Moving is always stressful, especially when it comes to about large-sized household appliances. Owners often wonder how to transport a refrigerator without damaging the complex internal system. Modern models of this brand are equipped with reliable, but shock-sensitive compressors, violation of the transportation conditions of which can lead to expensive repairs. Bekoso as not to damage the complex internal system. Modern models of this brand are equipped with reliable, but sensitive to shaking compressors, violation of the transportation conditions of which can lead to expensive repairs.
The main problem during transportation is the risk of damage compressor and leakage cooling circuit. Many believe that old Soviet units were easier to transport, but modern technologies require a more delicate approach. Incorrect position of the housing during loading can cause oil to leak into the freon circulation system.
In this article we will analyze all the nuances: from preparing the equipment for removal from the apartment to the time that must be waited before turning it on for the first time after delivery to a new place. You will find out why manufacturers are categorically against transportation in a horizontal position and what to do if there is simply no other choice.
Preparing the refrigerator for transportation
Before you start packing Bekoit is necessary to carry out thorough preparation. You can’t just unplug the cord from the outlet and start loading the unit into the car. The first step should be complete defrosting. Even if your model has a No Frost system, there may be ice plugs inside or water in the drainage channels, which, when tilted, will flow onto the electronic boards.
After defrosting and drying, remove all shelves, drawers and removable elements. Glass may break when shaken, and plastic may crack. Pack fragile parts separately in thick paper or bubble wrap. Refrigerator doors must be secured so that they do not swing open at the most inopportune moment and damage the hinges.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use tape directly on the glossy surface of the doors. Adhesive tape may leave adhesive residue or even damage the finish. Wrap the body with stretch film or use the original packaging, if it has been preserved.
To fix the doors, use soft belts, twine or wide masking tape (after having previously covered the fixation area with paper). Make sure that compressor is securely secured with shipping bolts, if provided by the design of your model. Modern refrigerators Beko often use spring suspensions, which require rigid fixation of the motor during transportation.
☑️ Preparation for transportation
Wipe the internal surfaces thoroughly dry. Remaining moisture from a bumpy path can cause mold or corrosion of the metal elements inside the cabinet. Pay attention to the door seals - it is better to wipe them with talcum powder or glycerin so that the rubber does not stick together and deform during long periods of inactivity.
Is it possible to transport a Beko refrigerator lying down
The most common question that arises when ordering movers: is it possible to lay the refrigerator on its side? The official position of the manufacturer Beko, like most other brands, is clear: the unit should only be transported in vertical position. This is due to the design of the compressor suspension and the arrangement of the tubes.
When tilted more than 40 degrees or in a horizontal position, there is a risk of displacement compressor relative to its fastenings. The springs on which the motor is suspended may come off or become deformed. Subsequently, this will lead to loud knocking, vibration and rapid failure of the unit. In addition, oil from the compressor crankcase can flow into the refrigerant circuit.
Why is oil dangerous for the system?
If oil gets into the evaporator or condenser tubes, it will create an oil plug. The compressor will work hard, trying to push freon, which will lead to overheating and combustion of the motor winding.
However, if the dimensions of the doorway or staircase do not allow you to carry the refrigerator while standing, you have to take risks. In such cases, carriage on its side is permitted, but subject to strict rules. The unit should only be laid on its left side (as viewed from the doors) so that oil does not leak into the system. It is strictly prohibited to tilt the refrigerator face down or on the right side.
| Parameter | Vertical transportation | Horizontal transportation |
|---|---|---|
| Risk of breakage | Minimum | High |
| Compressor position | Natural | Under load |
| Required settling time | 2-4 hours | From 12 to 24 hours |
| Probability of oil leakage | None | High |
If you still decide to carry Beko lying down, make sure that the car body is level and that soft shock-absorbing materials (blankets, foam plastic) are placed under the bottom. Sharp impacts on uneven roads in a horizontal position can pierce the bottom or deform the body.
Packaging and protecting the body during loading
High-quality packaging is not just aesthetics, but a necessity. When driving around the city, the car body is subject to constant vibration. If the refrigerator body Beko rubs against the sides or other things, the varnish coating will be damaged, and dents may disrupt the geometry of the doors.
