Introduction
Changing the door swing on your Frigidaire refrigerator may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, it can be easily accomplished. Whether you’ve recently remodeled your kitchen or simply want to make your refrigerator more convenient to access, changing the door swing can make a big difference. In this article, we will walk you through the process of changing the door swing on your Frigidaire refrigerator, providing you with all the necessary information and guidance.
Understanding Door Swing and its Importance
What is Door Swing?
The door swing of a refrigerator refers to the direction in which the refrigerator door opens. By default, most Frigidaire refrigerators are shipped with a right-hand door swing. However, depending on the layout of your kitchen, you may prefer to have a left-hand door swing or a less conventional configuration.
Why Change the Door Swing?
Changing the door swing on your Frigidaire refrigerator can enhance the functionality and convenience of your kitchen. It allows you to customize the refrigerator’s access to suit your specific needs. For example, if your refrigerator is currently situated near a wall or cabinet, changing the door swing to open from the opposite side may make it easier to access the contents without obstruction.
Preparation
Gather the Tools and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a socket wrench, a putty knife or plastic spatula, and a soft cloth or towel. Additionally, have a helper available to assist with the lifting and repositioning of the refrigerator door.
Turn off the Power
To ensure your safety during the process, it is important to disconnect the refrigerator from the power source. Locate the electrical outlet and unplug the refrigerator or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker.
Empty the Contents
Next, remove all items from the refrigerator door shelves and the main compartment. Transfer perishable items to a cooler or temporary storage to ensure they remain at a safe temperature.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Door Swing on a Frigidaire Refrigerator
1. Remove the Top Hinge Cover
Gently pry off the plastic cover located at the top of the refrigerator door using a putty knife or plastic spatula. Set the cover aside in a safe place.
2. Unscrew the Top Hinge
Using a Phillips head screwdriver or a socket wrench, remove the screws securing the top hinge to the refrigerator frame. Set the screws aside in a small container or bag to avoid misplacing them.
3. Lift and Remove the Door
With the help of your assistant, lift the refrigerator door from the bottom while supporting the weight. Carefully rotate the door to the desired swing direction and remove it from the refrigerator frame. Place the door in a safe and stable location to prevent any damage.
4. Remove the Middle Hinge
Locate the middle hinge connecting the door and the case of the refrigerator. Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the screws securing the middle hinge. Keep the screws safely stored along with the top hinge screws.
5. Switch the Hinge Positions
The next step involves repositioning the hinges to the opposite side of the refrigerator. Insert the screws removed from the top hinge into the corresponding holes on the opposite side. Repeat the same process with the screws from the middle hinge.
6. Align and Attach the Middle Hinge
Carefully align the middle hinge with the holes on the opposite side of the refrigerator case. Secure it in place using the screws previously removed.
7. Reinstall the Door
With the assistance of your helper, lift the door and align it with the middle hinge. Ensure the door is properly positioned before proceeding. Slowly lower the door onto the hinge and make sure it rests securely.
8. Attach the Top Hinge
Place the top hinge on the opposite side of the refrigerator frame and align it with the holes. Insert and tighten the screws that were removed earlier to secure the top hinge in place.
9. Reattach the Top Hinge Cover
Retrieve the plastic cover for the top hinge and snap it back into place. Ensure it fits securely and conceals the hinge and screws.
10. Restore Power
Finally, reconnect the refrigerator to the power source by plugging it back into the electrical outlet or turning on the dedicated circuit breaker. Verify that the refrigerator is functioning correctly by checking the internal lights and listening for the compressor noise.
Conclusion
Changing the door swing on your Frigidaire refrigerator is a task that may seem daunting at first but can be easily accomplished with the right guidance. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can customize the refrigerator’s access to suit your specific needs, making it more convenient and functional in your kitchen. Remember to gather all the necessary tools, disconnect the power source, and have a helper available to assist you during the process. With a little patience and effort, you’ll be able to change the door swing of your Frigidaire refrigerator successfully.