Carrying a refrigerator up stairs is a task that requires not only physical strength, but also competent preparation. Even compact models weigh from 50 kg, and large ones can exceed 150 kg. Errors during transportation are fraught not only with damage to equipment (up to depressurization of the cooling circuit), but also with spinal injuries, dislocations, or the device falling on its feet. In this article we will analyze Side-by-Side may exceed 150 kg. Errors during transportation are fraught not only with damage to equipment (up to depressurization of the cooling circuit), but also with spinal injuries, dislocations, or the device falling on its feet. In this article we will analyze step-by-step algorithmwhich is used by professional movers, and also reveal hidden nuanceswhich are not written about in standard instructions.
Features of staircases spans - limited space, uneven steps and lack of a straight path of movement. The technique of transferring on a flat surface will not work here: you will have to take into account the angle of inclination, distribute the load on the arms and body, and also synchronize actions with assistants. We analyzed the experience of refrigerator repair technicians and compiled a checklist that will help avoid typical mistakes, such as moving equipment in a horizontal position (this leads to oil leakage from the compressor in 80% of cases) or ignoring the locking of doors.
Important: if your refrigerator is a model with system No Frost or equipped with a water dispenser, transportation requirements become more stringent. For example, electronic modules are sensitive to vibrations, and water supply tubes may burst if tilted inaccurately. Before you begin, check the “Transportation” section in the product passport - the maximum tilt angles may be indicated there LG InstaView or Samsung Family Hub electronic modules are sensitive to vibrations, and water supply tubes can burst if tilted incorrectly. Before you begin, check the “Transportation” section in the product passport - it may indicate 1. Preparing the refrigerator for transfer: what needs to be done in advance for your model.
1. Preparing the refrigerator for transfer: what needs to be done in advance
The first step is complete defrosting and unplugging. Even if you're moving equipment a short distance, leftover ice in the freezer can melt in the process and leak onto electronic components. For models with Total No Frost (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30R), it is enough to remove the food and wipe the internal surfaces. For refrigerators with a drip system (Indesit BIAA 13) or manual defrosting (Atlant XM-4021-000>) it will take at least 12 hours to completely defrost.
Be sure to fix all removable elements:
- 🧊 Take out the shelves, egg containers and trays - pack them separately in a box with soft padding (bubble wrap or an old blanket will do).
- 🔌 Remove the magnetic door seals (if they are removable) or seal them with masking tape so as not to tear.
- 💧 Turn off and drain the water from the dispenser (for models Samsung RF23J9011, LG GR-B207JQVL).
- 🔄 Secure the doors with special shipping bolts (included) or ties. If they are not there, use a strong rope, wrapping it around the body crosswise.
Professionals recommend wrapping refrigerator with a soft blanket or a special transport film. This will protect the case from scratches when rubbing against walls or railings. For models with a glossy finish (Liebherr CNef 4315) or stainless steel (Gorenje). NRK6191MCX>) this is critical - the slightest mechanical impact leaves marks.
2 How many people are needed for moving: calculation according to. weight and dimensions
The minimum number of assistants depends on the weight and type of refrigerator:
| Type of refrigerator | Weight (kg) | Recommended number of people | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-chamber (for example, Biryusa 105) | 30–50 | 2 | Can be carried by two people if the staircase is wide and without turns. |
| Two-chamber standard (Atlant MXM-1708) | 60–80 | 3 | A third person belays from below when climbing. |
| Side-by-Side (Samsung RS62R5001M9) | 100–150 | 4 | Special straps are required to evenly distribute the load. |
| Built-in (Electrolux EEN91810L) | 40–70 | 2–3 | Weight is less, but the dimensions are inconvenient for grip. |
If the weight of the refrigerator exceeds 100 kg, use lifting belts (they can be rented from moving companies). They are fixed on the body and allow you to distribute the load on your shoulders rather than on your hands. Alternatively, trolley for refrigerators with a winch (for example, model Zarges K412-120), but it is only suitable for straight flights of stairs without turns.
🔹 Critical moment: if the stairs are narrow (width less than 90 cm) and the refrigerator is wide (for example, Gorenje RK 60359 WA with a width of 60 cm), you will have to carry it vertically at an angle. In this case, you will need 4 people: two hold from below, one guides the upper part, the fourth insures from the side.
