Remodeling the kitchen or simply the desire to optimize the workspace often leads to the need to change the opening side of the refrigeration unit door. For owners of premium equipment, such as Liebherr, this process requires special attention to detail, since the design of hinges and canopies is more complex than in budget models. However, if you have a basic set of tools and understand the principle of operation of the mechanism, you can perform this task yourself, without resorting to the services of a service center.
It is important to understand that modern models of the German brand are equipped with a system SmartDoor or complex hinge mechanisms that require a precise sequence of actions during dismantling. An error at the stage of removing the top cover or incorrect position of the door when unscrewing the lower fasteners can lead to damage to the body or even the fall of a heavy door leaf. Therefore, before starting work, you must carefully study the device of your specific model, since the instructions may vary slightly depending on the series CoolPlus, SmartSteel or built-in solutions.
Do not be intimidated by the number of fasteners - the fixation system is designed with durability and safety in mind. In this article we will analyze a universal algorithm of actions that is suitable for most models, and also highlight critical points that require accuracy. Correctly performed re-hanging will not only free up usable space, but will also ensure a tight fit of the seal, which is critical for the energy efficiency of the device.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply! Unplug the plug from the socket and let the unit stand for 10-15 minutes so that the refrigerant is distributed throughout the system, if the device has just been operating.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
The success of the operation half depends on quality preparation. You will need not only physical strength to hold the door, but also a specific set of tools. The main element will be hex wrench (usually 4 or 5 mm in size), which often comes complete with equipment, but it is better to prepare your own, more convenient one. You will also need a Phillips screwdriver PH2 or PH3 for medium-sized screws and, possibly, a flat-head screwdriver for prying up decorative plugs.
Free up space in front of the refrigerator: you will need to place the removed door on a flat surface, covered with soft material so as not to scratch the facade or floor covering. Prepare a container for small parts, as screws from different units may vary in length and thread diameter. By mixing them up during assembly, you can damage the threads in the metal case or plastic bushings.
- 🛠️ Set of hex keys (metric standard)
- 🪛 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- 🧤 Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges edges
- 🧼 Soft rags and a container for fasteners
Pay special attention to lighting: the lower hinges are often located in hard-to-reach places, hidden by a plinth panel or decorative plinth. If you are working in poor visibility conditions, use an additional light source to ensure you can clearly see the bolt heads and avoid stripping the splines. An incorrectly selected tool can lead to the edges of the screws licking off, which will turn a simple procedure into a complex problem of drilling out fasteners.
☑️ Ready to rehang
Dismantling the upper part and removing the door
The process begins from the top of the unit, where the main load-bearing unit is located. First of all, you need to remove the decorative cover that hides the top hinge. In models Liebherr it may be secured with latches or screws, so be careful not to break the plastic clips. Once the cover is removed, you will see the hinge mechanism, which often includes not only the mechanical connection, but also the electrical contacts for the display or backlight.
If your model has a door display, electrical connector needs to be disconnected first before completely loosening the mounting bolts. Typically the connector is located inside or near the hinge body. Do not pull the wires sharply - find the locking tab on the connector, press it and smoothly pull out the plug. Damage to the wiring can lead to the control panel not working.
Now you can proceed to unscrewing the upper hinge bolts. It is critical to have someone hold the door, as once the top fastener is removed, it will only be supported by the bottom hinge and may move. Loosen, but do not completely remove, the top bolts, then remove them completely and carefully lift the door leaf, removing it from the bottom pin. Place the door on the prepared surface with the outer side down.
Nuances of working with Side-by-Side models
In Side-by-Side refrigerators, the sequence of actions may be different: first, remove the smaller freezer door, then the main refrigerator door. Often it is necessary to dismantle the central vertical partition, which also performs a load-bearing function.
It is worth noting that in some modifications the upper hinge can be secured with a locking screw, which prevents spontaneous unwinding. Check for the presence of such an element on the side surface of the hinge. If you ignore this point, you can spend a lot of time trying to remove a “sticky” bolt that is actually locked mechanically.
Working with the lower hinges and plinth
After removing the door, attention turns to the lower part of the body. There is often a hidden base grille or decorative apron that must be removed to access the lower supports and the roller mechanism. Depending on the model, the base can be removed by moving it up and down or by pulling it towards you. Be careful with plastic guides.
The bottom hinge in refrigerators Liebherr often has an adjusting screw that is responsible for the height and tightness of the door when closed. Before moving the elements to the other side, inspect the condition of the bushings and plain bearings. If you notice wear or damage to the plastic, it is recommended to immediately replace these consumables, as old ones can cause the door to sag after rehanging.
