Moving is always stressful, associated with the risk of damage to property, and large household appliances are in the area of special attention here. Improper transportation refrigeration equipment can lead to oil leakage from the compressor or damage to the tubes, which will make the expensive unit unsuitable for operation. Many owners mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply bring the device to the truck, ignoring the critical nuances of preparation.
In this article we will look in detail at how to organize the process so that refrigerator arrives unharmed. You will learn about the specifics of transportation in horizontal and vertical positions, methods of reliable fixation and rules for switching on after moving. Ignoring these rules may void the manufacturer's warranty. warranty obligations manufacturer.
It is worth noting that modern models require a more delicate approach due to the use of environmentally friendly, but less viscous refrigerants. Before you start packing, you need to assess the dimensions of the doorways and the parameters of the vehicle. It is strictly forbidden to transport the refrigerator without first defrosting, as water will damage the interior finishing and wiring.
Preparation of equipment for transportation
You should start preparing long before arrival movers. The first step is full defrosting cameras. Even if the refrigerator has a No Frost system, condensation or ice may remain inside in hard-to-reach places. It is necessary to turn off the device from the network at least 24 hours before moving so that the temperature inside is equal to room temperature.
After defrosting, you should thoroughly wash and, most importantly, dry all internal surfaces. A humid environment encourages the growth of mold during transport in a closed box. Remove all shelves, drawers and trays - they should be shipped separately in padded boxes. Fixing the internal elements inside the cameras is unacceptable, since shaking may cause the glass to burst.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Pay special attention to the compressor. In older models, it was often necessary to fix the motor with special transport bolts, but modern units use a spring suspension. If you still have the original transport locks and the instructions instruct you to install them, use them. Otherwise, it is enough to securely fix the case itself.
⚠️ Attention: Never use tape to fix the doors directly on a decorative panel or varnished surface without a protective film. The glue may react with the coating, leaving permanent marks or damaging the gloss.
For external protection, stretch film, which is used to wrap the body in several layers, and thick cardboard are ideal. If you don't have the original packaging, you can use blankets or bubble wrap. The main thing is to ensure that the corners are cushioned, since they are the ones that suffer first when colliding with jambs.
Transportation in a vertical position
Vertical transportation is considered the safest and preferred option for all types of refrigerators. In this position, the oil remains in the compressor crankcase, and the tubes and heat exchanger do not experience critical fracture loads. The height of the side of the truck should allow the unit to be installed upright without bending it.
When installing in the body, the orientation to the cardinal points indicated on the body (usually by arrows) must be observed. Violation of this rule may result in the heavy unit tipping over during sudden braking. For fixation, use belts with a tensioner, resting the refrigerator on a special trolley or a stable base.
Inside the cabin or body between the walls of the vehicle and the body of the refrigerator there should be a gap or a layer of shock-absorbing material should be laid. This will prevent dents and scratches. Two strong people can carefully hold the device while moving, but you cannot rely only on your hands - mechanical fixation is required..
If you use services, make sure that the loaders do not drag the equipment along the floor. Moving should only be done on a trolley or suspended. Sharp jerks during loading can damage hidden structural elements, which will only reveal themselves after switching on.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator lying down
The issue of horizontal transportation is the most controversial. Manufacturers categorically do not recommend placing the refrigerator on its side, but in a city apartment and narrow flights of stairs, sometimes there is simply no choice. If you decide to take a risk, remember: the unit must lie strictly on a certain side.
It is usually permissible to lay the equipment on the side opposite to the outlet of the tubes from the compressor, or on the back wall (although the latter is extremely undesirable due to the risk of pushing through the thermal insulation). For exact information on which side your model can be placed Indesit, Atlant or Liebherr, look in the instructions or on the nameplate on the back.
| Position | Risks | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Standing | Minimal | Optimal |
| On the side | Oil leakage | Acceptable with restrictions |
| On back | Damage to the radiator | Not recommended |
| On the door | Deformation of hinges | Strictly prohibited |
The main danger is horizontal position — oil leakage from the compressor into the refrigerant circuit. If oil gets into the capillary tube, a plug will form and the refrigerator will stop freezing. The load on the compressor mounts also increases, which may not support the weight of the motor in this position.
