Moving is always stressful not only for owners, but also for large household appliances technology. Of particular concern is the issue of transporting large units, especially when the dimensions of the doorway or car interior do not allow carrying the device vertically. Owners of domestically produced equipment often wonder whether it is permissible to put Biryusa refrigerator on its side when moving, because the compressor system is sensitive.
Modern models such as Biryusa 118 or Biryusa 6, are designed taking into account various operating conditions, but the physics of the compressor remains unchanged. The oil in the engine crankcase can flow into the system circuits when the housing is tilted, which can lead to water hammer during the first start-up. That is why the minimum settling time after horizontal transportation is 4 hours, and it is better to withstand the full 12 hours before connecting to the network.
In this article we will look in detail at how to prepare the unit for travel, on which side it is better to place it, and what mistakes can lead to expensive repairs. Following simple rules will allow you to deliver your equipment intact and maintain the factory warranty.
Risks of horizontal transportation and the physics of the process
The main danger when transporting a refrigerator in a lying position is related to the design of the compressor. Inside this unit there is compressor oilwhich lubricates the rubbing parts and ensures tightness. In a normal vertical position, the oil is located in the lower part of the motor housing, without interfering with the refrigerant circulating through the system.
When you place the device on its side, under the influence of gravity, the viscous liquid begins to flow. It can get into the evaporator or condenser tubes, and in the worst case, fill the compressor cylinder. If you start the engine immediately after delivery, the piston will try to compress the liquid, which will lead to failure of the valves. water hammer and valve failure.
⚠️ Attention! The manufacturer does not recommend transporting equipment in a horizontal position, however, if precautions and rules for subsequent settling are observed, the risks are minimized.
An additional risk factor is vibration. Road bumps can damage the fragile copper tubing if the unit is not properly secured. Particularly vulnerable are models with an open compressor, where the elements are not covered with a plastic casing.
Preparing the refrigerator for moving
Before you begin physical preparation Biryusa 133 or any other model for loading, it is necessary to carry out a number of mandatory procedures. Ignoring these steps may lead to damage to the internal contents or damage to the case.
First of all, the device must be completely defrosted. Even if your model claims this function No Frost, the moisture inside the cameras should evaporate. Leave the doors open for at least 24 hours after defrosting to remove excess moisture and odor.
☑️ Checklist for preparation for transportation
Removable interior elements, such as glass shelves, plastic baskets and egg trays, must be removed. They can break or crack due to vibration, damaging the inner lining. If it is impossible to remove the shelves (in some older models they are rigidly fixed), they need to be securely fixed inside the chambers using soft packaging material.
The doors require special attention. They need to be tightly closed and secured in this position. To do this, it is best to use masking tape or special belts. Do not use regular office tape, as it can leave traces of glue on the glossy surface or even damage the paint.
Which side to place it on: technical nuances
One of the most common questions when loading: which side is the correct one to place the unit on? The answer lies in the arrangement of the tubes leaving the compressor. To determine the correct side, inspect the engine from the back.
The tubes coming from the compressor are of two types: those that go into the system (discharge) and those that enter it (suction). When laying on its side, it is important that the tubes are facing up. In this case, the oil will flow into the return part of the circuit, rather than flow into the discharge line.
How to determine the direction of the tubes?
Look at the compressor from the back. The tubes that go deep into the case or up to the radiator should be on top. If you place the refrigerator so that the tubes point down, the oil will flow by gravity into the cooling system, creating a plug.
Usually, manufacturers recommend placing the equipment on the side opposite the side where the compressor tubes are located, or on the side where the tubes point upward. In models Biryusa often the compressor is shifted to one side, which makes the task easier.
If you cannot determine the location of the tubes or are afraid of making a mistake, there is a universal rule: place the unit on its side, where door hinges are located on top. This will prevent the doors from opening under their own weight and protect the hinges from deformation.
The process of packaging and fixing in transport
Correct packaging is the key to successful delivery. The bare metal of the body is easily scratched, and when driving on the highway, the paintwork can be damaged. Use the original cardboard box if it still exists. If not, wrap the body with stretch film in several layers.
