The need to change the direction of opening the door in refrigerator LG often occurs when remodeling a kitchen or purchasing new furniture. The standard factory layout means that the handle is on the right, but in a narrow corridor or a specific kitchen set this becomes inconvenient. The process of changing the opening side is technically possible for most models, but requires care and adherence to the sequence of actions.
Before starting work, it is important to understand that the design hinges for different series of Korean brand equipment may differ. In some cases, complete dismantling of the sashes will be required, and in some cases, just rearranging the fittings without removing the panel is enough. Carefully study the configuration of your model, as the set of necessary tools depends on this.
It is worth noting that incorrect assembly can lead to a loose seal and a violation of the seal of the chamber. Temperature conditions inside the refrigerator directly depends on how tightly the door closes. Therefore, you should approach the procedure responsibly, preparing a flat surface for laying the removed elements.
Preparation of the workplace and tools
To successfully complete the task of changing the opening side, you will need a minimum set of household tools. The main element will be an open-end or socket wrench, the size of which usually corresponds to the diameter of the hinge fastening bolts (most often 8 mm or 10 mm). Some models may require a Phillips screwdriver to remove decorative caps.
It is critical to prepare the free space in front of the refrigerator. You will need to remove the door panels completely, so they need to have a safe place for temporary storage. It is best to cover the floor with a soft blanket or cardboard so as not to damage the floor covering and the equipment itself if heavy elements accidentally fall.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical network. This will prevent accidental damage to wiring or sensors if you have to tilt the case during dismantling.
Also, clear shelves and door pockets of food in advance. The door will become significantly lighter without load, which will reduce the risk of injury and simplify work with fasteners. If your model has a display or control panel on the door, make sure that the connecting cables are long enough to safely move the panel to the side.
Removing the top door and hinges
The process starts from the top of the refrigerator compartment. The first step is to remove the decorative plug that hides the top hinge bolts. Usually it is pryed off with a flat screwdriver or simply removed by hand if it has convenient recesses. Underneath it you will find mounting bolts that need to be unscrewed.
After loosening the bolts, the top hinge must be carefully removed. It is important to hold the door with your second hand or ask an assistant, since after removing the top fastening it will only be supported by the lower hinge (if the design has one) or will begin to fall down. Carefully lift the panel up to remove it from the lower pin, and set it in a safe place.
- 🔧 Remove the top decorative panel or plug above the door.
- 🔩 Unscrew the bolts securing the top hinge with a wrench.
- 🚪 Remove hinge and set it aside along with the fasteners.
- 🙌 Remove the door leaf from the lower guide pin.
At this stage, the internal structure of the fastening becomes visible. Pay attention to stops and bushings, which can only be installed on one side. They will also need to be moved to the opposite side so that the door fits correctly and does not dangle.
☑️ Check before removing the door
Features of removing the bottom door of the freezer
In two-chamber models LG with a bottom-mounted freezer, the procedure is similar, but has its own nuances. Often between the upper and lower compartments there is a middle crossbar, which serves as a support for the refrigerator door and at the same time carries the upper hinge of the freezer. This bar must be dismantled after removing the upper door.
When working with the lower door, pay special attention to the axis of rotation. In some cases, it may be pressed into the door body or into the bottom hinge. If the axle remains in the door, it must be carefully knocked out or removed before installing it on the new side. Do not use excessive force to avoid damaging the plastic bushings. If your model is equipped with a system, make sure that during dismantling you do not touch the air ducts running near the hinges. Although they rarely interfere, an accidental blow with a tool can compromise the integrity of the insulation or plastic channels. plastic bushings.
If your model is equipped with No Frost, make sure that when dismantling you do not touch the air ducts running near the hinges. Although they rarely interfere, an accidental blow with a tool can compromise the integrity of the insulation or plastic channels.
What to do if a bolt is rusted?
If the mounting bolt does not come off due to corrosion, do not use force immediately. Apply a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) to the threads and wait 10-15 minutes. This will help to break the thread without the risk of breaking the bolt inside the case.
Rearranging fittings and hinges
The most critical stage is transferring all fastening elements to the opposite side. At the end of the door and on the body of the refrigerator you will see symmetrical holes closed with plastic plugs. These plugs must be removed from the new side of the installation and used to close the vacated holes on the old side.
