Transporting large household appliances is always stressful for the owner, especially when it comes to large units. The question of whether it is possible to transport a refrigerator Atlant lying on its side arises for almost everyone who has started a move or bought a new model. Many are afraid of damaging the compressor or breaking the tightness of the system, which is quite reasonable, given the complexity of the internal structure of modern units.
The answer lies in the design of the refrigerator itself and compliance with strict logistics rules. Manufacturers often indicate in product data sheets that horizontal position is prohibited, but the experience of loaders and engineers shows that with proper preparation and careful handling transportation on its side is acceptable and does not lead to breakdowns. The main thing is to understand which side to place the unit on and what to do after delivery.
In this article we will analyze in detail the physics of work compressor, the risks of oil getting into the refrigerant circuit and the algorithm of actions that will allow you to deliver the equipment Atlant safe and sound safety. You will learn why you cannot carry a refrigerator on the back and how long it should sit before the first start.
Design features of Atlant refrigerators
Belarusian brand refrigerators Atlant have earned a reputation as reliable equipment, largely due to their simplicity and maintainability their designs. Unlike some foreign analogues that use complex inverter systems with liquid refrigerants, most models Atlant equipped with classic piston compressors. This is an important nuance, since it is the type of engine that dictates the rules of transportation.
Inside the compressor there is engine oilnecessary for lubricating the rubbing parts. In the working vertical position it is located in the lower part of the crankcase (pan). However, if the angle of inclination or horizontal position changes, liquid may flow to other parts of the system. If oil gets into coolant circuitit may cause water hammer during startup or blockage of the capillary tube.
It is also worth considering the presence of the system No Frost or static cooling. In models with a drip system, the risk of damaging something during transportation is lower, since there are fewer plastic elements and complex electronics on the doors. Units with fully automatic defrosting require more careful handling of internal air ducts, which can crack due to strong vibration or pressure.
⚠️ Attention: The design of the compressor in different models Atlant may vary. If you have a modern model with an inverter engine, the risk of damage when transported lying down is higher due to the characteristics of the motor suspension.
Why does the compressor not break immediately?
Many people think that if oil gets into the tubes, the refrigerator will break instantly. In fact, the compressor often operates in this state for some time, but its service life is reduced significantly, and eventual failure occurs after several months or years.
Which side is it safe to transport equipment on?
The most critical point during horizontal transportation is the choice of side. You can only place the refrigerator on one side, and this choice is not accidental. If you look at the back wall of the unit, you will see the condenser grille and tubes coming from the compressor. The tubes coming out of the compressor are divided into two groups: discharge and suction.
The rule is: you need to put the refrigerator on its side opposite where the compressor tubes exit. Usually this is the left side (if you look at the refrigerator from the front), but it is better to double check visually. If you place the unit on the “right” side, the oil, under the influence of gravity, will flow in the direction opposite to the opening of the tubes, and will not be able to easily flow inside the freon circulation system.
If you put the refrigerator on the “wrong” side (where the tubes come out), the oil will flow by gravity directly into the circuit. In this case, the probability that it will mix with freon and enter the evaporator is almost 100%. Transportation on back wall (on the grill) or on the door is also strictly prohibited. In the first case, you will crush the thin condenser tubes and disrupt heat transfer; in the second, you will deform the hinges and the door itself.
It is also important to consider the weight of the distribution. Some models Atlant have a shifted center of gravity due to the location of the compressor. Make sure that when laying on its side, the unit will not fall forward or backward, creating dangerous stress on the corners of the case.
Preparing the refrigerator for transportation
Successful transportation is 90% dependent on the quality of preparation. You can’t just unplug the cord from the outlet and start loading the equipment. The first step should be complete defrosting. Even if the refrigerator has a No Frost system, condensation or ice may remain inside in hidden cavities. Leave the unit to defrost for at least 24 hours (preferably more) with the doors open.
After defrosting, you must thoroughly wipe all internal surfaces with a dry cloth. Moisture inside is a risk of corrosion and mold if the space is closed during transport. Then remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, egg trays, grilles. They must be transported separately, wrapped in paper or cloth so that they do not break due to vibration.
The refrigerator doors must be secured. Use masking tape, stretch film or special belts. It is better not to use ordinary office tape, as it can leave traces of glue or damage the coating of the case when removed. If your model Atlant has a carrying handle, make sure it is securely fastened.
☑️ Preparing for transportation
To protect the case from scratches and chips, it is recommended to wrap the refrigerator in several layers stretch films or bubble wrap films. If the original packaging has not been preserved, you can use old blankets, but they must be securely fastened so that they do not slip off during the journey.
