the brand).

1. Preparation: tools and conditions

For work you will need:

• 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (usually PH2) - for most modern models.
• 🔧 Hexagon 4–5 mm - for refrigerators Liebherr or Bosch with internal key screws.
• 📏 Ruler or square —to check the evenness of the hinges.
• 🧲 Magnet or tray —for collecting small parts (screws, washers).
• 🧴 Silicone grease (optional) - for processing hinges after rehanging.

Warning: if the refrigerator is connected to a water supply (models with water dispenser), before starting work turn off the water supply and disconnect the hose. Otherwise, you risk flooding the kitchen when removing the door.

⚠️ Attention: Some models Samsung (series RB and RT) have hidden screws under decorative caps on hinges. The door cannot be dismantled without removing them! The plugs are pryed off with a flat screwdriver.

Work in a well-lit place. If the refrigerator is heavy (the door weight can reach 15–20 kg), invite an assistant. For models with French door (double-leaf) the process is more complicated - you will need to rehang both leaves one by one.

2. Removing the old door: step-by-step analysis

The door removal algorithm is the same for most refrigerators, but there are nuances depending on the location of the hinges:

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove all products from the door shelves (they may fall out when tilted).

2. Remove decorative overlays from hinges (if any) - they are attached with latches or screws.

3. Unscrew top hinge (usually 2-3 screws). Hold the door - after removing the last screw, it may fall!

4. Carefully remove the door from the bottom hinge, pulling it up and towards you.

5. Place the door on a soft surface (towel, cardboard) face down to avoid scratching.

For models Indesit and Ariston the lower loop is often fixed with a retaining ring. It must be removed with pliers before dismantling. H LG hinges can be hidden under plastic covers that are attached to clips.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator door is equipped display or touch panel, before removing, disconnect the power cable (usually it is attached to the top hinge). Do not pull the wires - you risk tearing off the contacts!

3. Transferring the hinges and handle to the other side

After dismantling the door, you must:

1. Remove handle (if it is not symmetrical). In most models, the handle is secured with 2–4 screws under the decorative trim.

2. Move hinges to the opposite side. To do this:

   • Unscrew the hinges from the refrigerator body.
   • Close the old holes with plugs (included with the refrigerator).
   • Screw the hinges to the symmetrical holes on the other side.

Install the handle on the new side (if required).

Important point: on some models Atlant i Beko the holes for the hinges on the opposite side are closed with foam plugs. They must be carefully removed with a knife so as not to damage the body.

Brand	Weighing features	Are additional parts needed?
Atlant	Symmetrical hinges, plugs included	No
Samsung (series RB, RT)	Hidden screws under the plugs, display on the door	Sometimes - a new cable for the display
Indesit, Ariston	Retaining ring on the bottom hinge	No
Liebherr	Hex screws, adjustable hinges	No
Gorenje (old models)	Asymmetrical hinges, requires ordering new ones	Yes

For refrigerators with a system No Frost and door heating (for example, Samsung Twin Cooling), when re-hanging, it may be necessary to move the heating element. In this case, it is better to contact a service center - incorrect connection will lead to icing of the seal.

4. Installing the door on the new side

The installation process is a mirror image of dismantling, but taking into account the nuances:

1. Place the door on hinge, making sure that it sits all the way.

2. Align the door vertically (use a level or visually check the gaps).

3. Tighten top hingebut not all the way - leave some play for adjustment.

4. Check how the door closes. If it opens spontaneouslyadjust the hinges (see the next section).

For models with a water dispenser after re-hanging resetting the water supply. The hose is usually flexible, but sometimes it has to be extended (for example, with LG Door-in-Door).

5. Adjusting the hinges and checking the tightness

Even with proper installation, the door may not close tightly.

• ❄️ Freezing of the seal.
• 💡 Increased energy consumption (the compressor runs longer).
• 🔊 Extraneous noise (creaking or knocking when opening).

For adjustments:

1. Loosen the screws on the upper and lower hinges.

2. Adjust the door position:

   • If the door is falls forward - tighten the lower hinge.
   • If does not fit on top - loosen the top hinge and slide the door down.

Tighten the screws and check the tightness sheet of paper: clamp it between the door and the body. If the sheet falls out, the seal does not fit.

