Changing the layout in the kitchen or rearranging furniture often poses a difficult task for owners of household appliances: the refrigerator door begins to open in the wrong direction, blocking the passage or preventing the opening of neighboring cabinets. For owners of domestic brand equipment Biryusa this is a solvable problem, since the design of most models initially provides for the possibility of changing the opening side. This is not just convenience, but often a necessity for the ergonomic use of space.
The remodeling process requires attentiveness, the availability of a basic set of tools and a clear understanding of the sequence of actions. Errors at the dismantling stage can lead to damage accessories or failure of the seal. In this article, we will analyze in detail how to properly hang the door of the Biryusa refrigerator in order to avoid unnecessary costs of calling a technician.
It is worth considering that different series of refrigerators may have design features for attaching hinges and handles. In some places you will need to remove decorative plugs, and in others you will need to dismantle the entire top panel. Before starting work be sure to disconnect the unit from the power supply and let it stand turned off for at least a couple of hours.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
High-quality preparation is the key to successful completion of the job without scratches on the floor or chips on the body. You will need free space around the refrigerator to be able to walk around it on all sides. Do not try to move it in a tight corner, as this will increase the risk of the heavy structure falling.
For the job, you will need a standard DIY kit. The main tool will be a set screwdrivers (cross and flat), since screws can be of different types. It would also be a good idea to prepare a wrench or a head of the appropriate size if the hinges are secured with bolts.
To protect the flooring and ease of work, prepare the following auxiliary materials:
- 🛠️ A set of screwdrivers (phillips, flat) and a wrench for 8 or 10 mm.
- 📦 Thick cardboard or soft blanket to put the removed doors on.
- 🧼 Clean rags and degreaser to clean the fastening points.
- 👐 An assistant to help hold a heavy door when unscrewing loops.
It is important to determine in advance whether your model has hidden fasteners. Sometimes screws can be hidden under decorative trims or plugs. Carefully inspect the ends of the doors and the top of the body.
⚠️ Attention: Never begin to unscrew the bottom hinge until the door is secured or removed from the top support. This can lead to the heavy door falling and injury to the legs.
☑️ Preparation for work
Design features of different Biryusa models
Refrigerators Biryusa have been produced for several decades, and during this time the design has changed. Older models often had hinges screwed directly to the metal body, while modern versions use a more complex fastening system with plastic bushings.
In models with a single camera, the process is usually simpler, since it does not require rearranging the mode switch "Refrigerator/Freezer"which is often located at the end of the door. In two-chamber units, you need to be extremely careful with the wires going to the sensors and lamps.
Particular attention should be paid to the type of handles. In some series they are part of molded plastic and cannot be removed, while in others they are screwed on the inside. If the handle is not removable, the re-hanging process may not be possible without replacing the door itself.
Models with the No Frost system
Refrigerators with the No Frost system often require additional disconnection of the defrost sensor wires that pass through the loop. Be careful with the connectors, they may be fragile.
Before disassembling, check the technical documentation for your specific model. The specific location of mounting holes on the opposite side of the case may be indicated there.
Step-by-step instructions: dismantling the door
We begin to directly disassemble the structure. The first step is to empty the doors of the contents. This will reduce the load on the hinges and reduce the risk of them deforming during removal. It is better to remove the shelves in advance.
The algorithm of actions depends on the type of fastening of the top cover. In most modern models Biryusa the top panel is removable. You need to unscrew the screws that secure it and carefully move it back or up to gain access to the top hinge.
Next, follow the instructions:
- Remove the decorative plugs from the top hinge.
- Unscrew the fasteners top hinge bolts, but do not remove them completely until the door is secure.
- Lift the door to remove it from the bottom stud and set it aside in a safe place.
- Remove the hinge itself and move the stops (if any) to the opposite side.
When removing the door pay attention to the condition sealing rubber. If it is very dirty, this is the ideal time to wash it with warm soapy water.
