Moving is always stressful, and when it comes to large household appliances, the level of anxiety of the owners increases sharply. The question of whether it is possible to transport a refrigerator lying down arises for everyone who is faced with the need to change housing or buy a new model in a store with delivery by their own transport. Ideally, of course, anyone refrigeration unit should move strictly vertically, but the realities of life often dictate their conditions: the low ceiling of the van, the dimensions of the flight of stairs or the lack of loaders.
Modern models from brands like Liebherr or Bosch are designed to withstand various loads, however, ignoring transportation rules can lead to fatal consequences for the compressor. Damaged tubes, oil leaks, or internal components becoming dislodged are just a few of the risks you may face if you load improperly. In this article we will analyze in detail the physics of the process, the preparatory stages and the algorithm of actions that will allow you to deliver the equipment to its destination without breakdowns.
It is worth noting right away that the decision to transport equipment on its side is always a compromise between convenience and risk. If you have the opportunity to order the “loaders + gazelle” service with high sides, it is better to use it. However, if you decide to act on your own, you will need to carefully fixation and observe the time intervals before turning on for the first time.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to transport the unit on the back wall where the condenser is located, or on the door. The only permissible lying position is on the side, and then in compliance with strict rules.
Risks of horizontal transportation for equipment
The main danger when tilting or laying the refrigerator is associated with the design of its “heart” - the compressor. There is oil inside the engine that lubricates the rubbing parts. In a vertical position it is located in the crankcase. When you place the refrigerator on its side, oil can flow into the system circuit, filling the evaporator or condenser tubes.
If after such transportation you immediately turn on the device, the compressor will begin to pump not refrigerant, but oil, or will try to compress the liquid (oil plug). This causes a hydraulic shock, which is almost guaranteed to cause failure. Repair in this case is often not economically feasible. motor-compressor out of order. Repair in this case is often not economically feasible.
In addition, there is a risk of mechanical damage. Heavy shelves, drawers, and even the compressor itself can become dislodged by gravity and inertia as the vehicle moves. Glass shelves and plastic elements of the interior decoration are especially vulnerable.
Why can’t you carry it on the back?
On the back wall of many models there are thin condenser tubes and a radiator grille. By placing the refrigerator on them, you risk crushing these elements with the weight of the body itself, which will lead to freon leakage and expensive system repairs.
Do not forget about the doors. If they are not secured, they may swing open when shaking, tearing off the fastenings or breaking against the side of the car. Modern hinges can withstand weight, but shock loads during transportation are a completely different matter.
Preparing the refrigerator for moving
Before thinking about how to lay the unit, it needs to be properly prepared. The first and most important step is defrosting. Even if your Samsung or LG has a No Frost system, moisture remains inside, which, when tilted, will flow into the electrical part.
Disconnect the device from the network at least 24 hours before the planned move. This time is necessary for all the ice to melt and the water to evaporate. It is prohibited to speed up the process with a hair dryer or knife - this can damage plastic case and the evaporator tubes.
☑️ Checklist for preparing for transportation
After defrosting remove all removable elements: glass shelves, plastic containers, egg trays, grilles. It is better to pack each part separately in bubble wrap or soft cloth. Soft material should also be laid inside the empty case so that the doors do not slam.
The final stage of preparation is sealing. The doors must be tightly closed and secured. Masking tape or stretch film is ideal for this. Do not use regular office tape, as it can leave traces of glue on the glossy surface or even damage the coating when removed.
Installation techniques and safety rules
When the question “can I transport the refrigerator lying down” is answered positively, the question arises “on which side?” There is a golden rule here: you need to lay the unit on the side on the opposite side of which the compressor tube comes out. Usually this is the left side (when viewed from the front), but it is better to check the instructions for the specific model, for example Indesit or Atlant.
Why is this important? The oil outlet in the compressor is directed upward. When laid on the “right” side, the oil flows into the return circuit, from where it is more difficult for it to enter the refrigerant circulation system. If you put it on the other side, the risk of oil leaking into the circuit increases significantly.
The preparation of the “bed” is also critical. It is necessary to lay a thick blanket, polystyrene foam or several layers of cardboard on the floor of the body or in the body of the gazelle. This will soften vibration and protect the case from scratches. The refrigerator itself is laid in such a way that it lies on its side, and not on the corners.
⚠️ Attention: Never place heavy things (boxes with books, furniture) on the top surface of a lying refrigerator. The thin metal of the top is not designed to withstand such loads and can be deformed, damaging the insulation.
Fixing the load in the vehicle
Just putting the refrigerator down is not enough - it needs to be secured securely. When a car moves, acceleration, braking and turning occur, which can move even a heavy load. To secure, use tensioner belts or strong ropes.
Attach the load to the mounting loops in the car body. The belts should cover the refrigerator body, but not squeeze it too tightly, so as not to damage the insulation or decorative panels. It is ideal if you have the opportunity to support the lying unit with soft bags or pillows on the sides, eliminating any possibility of rocking.
If you transport the refrigerator in a passenger car (which is only possible for compact models), make sure that the interior is well ventilated and the device itself does not block the driver’s view. In this case, a soft substrate under the bottom is especially important.
Comparison of risks during transportation
So that you can weigh the pros and cons, we have prepared a table comparing different transportation methods. It will help you understand why vertical transportation is preferable, but horizontal transportation also has the right to life, provided the conditions are met.
| Parameter | Vertical (Normal) | Tilt up to 40° | Lying on the side (Risk) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Risk for the compressor | Minimum | Average | High (oil in the circuit) |
| Risk for pipes | Low | Medium (vibration) | Medium (weight pressure) |
| Required settling time | 2-4 hours | 4-8 hours | 12-24 hours |
| Necessity of packaging | Desirable | Required | Critically important |
As can be seen from table, the supine position requires the longest period of “rest” before turning on. This time is necessary for the oil to flow back into the compressor crankcase. Ignoring this rule is the most common cause of equipment breakdown after moving.
Actions after delivery: adaptation period
You delivered the cargo, carefully unloaded it and brought it into the apartment. Now the hardest part is not to turn on the device right away. After transportation in a lying position, the refrigerator must stand in a vertical working position for a certain time.
For models with a conventional compressor, 4-6 hours is enough. However, if transportation took place in winter at sub-zero temperatures, the settling time increases to 12-24 hours. This is necessary not only to drain the oil, but also to equalize the temperature of the internal components with room temperature in order to avoid condensation on the contacts.