Refrigerators Bosch and Siemens have hinges eccentric screws for precise adjustment. Turning the screw 90° changes the position of the door by 1–2 mm.

What to do if the door still does not close after adjustment?

Check whether shelves or drawers are in the way. Sometimes, after rehanging, it is necessary to reconfigure the position of the internal elements. Also inspect the seal for any kinks or cracks - it may need to be replaced.

6. Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

The experience of craftsmen shows that 70% of problems after re-hanging a door are associated with:

• 🔩 Untightened screws —the door sags over time.
• 🔄 Asymmetrical transfer of loops —holes on the other side may not match.
• 🧊 Damage to the seal —it must not be bent or pulled.
• ⚡ Forgotten disconnection from the network —risk of electric shock when working with metal parts.

A common mistake when working with models Samsung is ignoring Reconnecting the display. If after rehanging the screen does not work, check:

• The integrity of the cable (there should be no creases).
• The correct connection of the connectors (they are usually color coded).

⚠️ Attention: If after rehanging the refrigerator has become stronger make noise or vibrate, check that the door is not touching the internal condenser tubes. This can lead to damage to the freon circuit refrigerant leakage.

7. Features for refrigerators with a dispenser and French Door

Models with water/ice dispenser or system French Door (double-leaf) require additional actions:

For dispenser:

• 💧 Reconfigure water supply hose —it should freely reach the new door position.
• 🔌 Check electrical contacts (if the dispenser is backlit or sensor).

For French Door:

1. Remove upper horizontal bar (it secures both leaves).
2. Reposition each door separatelystarting from the left.
3. Adjust synchronization hinges —the doors should close simultaneously.

For models LG InstaView Door-in-Door the internal door (minibar) also requires rehanging. Its hinges are hidden under a decorative panel, which can be removed with a screwdriver.

8. When is it better to call a professional

Despite the apparent simplicity, in some cases it is better to entrust the door hanging to a professional:

• 🔧 Refrigerator on gas refrigerant (for example, Absolut or old Zanussi). Risk of gas leakage!
• ⚙️ Models with inverter compressor and complex electronics (Hitachi, Panasonic).
• 🧊 Refrigerators with vacuum insulation (for example, Mitsubishi Electric) - damage to the housing will lead to loss of tightness.
• 🔌 If during dismantling you find oxidized contacts or damaged wires.

Cost of the service for re-hanging the door in service centers:

• Single door refrigerator - 1 500–2 500 ₽.
• Double door (French Door) - 3 000–5 000 ₽.
• With a dispenser or electronic display - from 4,000 ₽.

If you decide to act on your own, but encounter a problem (for example, the door does not close or the display does not work), do not try to “fix” it by force. Contact the service - it is cheaper than repairs after unsuccessful experiments.

❓ How can I tell if my refrigerator supports door reversal?

Check:

1. The presence of symmetrical holes for hinges on the opposite side of the case.
2. Inscription Reversible Door or pictogram ⤵⤴ in the instructions.
3. Plugs on the other side (usually plastic or foam).

If none of this is present, the model is not intended for reversing.

❓ Is it necessary to rehang both doors on a two-chamber refrigerator?

Yes, if we are talking about a model with with separate doors (freezer and refrigerator compartments). The exception is models with with a common hinge (for example, some Indesit), where it is enough to reweigh only the upper part.

❓ Is it possible to rehang a refrigerator door with a magnetic seal?

Yes, but magnetic the seal is more rigid and cannot be bent. After rehanging, heat the seal with a hairdryer (temperature up to 60°C) and shape it with your hands. If the seal is damaged, replace it (cost - from 800 ₽).

❓ How long does it take to rehang the door?

On average - 1-2 hours for a single-door model. For French Door or refrigerators with a dispenser, it may take up to 3-4 hours (taking into account adjustment and checking the tightness).

❓ What to do if after rehanging the refrigerator became worse freeze?

Possible reasons:

• Damaged seal —cold air comes out.
• Warped hinges —the door does not close tightly.
• During dismantling, the thermostat or sensor was damaged thermostat or sensor.

Check the tightness with a sheet of paper. If the problem persists, call a technician. diagnostics.