What Happens When You Lay a Refrigerator on Its Side?
- Clean Out the Interior. Before you transport the refrigerator, you must clean out the freezer and food compartments. ...
- Problems With Doors. Doors that are not secured will open when the refrigerator is laid on its side. ...
- Compressor Oil Concerns. ...
- Considerations After Moving the Refrigerator. ...
- Some Fridges Must Stay Upright. ...
What happens if you move a refrigerator on its side?
After a refrigerator has been moved on its side, it must sit upright for the same amount of time it was on its side so that any oil that may have flowed into the coolant lines will have enough time to return to the compressor and clear the coolant lines.
Can you store a refrigerator on its side?
No, you should not move or store a refrigerator on its side. When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines. This doesn’t automatically mean that it will break, but it can be risky depending on the type of refrigerator you have.
Can you lay a fridge down on its back?
Jokes aside, it can, in fact, be problematic to transport a refrigerator on its side for a number of reasons. Read on for an answer to “can you lay a fridge down on its back,” as well as our helpful refrigerator moving instructions and what you can do if there’s no way around moving a fridge on its side.
Can you plug in a refrigerator that was delivered on its side?
If you’ve moved a fridge on its side – or if it was delivered to your home on its side – it’s important not to plug it in right away, or risk damaging the compressor. A good rule of thumb is to leave the refrigerator upright and unplugged for the same amount of time that it was lying on its side.
Is it OK to transport a refrigerator laying down?
The answer is no. A refrigerator should never be transported on its back; the weight of the fridge can damage internal parts, and the internal fluids such as the oil inside the motor; or the refrigerant may shift and settle in undesirable places in the machine's system.
How long can a refrigerator lay on its side?
24 hoursAfter Transporting Your Refrigerator If it was on its side for more than a day, leave it standing upright for 24 hours before running the refrigerator. If laying on its side just briefly to service, clean or adjust, just a few minutes of stand time will be enough.
How long can a refrigerator lay on its back?
If it's necessary to put the refrigerator on its side after transporting. It should stand upright for an equal amount of time as it was on its side. Leave standing for 24 hours if it was on its side for more than one day.
Can you lay a refrigerator on its side for 30 minutes?
You're not supposed to move a refrigerator on its side. If you do, you can ruin the internal mechanisms and potentially break the refrigerator. When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines.
How do you fix a refrigerator that was laying down?
If your refrigerator was on its side for more than 24 hours, let it stand upright for 24 hours before plugging it in. Allowing the fridge to stand in its normal position before plugging it in will give the oil time to flow back into the compressor where it belongs.
Can you transport a new refrigerator on its side?
No, you should not move or store a refrigerator on its side. When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines. This doesn't automatically mean that it will break, but it can be risky depending on the type of refrigerator you have.
Can you tilt a refrigerator on its side?
Avoid The Temptation of Tilting Your Refrigerator This will allow you to carry one end while a friend or family member carries the other end. Regardless of how “natural” it feels, though, you must avoid the temptation of tilting your refrigerator, because even small shifts may damage it.
Why do you have to wait 24 hours to plug in a fridge?
Its because the compressor lubrication oil could get into the cylinder of the compressor and if not given plenty of time to drain back into the oil sump at the bottom of the compressor, could cause major compressor valve damage on start up. 2 or more hours is a good rule to observe.
Can you transport a new refrigerator on its side?
No, you should not move or store a refrigerator on its side. When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines. This doesn't automatically mean that it will break, but it can be risky depending on the type of refrigerator you have.
Which side do you lay a fridge down?
"If you're lying a fridge on its side, put it with the hinge side at the top, as gravity will make it spring open the other way. "If your unit's got an external heat exchanger on the back, then on its side might be best. But provided the back is flat and clear, then lying it on its back is probably safest."
Why do you have to wait 24 hours to plug in a fridge?
Its because the compressor lubrication oil could get into the cylinder of the compressor and if not given plenty of time to drain back into the oil sump at the bottom of the compressor, could cause major compressor valve damage on start up. 2 or more hours is a good rule to observe.
How long can you leave a refrigerator on its side?
You can safely lay a refrigerator on its side without any long-lasting ill effects, provided that you’ll let your fridge rest upright for at least 4 hours (24 hours at most) before turning it on.
What to do after laying a refrigerator on its side?
Here are the steps to take before turning your refrigerator on after its been laid on it’s side. Take off the box and set it up in its final position.
How does a refrigerator work?
How a refrigerator works. Refrigerators work by continuously evaporating and condensing a refrigerant gas to produce a cooling effect inside the compartment. They do this with help of a compressor that pumps the refrigerant gas to the refrigerator’s coils.