3. Safety precautions: how to avoid injuries and damage to equipment
The main danger when carrying a refrigerator along stairs is uneven weight distribution. The compressor (the heaviest part) is usually located in the lower rear part of the case. avoid:
- 🏋️♂️ The lower person must hold on to the compressor compartment (usually the right rear leg).
- 🧘 Upper person directs the refrigerator, but does not pull it towards himself - only corrects trajectory.
- 👟 All participants must wear closed shoes with grooved soles (sneakers or work boots) are prohibited!
- 🧤 Use gloves with rubber pads —they will prevent your hands from sliding along the body.
🔴 Prohibited actions:
- ❌ Carrying a refrigerator in a horizontal position (lying on your side or back). This leads to the displacement of oil from the compressor into the cooling circuit. After such transportation, the equipment may not turn on or work intermittently.
- ❌ Hold onto door handles - they are not designed for weight load and can come off.
- ❌ Place the refrigerator on one step when stopping. All legs should rest on a flat surface.
What to do if the refrigerator did you fall?
If the equipment fell from a height of more than 50 cm, do not turn it on immediately! Inspect the housing for dents, check the integrity of the circuit pipes (they are located at the back). If you see a refrigerant leak (oil stains) or deformation of the compressor, call a technician. Turning it on after a fall may cause a short circuit.
Pay special attention turns on the landingThis is where falls most often occur:
- Stop before the turn, place the refrigerator on the floor.
- Turn it 90°. in the right direction (if the stairs turn to the right, turn your body to the left, and vice versa).
- Raise the equipment only after all participants have taken stable positions.
☑️ Preparing for transfer
4. Step-by-step instructions: how to carry a refrigerator up the stairs
Let's consider the most difficult scenario - lifting a large refrigerator (weight 80+ kg) along a standard staircase with a 90° turn. You will need 3-4 people and lifting belts.
Step 1. Starting position
Place the refrigerator at the base of the stairs, with the doors facing up. Two participants stand behind (from the side of the compressor), one in front (holds the upper corners of the body), the fourth belays from the side. The belts are fixed crosswise: one belt passes under the bottom and through the top of the body, the second - diagonally from the bottom corner to the top.
Step 2. Climbing the steps
Move synchronouslylifting the refrigerator one step at a time. The lower participants lift the body, the upper one pulls up without releasing the handle. The belayer ensures that the equipment does not touch walls or railings. If the steps are slippery, place rubber mats under the legs of the refrigerator.
Step 3. Taking a turn
On the platform before the turn, carefully place the refrigerator on the floor. Expand it in the desired direction (see algorithm in the previous section). If the body does not fit the width, try tilting it back at an angle of 15–20° (but no more!). To do this, the lower participants lift the front part, and the upper one guides the back.
Step 4. Finishing stage
After lifting, let the refrigerator stand 2–3 hours in a vertical position before turning it on. This is necessary so that the oil from the compressor drains back. For models with an inverter compressor (Panasonic NR-BN30AW1), the waiting time can be reduced to 1 hour.
5. Features of lowering the refrigerator down the stairs
Lowering the refrigerator is more difficult than lifting it - there is a high probability that the equipment will “move” forward under its own weight. Basic rules:
- 🔽 Bottom person must be the strongest - he takes on the main load and controls the speed of descent.
- 🚫 Do not allow the refrigerator to “hang” on the hands of the upper participants. The body should be glide down the steps under control.
- 🛑 Make stops every 3-4 steps to change your grip and rest.
If the stairs are steep (angle more than 45°), use rope for additional insurance. Secure it to the top of the body and slowly lower the refrigerator while holding the rope. This method is suitable for models weighing up to 100 kg.
⚠️ Attention: when descending not hold on to the door handles - they are not designed for dynamic loads. Use only the body or lifting belts.
6. Typical mistakes and their consequences
Even minor errors during transportation can turn into serious problems. Here are the most common:
| Error | Consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer in a horizontal position | Oil leakage from the compressor, motor failure | Always keep it vertical (allowable tilt angle is up to 40°) |
| No door fixation | Damage to seals, deformation of hinges | Use transportation bolts or ties |
| Transfer without protective coating | Scratches, chips, damage to the glossy finish | Wrap the case with a blanket or bubble wrap |
| Sharp jerks when lifting | Breakage of tubes refrigerant, cracks in the compressor | Move smoothly, synchronizing actions |
One of the most dangerous mistakes is ignoring the weight of the equipment. For example, a refrigerator Samsung RB37J5240SA weighs 85 kg, and two people are trying to move it. As a result, one of the participants loses his balance, the equipment falls, and the cooling circuit bursts. The cost of repairs in this case will be 30–50% of the price of a new refrigerator.
