A refrigerator is an essential appliance in any household, and it plays a vital role in keeping our food fresh and safe. Sometimes, a simple change in the layout of our kitchen or a new kitchen design may require us to reverse the door handle on our refrigerator. This may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be a simple and straightforward process. In this step-by-step guide, we will explain how to reverse the door handle on a GE refrigerator.
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin the process of reversing the door handle on your GE refrigerator, it is important to gather all the necessary tools. You will need a flathead screwdriver, a small Phillips screwdriver, a 5/16-inch socket wrench or nut driver, and a 3/16-inch allen wrench. Make sure you have these tools readily available before proceeding with the steps.
Step 1: Empty the Refrigerator
To avoid any accidents or spills, it is essential to empty the refrigerator before attempting to reverse the door handle. Take out all the food items, shelves, and drawers from the refrigerator, and place them in a safe area. This will also make the appliance lighter and easier to handle during the process.
Step 2: Turn off the Power
For safety reasons, it is important to turn off the power to the refrigerator before starting any work. Locate the power cord at the back of the appliance and unplug it from the wall socket. This will prevent any electrical accidents while reversing the door handle.
Step 3: Remove the Top Hinge and Cover
Start by removing the top hinge cover on the refrigerator door using a flathead screwdriver. Gently pry it off, being careful not to damage the cover or the surrounding area. Once the cover is removed, you will be able to see the screws holding the hinge in place. Use the appropriate size of the screwdriver or socket wrench to loosen and remove these screws.
Step 4: Lift and Remove the Door
With the hinge screws removed, carefully lift the refrigerator door off the bottom hinge pin. It may be helpful to have an assistant hold the door steady during this process. Once the door is lifted, set it aside in a safe area, making sure it is protected from any scratches or damages.
Step 5: Remove the Bottom Hinge and Transfer to the Opposite Side
Locate the bottom hinge on the opposite side of the refrigerator, where you would like the door handle to be. Using a screwdriver or socket wrench, loosen and remove the screws holding the hinge in place. Once the screws are removed, transfer the bottom hinge to the opposite side by aligning it with the corresponding holes and tightening the screws securely.
Step 6: Remove the Door Stop
In order to attach the door to its new position, you will need to remove the door stop from the opposite side of the refrigerator. The door stop is a small plastic piece that prevents the door from swinging too far open and hitting the surrounding walls or cabinets. Gently pry it off using a flathead screwdriver and set it aside for later.
Step 7: Reinstall the Door on the Bottom Hinge
With the bottom hinge in its new position, it is time to reinstall the refrigerator door. Carefully align the door with the bottom hinge pin and slide it onto the pin until it is securely in place. Ensure that the door is level and aligned properly before moving on to the next step.
Step 8: Transfer the Top Hinge to the Opposite Side
Now that the door is securely attached, it is time to transfer the top hinge to the opposite side of the refrigerator. Remove the screws holding the top hinge in place and transfer it to the opposite side. Make sure to tighten the screws securely to ensure the stability of the hinge.
Step 9: Attach the Door Stop on the Opposite Side
Retrieve the door stop that was removed earlier and attach it to the opposite side of the refrigerator. Ensure that it is aligned properly and that it will prevent the door from swinging too far open, just as it did on the previous side.
Step 10: Attach the Top Hinge Cover
With the door and hinge in their new positions, it is time to attach the top hinge cover. Simply slide it into place and gently press it down until it snaps securely onto the hinge. This will give your refrigerator a finished look and hide any screws or hardware.
Step 11: Plug in the Refrigerator and Test the Door
Now that the door handle has been successfully reversed, it is time to plug the refrigerator back in. Locate the power cord and plug it into the wall socket. Once the power is restored, open and close the refrigerator door to ensure that it is functioning properly and that the seal is tight.
Reversing the door handle on a GE refrigerator may seem like a complex task, but by following these step-by-step instructions, you can complete it easily and efficiently. Remember to take your time, use the appropriate tools, and ensure that all connections are secure. With a little patience and effort, you can change the door handle position to suit your kitchen layout or design aesthetic.