How do you know if a compressor is bad?
Moreover, the compressor is supported by brackets that hold it in an upright position. If laid on its side, the brackets may give way, or the compressor’s internal parts may get dislodged. You’ll know something went wrong if loud banging and shuddering sounds are coming from the compressor after you turned it on.
Why won't my refrigerator cool?
Since the oil is thick and viscous, it can easily clog up the coils. This prevents the refrigerant gas from flowing through them and thus your refrigerator won’t cool. If the compressor runs with an improper amount of lubricating oil, it can get damaged and overheat.
How long does it take for oil to settle in a refrigerator?
Take off the box and set it up in its final position. Let it rest upright and unplugged for at least 4 hours (24 at most) to let the oil settle back into the compressor. Run it at the max temperature setting for at least 2 hours while it’s empty. Done! You can now put food into the refrigerator!
When will refrigerators be upright?
April 9, 2021. December 4, 2020 by 101 Appliance. Refrigerators are typically transported upright, but due to certain circumstances, there may be no other choice but to lay a refrigerator on its side during transport.
What happens when you lay a refrigerator on its side?
When a refrigerator is horizontal, the oil from the compressor will start to move out and into the coolant lines, clogging them. If you absolutely cannot avoid moving a fridge lying down, then it’s possible to try and minimize oil leakage by placing the refrigerator on a side ...
How to protect refrigerator doors from damage?
Take out the drawers and shelves, and tape the doors shut. This will protect the shelving itself as well as the refrigerator’s interior, as well as the doors, whose hinges or corners can be damaged if it opens in transit.
Can a Liebherr fridge be moved sideways?
Liebherr, for example, says that its compressor brackets are designed to absorb vibrations from the compressor when the fridge is running in an upright position – moving it sideways can put lateral strain on it that it’s not designed to absorb. The GE website lists which models are suited to be moved on their side if necessary ...
Can you move a fridge when you lay it down?
One question we’re frequently asked is whether moving a fridge lying down can cause problems when you try to turn it back on. Our answer is that moving a fridge takes a lot longer if you’re lying down! Jokes aside, it can, in fact, be problematic to transport a refrigerator on its side for a number of reasons.
Do refrigerator doors have a vacuum seal?
This also brings us to the next point – the refrigerator doors. Though refrigerator doors are built with a slight vacuum seal, this is far from enough to keep the doors closed during moving. While it may seem easy enough to prevent this by laying the fridge on its back, it’s also important to remember to account for the direction that the compressor line faces.
Does Puls repair appliances?
If you’ve got an appliance in need of fixing, Puls has got you covered. We offer a full array of electric appliance repairs nationwide. We fix washers, dryers, refrigerators, ovens, and more, and, with our easy online booking, you can schedule a time slot in just moments. And with our 90-day guarantee on parts and labor, you can be sure the job is done right.
Can you put a refrigerator flat on its back?
Besides this, placing a refrigerator flat on its back is a major no-no: the weight of the fridge can damage its internal parts, even if they’re not exposed.
What Happens to Your Refrigerator When You Lay It on Its Side?
However, it’s important to understand what may happen to the unit in this position.
What To Do After a Refrigerator Has Been on Its Side?
You may wonder, can you lay a refrigerator on its side for 30 minutes? There is no black and white answer to this question since it depends on your unit type. While this is true, if your refrigerator has been on its side (regardless of if you did it or not), you need to know what to do next.
Why do refrigerators clog?
When the refrigerator is in a horizontal position, the oil, typically held in the compressor by gravity, will begin to move out and then into the coolant lines. This can cause clogs. Some refrigerators must always remain upright, or permanent damage may occur. Some of the types of refrigerators that must remain upright include bottom freezer, built-in units, compact refrigerators, and French door style units.
How to put a refrigerator on a dolly?
One person should lift the unit slightly while the other moves the dolly beneath it. Tighten the straps around the refrigerator once it is in place.
How long should a refrigerator stay upright?
After a refrigerator is on its side, it needs to remain upright for a while. The amount of time it should remain upright needs to be equal to the amount of time it was on its side (as mentioned above).
How to clean a refrigerator after it's been iced?
Once all the food is out, clean the surfaces of your refrigerator well. You can use an all-natural cleaner made of water and baking soda. It’s also wise to melt any ice remaining in your freezer. If needed, you can use a hairdryer to help speed up the melting process. Doing this will help you avoid water leaks while you move the unit.
Can you put a fridge back on its side?