Another nuance - transportation in cold weather. If you are moving your refrigerator in winter at temperatures below -10°C, let it sit in a warm room for 4-5 hours before turning it on. A sharp temperature change can cause condensation on electronic boards.
7. Alternative methods: when it is impossible to carry it by hand
If the refrigerator is too heavy (150+ kg) or the staircase has a complex configuration (spiral, with high steps), consider alternative options:
- 🏗️ Winch with a block - attached to the railing or ceiling beam. Suitable for lifting 2-3 floors.
- 🚡 Freight elevator - if the house has a freight lift, rent it in advance (cost - from 1500 ₽/hour).
- 🚛 Lifting through a window —relevant for private homes. You will need a truck crane (the service will cost 3,000–5,000 rubles).
- 🤝 Services of professional loaders —companies use special equipment (for example, electric hoists). The average cost of transfer is 2000–4000 ₽ depending on the floor.
⚠️ Attention: if you decide to use a winch yourself, make sure that the railings can withstand the load. Standard metal railings in apartment buildings are designed for a weight of up to 100 kg. Exceeding this threshold can lead to the collapse of the fence.
For spiral staircases, the only safe way is disassembling the refrigerator on modules (if this is possible by design). For example, models Side-by-Side sometimes have the freezer compartment removed. But this is risky - after assembly, the seal may be broken.
8. What to do after transportation: checking and preparing for work
After the refrigerator has taken its place, perform the following steps:
- Inspect the case for dents, scratches or cracks. Pay special attention to the back wall - the refrigerant pipes are located there.
- Check the door compressor. If they are torn or deformed, the refrigerator will not keep the temperature.: it should not rattle or vibrate when slightly rocked. If you hear extraneous sounds, the springs may break.
- Make sure the seals are intact doors. If they are torn or deformed, the refrigerator will not hold temperature.
- Connect to the power supply only after 2-3 hours (for models with a linear compressor - after 1 hour).
If the refrigerator does not turn on:
- Check socket - the circuit breaker in the panel may have tripped.
- Inspect power cord for kinks or melting.
- Listen, Is the compressor humming. If there is no sound, the problem is in the start relay.
For models with electronic control (LG Door-in-Door, Samsung Chef Collection), the calibration of the sensors may be lost after transportation. In this case, you need to reset the settings to factory settings (instructions are in the product data sheet).
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to move the refrigerator on its side, if you are careful?
No, this is strictly prohibited. Even with careful transfer, oil from the compressor will enter the cooling circuit, which will lead to jamming of the motor. The exception is transport models with a factory-fixed compressor (for example, Dometic for campers), but they cannot be laid on their side for a long time.
How much does it cost to call loaders to move a refrigerator?
The cost depends on the floor and the weight of the equipment:
- 1–2 floors: 1500–2500 ₽;
- 3–5 floors: 2500–4000 ₽;
- 6+ floors or complex staircase: 4000–6000 ₽.
The price usually includes insurance in case of equipment damage.
What happens if you turn on the refrigerator immediately after transportation?
If the oil has not had time to drain back into the compressor, the motor will run dry. This leads to its overheating and failure. In the best case, the fuse will burn out, in the worst case, the compressor will need to be replaced (cost - from 8,000 ₽).
How to move a refrigerator with a water dispenser?
For such models (Samsung RF23J9011, LG GR-B207JQVLyou need to:
- Disable water supply and drain the remaining water from the system.
- Fix the hose with tape to the back wall.
- Carry only vertically, avoiding sharp tilts.
If after transportation the dispenser does not work, check the integrity of the tubes and the water level sensor.
Is it possible to transport the refrigerator in a cargo truck? elevator?
Yes, but subject to the rules:
- Make sure that the lift's load capacity exceeds the weight of the refrigerator by at least 30%.
- Secure the equipment with belts so that it does not move when moving.
- Do not place the refrigerator on its side - even in an elevator it must be transported vertically.