The need to change the direction of opening the refrigerator door Pozis often arises when remodeling a kitchen or rearranging furniture. The standard factory configuration is to open from right to left, but in tight spaces sometimes a mirror arrangement is required. Fortunately, the design of most brand models, such as Sviyaga or World, provides the ability to independently perform this operation without calling a specialist.
The process requires care and a minimal set of tools, since Incorrect assembly can lead to a loose fit of the seal or distortion of the canvas. Before starting work, it is important to make sure that the warranty card does not prohibit self-disassembly, although this is usually not considered a complex repair. In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various modifications of units.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
To successfully complete the task, you will need a basic set of a home handyman. The main tool will be a wrench, most often 10 mm in size, although some models may use Phillips screwdriver bolts. It would also be a good idea to have a flat-head screwdriver ready to remove decorative plugs and adjust the position of the doors.
A critically important step is to completely unload the refrigerator compartment. Remove all shelves, drawers and products to reduce the weight of the structure as much as possible. This will not only make it easier to manipulate the door leaf, but will also prevent damage to the glass shelves if they accidentally fall out when tilted.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Remove the plug from the socket to eliminate the risk of electric shock due to accidental damage to the wiring or contact with metal elements.
Free up space in front of the unit. You need to ensure free access to the device from all sides, since the door will have to be removed and set aside. Prepare a soft mat or cardboard on the floor so as not to scratch the front panel of the door when temporarily placing it.
☑️ Preparation for work
Dismantling the upper part and removing the door
It is necessary to start the process from the top hinge, since it is this that holds the main weight of the door leaf. On most models Pozis the upper loop is closed with a decorative plastic plug. Carefully pry it off with a flathead screwdriver or knife, being careful not to damage the plastic, which could become brittle over time.
After removing the plug, you will see the mounting bolts. They must be unscrewed, but not removed completely until the door is fixed. In some modifications, for example, in the series Sviyaga 404, the design may differ in the presence of an additional pin. If the door is two-chamber, first remove the upper door of the freezer, then the main one.
To remove the panel, it is better to work together. One person holds the door so that it does not fall, the second finally unscrews the bolts of the upper hinge. After releasing the fasteners, the door is carefully lifted up, removing it from the lower hinge support, and set aside in a safe place.
If your model has an intermediate hinge installed (for two-chamber refrigerators), it is also necessary dismantle. It is usually attached with two bolts to the refrigerator body. Remember or take a photo of the order of the washers and bushings, since when reinstalling them they will need to be placed in the same sequence.
Rearranging the fittings to the opposite side
The most critical stage is transferring the fasteners. On the opposite side of the refrigerator body you will see symmetrical holes closed with plastic plugs. These plugs need to be removed; they are designed specifically to be moved to the free space.
Remove the lower support loop from one side of the case and screw it to the opposite side, using the same holes, but on the other side. Pay attention to the pin (axis) on which the door fits. In some models Pozis the pin may be asymmetrical, and it will have to be rearranged or turned over depending on the design.
The top hinge also needs to be moved. It is important here not to confuse the orientation of the parts if they have a specific shape. Make sure that all threaded connections are clean and free of contaminants that could have gotten there during operation.
What to do with the holes on the old side?
The vacated holes on the side where the loop was previously attached must be closed with plastic plugs that you removed from the opposite side. This will maintain an aesthetic appearance and protect the body from dust.
The door handle requires special attention. If the refrigerator model has symmetrical handles or the ability to rearrange them, dismantle them according to the instructions and install them on the desired side. In models with hidden handles (recesses in the body), this stage is skipped.
Installing the door and adjusting the hinges
After moving the lower support hinge, you can begin hanging the door. Install the blade onto the lower axle, carefully aligning the holes for the upper fastening. Have a helper hold the door upright while you tighten the top hinge bolts.
Do not tighten the top hinge bolts “tight” right away. Tighten them first so that there is some play left for adjustment. Make sure the door is level with the refrigerator body. The gaps between the door and the body along the entire perimeter should be approximately the same.
For two-chamber models, the process is repeated for each door separately. First, the lower door of the refrigerator compartment is installed, then an intermediate hinge is placed on it, and only then the upper door of the freezer is mounted. Order is important for proper alignment of the entire structure.
Adjusting a tight fit and eliminating distortions
After the final tightening of all bolts, it is necessary to check the quality of fit of the sealing rubber to the body. The door should close tightly around its entire perimeter without gaps. If you notice that a gap is forming in one of the corners, adjustment will be required.