What to do if you transported it lying down?
If the refrigerator was transported in a horizontal position, it is strictly forbidden to plug it into the network immediately after installation. It is necessary to wait from 4 to 12 hours (depending on the time of lying and air temperature) for the oil to flow back into the compressor crankcase under the influence of gravity.
Rules for securing in the cargo compartment
Safety of transportation directly depends on the quality of securing the cargo. Even if the journey takes only 15 minutes, one sharp turn or braking can be fatal for an unsecured refrigerator. Use the loops and belts available in the body, without relying on what “will do.”
The base of the refrigerator should be on a flat, non-slip surface. If the body floor is slippery, place a rubber mat. The belts should be tightened so as to eliminate any play, but not overdo it, so as not to deform body the metal. It is optimal to mount the unit at two points: in the upper and lower thirds of the height.
Be sure to lay soft material between the refrigerator and other loads. Heavy boxes should not put pressure on walls or doors. If there are other things traveling in the back, they must be securely secured separately so as not to hit the equipment when it rolls.
⚠️ Attention: When transporting in the winter season, do not allow direct contact of plastic and rubber seals with frosty air without protection. A sharp change in temperature when brought into a warm room can lead to the formation of condensation inside the electronics.
Features of transportation in an elevator and on stairs
Descent and ascent of the refrigerator is the most traumatic stage for equipment and people. The standard width of the doorway is often barely wider than the width of the cabinet, so sometimes you have to remove the doors from their hinges right next to the refrigerator. This requires care to avoid damaging the wiring and loops.
When using an elevator, make sure that the lifting capacity of the cabin can accommodate the weight of the unit and loaders. In older elevators, the floor may not be able to withstand point loads from the feet. If the elevator is small, the refrigerator is brought in at an angle, leaning on the corner farthest from the doors. In this case, it is important not to lean the heavy upper corner against the ceiling or the top beam of the elevator with force.
On the staircase, it is important not to drag equipment along the steps. Using a special wheelchair ladder with caterpillar tracks greatly simplifies the task and reduces the risk of dropping the load. Two people should bear the main weight, and the third should belay from below or guide from above.
Plugging in after moving: when is it possible?
After successful delivery and installation in a new place, do not rush to plug in the plug. If the refrigerator was transported vertically and without shaking, it is enough to let it stand for 2-3 hours. This is necessary to stabilize temperatures and refrigerant.
In the case of horizontal transportation or strong shaking, the waiting time increases to 4-8 hours, and in winter - up to a day. During this time, the oil that has entered the system will have time to drain into the compressor. Early start-up can lead to water hammer and motor failure.
Before turning on, wipe the housing with a damp cloth and check the integrity of the power cord. Make sure the outlet is grounded and meets wattage requirements. It is better to turn it on for the first time without loading food, allowing the unit to gain temperature in empty mode.
If after turning on you hear unusual noise, knocking or buzzing, immediately turn off the device. This may indicate that the compressor is touching the housing or tubes, which could happen during careless transportation. In such a situation, you need to call a technician for diagnostics.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator at temperatures below -10°C?
Transportation in severe frost is extremely undesirable. The plastic becomes brittle and can crack from vibration, and the rubber seals lose their elasticity. If there is no choice, pack the equipment in a warm blanket and do not turn it on for at least 24 hours after bringing it into the heat.
Do you need to remove the compressor during transportation?
No, you cannot remove the compressor yourself. This is a complex technical procedure that requires evacuation of the system and the presence of freon. Manufacturers provide standard loads during transportation if the installation rules are followed.
What to do if the glass of the shelf inside breaks?
Carefully remove all the fragments and vacuum the chamber. If the glass on the door or the inner panel of the case is broken, you can operate the refrigerator, but this will worsen the thermal insulation. It is better to replace the damaged part.
Is it possible to carry a refrigerator on the roof of a car?
It is highly not recommended. On the roof, it is impossible to ensure reliable vertical fixation, and vibration and oncoming air flow can damage the frame. In addition, it is unsafe for other road users.