Many owners of household appliances are faced with a situation where when the standard configuration of a kitchen unit or the features of the room layout dictate the conditions for the location of the unit. It often happens that the door opens in the wrong direction, blocking passage or access to other areas. The solution to this problem is hanging the door, which allows you to change the opening direction to the opposite.
In refrigerators Samsung this procedure is usually provided for by the design and can be done independently if you have basic skills and tools. However, it is important to understand that models may differ in the type of hinges, the presence of a display or the No Frost system, which makes adjustments to the algorithm of actions. Carefully studying the features of your unit before starting work will help to avoid damage.
Next we will analyze in detail the process of preparation, dismantling old fasteners and installing fittings on a new side. You will learn what nuances exist for different series of equipment and how to properly adjust the façade so that it fits tightly to the body. Following the instructions will ensure the safety of the warranty and the long service life of the device.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to prepare the entire arsenal of tools so as not to interrupt the process by searching for the right screwdriver. You will need a set of open-end wrenches, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and a container for storing small parts. It would be a good idea to invite an assistant, since the doors of modern models with ice makers can be quite heavy.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting any work on dismantling the housing elements, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. This is critical for safety, especially if the model is equipped with an electronic display or Smart Hub system.
To protect the flooring and the unit itself, it is recommended to cover the work area with a soft material, such as cardboard or an old blanket. This will prevent scratches if bolts or tools are dropped. Also make sure that there is enough room for maneuver around the refrigerator so as not to damage neighboring furniture.
☑️ Preparing for rehanging
Design features of Samsung doors
South Korean brand refrigerators Samsung have their own design features that should be taken into account. In most models, the hinges are universal and have holes for fastening on both sides, however, in some budget or specific series, it may be necessary to replace the hinges themselves with mirror ones.
It is important to determine the type of your model: Side-by-Side, two-chamber or multi-door. In models Side-by-Side the process may be more complicated due to the presence of additional mechanisms and hoses. For two-chamber units, the procedure is standard, but requires care when working with magnetic seals and opening sensors.
Is it possible to rehang a door if there is a display on it?
If there is a display on the door, the wires may be short. In some models, their length is enough to rehang, in others they will require extension or resoldering, which is best left to a specialist.
There is a misconception that all models require the same actions. In fact, the location of the mounting holes and the shape of the hinges may vary.
* 🔧 The hinges can be hidden or overhead.
* 🔧 The mounting bolts may have different threads and lengths.
* 🔧 Some models require the removal of decorative plugs before accessing the screws.
Removing the upper and lower hinges
The process begins with removing the upper hinge, since it holds the bulk of the door leaf. Carefully remove the decorative cover, if present, and unscrew the mounting bolts. At this moment, it is necessary to hold the door so that it does not fall and damage the floor or the master’s fingers.
After removing the upper hinge, the door is carefully lifted and removed from the lower axis. Now you can proceed to dismantling the lower hinge. Clean the vacated holes from dust and metal shavings that could have formed when tightening the bolts at the factory.
When unscrewing, use the correct size wrenches so as not to tear off the caps bolts If the fastener is rusty or stuck, do not use excessive force right away - it is better to treat the connection with penetrating lubricant and wait a few minutes.
Transfer of fittings and plugs
The most critical stage is the transfer of fastening elements to the opposite side. On the free side of the case, it is necessary to install plugs in the holes that were previously used for hinges. Conversely, on the new working side, the plugs are removed and installed where the hinges are no longer needed.
| Element | Action on the old side | Action on the new side | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper loop | Remove and move | Install and secure | Watch the orientation |
| Bottom loop | Remove and move | Install and secure | Check the pin |
| Plugs | Install in the holes | Remove and put away | For case aesthetics |
| Handle | Remove (if necessary) | Install symmetrically | Depends on the model |
If your model requires rearranging the handle, carefully unscrew its fasteners from the inside of the door and install it in a new place. In some series Samsung the handles are asymmetrical, and their transfer is impossible without purchasing an additional set.
⚠️ Attention: Do not mix up the length of the bolts when installing the hinges on the new side. Using a screw that is too long may damage the internal chamber or cooling system.
Make sure that all plastic plugs are tightly seated and do not protrude above the surface of the case. This is important not only for appearance, but also to prevent the accumulation of dirt in the cracks.
Installing the door on a new side
After preparing the fasteners, it is time to put the door in place. This action is best performed by two people: one person holds the door, the second directs the lower hinge onto the pin. Carefully lower the canvas, making sure that it sits evenly on the lower axis.
Now you can start fixing the upper loop. Insert the bolts into the holes and start tightening them, but do not tighten them all the way yet. This is necessary for subsequent adjustment of the position of the door relative to the body.
Tightening the bolts should be done crosswise, gradually increasing the force to avoid distortion of the metal. Make sure that the door is vertical and does not fall to either side.
Adjustment and final check
The final stage includes careful adjustment of the door position. If the door is skewed or does not fit tightly to the body, loosen the top hinge and slightly move the door in the desired direction. After alignment, finally tighten all bolts.
Check the operation of the magnetic seal around the entire perimeter. The door should close with a distinctive slam and stay in place with a gentle pull. If you notice gaps, you may need to adjust the height of the legs of the refrigerator.
Plug in the refrigerator and listen to the operation of the opening sensor (if it has one). Make sure the light turns on and off correctly. During the first few hours of operation, check for condensation or ice on the seal.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do I need to empty the refrigerator before re-hanging it?
It is advisable to clear the shelves on the door to reduce the weight of the structure and prevent products from falling. Complete defrosting is required only if the model does not support No Frost and has a layer of ice.
Is it possible to lose the warranty if you hang the door yourself?
According to the law, independent repair of components that does not require breaking the seals on the compressor should not void the warranty. However, if you damage the case or electronics in the process, the service center may refuse free repair.
What to do if the holes on the new side do not line up?
In original cases Samsung the holes are always symmetrical. If they do not match, perhaps you are trying to hang the door on a model where this is not structurally provided for, or you are using non-native hinges.
What to do with the water supply hose in the door?
In models with a dispenser, the hose may limit the turning radius. Often its length is enough, but you need to act extremely carefully so as not to bend the tube and not break the tightness of the connections.