To eliminate distortions, use adjusting bolts or washers. Some models Pozis provide the possibility of (fine-tuning) the position of the lower loop. Loosen the fasteners of the lower support, slightly move the door in the desired direction and tighten the bolts again.
Checking the tightness is a mandatory step. Take a piece of paper or a banknote, clamp it with the door and try to pull it out. If the paper is removed with noticeable force around the entire perimeter, then the seal is working correctly. If in any place the paper falls out freely, additional adjustment is required.
⚠️ Attention: Excessive force when tightening the bolts can lead to deformation of the metal door profile or breakage of the threads. Tighten the fasteners tightly, but without fanaticism.
If adjusting with bolts does not help, the problem may be in the seal itself. After rehanging, the elastic band could become deformed. In this case, you can try to warm up the problem area with a hairdryer (gently, without overheating) and press the door tightly until it cools down.
Features of models with two doors and a display
Owners of refrigerators Pozis with an electronic display on the door should be careful. When re-hanging such a door, it may be necessary to reconnect the wire loop. The length of the cable usually allows you to move the door, but careful placement of the wires in new channels may be required.
For two-compartment refrigerators, it is critical to install the intermediate hinge correctly. She carries a double load. Make sure that the screws securing the middle hinge are screwed into special bushings if they are provided for in the design of your model, for example, in the series Mir.
In models type Sviyaga 285 or 406 the design of the loops may have its own nuances. For example, the top hinge pin may be pressed into the door itself rather than into the frame. Carefully study the diagram in the product passport before starting disassembly.
Correspondence table of tools and fasteners
For convenience, below is a table with the main parameters of fasteners found in various models of refrigerators Pozis. Please keep in mind that the equipment may vary slightly in different batches.
| Refrigerator model | Top hinge type | Key size | Number of bolts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pozis Sviyaga 404 | Invoice | 10 mm | 2 pcs. |
| Pozis World 102 | Hidden | 8 mm | 3 pcs. |
| Pozis RD-149 | Reinforced | 10 mm | 2 pcs. |
| Pozis Sviyaga 285 | Standard | 10 mm | 2 pcs. |
If during the work you find that the fasteners are rusty or the bolts are stuck, do not use excessive force. Use a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40), apply it to the threads and wait 10-15 minutes. This will help avoid licking the edges of the bolts.
Common mistakes and ways to eliminate them
One of the common mistakes is the loss of small washers or bushings when rearranging. These pieces may look like junk, but they provide the necessary clearance between the door and the frame. Without them, the door will touch the body or, conversely, lag too far behind.
Another problem is incorrect installation of the handle. If the handle is asymmetrical, installing it upside down or on the wrong side will make operation awkward. Always check the factory holes on the door leaf itself.
⚠️ Attention: Technical specifications and design of refrigerators may vary depending on the year of manufacture. If your model differs significantly from the one described, check the manufacturer's official instructions.
After completing all work, let the refrigerator stand turned off for about 30 minutes, especially if you tilted the unit strongly during operation. This is necessary for oil to drain into the compressor if it gets into the circuit when tilted.
Why does the door slam or not close completely?
Most often the reason is overtightened hinges that distort the geometry, or contamination of the seal. Check the cleanliness of the rubber and loosen the top bolts half a turn.
Is it possible to re-hang the door yourself if the refrigerator is under warranty?
In most cases, re-hanging the door is not a complex repair and does not require opening a sealed circuit or electrical circuit, so it should not void the warranty. However, if in the process you break the plastic fasteners or scratch the case, the warranty case may not be accepted. It is better to clarify this point with an authorized dealer in advance.
What to do if, after re-hanging, there is a large gap at the top?
A large gap at the top usually indicates that the door is skewed back or the top hinge is not pressed tightly enough. Try loosening the top bolts, tilting the top of the door towards the frame and tightening them again. Also check if the washer is lost between the hinge and the body.
Is it necessary to change the seal when rehanging the door?
Replacing the seal is not necessary if the old one is in good condition: it is elastic, has no cracks or tears. However, if the rubber has become stiff or deformed, re-hanging it is an excellent reason to replace it with a new one to ensure energy saving.
Why does the refrigerator begin to vibrate more strongly after re-hanging?
Vibration can increase if the door is not installed symmetrically and warps the entire body, disrupting the balancing of the supports. Check the adjusting feet of the refrigerator - they may need to be tightened so that the unit is level on the floor again.