Knowledge Builders

why cant you lay a fridge down

by Bud Reichert Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

It's best to keep your refrigerator in an upright position for the entire move, no matter what its size. This is because putting a fridge down on its side can cause damage to the refrigerator compressor and keep it from doing its job. The compressor is filled with oil that is held in place by gravity.Jul 10, 2018

Why is my refrigerator moving?

Why should a compact refrigerator be upright?

How to clean a refrigerator before transporting?

Can you lay down a refrigerator?

Can you move a refrigerator yourself?

Is it important to keep a refrigerator upright?

Should a refrigerator be put on the side of the freezer?

See 4 more

About this website

image

How long can a refrigerator lay on its back?

Do not lie your refrigerator on its back for any length of time. The most fragile components, such as the compressor, are at the back, and putting...

What happens if you don't let a fridge settle?

Do not lie your refrigerator on its back for any length of time. The most fragile components, such as the compressor, are at the back, and putting...

How do you transport a refrigerator in a pickup truck?

Load the refrigerator upright using a dolly and place it upright against the cab wall. Use ratchet straps to anchor it securely and ensure it canno...

What are the dangers of laying a refrigerator down? - Quora

Answer (1 of 4): There's no danger at all unless it is plugged in and running. It is suggested that the refrigerator once it is set up properly after say a move, that it be left unplugged for an hour maybe to allow the oil to settle back to the compressor if any had leaked out into the system. It...

Laying Refrigerators Down When Moving Them - DavesRepair.com

DavesRepair.com Appliance Repair Help for the 'Handy' from a 40-year Tech! Free Repair Tips, Articles, and Links to Parts at Wholesale

Can You Lay a Refrigerator Down? Tips For Moving a Fridge

Yes, a refrigerator can be transported on its side when it is: Empty and clean; Not more than 2 inches taller than the height of the truck; The refrigerator weighs less than 500 pounds.

Why is it bad to lay a refrigerator on it's side? - Answers

(Improved Answer)WOW, I was looking for a simple answer and ended up finding folk lore, so I went to GE, the manufacturer of refrigerators for years. I do want to note that the original person to ...

Why is my refrigerator moving?

The main issues with moving a refrigerator or freezer relate to water in the lines leaking and liquids in the motor possibly shifting around and causing problems with the refrigerator .

Why should a compact refrigerator be upright?

A compact refrigerator should always remain in an upright position due to the design of the drain. Water will run back into the appliance if it is placed on its side. If it has to be moved on its side, then allow it to drain and turn it off a few days in advance. Advertisement. references.

How to clean a refrigerator before transporting?

Clean out the refrigerator with an antibacterial detergent and allow to dry before closing it up for transport. Remove all shelving, drawers and any other moveable parts for safety. Wrap the refrigerator in plastic wrap and/or moving blankets from top to bottom.

Can you lay down a refrigerator?

Laying Down a Fridge. Sometimes it simply can't be avoided and the hulking appliance needs to be placed on its side or front. To do this properly, GE Appliances suggests that the refrigerator be wrapped securely and that the appliance be picked up from the side rather than the front to reduce damage when using a dolly or hand truck.

Can you move a refrigerator yourself?

If you plan to move a refrigerator yourself, then take your time when loading the refrigerator and keep it standing upright to reduce the possibility of damage to the sealed system within the appliance. Life Storage suggests that you don't do the task alone and gather the following items to ensure a safe transport of the refrigerator, both for the fridge and for those grappling with the unwieldy appliance.

Is it important to keep a refrigerator upright?

Image Credit: contrastaddict/iStock/GettyImages. It's big, it's bulky and it's difficult to slide from its nook much less move from room to room. However, there is more to consider when moving a refrigerator than its size and weight.

Should a refrigerator be put on the side of the freezer?

Top freezer models need to be put on the opposite side of where the hinges are located. Side-by-side refrigerators should be put down on the freezer side so that the doors are less likely to open. A compact refrigerator should always remain in an upright position due to the design of the drain.

Why is it dangerous to put a refrigerator on its back?

A refrigerator laying on its back is at the greatest risk of damage because this area houses the most fragile parts. Move a refrigerator immediately if it is ever on its back – being on its side is almost always preferable.

How to lay down a fridge?

