How to move the doors of an Indesit refrigerator to the other side: video + step-by-step instructions

Rehanging refrigerator doors Indesit is a task that many owners face when moving, repairing or the banal need to optimize space in the kitchen. Despite the apparent complexity, the procedure is quite doable with your own hands if you know the key nuances: from the selection of tools to the correct dismantling of hinges and rearrangement of the seal. In this article, we will analyze the process step by step, taking into account the features of different models Indesit (including options with a water dispenser), provide video instructions and point out typical errors that can lead to door misalignment or damage to the body.

It is important to understand that the design of hinges and fastenings may differ even among refrigerators of the same brand, but the logic remains common to all Indesit the doors are attached to top and bottom hinges, and rehanging them requires careful removal, transfer of parts to the opposite side and reverse assembly. If you've never done this kind of repair, the video below will help you visualize each step - from unscrewing the bolts to adjusting the gaps after installation.

Before you begin, check whether your model Indesit supports reversing doors. For some budget series (for example Indesit TIA 16 or Indesit BIAA 13) the hinges may be asymmetrical, which makes the procedure impossible without replacing parts. This information is usually indicated in operating instructions (section "Installation") or on the brand's official website.

Preparation: tools and working conditions

For hanging refrigerator doors Indesit you you will need:

• ✅ Phillips screwdriver (usually PH2 size) - for most hinge bolts.
• ✅ Wrench (10 or 13 mm) - for fixing the lower hinge on models with a counterweight.
• ✅ Hexagon (size depends on the model, usually 4 or 5 mm) - for adjusting the hinges after installation.
• ✅ Making tape - to fix the door in the open position and avoid falling.
• ✅ Level (bubble or laser) - for checking the vertical after installation.
• ✅ Silicone grease - for processing the seal and hinges after rearrangement.

Also prepare the workspace:

• 🔌 Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 10-15 minutes before starting work - this will eliminate the risk of a short circuit due to accidental contact with wires (important for models with a display).
• 🧊 Clear the door shelves from food and remove them - this will lighten the weight of the structure and prevent damage to the glass elements.
• 📏 Make sure that there is enough space on the new side to open the door (at least 60 cm in a radius).

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Indesit equipped system No Frost or electronic control unit, avoid sudden movements when removing doors - this may damage the sensor wires. In models with a dispenser (Indesit WI 161, Indesit WIAA 11), before hanging it is necessary to disconnect the water supply hose (instructions are included in the kit).

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove doors from hinges

The process of dismantling doors starts from the top loops. Follow the algorithm:

1. Secure the door in the open position painting tape or ask an assistant to hold it. This will prevent you from falling when unscrewing the bolts.

2. Remove the decorative cover top hinge (it is usually snapped or screwed with one screw). Under it you will see mounting bolts.

3. Unscrew the bolts of the top hinge using a Phillips screwdriver. In most models Indesit there are 2-3 of them. Gently lift the door up to remove it from the hinge pin.

4. Move the door to the floor (place a soft cloth so as not to scratch the surface) and repeat the procedure for the bottom hinge. You may need a wrench here - the bottom bolts often have nuts on the reverse side.

For models with with two doors (refrigerator + freezer), first remove the upper door, then the lower one. Important: do not try to remove both doors at the same time - this may damage the middle hinge (if there is one).

After dismantling, inspect the hinges and seal. If the hinge pins show signs of rust or deformation, they will need to be cleaned and lubricated. Check the sealing rubber for integrity - when rehanging it, you will have to move it to the other side, and any cracks will lead to loss of tightness.

Moving the hinges and seal to the other side

Now you need to prepare the refrigerator for installing the doors on the opposite side. To do this:

1. Remove the plugs from the holes on the other side of the case (they are usually plastic, pry with a screwdriver). These holes are symmetrical to those used previously.

2. Move the loops:

   • Move the upper loop in a mirror image relative to the original position. The bolts are screwed into the same holes, but on the other side.
   • First remove the lower hinge completely, then install it on the opposite side. Here you may need to adjust the height - use a hexagon for this.

Rearrange the seal. In most models Indesit it is attached to double-sided tape or grooves. Carefully remove the elastic from one side and glue it to the other, making sure that there are no distortions. If the seal is glued with glue, it will have to be replaced with a new one - re-gluing does not guarantee tightness.

For models with dispenser (Indesit WI 161, Indesit WIAA 11) you will additionally need:

• 🔧 Move the water supply tube to the other side (it is usually secured with clips inside the case).
• 📱 Reinstall the dispenser control panel (if it is removable).
• 💧 Check the tightness of the connections after rearranging - leaks can damage the electronics.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator Indesit is equipped with an electronically controlled system, after reversing the doors you may need to reset the errors. To do this, unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then turn it on again. If an error code appears on the display (for example, Total No Frost with electronic control, errors may need to be reset after reversing the doors. To do this, unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then turn it on again. If an error code appears on the display (for example, F04 or F05), refer to the troubleshooting instructions.

