The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door Atlant often arises when moving to a new kitchen or after remodeling the premises. The design of many models of this brand initially provides for the possibility of symmetrical installation of hanging elements, which greatly simplifies the life of the owners. However, the process itself requires attentiveness, the presence of a basic set of tools and a clear understanding of the sequence of actions.
Before starting physical work, you should study hinge unit design your specific model. Differences in design may relate to the number of fasteners, the presence of decorative plugs and the type of fittings. Ignoring these nuances can lead to damage to the enamel or a loose fit of the sash after reinstallation.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for models with one and two cameras, and will also pay attention to the specifics of working with systems No Frost. Proper re-hanging will not only improve the ergonomics of use, but will also extend the service life of the seals.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with a live electrical appliance is prohibited by safety rules.
Preparation of tools and workplace
To successfully complete the task, you will need to prepare special tools in advance. The main tool will be hex wrench (usually 4 or 5 mm) or a set of screwdrivers with replaceable tips. Some models Atlant may use socket head bolts, so the presence of open-end wrenches will also not be superfluous.
In addition to the main tool, you will need auxiliary materials. Be sure to have masking tape to secure the moving parts and a soft rag to avoid scratching the glossy surface of the case when working. You will also need a flat spatula or knife to carefully remove decorative panels.
Organize the free space around the refrigerator. You need to provide access to the unit from all sides, since the door will have to be removed completely and set aside. If the floor is slippery, lay cardboard or a mat to prevent the tool from rolling under the equipment.
☑️ Tools for hanging
Removing the top panel and top hinge
The process begins with releasing the upper part of the case. On most models Atlant the top cover is secured with latches or screws hidden under a decorative strip. Carefully pry the bar with a flat screwdriver and remove it to gain access to the fasteners.
After removing the cover, you will see the top hinge on which the door hangs. Important: Before unscrewing the hinge bolts, you must lock the door in the closed position. Use masking tape to adhere the door to the refrigerator body in several places. This will prevent the heavy door from falling and the rotation axis shifting at the most inopportune moment.
Now you can unscrew the top hinge mounting bolts. Store them in a separate container so as not to lose them. Remove the loop itself and set it aside. If the model is equipped with a door sensor, carefully disconnect the wiring connector without sharply pulling the wires.
Nuances of working with wiring
If your model is equipped with a door sensor, the wires may run inside the chassis pillar. When removing the top loop, be extremely careful when pulling out the harness. Do not damage the insulation with sharp metal edges. If the wires are strained, it is better to temporarily remove the lower decorative panel to free up the length of the cable.
Removing the door and rearranging the handles
After dismantling the top hinge, the door is no longer secured by anything at the top, but is still supported by the bottom pin. Remove the retaining tape and carefully lift the door to remove it from the lower support sleeve. It is better to perform this operation with an assistant, since the doors of two-chamber models Atlant are quite heavy.
The deferred door must be prepared for installation on the other side. To do this you need to rearrange the handles. On the inside of the door leaf there are usually technological holes closed with plastic plugs. Remove the plugs from the new side of the installation and close the old holes with them.
Remove the handles by unscrewing the screws on the inside of the door and install them in a new location. Make sure the screws are tight, but not too tight to avoid stripping the threads in the plastic. Check that the handle does not wobble and is located strictly parallel to the cut of the door.
Some models require rearrangement thrust pin at the bottom of the door. It can be pressed or screwed. If the pin is removable, carefully knock it out or unscrew it and install it in a symmetrical hole on the opposite side.
Working with the lower support and pin
The lower part of the door rests on a special pin or sleeve, which is mounted in the lower hinge or directly into the refrigerator body. You need to dismantle this element and move it to the opposite side. Depending on the design, the bottom hinge can be common for both cameras or separate.
If the bottom hinge is fixed to the body, unscrew it and move it to the other side using the holes provided by the manufacturer. When installing a new support bushing, make sure that it is seated all the way and does not protrude above the plane, otherwise the door will be warped.
Pay attention to the condition sealing rubber at the bottom. With prolonged use it could become deformed. If you notice any creases, try warming them up with a hairdryer or simply leave the door straightened for a while before final assembly.
Installing the door on a new side
Now you can begin installation. Place the door on the bottom support pin, making sure it fits properly into the groove. Have an assistant hold the sash in a vertical position while aligning the top hole for the hinge.
Install the top hinge in place and tighten the mounting bolts. Do not tighten them all the way straight away. First you need to achieve the correct position of the door relative to the body. The gaps between the door and the body must be uniform over the entire height.
After preliminary fixation, check the operation magnetic lock (if it is in your model Atlant) and the tightness of the seal. The door should open smoothly, without jerking, and be independently brought to close on the last section of the path (about 30 degrees until completely closed).
Adjusting the position and tightness of the closure
The final stage is fine adjustment. If the door is warped or does not fit tightly, you need to loosen the top hinge bolts and slightly raise or lower the door to achieve the ideal gap. In some models Atlant the height is adjusted by unscrewing or twisting the support pin itself at the bottom.
Check the horizontal installation of the refrigerator itself. If the unit is placed on an uneven floor, the door may open spontaneously or, conversely, not close completely. Use a building level and adjustable support legs to level the body.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| The door does not fit tightly | The body is skewed or loops | Unscrew the front legs of the refrigerator |
| Strong rebound when closing | Incorrect angle of inclination | Adjust the height of the supports |
| Friction on the body | Displacement of the rotation axis | Loosen and re-tighten the hinge bolts |
| Creak when opening | Lack of lubrication | Lubricate the lower bushing and axle |
Make sure that after adjustment all bolts are securely tightened. Vibration of the compressor can weaken the fasteners over time, so after a week of operation it is recommended to re-check the tightness of the hinge bolts.
Features of models with the No Frost system
Owners of refrigerators Atlant with the system No Frost should be especially careful. In such models, an air duct or wiring harness often passes through the top hinge, connecting the main control unit with the display panel on the door.
When reversing the door, you must carefully disconnect the connectors. Remember or take a photo of the order in which the wires are connected.so that when assembling on the new side you do not mix up the contacts. An error during connection can lead to failure of the electronic module or display.
⚠️ Attention: Models with No Frost often use plastic bushings in the air duct. When moving, make sure that the channel seal is also moved to the new side, otherwise cold air will be wasted, and ice will form on the food.
If the design involves laying wires inside a hollow door, when moving the handle, you may need to carefully pull the cable through the new hole. Do this without sudden movements so as not to damage the insulation.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it necessary defrost the refrigerator before moving the door?
Yes, this is highly desirable. Complete defrosting will make the seal more elastic, which will make it easier to remove and install the door. In addition, an empty refrigerator is lighter, and the risk of dropping it or damaging the shelves is minimal.
Is it possible to rearrange the door on an Atlant refrigerator without an assistant?
Technically this is possible, but it is not recommended, especially for two-chamber models. The door is heavy and bulky, it is easy to drop it and damage the enamel or break the glass shelf inside. It is better to call a second person for insurance.
What to do if the holes for the hinges on the new side do not match?
In the factory, all the holes are already provided. If you don't see any holes, they may be covered with decorative plugs on the inside of the door or on the frame. Inspect the surface carefully. You cannot drill new holes - this will damage the thermal insulation.
How long does silicone sealant take to dry if I used it?
If you used sealant to fix the bushings (which is sometimes done when there are backlashes), the time for complete polymerization is from 12 to 24 hours. However, for the standard procedure for rehanging the hinges Atlant the use of sealant is usually not required.