How to Move a Refrigerator: Can It Be Laid Down?

Transporting large appliances like refrigerators often raises a vital question during the moving process: Can you lay a refrigerator down? This question might seem straightforward, but it involves essential details that can protect your appliance from potential damage during transit. Whether relocating to a new home, upgrading your kitchen, or planning a spring clean, understanding the best way to move a refrigerator can save you time, money, and stress.

Why It's Important to Move a Refrigerator Correctly

Before delving into specifics, consider why laying a refrigerator down is such a debated topic. Refrigerators are an essential household appliance with intricate components, including:

  • Compressor: Critical for cooling efficiency.
  • Refrigerant Lines: Help transfer heat from inside your fridge to the exterior.
  • Coils: These assist in heat exchange.

When a refrigerator is laid flat, these components can shift or become damaged, affecting the appliance’s overall performance.

The Risks of Laying a Refrigerator Down

Compressor Issues

The compressor is essentially the heart of your refrigerator. It contains lubricating oil designed to stay within the compressor shell, which is usually at the base of a vertical fridge. When the fridge is laid down, this oil can start moving into other parts of the cooling system. Upon standing the fridge back upright, the displaced oil might not return entirely to the compressor, potentially causing operational issues or damage.

Refrigerant Line Concerns

The refrigerant lines can suffer if a refrigerator is not handled correctly. When a refrigerator lies flat, the liquid refrigerant can move away from the evaporator and condenser lines, leading to unsettling in their proper function. This displacement can result in inefficient cooling or even a need for repairs.

Structural and Cosmetic Damage

Another risk involves physical damage. Moving a refrigerator horizontally on rough or uneven surfaces can scratch, dent, or otherwise damage its exterior. Internally, shelves and fixtures might get dislodged or broken without proper packing and handling.

When You Can Lay a Refrigerator Down Safely

In specific scenarios, laying a refrigerator down might be unavoidable. In these cases, it’s crucial to follow the correct steps to minimize risks:

Type of Refrigerator

  • Top-Freezer: Generally less problematic to lay down if required.
  • Bottom-Freezer & Side-by-Side: Greater caution needed due to more intricate internal systems.
  • Built-in Models: Best to avoid laying down due to complex designs and custom installations.

Manufacturer Guidelines

Consult your refrigerator's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific advice. Some manufacturers provide guidance on safely transporting their appliances, including whether it’s permissible to lay them down.

How to Safely Lay a Refrigerator Down

If circumstances demand that you lay your refrigerator down, take preventive measures to protect it:

  1. Choose the Right Side: If you must lay it down, choose a side that keeps compressor tubing upright—generally, the side opposite the hinges.

  2. Secure Moving Components: Remove or secure shelves and trays inside to prevent movement and damage during transit.

  3. Avoid Tilting Too Low: Keep the angle as slight as possible, avoiding laying completely flat.

  4. Avoid Bumpy Surfaces: Transport over smooth surfaces whenever possible to prevent shaking or jarring.

Preparing the Refrigerator for Moving

Regardless of whether you lay it down, some preparation steps remain essential:

Clean and Defrost

  • Unplug in Advance: Allow the unit to sit unplugged for several hours to avoid leaks.
  • Clean: Ensure it’s completely dry and clean to prevent mold or odors.

Securing Doors

  • Tape or Band Them Shut: Use ropes or sturdy tape to keep the doors secured, preventing accidental opening during transit.

Protecting the Exterior

  • Use Blankets or Pads: Wrap the fridge in moving blankets or protective padding to shield from scratches or dents.

Standing the Refrigerator Upright

Once you reach the new location, properly standing the refrigerator upright is crucial:

Allow Settling Time

If laid down, allow it to stand upright for the same duration it spent on its side before plugging it back in. This ensures the oil and refrigerant settle back properly. A general guideline is to wait a minimum of four hours.

Additional Considerations

Beyond moving logistics, other factors can influence how to handle your refrigerator:

Professional Moving Services

Hiring experienced professionals can alleviate the worries of maneuvering large appliances. Professionals skilled in appliance moving can use specialized equipment to keep your refrigerator safe throughout the trip.

Planning Transit Path

Route planning is beneficial to ensure clear paths during moving, preventing potential hazards that could force laying the appliance.

Post-Move Checkup

Once in place, run a full function check:

  • Ensure the compressor activates and there’s no unusual noise.
  • Verify adequate cooling after the fridge has settled back to room temperature.

Summary: Key Tips for Moving Your Refrigerator 📝

Here's a handy summary to keep these points at your fingertips:

  • 🔍 Know the Fridge Type: Consider the type of refrigerator to know which aspects are vulnerable.
  • 🕒 Pre-Plan Decommissioning: Unplug and defrost well before the move.
  • 🚫 Avoid Laying Down: Generally best avoided; prefer to transport upright.
  • 👀 Manufacturer Guidelines: Check any specific instructions or limitations.
  • 🛡️ Secure the Inside and Outside: Mitigate internal and external risks during the move.
  • ⏳ Allow Settling: Give time to settle the appliance after moving before reactivation.

Understanding these essentials empowers you to make informed decisions that preserve the longevity and functionality of your refrigerator, while also ensuring minimal disruptions to your moving process. By adhering to these guidelines, you contribute to a smoother transition and the continued service of your appliance in the years to come.