How to Install an Automatic Cabinet Door

When preparing to install an automatic cabinet door you will need to purchase automatic retracting hinges and doors as replacements for the cabinets. This can include kitchen and bathroom cabinets, as well as other cabinets that you have throughout the home.

Automatic cabinet doors can be purchased from a home improvement center, hardware store or other cabinet maker.  This task should only take one person to complete although it may be labor intensive depending on the number of cabinet doors you intend to replace.

Step 1: Remove the Old Doors

Use a screwdriver to remove the old cabinet doors from their frames. Place the old doors aside and remove the hinges from frame as well. Old doors that are in good shape may be reused by simply replacing the hinges with automatic cabinet door hinges. If this is not possible, recycle any doors that are salvageable.

Step 2: Install Automatic Hinges

Take the automatic hinges and screws and install them to make automatic cabinet doors. Doors that are 30 inches in length will need a third hinge in the center of the frame. Use the drill and appropriate drill bit to set pilot holes install the automatic hinge. The pilot holes should be drilled into the replacement cabinet doors so that they line up with the hinge holes. Masking tape can be used to create a level line, if this helps to position the hinges.

Step 3: Install the Cabinet Doors

Hang the doors in and screw the automatic hinges in place. Repeat this process for each of the automatic door hinges and cabinet doors, hanging all of them. Remove the masking tape level line after installation of the automatic cabinet doors.

Step 4: Install Replacement Hardware

Install the replacement hardware such as handles and pulls to complete the automatic cabinet doors. Use the drill to make pilot holes if necessary.

Automatic cabinet doors should retract on their own when pushed. They should never slam. Test each of the doors to ensure that the installation was correct and that the automatic doors and hinges are working properly. An automatic door that does not properly close should be uninstalled and the hinge should be replaced with an automatic hinge that is working properly.