Inside the vehicle body, the refrigerator should lie on a flat surface. It is ideal to use a dense layer of foam, blankets or special shock-absorbing mats. This dampens vibration and prevents slipping.
- 🚛 Use belts with soft pads to secure the body so as not to push through the metal.
- 📦 Lock the wheels or stops to prevent the load from shifting when braking.
- 🛡️ Cover the equipment from above thick cardboard or tarpaulin to protect from dust and headwinds.
The unit must be secured securely, but without fanaticism. Excessive belt force may deform the housing or damage the insulation. After fixing, try to slightly shake the load - it should remain motionless.
⚠️ Attention! Never place heavy things (furniture, tool boxes) on the refrigerator. The thin metal of the roof of the chambers may wrinkle, which will lead to a violation of the tightness of the thermal insulation.
Comparison of models and design features
Different models Biryusa may have design differences that affect transportation. Below is a table to help you navigate the features of popular series.
| Model | Compressor type | Recommended position | Time settling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biryusa 6 | Open | Vertical / On the side (tubes up) | 8-12 hours |
| Biryusa 118 | Closed casing | Vertical preferred | 4-6 hours |
| Turk 133 | Standard | On any side with fixation | 6-8 hours |
| Biryusa 355 | Two-compressor | Strictly vertical | 12+ hours |
Models with two compressors, for example, some versions Biryusa 355are more sensitive to tilts due to the complexity of the circulation system. For them, the risk of oil getting into the circuits is higher, so the rest time should be increased.
It is also worth considering the age of the equipment. Old Soviet refrigerators have thicker walls and powerful but heavy compressors. They tolerate transportation better, but require more thorough defrosting, since old seals can allow moisture to pass through.
Settling time and first start
The most critical stage is the period after delivery. Many people make the mistake of plugging in the appliance as soon as they bring it into the kitchen. This is strictly forbidden.
The time required for the oil to drain back into the compressor crankcase depends on the ambient temperature and the duration of transportation. In the summer, when the oil is more liquid, the process goes faster. In winter, especially if the equipment is frozen outside, it takes more time.
Minimum settling time:
- ❄️ In winter (at temperatures below -5°C): at least 12 hours.
- ☀️ In summer (warm weather): from 4 to 6 hours.
- 🌡️ If transported vertically: 2-3 hours.
Before turning on, wipe the case with a damp cloth and check the integrity of the power cord. Insert the plug into the socket, but do not immediately load the chambers with food. Let the refrigerator idle for about 2 hours. If it reaches the temperature and the compressor turns off, you can load the products.
⚠️ Attention! If, after turning on, you hear a loud knock, gurgling, or the compressor hums but does not start, immediately unplug the device. This may indicate that the oil has not yet drained or a water hammer has occurred.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to transport a Biryusa refrigerator on the roof of a car?
Technically this is possible, but it is extremely undesirable. On the roof, the device is exposed to strong vibration, dust, moisture and oncoming air flow. If there is no other option, pack the unit in several layers of thick cardboard, cover it with a tarpaulin and secure it with soft straps. The speed of movement should not exceed 60 km/h.
What to do if after turning on the refrigerator does not freeze?
If you have observed the settling time, but there is no cold, there may be a release of freon or a blockage of the capillary system with oil. Try turning off the device for a day, then turning it on again. If the problem persists, you need to call a technician to diagnose the compressor and check the refrigerant level.
Do you need to remove the doors during transportation?
Removing the doors from the housing during horizontal transportation is not necessary and is even risky, since you can damage the hinges or disrupt the geometry of the housing. It is enough to securely fix them with tape. Only the internal shelves and drawers are removed.
Is short transportation lying down (15-20 minutes) dangerous?
Even a short trip on a rough road can cause an oil splash. The safety rules are the same for any distance: after horizontal transportation, you must allow the equipment to stand for at least 2-3 hours, regardless of the duration of the journey.