Remove the shipping plugs on the opposite side of the body, if installed. The factory holes on the unused side are usually closed with plastic plugs that need to be removed and moved to the vacant places. This will provide an aesthetic appearance and protect the internal cavities from dust. Make sure that all mounting holes on the new side are clear and the threads are not damaged.
| Structural element | Location (Standard) | Location (After overweight) | Mounting type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top hinge | Top right | Top left | Hex bolts |
| Bottom support | Bottom right | Bottom left | Sleeve/Pin |
| Door stop | Rear end | Front end (conditionally) | Threaded screw |
| Handle (if non-removable) | Side | Requires replacement/rearrangement | Internal screws |
It is important to remove and rearrange stop-limiter openings. This element is located in the area of the lower or middle hinge and prevents the door from swinging too wide, damaging the seal or furniture. Rearranging the stopper is a mandatory step, which is often forgotten, which leads to the inability to fully open the door to 110-120 degrees after installation.
Rearranging fittings and handles
The most labor-intensive stage is the physical transfer fastening elements on the door leaf. Handles in refrigerators Liebherr can be attached in different ways: in some models they are glued, in others they are screwed from the inside. If the handle is integrated into the profile or is part of the system SmartSteelthe decorative trim may need to be completely replaced as the holes may not line up.
Remove the handle from the old side by carefully unscrewing the fixing screws from the inside of the door. Access to them often requires removing a shelf or drawer located directly next to the door. Transfer the handle to the new side using the existing access holes. If the model requires the handle to be installed in different positions, make sure that you use the correct set of screws for the new side.
- 🔩 Check the package to see if all the screws are the right length
- 🚪 Carefully remove the decorative caps from the new side
- 🧲 Make sure the magnetic lock (if equipped) rearranged correctly
- 🧽 Wipe the holes from dust before installing fasteners
Requires special attention rearranging the magnetic lock in doors of the BioFresh series or models with the SoftSystem system. The magnet or mechanical latch mate must be removed and installed in symmetrical holes on the opposite end of the door. Incorrect installation will result in the door not staying closed.
⚠️ Attention: When rearranging handles and hinges, pay attention to the length of the screws. Using fasteners that are too long can result in abutment against the inner wall of the door and damage to the internal plastic liner or even penetration of the insulation.
Installing the door on a new side
After preparing all the elements, you can begin reassembly. Install the bottom hinge or support sleeve to the new location. Carefully place the door leaf onto the bottom pin, holding it in a vertical position. At this stage, the help of a second person is indispensable: one holds the door, the second is engaged in aligning the top hole.
Install the top hinge in place, tightening the bolts by hand. Do not immediately tighten them all the way - first you need to achieve the correct position of the door relative to the body. Make sure that the gaps around the perimeter are uniform and that the door itself is vertical, without distortion. Only after a visual check can you begin the final tightening of the fasteners.
Tighten the top hinge bolts evenly, using a criss-cross pattern to avoid distortion of the metal. The force must be significant, but not fanatical, so as not to break the threads in the aluminum case. After fixing the upper part, check the movement of the door: it should open smoothly, without creaking or jamming, and when released in a half-open state (if there is a driver), it should close on its own.
Adjustment and final check
The final stage is fine tuning. If the door does not fit tightly or, conversely, closes too tightly, use the adjusting screws on the bottom hinge. Turning the screw clockwise usually raises the door, improving the fit on top, and counterclockwise lowers it. Achieve a position in which the seal is evenly pressed around the entire perimeter.
Check the operation of the sensors and displays. Connect the refrigerator to the network and make sure that the control panel responds to door openings, the internal lighting lights up (if it is not LED in the case), and there are no errors on the display. If you see an error or the backlight does not work, you will have to remove the top cover again and check the reliability of the cable connection.
Reinstall all decorative elements: hinge covers, base grille, plugs. Make sure that nothing is forgotten and that all plastic elements fall into place with a characteristic click. During the first hours of operation, it is recommended to periodically check the temperature inside the chambers to ensure the tightness of the circuit.
What to do if, after rehanging, the door does not close tightly?
Most likely, the installation geometry is broken or the seal is dirty. Check that the refrigerator is level on the floor (adjustable feet) and try to lower the front of the unit a little by unscrewing the front support screws. This will create a natural slope back, promoting self-slamming. Also check that the rubber seal is not wrapped.
Is it possible to hang the door if the refrigerator is built into the furniture?
Yes, but it is more difficult. You will need to remove the front panels of the kitchen unit to gain access to the sides of the refrigerator. Make sure that the cabinet design allows you to open the door from the other side - sometimes internal shelves or frame elements can get in the way.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging?
Full defrosting is not necessary if you work quickly. However, if there is a lot of ice in the freezer, it is better to wait until it melts to prevent water from leaking when tilting or removing the door. In addition, a full chamber increases the weight of the door, which complicates installation.
Will the warranty remain valid after re-hanging the door yourself?
According to the law, the consumer has the right to self-service if this does not lead to a breakdown. However, if in the process you break the seals on the compressor control screws or damage the wiring, warranty repairs may be denied. Proceed with caution.
Where to put the holes from the handle on the old side?
Included with refrigerators Liebherr special decorative plugs are often included, matching the color of the case. If you don’t have them, you can order original ones from the dealer or use universal furniture plugs of a suitable diameter and color.