⚠️ Attention: If your model has wires passing through the top hinge, do not yank the door sharply under any circumstances. Carefully disconnect the connector, first remembering or photographing the color marking of the contacts.
Rehanging the hinges and rearranging the fittings
The most critical stage is installing the hinges on the new side. On the body of the refrigerator and on the door itself on the opposite side there are usually technological holes closed with plastic plugs. They need to be removed.
Use a flathead screwdriver or knife to carefully pry off the plugs. Do not use excessive force to avoid scratching the enamel. The vacated holes on the old side also need to be closed with plugs to preserve aesthetics.
Now install the hinges:
- 🔩 Screw the top hinge to a new place using standard fasteners.
- 🚪 Install the door on the lower support pin (which also needs rearrange).
- 🔧 Secure the door with the top hinge, tightening the bolts tightly.
- 🔌 Reconnect the electrical connectors if they were disconnected.
Make sure that the hinge axis is correctly seated in its socket. Misalignment can lead to the door not closing well or, conversely, opening spontaneously.
Some models require turning the hinge itself. Pay attention to the shape of the metal plate: one side may be intended for left-hand installation, the other for right-hand installation. Make sure that the hinge locking tab is facing the correct direction, corresponding to the new opening direction.
Adjusting the door position and tightness
After installing the door in a new location, it often becomes necessary to adjustment. Even a slight deviation of the axis can lead to a loose fit sealwhich will cause ice freezing and increased energy consumption.
Tightness check is carried out by simple visual inspection and a test with a sheet of paper. Clamp the sheet of paper with the door around the perimeter: it should be pulled out with force. If the paper falls out freely, adjustment is required.
Table of problems and methods for eliminating them:
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution method |
|---|---|---|
| The door does not close all the way | Case distortion or interfering shelf | Align the refrigerator, check the shelves |
| Gap in the upper corner | The top hinge is loosely tightened | Loosen the fastening, press the door, tighten the bolts |
| The door opens itself | Tilt the body forward | Tighten the front support legs |
| Whistling or squeaking when opening | Friction of hinges or seal | Lubricate the hinges, heat the seal with a hairdryer |
To adjust the tilt, use the front support legs. By rotating them, you can achieve a strictly horizontal position or a slight tilt back, which facilitates automatic closing.
Common mistakes and precautions
When doing self-repairs, users often make common mistakes that can negate all efforts. One of the most common is the loss of small parts. It is better to put bolts, washers and plugs in a separate container rather than keep them in your pocket.
Another mistake is ignoring the level. If the refrigerator is positioned crookedly, the closing mechanism will not work correctly, and the compressor may experience increased loads. Always use a building level.
Main risks to avoid:
- 🚫 Trying to remove a door without fixing it (risk of falling and injury).
- 🚫 Using excessive force when unscrewing rusted bolts (you can strip the threads).
- 🚫 Forgetfulness about connecting the wires (the light in the chamber will not light).
If you notice that after hanging the door begins to touch the body or shelves, immediately stop and re-diagnosis the position of the hinges.
⚠️ Attention: In models with electronic control and a display on doors, re-hanging may be impossible or may require re-flashing the controller. Specify this information in the instructions for your model Biryusa.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Do you need to completely defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, if there is a lot of ice inside, water may spill out when the unit is tilted. It is better to defrost the camera in advance to avoid moisture getting on the electrical contacts.
Is it possible to rehang the door if it has a display?
In most cases, no, or this requires complex manipulations with lengthening the cables. The display is usually located on one side, and transferring it to the other side is not structurally provided. Check the model in the instructions.
Why does the door not close tightly after rehanging?
Most likely, the installation geometry of the hinges is broken or the seal is distorted. Try loosening the top hinge, pressing the door tightly with your hand and re-tightening the bolts. Warming up the seal will also help.
Where can I get new plugs if the old ones are lost?
Plugs can be ordered at the brand's service centers Turkish or pick up universal ones in furniture fittings stores. As a last resort, the holes can be carefully painted over to match the color of the case.