It is not ideal to move the unit on its side, back, or in any other position besides upright, if you can avoid it. This is going to prevent the possibility of damage and other issues. However, if you don’t have any other choice but to lie the unit on its side, make sure you provide plenty of time for the fridge to “rest” before you plug it back in an attempt to use it. Doing this will help ensure no permanent damage occurs and that the unit works properly now and in the future.
What Will Happen When You Lay a Refrigerator on Its Side?
You should be aware of the issues it can bring before you decide to put a refrigerator on its side. Two primary issues that can ruin your refrigerator will be listed below.
Why won't my refrigerator cool?
Some oil can exit the compressor and enter the cooling system if we lay the fridge horizontally. The oil is a thick liquid, which blocks the cooling pipes and limits the cooling capacity of the refrigerator. The compressor may also suffer from a lack of lubricant. As a result, your fridge will not cool.
How to fix a refrigerator that is leaking water?
The first option is to absorb the leaking water with a towel. Put a water-absorbing towel on the tray, let it soak for half an hour or more. Trap another towel between the compressor and the computer to collect any water before putting the refrigerator on its side. The second alternative is natural drying. Keep the refrigerator off at your new location for a couple of days. It’s going to be alright as long as the water is dried.
Why does my refrigerator have a compressor?
Refrigerators evaporate and condense a coolant gas to create a cooling effect in the compartment constantly. They are using a compressor to push the refrigerant gas into the coils of the fridge. It carefully formulated lubricants that lubricate and refresh the compressor to assist the compressor in proper functioning. This oil can cause problems when you put the fridge on its side.
How to keep food from spoiling in a picnic cooler?
Take frozen and cooled food and place them in a picnic cooler to prevent spoilage. Next, remove shelves, racks, and drawers to make transportation safer and lighter. Lock the shelves firmly with tape if you cannot remove them.
Can you put a fridge on the side?
Thankfully, you may place a fridge on the side without any long-term consequences. If you need to carry it that way, it should stand up straight for the same period as it had been on its side before you switch it on. For example, when you lay it for three hours, keep it standing and off for a minimum of three hours before running again.
Can you move a refrigerator on one side?
Certain types simply cannot be moved on their side because of their layout. If your refrigerator is one of those kinds, you’ll need to make other arrangements and shift it vertically while transporting. Hence, you should spend some time looking at the moving guidelines in your handbook or the manufacturer’s website before you eventually start moving it. Usually, the instructions will inform you which side is ideal for models with several doors or less typical door configurations.
What Happens If You Put a Fridge On Its Side?
The main reason why many professional movers avoid putting a fridge on its side is that there are some effects that result from this action. When a fridge is laid horizontal, the compressor oil can move around into the coolant lines, potentially clogging them.
Other Issues With Laying A Fridge On Its Side
Another reason why laying a fridge down can be a bad idea is the shelves. Even if you’ve removed all of the food items, most refrigerator shelves are made of glass, which may break due to shifting. The shelves are designed to slide out easily, but there is still space for them to bounce and crack if you lower the fridge into a horizontal position.
Tips for Moving a Refrigerator
If you want to properly move your fridge, there are some tips to save yourself potential problems, whether you move it standing up or on its side.
What happens when a refrigerator is laid on its side?
When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines. This doesn’t automatically mean that it will break, but it can be risky depending on the type of refrigerator you have.
How long after moving a refrigerator can I turn it on?
If it’s been on its side for 30 minutes during transit, wait 30 minutes once it’s back upright. If it’s been on its side for more than a day, you should wait 24 hours.
How to lift a refrigerator from a pickup truck?
For easy lifting, back the pickup truck to the edge of the driveway with the wheels in the gutter so the tailgate is as close to the ground as possible. Open the tailgate and drape a towel or blanket over the lip. Back the refrigerator up against the tailgate so the two vertical bars on the appliance dolly are pressing against the padded lip ...
How to move a refrigerator on a truck?
Moving A Refrigerator Using A Pickup Truck or Moving Truck With No Ramp 1 Attach the refrigerator to the appliance dolly the same way as mentioned above. 2 Prepare your pickup truck so there is space for the refrigerator to stand vertically all the way up front against the cab of the truck. 3 For easy lifting, back the pickup truck to the edge of the driveway with the wheels in the gutter so the tailgate is as close to the ground as possible. 4 Open the tailgate and drape a towel or blanket over the lip. 5 Back the refrigerator up against the tailgate so the two vertical bars on the appliance dolly are pressing against the padded lip of the tailgate. 6 Have one person be in the truck lifting up on the appliance dolly’s middle handles as one person pushes up from the ground underneath. 7 If you don’t need the appliance dolly to move anything else that you can just keep it attached to the dolly. 8 Back the refrigerator all the way up against the front cab. Place a flat box or piece of cardboard for a protector for the truck cab. Strap it securely in place.