Depending on how the compressor lines are situated, one side may be preferable to the other. The best way is so that the compressor tube is standing upright so that the compressor lines are going up. Consult your manual or ask your manufacturer if you are unsure.

How to move a refrigerator when driving?

Load the refrigerator upright using a dolly and place it upright against the cab wall. Use ratchet straps to anchor it securely and ensure it cannot move when driving. Do not lie the refrigerator down because this can damage it.

What to do if your fridge doesn't have written instructions?

If your manufacturer does not provide specific written instructions and you are unsure, we suggest you either contact them or keep the fridge upright (better safe than sorry).

Why do refrigerators need oil?

The oil in these compressors act as a lubricant, and are critical to ensure they work correctly right. If the compressor is turned on without enough oil inside it can seize up – just like a car engine that hasn’t had its oil topped up.

How to keep oil from moving out of compressor?

If you can’t keep it stood upright, at least try to lie it so that the top end is higher than the bottom. This will prevent oil moving out of the compressor.

Do refrigerators break when they are upright?

Refrigerators are designed to transported standing upright. This means they are built to withstand any bumps that may occur during transportation while upright – but turning them on their side makes these bumps affect them on a different axis where they may not be as strong. Basically, they’re more likely to break!

Why Can’t You Lay a Refrigerator Down?

When you lay down a refrigerator, the oil in the compressor flows out and gets into the cooling lines. The oil in the compressor is meant to stay in the compressor. If the oil drains the cooling lines, the fridge will stop cooling and the compressor will malfunction. There is also the risk of damaging the crucial internal parts such as the compressor, the condenser, and the evaporator. Therefore, try not to lay a refrigerator down.

What happens when you lay down a refrigerator?

When you lay down a refrigerator, the oil in the compressor flows out and gets into the cooling lines. The oil in the compressor is meant to stay in the compressor. If the oil drains the cooling lines, the fridge will stop cooling and the compressor will malfunction. There is also the risk of damaging the crucial internal parts such as ...

How to move a refrigerator?

Tips for Moving a Refrigerator 1 Switch off and disconnect your refrigerator the night before moving. 2 Secure the cable to avoid tripping or damaging the unit in transit. 3 Empty the fridge so that your fridge will be lighter — making it easier and safer to move. 4 Defrost the freezer and wipe away all the leftover water. 5 Perform a deep clean to avoid the growth of bacteria and mold in hot temperatures. 6 Take the shelves out and secure loose items, such as the grille, storage pans, ice trays, ice storage buckets, etc. 7 Put some activated charcoal or a box of baking soda inside to absorb odors if your refrigerator will be closed for a day or more. 8 Fasten the fridge and freezer doors by using moving straps or bungee cords. 9 Wrap the fridge in a blanket to avoid dings and dents to the outer surface and damage to the working parts at the back. 10 After reaching your destination, let the fridge settle for at least 24 hours to prevent any damage during reinstallation.

How to prevent oil leakage in refrigerator?

However, there is a way to minimize oil leakage. Lay the fridge down on the side opposite from where the compressor lines run out of the compressor. For example, if the compressor line exits the compressor on the right side, lay the refrigerator on its left side. Oil may still flow out of the compressor, but placing it that way might save it ...

How to protect refrigerator from dents?

Wrap the fridge in a blanket to avoid dings and dents to the outer surface and damage to the working parts at the back.

Can you transport a refrigerator laying down?

We discourage you to transport a refrigerator laying down due to the compressor oil concerns and the risk of damaging the internal parts. All the manufacturers strongly recommend transporting a refrigerator in an upright position. Fridges are not designed to be laid down. Standing upright is their default position.

Is a refrigerator a delicate appliance?

It is also the heaviest. That’s why we need to take special care when moving it from one place to another. Refrigerators may seem robust, but they are actually delicate.

Will Laying a Refrigerator Down Damage It?

Laying a refrigerator down may not necessarily damage, but the chances are slim. When you put it down, the compressor oil begins to seep out and slowly flow into the cooling lines. The longer the refrigerator lays down, the more oil flows into the lines, damaging the refrigerator beyond repair.

How Do You Fix a Refrigerator that Was Laying Down?

There is no way to fix a refrigerator that was laying if it stops working afterward. Ideally, you should not lay a refrigerator down during transportation, whether it is on its sides or back. For one, it may cause oil to flow into the cooling lines, and two, it may damage the refrigerator cabinet.

