The need to dismantle the door handles on the refrigerator LG often arises when transporting equipment or when replacing damaged elements. Owners of modern models are faced with the fact that manufacturers hide fasteners, making the facade visually clean. This complicates the task, but does not make it impossible.
In this article we will analyze all the nuances of dismantling for various modifications of the Korean brand. You will learn where to look for hidden screws and how not to damage the plastic during disassembly. The correct approach will preserve the aesthetic appearance of the unit.
It is important to understand that the design may differ depending on the year of manufacture. Old models they often have exposed screws, while new series require more delicate handling. Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply.
Preparation of tools and workplace
To successfully complete the task, you will need a minimum set of tools. The main tool will be Phillips screwdriver, which is suitable for most screws. You may also need a small flathead screwdriver.
In some cases, the screws are hidden under decorative plugs. To remove them without damaging the surface, use a thin object. Great medical scalpel or a sharp knife.
- 🛠️ Medium-sized Phillips screwdriver for main screws.
- 🔧 Flat-head screwdriver for prying up plugs and plastic pads.
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect hands from sharp edges.
- 🔦 Flashlight for illuminating hidden fastening points.
The workplace should be well lit. Cover the floor in front of the refrigerator with soft material to prevent falling parts from being scratched. This is especially true for glossy surfaces.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any disassembly work, make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged. This will eliminate the risk of electric shock in case of accidental damage to the wiring going to the control panel.
Determining the type of attachment of handles
There are two main ways to attach handles to equipment LG. The first option is a classic mounting with screws, which are immediately visible or hidden under plugs. The second option is a hidden fastening, where the screws are hidden inside the structure.
Carefully inspect the handle from all sides. If you don't see holes for fasteners, try carefully probing the bottom of the element. Manufacturers often hide the screws from the bottom, disguising them to match the color of the plastic.
On models with a system Door-in-Door the mechanism may be more complex. Here, handles are often integrated into the overall design of the door. In such cases, it is better to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or video disassembly of a specific model.
If holes are visible on the surface, but they are closed with plastic plugs, proceed with caution. Pry up the edge of the cork with a flat tool. Do not use excessive force to avoid scratching the front panel.
Removing handles on models without hidden fasteners
On classic models of refrigerators LG the removal process is the simplest. Fastening elements are usually located at the end or at the top/bottom of the handle. You only need a screwdriver.
Unscrew all visible screws. Their number varies from two to four per handle. After removing the fasteners, carefully pull the handle towards you. If it does not budge, check if there is a forgotten screw left.
☑️ Tools and actions
Sometimes the screws may be covered with a layer of paint or dirt. In this case, use solvent on a cotton swab to clean the threads. This will make it easier to unscrew and prevent the slots from being licked off.
⚠️ Attention: When unscrewing the screws, try not to drop them inside the refrigerator body. If the screw falls behind the trim, removing it will require completely disassembling the door, which is much more difficult.
After removing the parts, inspect the holes. If you plan to transport them, cover them with masking tape to prevent dust and moisture from getting inside. This will preserve the neat appearance of the unit.
Removing handles with hidden screws (hidden fastening)
Modern series of refrigerators LG, such as Instaview, are often equipped with handles with hidden mounting. Visually it seems that they are simply glued, but this is not the case. The fasteners are hidden under the decorative trims.
To access the screws, you must remove the decorative strip. Usually it is held on by latches. Insert a flathead screwdriver or plastic card into the gap between the handle and the door. Act slowly, moving along the length of the strip.
What to do if the strip cannot be removed?
If the decorative trim does not give in, do not use force. Perhaps the screws are located on the back side of the door (on the hinge side) or are covered with plugs that must first be removed with a thin blade. Heating with a hairdryer is not recommended in this case, as it can damage the plastic.
After removing the cover, you will see screws. Unscrew them and remove the main element of the handle. Be careful: in some models, wiring for the backlight or display may pass under the handle.
If you hear a click when the plug snaps off, it means the mechanism worked correctly. The plastic in modern models is quite durable, but fragile to fracture at low temperatures.
Features of disassembling Side-by-Side and Door-in-Door doors
Format refrigerators Side-by-Side and models with an additional door Door-in-Door have a more complex handle geometry. A combined fastening is often used here.
In models Door-in-Door the external handle can be connected to the mechanism for opening the internal window. When removing such a part, it is important to remember the return springs or clamps.
| Model type LG | Screw location | Removal features |
|---|---|---|
| Classic (Top/Bottom) | Side or bottom | Direct access, 2-4 screws |
| Side-by-Side | From the inner end part | Requires opening the door for access |
| Door-in-Door | Under the decorative trim | You need to pry off the plug, wiring is possible |
| Instaview | Hidden, often on top | Requires careful removal of the panel |
When working with wide Side-by-Side doors, it is better to dismantle with an assistant. A door without a handle is harder to hold, and there is a risk of dropping it or damaging the hinges.
Pay attention to the length of the screws. It may differ at different attachment points. Lay them out in the order of unscrewing so that during assembly you do not mix them up and damage the threads.
Common mistakes and precautions
The most common mistake is the use of excessive force. If the handle does not come off after removing all the screws, then you are missing something. Check for hidden fasteners.
Using metal tools without protection can lead to paint chips. Always wrap the screwdriver blade with electrical tape or use special plastic spatulas.
- ❌ Do not try to tear off the handle, if it does not fit - look for a hidden screw.
- ❌ Do not use aggressive chemicals to clean plastic - it can become cloudy.
- ❌ Do not leave the door open for a long time without fixing it - the hinges may sag.
Another mistake is the loss of small parts. Screws and plugs roll very easily under the refrigerator or into crevices. Use a magnetic cup or container to collect fasteners.
⚠️ Attention: The design of the handles may vary slightly even within the same series of refrigerators. Always check the technical documentation of a specific model if standard methods do not work.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to remove the handles without removing the door from its hinges?
Yes, in most cases the handle can be removed separately without dismantling the door itself. The door only needs to be opened to access the internal screws if they are located at the end.
What to do if the plastic plug is broken?
If the plug breaks during removal, it can be replaced with a universal one or an original spare part can be ordered using the catalog number. Temporarily, the hole can be sealed with a decorative sticker.
Do you need to lubricate the fastening points during reinstallation?
It is not necessary to lubricate the screws, but you can apply a drop of silicone grease to the threads to prevent corrosion and facilitate future dismantling. The main thing is not to stain the plastic.
Why does the handle wobble after installation?
Most likely, the screws are not tightened completely or one of the fastening washers is lost. Check the tightness of the fit and, if necessary, place a rubber gasket.