How to move a refrigerator without hiring a moving company?
If you are moving a refrigerator and not hiring a moving company, use these steps to safely and successfully move your refrigerator. Turn off and disconnect the refrigerator a few hours before moving to allow the refrigerator/freezer time to defrost. Completely clean and remove all food from the refrigerator.
How to secure a refrigerator?
Secure the doors shut with tape. If you have a really nice expensive refrigerator then wrap and secure the entire piece with furniture blankets and secure with tape or a large movers rubber band. Attach the appliance dolly to one of the sides with a strap by lifting one end up and sliding the dolly in from underneath. Secure the straps.
How to get a refrigerator to smell?
Secure or remove shelves inside. Take out any glass shelves and wrap them with furniture blankets, towels, or linens separately. After wrapped, you may place them back inside the refrigerator during transit.
What happens if you tip a mini fridge?
It isn’t with the compressor alignment. The issue is with the oil. The majority of the oil for the compressor is in the compressor. Some is in the rest of the refrigeration system, but only a small amount. Since the refrigerant cools the mechanical section of the compressor, the oil and refrigerant reside in the same area. When you tip the mini fridge, or any refrigerator/freezer, over far enough, the oil will flow out of the compressor and down one of the two attached refrigerant lines. It will migrate to one of the coils. When that happens, it can create an oil trap. The majority of the oil will reside in the coil rather than the compressor. This will cause the compressor to work harder to move the refrigerant. The refrigerant won’t work right, and the system won’t cool properly. This will also cause a lack of lubricant to the compressor, resulting in the compressor overheating and probably seizing. The cost of repairs won’t be worth the mini fridge. You’ll basically have lost it. That’s why you don’t tip any refrigeration system, including window shakers, on their side.
How long should I leave a mini fridge in the fridge?
For a mini-fridge (or ice maker/ice cream machine/cheap window or portable AC) at least 24 hours would be my suggestion when you are just bringing one home from a local store. That’s ONLY if you know it was upright in the store and you transported it home upright.
How long should I let my compressor sit upright?
The good news it, if you let it sit upright for a while, like at least a day (or longer for bigger systems, I would wait 2 days minimum), most of the oil should return to the compressor, or at least get to a place in the system where the refrigerant will blow it back into the compressor fairly easily.
Where is the compressor on a refrigerator?
The compressor in your fridge is hermetic (fully sealed) and is usually mounted at the rear at the base of the fridge.
Can you turn on a fridge that is upright?
If the fridge was transported upright before use, then there is no issue. Turning it on immediately will not cause issues.
Can a mini fridge be used as a fridge?
The short answer is yes . A mini fridge is very likely to have a very simple refrigeration system and you need to let it settle before cranking it up. This really can make a major difference. A bigger fridge is typically less sensitive than a mini.
Is it normal for a refrigerator to have black tubing?
Yes, that's normal on many designs especially small refrigerator and chest freezers, that black tubing that you generally see in the back of a refrigerator is the condenser, it is designed to discipate heat. In some units that tubing is inside the walls towards the exterior so it will be warm as long as it's running
How to transport mini-fridge on its side?
Even though it is recommended to not transport a mini-fridge on its side , if you are compelled to do so then there are certain tips you must keep in mind.
How to move a mini-fridge by yourself?
If you want to save money and move your fridge by yourself then ensure to read the instructions properly. Have all the necessary items at hand such as a dolly, a blanket, ropes, and gloves. Keep at least one person to help you strap your fridge onto the dolly and move it around without harming it.
Can a mini-fridge be transported laying down on its back?
It is highly recommended to not transport your mini-fridge on its back. The entire weight of the fridge, despite being mini, can end up damaging the internal mechanics and parts of the fridge and you will not realize until you start using it.
Do mini-fridges need to be transported upright?
You will have certain instructions and manuals you need to follow according to the brand when you purchase a mini-fridge.
How long should you let a mini-fridge settle?
If you end up transporting your mini-fridge on its side then you will have to let it rest at least for the amount of time you let it lay on its side or for at least 24 hours.
How to properly transport a mini-fridge?
When transporting a mini-fridge you must follow the instruction manuals provided by the brand you buy from. Other than that, there are also a few extra tips you should keep in mind to avoid any external or internal damage.
How to fit a mini-fridge in a car?
If you cannot fit it in an upright position in your car then you will have to resort to laying it on its side. In that case, make sure to lay it on the side where the compressor unit is, use a blanket and strap it in properly to keep it safe.