Quick Recap

It is important to avoid laying a refrigerator down during transportation as much as possible. Refrigerators are designed to be vertical appliances, so laying them down for any reason may irreparably damage them. However, follow our guide if you absolutely have to lay yours down.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Why is my refrigerator moving?

The main issues with moving a refrigerator or freezer relate to water in the lines leaking and liquids in the motor possibly shifting around and causing problems with the refrigerator .

Why should a compact refrigerator be upright?

A compact refrigerator should always remain in an upright position due to the design of the drain. Water will run back into the appliance if it is placed on its side. If it has to be moved on its side, then allow it to drain and turn it off a few days in advance. Advertisement. references.

How to clean a refrigerator before transporting?

Clean out the refrigerator with an antibacterial detergent and allow to dry before closing it up for transport. Remove all shelving, drawers and any other moveable parts for safety. Wrap the refrigerator in plastic wrap and/or moving blankets from top to bottom.

Can you lay down a refrigerator?

Laying Down a Fridge. Sometimes it simply can't be avoided and the hulking appliance needs to be placed on its side or front. To do this properly, GE Appliances suggests that the refrigerator be wrapped securely and that the appliance be picked up from the side rather than the front to reduce damage when using a dolly or hand truck.

Can you move a refrigerator yourself?

If you plan to move a refrigerator yourself, then take your time when loading the refrigerator and keep it standing upright to reduce the possibility of damage to the sealed system within the appliance. Life Storage suggests that you don't do the task alone and gather the following items to ensure a safe transport of the refrigerator, both for the fridge and for those grappling with the unwieldy appliance.

Is it important to keep a refrigerator upright?

Image Credit: contrastaddict/iStock/GettyImages. It's big, it's bulky and it's difficult to slide from its nook much less move from room to room. However, there is more to consider when moving a refrigerator than its size and weight.

Should a refrigerator be put on the side of the freezer?

Top freezer models need to be put on the opposite side of where the hinges are located. Side-by-side refrigerators should be put down on the freezer side so that the doors are less likely to open. A compact refrigerator should always remain in an upright position due to the design of the drain.

image

1.Why Can’t You Lay A Refrigerator Down? - HVAC Repair, …

Url:https://www.expressappliancesrepair.com/blog/why-cant-you-lay-a-refrigerator-down/

18 hours ago  · Laying Down a Fridge Sometimes it simply can't be avoided and the hulking appliance needs to be placed on its side or front. To do this properly, GE Appliances suggests …

2.Videos of Why Cant you Lay a fridge Down

Url:/videos/search?q=why+cant+you+lay+a+fridge+down&qpvt=why+cant+you+lay+a+fridge+down&FORM=VDRE

19 hours ago Why Can’t You Lay A Refrigerator Down If you are thinking of laying down your fridge, it is best if you lay it on its front side as this will preserve your warranty. Nevertheless, if the process of …

3.Why Can't You Lie a Refrigerator Down? | Hunker

Url:https://www.hunker.com/13409827/why-cant-you-lie-a-refrigerator-down

26 hours ago  · However, if the refrigerator lay down for more than a day, you need to let it settle for at least a full day before you can use it. What happens if you tilt a refrigerator? What …

4.Can You Lay a Fridge Down to Move or Store It? - Woolly …

Url:https://woollygreen.com/can-you-lay-a-fridge-down/

20 hours ago  · Most of the refrigerator shelves are made of glass, which can easily break due to shifting when moving it. Refrigerator doors are built with a slight vacuum seal, which isn’t …

5.Can You Lay a Refrigerator Down? Tips for Moving a …

Url:https://pridegadget.com/can-you-lay-a-refrigerator-down/

16 hours ago Laying a refrigerator down may not necessarily damage, but the chances are slim. When you put it down, the compressor oil begins to seep out and slowly flow into the cooling lines. The …

6.Laying A Refrigerator Down [Critical Information]

Url:https://refrigeratorsreviewed.com/laying-a-refrigerator-down-information/

14 hours ago With a lot of padding underneath, lie your fridge or upright freezer down and secure it with straps so it can't move during transit. How do you fix a refrigerator that was laying down? If your …

7.Can I Lay My Refrigerator On Its Side? Yes; Here’s How To …

Url:https://101appliance.com/can-i-lay-my-refrigerator-on-its-side/

17 hours ago

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9