Installing doors and adjusting hinges

Assembly takes place in in reverse order:

1. Place the bottom door on the lower hinge pin, then secure it with bolts. Do not tighten them completely - first you need to align the door vertically.

2. Install the top dooraligning it with the top hinge. Make sure that the gap between the doors (if there are two) is 2–3 mm along the entire perimeter.

3. Adjust the position of the doors:

   • If the door sags, tighten the bolts of the upper hinge.
   • If the door does not fit tightly, loosen the lower hinge and adjust it in height with a hexagon.
   • Check the tightness of the seal - there should not be a thicker gap between the door and the body 1 mm.

To check the tightness, use test with a sheet of paper:

1. Insert a sheet between the seal and the body.
2. Close the door and try to pull out the sheet.
3. If the sheet comes out without effort, the seal requires additional adjustment or replacement.

Features of overhanging for popular Indesit models

Design hinges and fastenings may vary depending on the series of the refrigerator. The table below shows the key nuances for popular models:

If your model is not in the table, refer to operating instructions (Installation section) or find a video for a specific series on YouTube. For example, for refrigerators Indesit with a system Low Frost (for example, Indesit ITF 118), additional adjustment of the sensors may be required after rehanging.

What to do if the hinges asymmetrical?

Some models Indesit (for example, DF 4180) have loops that are not designed for reversing. In this case, you will have to order a mirror set of hinges from an authorized dealer or service center. The cost of parts is from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles, depending on the model.

Video instructions: visual examples

For a better understanding of the process, we recommend watching the video. Below is a selection of proven videos for different models Indesit:

• 🎥 Standard model without dispenser (Indesit TIA 16, BIAA 13): the process of removing doors, moving hinges and adjusting is shown.

  [Insert link to YouTube video]

• 🎥 Model with dispenser (Indesit WI 161): emphasis on moving the water supply tube and setting up the electronic block.

  [Insert link to video from YouTube]

• 🎥 Double-door refrigerator (Indesit DF 5200): demonstration of working with a middle hinge and door synchronization.

  [Insert link to video from YouTube]

Pay attention to the comments under the video - they are often discussed there typical problems (for example, door misalignment after installation or electronic unit errors). If the video uses a model different from yours, check the location of the bolts and the type of hinges with your refrigerator.

⚠️ Attention: In some videos, the authors recommend “putting washers” to adjust the gap. This method only works for older models Indesit (before 2015). In modern refrigerators (2016–2026), adjustment is carried out exclusively with a hexagon - the use of washers can lead to breakage of the hinges.

Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even when following the instructions, you can make mistakes that will lead to to poor fit of doors, creaking or damage to the case. Let's look at the most common ones:

• 🔧 Uneven tightening of the bolts —if you tighten the top hinge and leave the bottom loose, the door will warp. Solution: Tighten the bolts crosswise, checking the level after each turn.
• 🚪 Ignoring the middle loop (in two-door models) - it also needs to be rearranged and adjusted. Solution: Remove the middle hinge together with the top door, then install it mirrored.
• 💦 Damage to the seal when removing - if the elastic is torn or deformed, the tightness will be broken. Solution: Buy a new seal (the article number is indicated in the instructions) and install it with glue or double-sided tape.
• ⚡ Forgot to unplug the refrigerator - this can result in a short circuit upon contact with the wires. Solution: Always remove the plug from the socket 10-15 minutes before the start work.

Another common problem is creaking hinges after rehanging. It occurs due to:

• Lack of lubrication on the hinge pins.
• Incorrect adjustment (the door presses on the body).
• Debris getting into the mechanism.

To eliminate the squeak, clean the hinges from dust, apply silicone grease and adjust the gaps with a hexagon.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to rehang the doors on an Indesit refrigerator yourself if you have no experience?

Yes, the procedure does not require professional skills, but it will require accuracy. The main thing is to follow the instructions, take your time and use the right tools. If in doubt, practice removing and installing door shelves before working with hinges.

How long does it take to rehang doors?

On average - from 40 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the model. Most of the time is spent on adjusting the hinges and checking the tightness. If the refrigerator has a dispenser, add another 20-30 minutes to move the water supply tube.

What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not close tightly?

The reasons may be different:

• The seal is incorrectly re-glued - check its position around the entire perimeter.
• The hinges are not adjusted - loosen the bolts and level the door.
• The refrigerator body is deformed - in this case, replacement of the hinges may be required.

Start by checking the seal and adjusting the hinges with a hexagon.

Is it necessary call a technician to rehang the doors?

In most cases, no. Call the technician if:

• The hinges are asymmetrical and need to be replaced.
• The refrigerator is under warranty (self-repair may void the warranty).
• A model with complex electronics (for example, Indesit WIAA 11 with a touch screen display).

The cost of the master’s work is from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles (excluding parts).

How often can you rehang doors?

Technically - as many times as you like, but each relocation of hinges and seals increases the risk of their wear. It is recommended to do this no more than once every 2–3 years. If you plan to frequently change the opening side, consider models with reversible hinges (for example, some series Indesit Linea).