Refrigerator door hinges serve as a hinge to secure the door to the appliance and make it easier to open.
If your fridge no longer closes tightly, it’s probably because of a damaged hinge. It is also possible to reverse the opening direction of your refrigerator if you wish.
The hinges are located at the top and bottom of the refrigerator door. They connect the door to the rest of the device.
The ability to reverse the opening direction of a refrigerator door can be a convenient feature, especially if you’ve rearranged your kitchen or moved to a new house where the current door configuration doesn’t fit well. Changing the door hinges might seem a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can easily do it yourself. This guide will walk you through the steps to change the hinges and reverse the opening of a refrigerator door.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Screwdriver (typically a Philips-head)
- Socket wrench (the size depends on your refrigerator model)
- Masking tape
- Replacement hinges if necessary (check your fridge’s manual for the correct part number)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Empty the Door
Before you start, it’s a good idea to empty your refrigerator door of all its contents. This reduces the weight of the door and prevents items from falling out during the process.
Step 2: Unplug the Fridge
For safety reasons, unplug the refrigerator from the power source.
Step 3: Remove the Top Hinge
Using your socket wrench, remove the bolts that secure the top hinge. Once they’re out, lift off the hinge. If your fridge has a water or ice dispenser, there will be a wire connector that you’ll need to disconnect. Take care to remember its original position for reconnection later.
Step 4: Lift Off the Door
Now you should be able to lift the door off the bottom hinge. It’s a good idea to have a friend help you with this part as the door can be heavy. Once the door is off, lay it gently on a flat surface.
Step 5: Remove the Bottom Hinge
With the door off, you can now access the bottom hinge. Remove it using your socket wrench.
Step 6: Switch the Door Handles
Remove the handles from the door and relocate them to the opposite side. In most cases, there will be plugs covering screw holes on the side where the handle will go. Remove these plugs and use the holes to mount the handles.
Step 7: Install the Bottom Hinge
Attach the bottom hinge to the opposite side of where it was originally located.
Step 8: Reattach the Door
With the help of a friend, lift the door and align it with the bottom hinge. Ensure the door is sitting properly on the hinge.
Step 9: Attach the Top Hinge
Reinstall the top hinge on the opposite side. If your fridge has a wire connector, remember to reconnect it in its original position.
Step 10: Test the Door
Open and close the door a few times to ensure it’s working properly. Adjust the hinges if necessary to make the door level.
Conclusion
Reversing the direction of your refrigerator door can make a significant difference in your kitchen’s layout. Although it may seem a bit technical, by following these steps carefully, you can safely and effectively change the hinges and reverse the opening of your refrigerator door. However, if at any point you feel uncomfortable doing this yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional.