The process of loading and placement in transport
Loading is the most traumatic stage. Even if you are transporting the refrigerator lying down, you need to lift it and lower it strictly in an upright position. The tilt when carrying should not exceed 40 degrees. Sharp jerks, hits on door frames or falls on a corner can damage compressor or disrupt the soldering of the tubes.
For carrying, use wide belts or involve assistants. Dragging the refrigerator along the floor or asphalt is strictly prohibited - this is guaranteed to lead to the compressor being torn off from the frame or damage to the bottom. In the back of a car or gazelle, the unit is placed on its prepared side. It is imperative to lay shock-absorbing material underneath: cardboard, foam plastic, a thick blanket.
When placing it in transport, it is important to prevent any movement of the cargo. The refrigerator must be firmly secured with stops, straps or sandbags on the sides. If the body is open, be sure to cover the equipment with a waterproof awning, but do not press it too tightly against the radiator grille.
The speed of the vehicle should be moderate. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration and driving over speed bumps at high speed. Vibration is the main enemy of the internal filling during horizontal transportation.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Critical value |
|---|---|---|
| Tilt angle when carrying | up to 40 degrees | more than 45 degrees |
| Settling time (summer) | 4-8 hours | less than 2 hours |
| Settling time (winter) | 12-24 hours | less than 6 hours |
| Vehicle speed | up to 60 km/h | above 80 km/h |
Risks and consequences of incorrect transportation
Ignoring transportation rules can lead to various malfunctions, from minor to fatal. The most common scenario is oil getting into the refrigerant circuit. In this case, the refrigerator may turn on, work for a while, but then stop cooling. The compressor will run “idle”, trying to pump the oil and freon mixture through the clogged system.
Another risk is mechanical damage. When shaking, a heavy compressor can tear off its mounting springs or puncture the casing. Plastic parts of the internal housing may also burst, especially if the doors were not fixed and slammed while moving. In models with the No Frost system, the plastic air duct or fan often breaks.
If you transported the refrigerator on the “wrong” side or on the back, there is a high probability of deformation of the heat exchanger. Crumpled condenser tubes interfere with heat removal, which leads to overheating of the compressor and its imminent death. Sometimes the damage is not immediately visible and appears after a week or month of operation.
⚠️ Attention: If after transportation and settling the refrigerator hums, but does not cool, or makes strange gurgling sounds - not try turning it on again. Contact the service center for diagnostics.
Dwell time before first switching on
After the refrigerator has been delivered to its destination, it cannot be immediately plugged into the network. This rule applies even if you were transporting it while standing. The time that the unit must stand still is necessary for the oil to flow back into the compressor crankcase and the refrigerant to be distributed throughout the system.
The duration of the standstill depends on the ambient temperature. In the warm season (summer) it is enough to withstand 4-8 hours. If transportation was carried out in winter or in a cold room, the settling time increases to 12-24 hours. This is necessary so that the oil warms up and becomes less viscous, and also to prevent condensation from forming on the electronic boards inside the case.
Do not try to speed up the process by turning on heaters near the compressor - this may lead to uneven expansion of the materials and microcracks. Just leave the refrigerator alone by removing the packaging and opening the doors for ventilation.
It is better to turn it on for the first time without load (empty). Let it run for 1-2 hours until it reaches temperature, and only then load the food. This will help the compressor enter operating mode smoothly.
⚠️ Attention: Specifications and manufacturer's recommendations may be updated. Always check the instructions (data sheet) for your specific model Atlant, since in new series the types of oils and refrigerants used may be changed, which affects the settling time.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to transport the Atlant refrigerator on the back?
Absolutely not. On the rear wall there is a condenser grille and often the compressor itself. Laying it on the back will lead to crushing of thin tubes, loss of tightness and possible separation of the compressor from the frame under its own weight.
What should I do if I have already turned on the refrigerator immediately after transportation?
Immediately turn it off from the network. If a little time has passed since it was turned on (less than 10-15 minutes), most likely there is no serious damage. Let the unit stand for the required time (at least 12 hours) and try turning it on again. If you hear a lot of noise or there is no cold, call a technician.
Do you need to remove the doors when transporting lying down?
It is not necessary to remove the doors if you securely secure them with tape or belts. However, if the doorway is narrow and you plan to bring the refrigerator in without doors, then removing it will make the process easier. The main thing is not to lose fasteners or damage the hinges.
Is transportation at sub-zero temperatures dangerous?
Transportation itself in freezing temperatures is not dangerous, but after being brought into a warm room, you cannot turn on the refrigerator immediately. You need to let it warm up to room temperature (at least 4-6 hours), otherwise condensation will form on the contacts, which will cause a short circuit.