Hinges for refrigerators LG are often universal, but can have a specific shape. Make sure you install them with the correct side up. The top hinge usually has a more complex geometry to secure the door's position. The bolts should be tightened tightly, but without fanaticism, so as not to strip the threads in the metal body.
| Element | Action | Tool | Nuance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper loop | Transfer to new side | Key 8-10 mm | Keep an eye on the cable |
| Middle bar | Dismantling and turning over | Phillips screwdriver | Don't forget about the bushings |
| Bottom hinge | Rearranging the axis | Wrench + pliers | Check stops |
| Plugs | Replacement | Thin screwdriver | For facade aesthetics |
Special attention require handles. In most modern models LG handles are hidden (mortise) and do not require rearrangement. However, if you have a model with protruding handles, they will also have to be dismantled and fastened on the other side using the holes provided by the manufacturer.
Installing doors on a new side
After preparing all fastening points, you can begin installation. The bottom door (freezer) is installed first. Slide the blade onto the bottom hinge pin, making sure the pin is seated in its socket. Then install the middle cross member (if your model has one) and secure it with bolts.
Next is the turn of the top door. Lift it up, align the holes on the top hinge with the holes on the body and insert the mounting bolts. At this stage, do not tighten the bolts all the way. First, attach them so that the door can move a little, which will align its position relative to the body.
⚠️ Attention: When installing the upper door, watch the wires. If you have a model with a display, carefully place the cable in the groove provided for it, so as not to press or squeeze it with the metal of the hinge.
The final fixation is made after checking the operation of the doors. They should open and close smoothly, without squeaks or jams. The seal must fit evenly around the entire perimeter. If you notice a distortion, loosen the middle hinge bolts and adjust the position of the blades.
Adjustment and tightness check
After all the doors are in place, it is necessary to carry out the final adjustment. The main parameter is the tightness of the seal. Take a sheet of paper, clamp it with the door and try to pull it out. If the paper is pulled out with noticeable force around the entire perimeter, it means the tightness is normal.
If the door does not fit tightly in one of the corners, the height of the hinges will need to be adjusted. The design of the hinges often includes adjusting screws or the possibility of slightly moving the hinge body relative to the refrigerator body. By turning the adjusting screw, you can raise or lower the corner of the door.
Also check the operation of the automatic light switch and the door open sensor. When closing, the light should go out and the sound signal (if it was activated) should stop. If the door is installed crookedly, the sensor may not work, which will lead to unnecessary energy consumption.
Possible problems and their solutions
During operation after reweighing may cause some difficulties. Most often, users are faced with the fact that the door begins to open spontaneously. This indicates a violation of the horizontal level of the refrigerator itself. If the cabinet is tilted back, the door will open under the influence of gravity.
To solve this problem, you need to adjust the support legs of the refrigerator. The front legs need to be unscrewed so that the front of the refrigerator is slightly higher than the back. This will create the necessary slope back, and the door will close itself. Use a building level for control.
⚠️ Attention: The design of hinges may differ in different years of manufacture. If you do not find reversal holes on the opposite side, check the official instructions for your specific series, as some budget models may not provide for reversing.
Another problem may be the appearance of a gap between the door and the body. This often happens if the upper and lower hinges were mixed up during installation (they may look similar) or if one of the plastic bushings is lost. Carefully inspect the assembly and compare it with the diagram in the manual.
Is it possible to rehang the door yourself without instructions?
Theoretically, it is possible if you have experience assembling furniture, but the risk of error is high. Without a diagram, it is easy to confuse the installation of washers and bushings, which will lead to misalignment. It is better to find an electronic version of the instructions for the model (the serial number is indicated on the sticker inside the chamber).
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before rehanging it?
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. Also, an empty refrigerator is easier to lift and maneuver.
What to do if the length of the display cable is not enough?
In the original design, the length of the wires is designed for rearrangement. If the cable is tight, check whether you have placed it correctly in the channel. If the length is absolutely not enough, perhaps the model is not designed for hanging, or the train requires extension, which is a complex technical task.
Why does the door slam after hanging?
A loud bang when closing indicates too tight a fit or lack of shock absorption. Check the hinge bolts for tightness and make sure the rubber seal is clean and flexible. Sometimes lightly lubricating the end of the seal with silicone helps.