Moving to a new apartment or transporting household appliances to a service center always involves the risk of equipment damage. This is especially true for large-sized units, such two-chamber refrigerators or Side-by-Side models. Many owners mistakenly believe that the main thing is to carry the device to the car, ignoring the physics of the compressor and the fragility of internal systems.
In fact, improper transportation can lead to oil leakage from the compressor, broken tubes or damage to the insulation. Refrigerantcirculating inside the system, requires special handling, and any microcracks can disable expensive equipment long before the first turn on.
In this article we will analyze all the nuances of the process: from defrosting the day before the trip to the moment it is connected to the network at a new place. You will find out whether it is possible to lay the unit on its side, how to lock the doors and why you should not rush to start it.
Preparing equipment for transportation
You need to start preparing for the move long before the movers arrive. The first and most important stage is the complete defrosting refrigerator compartment. Even if your model has a No Frost system, there may be condensation or ice inside in hard-to-reach places, which, when tilted, will flow onto the electronic boards.
Disconnect the device from the power supply at least 24 hours before transportation. This time is necessary for all the ice to turn into water, and for the refrigerant and oil to be evenly distributed in the compressor. After defrosting, thoroughly wipe all internal surfaces with a dry cloth.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use a hair dryer or other heating devices to speed up defrosting, a sudden temperature change can damage the plastic elements and seals.
The next step is to remove all removable elements. Shelves, drawers, vegetable containers and bottle holders must be removed and packed separately. The glass of the shelves can crack when vibrating during movement, and heavy boxes can damage the internal walls of the chamber.
Fixing doors and external elements
After the internal The space is freed up; the doors need to be securely fixed. If you simply close the refrigerator, the slightest jerk or tilt may cause the doors to swing open, which will lead to broken hinges or damage to the handles.
For fixation, use masking tape, stretch film or special belts. It is better not to use ordinary office tape, as it can leave difficult-to-remove traces of glue on the glossy surface of the case.
Pay special attention to the protruding parts. If your model Side-by-Side has external displays or prominent handles, they must be protected with an additional layer of cardboard or foam.
☑️ Preparing for transportation
Select a method of transportation: standing or lying down
One of The most common questions that arise when planning a move: in what position is it better to transport the refrigerator? Manufacturers of household appliances often indicate in their instructions that transportation should be carried out strictly in an upright position. This is due to the risk of oil displacement in the cooling system.
However, in practice, especially when transporting large models in an elevator or passenger van, it is not always possible to maintain the vertical position. Transport in a prone position is acceptable, but requires strict safety regulations.
If you place the unit on its side, it is important to choose the correct side. This is usually the side opposite the tubes exiting the compressor. Exact information can be found in the technical documentation of your model or on the sticker on the back.
Why can’t it be transported on the rear wall?
Transportation on the rear wall is strictly prohibited, since the compressor, mounted on springs, can damage the outlet pipes under its own weight.
When transporting at an angle, the angle should not exceed 40 degrees. Exceeding this value creates critical pressure on the compressor mounts and can lead to breakage of the springs.
Packaging and protection of the case
Even if you transport the refrigerator over a short distance, protection of the case is mandatory. Scratches, dents and chipped paint not only spoil the appearance, but can also lead to metal corrosion in the future.
The ideal option is factory packaging with foam inserts. If it doesn't survive, use thick cardboard, bubble wrap and soft blankets. Wrap the case in several layers, paying attention to the corners.
⚠️ Attention: Do not allow direct contact of the metal parts of the case with the tie belts, use cardboard or fabric linings.
For additional protection, you can use special moving covers. They are made of dense fabric with a soft pile inside, which prevents micro-scratches on glossy surfaces stainless steel.
Table of acceptable positions during transportation
To systematize information about acceptable positions during movement, read the following table. It will help you quickly navigate depending on the type of equipment you have.
| Position | Acceptable? | Risks | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vertical | Yes (Optimal) | Minimum | Fix the doors, tilt angle < 40° |
| On the side | Yes (With restrictions) | Oil leakage | Only on the side opposite to the tubes |
| On the back wall | No | Damage to the compressor | Strictly prohibited |
| On the front wall | No | Damage to doors and panels | Strictly prohibited |
The process of loading and fastening in transport
Loading is best done by at least two people. One person holds the unit from above, controlling stability, the second insures from below. Sharp jerks and impacts on the sides of the body are unacceptable.
The refrigerator must be securely fixed in the body of the car. Use supports from boxes of soft items or special spacers. Fastening with belts should be tight, but not excessive, so as not to deform the body.
If transportation is carried out in a passenger car, make sure that the interior is ventilated and the temperature inside is not extreme. Sudden temperature changes can negatively affect plastic elements.
⚠️ Attention: When transporting in the winter, avoid sudden temperature changes. Allow the equipment to warm up in a warm room before unpacking.
Installation and first start-up after moving
After delivery of the refrigerator to a new one place, do not rush to plug it into the outlet. This is a critical point. If the equipment was transported lying down or at a strong angle, it takes time for the oil to flow back into the compressor.
The settling time depends on the position during transportation and the ambient temperature. In the summer, 2-4 hours are enough, in winter it is better to increase this period to 6-8 hours.
After the equipment has stood, remove the packaging, put the shelves in place and check the integrity of the seals. Only then can you connect the device to the network.
What to do if the refrigerator hums after turning it on?
If after startup you hear an unusually loud hum, check the installation level. Often the reason lies in the skewed position of the housing.
For the first few hours of operation, monitor the temperature inside the chambers. If cooling occurs unevenly or extraneous sounds appear, there may be air remaining in the system or a disruption in the circulation of the refrigerant.
Common mistakes when transporting yourself
Many users make common mistakes when trying to save money on the services of professional movers. Most often, problems arise due to ignoring the manufacturer's instructions.
An attempt to carry the refrigerator through a narrow doorway “sideways” without removing the doors often ends with the jambs getting stuck or damaged. Always measure the dimensions in advance.
Another mistake is transportation with other heavy loads that can shift and crush the equipment. The refrigerator must stand separately or be secure.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator at sub-zero temperatures?
You can transport it, but you cannot turn it on right away. Long acclimatization (up to 24 hours) in a warm room is required so that the condensation on the boards evaporates and the oil restores viscosity.
What to do if the handle comes off during transportation?
Do not try to glue it with superglue, as the load when opening is high. It is better to order an original spare part from the manufacturer or use special repair kits for your brand.
Do you need to remove the compressor during transportation?
No, removing the compressor yourself is strictly not recommended. This requires evacuation of the system and charging with freon, which is only possible at a service center.
How to understand that the compressor is damaged during transportation?
When turned on, the refrigerator may hum, but not cool, or the thermal relay may trip after a few seconds. A metallic knock inside the motor is also possible.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator in a trailer?
It is possible if you provide reliable protection from moisture, dust and vibration. The trailer body must be closed and the unit securely fastened to prevent impacts on the sides.