how to adjust integrated fridge door hinges

How To Adjust Integrated Fridge Door Hinges (DIY Guide)

I’ve fitted many kitchen appliances over the years, and in this guide, I’ll explain how to adjust integrated fridge door hinges.

So, to prevent your kitchen cabinet doors from scraping along the floor, follow this step-by-step DIY guide.


Types of Integrated Door Hinges

Before adjusting your hinges, you must understand what type of door hinge you have. 

Most integrated appliances operate on a sliding hinge, but some have a door-on-door hinge, where the fridge door attaches directly to the cabinet door. 

Let’s take a look at the merits of both hinge types.


Sliding Hinge

sliding door hinge system diagram
Fig 1. Sliding Door Hinge System.

The fridge door attaches to a sliding hinge inside the cabinet door (see blue hinge in Fig 1), allowing the fridge door to glide along a track when you open and close the cabinet door. 

Note: The fridge door hinge is NOT connected to the cabinet in this scenario.

This door hinge system is the most common because it’s easier to install and adjust. Also, sliding hinges are much less expensive than door-on-door hinges.

However, because the fridge door runs along a guide rail, there’s potential for the hinge to move over time, causing opening and closing issues. 

freezer door's sliding integrated hinge kit
Fig 2. Sliding Door Hinge.

All IKEA kitchens use sliding hinges only. Do not attempt to use any other type of hinge.


Door-on-Door Hinge

door-on-door hinge system diagram
Fig 3. Door-on-Door Hinge System.

Door-on-door systems differ from sliding systems because the fridge door connects directly to the cabinet via the fridge door hinge (see blue hinge in Fig 3) and doesn’t slide along a rail system when you open and close the cabinet door.

Door-on-door hinges are sleeker and sturdier than sliding hinges and rarely need adjustment.

Note: You can’t retrofit door-on-door hinges to fridge doors that use the sliding system.

door on door hinge
Fig 4. Door-on-Door Hinge.

The video below explains the difference between sliding hinges and door-on-door hinges (aka fixed hinges):

YouTube player

Tools

Gather all the tools below before adjusting your hinges.

  • Flathead screwdriver.
  • Phillips screwdriver.
  • Spirit level.

Adjusting Door-on-Door Hinges

To adjust door-on-door hinges like a pro, follow the four steps below.


Step 1. Locate Screws and Remove Caps

  1. Open the cabinet door and locate the screws that need adjusting. 
  2. If the screws have caps, remove them with a flathead screwdriver and store them somewhere safe.

Step 2. Loosen Screws and Make Adjustments

  1. Using a flathead or Phillips screwdriver, loosen the screws by turning them anti-clockwise, but don’t remove them entirely. The fridge door should feel loose enough for you to adjust it manually. 
  2. Lift the fridge door so it lines up with the top of the fridge, and all the seals make contact when closed. 

Note: The top screw adjusts the top of the door, and the middle screw adjusts the middle.


Step 3. Check Everything is Level

  1. Place a spirit level on top of the fridge door to check its level. Do the same with the top of the fridge.
  2. Once everything lines up, tighten all the screws to hold the fridge door in place. 
  3. Close the door and check the alignment between the fridge door and the fridge.
  4. Repeat the adjustment process if you notice that the door is still uneven.

Note: Holding the door and adjusting the screws can be tricky, so ask for help. An assistant can hold the fridge door while you loosen and tighten the screws. 


Step 4. Test Door

Open and close the fridge door to check that there are no obstructions. The door should move freely without catching on the floor or underside of the cabinet. 

As a final check, close the fridge door and ensure it seals all around.


Final Thoughts

Adjusting integrated fridge door hinges is quick and easy, so don’t put it off. First, identify what type of hinge system you have (sliding or door-on-door) and follow the instructions above.

Once you’ve successfully adjusted your hinges, consider refreshing your entire kitchen. For example, if your cabinets look old and tired, check out our guide to painting kitchen cabinets.