The situation when, after installing new kitchen furniture, it turns out that the refrigerator door opens in the wrong direction is familiar to many owners of household appliances. Often it is the model Atlant that becomes the object of such alterations, since this brand offers a wide range of models with the ability to change the attachment. Fortunately, the design of these units allows you to perform the rearrangement yourself, without resorting to the services of expensive craftsmen.
Before starting work, you must clearly understand that the process requires care and adherence to the sequence of actions. Incorrect assembly can lead to distortion of the canvas or failure of the seal. In this article we will look in detail at how rehang the door on the Atlant refrigerator, what tools you will need and what nuances you should pay special attention to.
It is worth noting that not all models allow complete symmetry of actions. Some two-chamber options require dismantling the entire front part, while single-chamber ones can be redone faster. The main thing is to take your time and prepare a flat, free space for work.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
The success of the operation directly depends on the quality of preparation. You don't need a complex professional tool, but the set should be complete. The basis will be a set screwdrivers (cross and flat), since the screws in different models may differ. You will also definitely need a wrench or a 10 mm socket, often used for fastening hinges.
In addition to the main tool, prepare auxiliary materials. You'll need a container to store small parts so they don't get lost. It will not be superfluous to have a soft rag or cardboard on hand, on which you can put the removed elements, so as not to scratch the floor or enamel of the refrigerator.
- 🛠️ Set of screwdrivers (PH1, PH2, flat)
- 🔧 Wrench or ratchet with a 10-mm head mm
- 📦 Box or magnetic tray for screws
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This is critical for safety as you will be working in close proximity to electrical components and wiring.
Make room around the unit. You will need to ensure access to the refrigerator from all sides, as you may have to walk around it. Remove carpets and foreign objects that may interfere with the movement of heavy door panels.
Removing the top cover and preparing to remove the doors
The first step is to remove the top cover of the refrigerator, if it is structurally provided for in your model. In most cases, it is secured with two or four screws at the front and latches at the back. Carefully unscrew the front screws, then slightly lift the cover and slide it back to disengage the rear latches.
After removing the cover, access to the upper end of the case opens. Here you will see the top hinge fasteners. In some models Atlant under the top cover there may be passage wiring for a lamp or indicators. If the wires are found, they must be carefully disconnected, remembering or photographing the order in which the connectors are connected.
Do not force it tear off the cover if it does not come off. Check that all screws are removed and there are no hidden plugs. Plastic, especially on older models, can be fragile, and excessive force will lead to breakage of the fasteners.
Removing the upper door panel
The process of removing the upper door is the most critical step, requiring physical strength or the help of a second person. The door leaf is quite heavy, and holding it with one hand while unscrewing the bolts is extremely inconvenient and dangerous.
First, you need to unscrew the fastening bolts of the upper hinge. Depending on the model, there may be two or three. Once the bolts are removed, the hinge can be removed. Now you need to carefully lift the door up to remove its pin from the lower hinge hole and set it in a safe place.
☑️ Removing the upper door
If your model has a middle hinge (for two-chamber refrigerators), it also needs to be removed or rearranged depending on the design. Often it is at this stage that it becomes clear that you cannot do without help, since the weight of the leaf can reach 15-20 kg.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the removed door leaning against the wall in a vertical position without secure fixation. It may fall from a draft or accidental contact, which will lead to deformation or breakage of the glass (if there is a display case).
Rearranging the fittings and hinges
Now that the door leaves have been removed, you need to move all the fittings to the opposite side. This includes not only the main hinges, but also the handles, caps and strikers. On the factory side of the refrigerator body you will see holes closed with decorative plugs.
Unscrew the plugs from the holes on the new side of the hinge and install them in the vacated holes on the old side. This is an important cosmetic point that will preserve the neat appearance of the unit. The hinges that were on the left should now be installed on the right, and vice versa.
What to do if the holes do not match?
Some older or specific Atlant models may require drilling out the holes or using adapter bushings. Check the package: sometimes the manufacturer puts the bushings in a package with documents.
Pay attention to latch rod. In some models, it also needs to be moved to the opposite slot at the end of the door for the closing mechanism to work correctly. This may require a thin screwdriver or tweezers.
| Fittings element | Action when overhanging | Position after work |
|---|---|---|
| Upper loop | Move to the other side | Opposite upper corner |
| Middle loop | Expand or rearrange | Center, opposite side |
| Bottom hinge | Rearrange the pin/bushing | Opposite lower corner |
| Plugs | Swap | Close the old holes |
Make sure that all threaded connections are clean and undamaged. If you find rust or broken threads, it is better to replace the fasteners with a similar one to ensure the reliability of the structure in the future.
Installing doors in a new location
Installation begins with the bottom door (in two-chamber models) or a single door. Insert the lower sleeve into the corresponding hole on the body and put on the door leaf. It is important to correctly get the pin into the hinge hole, so the door must be held strictly vertically.
After installing the lower door, the middle hinge (if any) is mounted, onto which the upper door leaf is mounted. The final chord is the installation of the top loop. The bolts should first be simply tightened by hand in order to be able to adjust the position of the door, and only then tightened with a wrench.
- 🚪 Install the bottom door on the pin
- 🔩 Secure the middle hinge (for 2-chamber)
- 🆙 Hang the top door
- 🔧 Fix the upper hinge with bolts
Check the door movement. They should open smoothly, without creaking or jamming. If the door touches the frame or seal, you may need to adjust the height of the refrigerator legs or loosen the hinges for positioning.
Connecting the electrical system and checking for leaks
If your model is equipped with a door open indication or a lamp at the top end, it’s time to reconnect the wires. Insert the connectors into the mating parts until you hear a characteristic click. Make sure that the wires are not pinched by the metal parts of the loops and do not come into contact with moving elements.
After assembly, you need to check tightness the fit of the seal. Take a piece of paper and clamp it around the perimeter of the door. The paper should be pulled out with force. If the sheet slides out freely, it means there is a gap in this place and the door is warped.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen. After 10-15 minutes of compressor operation, check whether the door is closed tightly. Sometimes, after rehanging, it takes time for the seal to “straighten out” and take the desired shape, especially if the refrigerator stood for a long time with the door open.
⚠️ Attention: If after rehanging the door does not close tightly, do not ignore it. A constant influx of warm air will force the compressor to work without interruption, which will lead to rapid wear of the motor and an increase in electricity bills.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to hang the door on the Atlant refrigerator yourself if it is on guarantees?
Technically this is possible, and the instructions often describe this process. However, if you damage the case, hinges or electrical parts when re-hanging it yourself, the warranty claim may be voided. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to call an official master.
What to do if the hinge bolts cannot be unscrewed?
Factory assembly is often performed with great force or fixing varnish. Try using a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) by placing it on the threads and waiting 10-15 minutes. A high-quality screwdriver with a good handle will also help.
Is it necessary to change the opening side on all doors of a two-chamber refrigerator?
Usually change the opening side of both compartments (refrigerator and freezer compartments) so that they open in the same direction. It is ergonomic and correct from a design point of view. However, technically, you can leave one door as is, if this is dictated by the peculiarities of the kitchen layout.
Where to put the old plugs and fasteners?
It is recommended to keep all dismantled fasteners and plugs. If you move to a new kitchen and need to return the door to its original location, these parts will be essential. Fold them into a bag and stick them with tape inside the refrigerator compartment or in the document compartment.