The ideal option is to use a factory box with foam inserts. If the packaging has not been preserved, use thick cardboard, wrapping the unit in several layers. Pay special attention to corners and protruding parts. To secure it inside the body, use soft straps, but do not overtighten them so as not to push through the thermal insulation.
⚠️ Attention: Never rest the refrigerator on the door handle or condenser grille from behind. These elements are not designed to support the weight of the entire body and can break off at the first jerk of the car.
In the body refrigerator must fit tightly. If there are gaps, fill them with soft things, pillows or special inflatable balloons. This will prevent the load from shifting during braking or turning. The movement should be smooth, without sudden starts and braking.
Transportation in elevators and stairs
Often problems arise not on the road, but when climbing to the floor. Flights of stairs in old houses can be narrow, which forces them to be carried Beko at a strong inclination. Try to minimize the angle of inclination. It is optimal to carry the refrigerator vertically, supporting it on both sides.
When using an elevator, make sure that the dimensions of the cabin allow you to place the unit while standing. If you have to place it horizontally in the elevator, make sure that it lies on a special mat or cardboard and not on a metal floor. When exiting the elevator, avoid sudden jerks and impacts with the threshold.
The refrigerator should only be carried in an upright position or with a minimum tilt. You cannot hold the top part of the case - you can tear off the cover or damage control system. The best way is to carry two or three people, supporting the unit by the bottom and side walls (in the lower part).
Installation in a new location and settling time
After delivery to the destination, you cannot immediately plug in the refrigerator. This is a critical mistake that many people make. During transportation, especially if the unit was lying down or shaking violently, oil from the compressor could spray throughout the system. It needs time to drain back into the crankcase.
The settling time directly depends on how exactly you drove it. Beko. If transportation took place strictly vertically, without strong shaking, 2–4 hours is enough. If the refrigerator was lying on its side or the road was very bumpy, leave it alone for at least 12, and preferably 24 hours.
Install the unit on a flat surface. Use a spirit level to check for levelness. Height adjustment is carried out using the front legs. Correct installation will ensure automatic closing of the doors and silent operation compressor.
⚠️ Attention: Do not place the refrigerator close to the wall or radiator. For normal operation of the cooling system, a gap of at least 5-10 cm is required from the back wall to the obstacle.
First startup and performance check
After the refrigerator Beko has settled, you can proceed to the first startup. Plug the cord into a grounded outlet. Don't load products right away. Let the unit run idle for at least 2-3 hours so that it reaches the desired temperature and turns off.
During operation, listen to the hum compressor. The sound should be smooth, without knocking, gurgling or whistling. If you hear strange sounds, there may be oil still in the pipes or the compressor has been damaged in transit. In this case, it is better not to risk it and call a technician for diagnostics.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze?
If after 6-8 hours of operation the temperature inside does not drop, check the tightness of the doors and the absence of drafts. If the problem persists, it is possible that the tube was bent or a freon leak occurred during transportation.
Check the operation of additional functions: ice generator, system No Frost, electronic displays. Make sure there are no foreign odors or moisture inside the chambers. Only after a complete check can you begin to gradually fill the chambers with products.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long should you leave a Beko refrigerator after transporting it in winter?
If you transported the refrigerator in cold weather, bring it indoors and do not unpack it for at least 4-6 hours. This is necessary so that the condensation formed inside due to temperature changes dries out and the electronics do not burn out when turned on. After this, give the standard time for the oil to drain (from 4 to 24 hours depending on the position during transportation).
What to do if the transport bolts for the compressor are lost?
Without fixation, the compressor may be damaged by shaking. If the bolts are lost, try to transport the refrigerator only vertically and very carefully. You can try to find similar bolts in a hardware store (usually these are M8 or M10 bolts), but it is important not to overtighten them so as not to strip the threads on the motor housing.
Is it possible to transport a Beko refrigerator with the drawers pulled out?
Absolutely not. When shaking, boxes can fly out, break themselves, or damage the internal walls of the chamber and shelves. All removable elements, including shelves, grilles and drawers, must be removed and transported separately in soft packaging.
Is short transportation over a distance of 5 km lying down dangerous?
Yes, it is dangerous. Even for a short distance in a horizontal position, the oil has time to flow into the circuit, and the compressor experiences a load. The risk of failure does not depend on the distance, it depends on the position of the body and the quality of the road. It is better to find a vehicle that allows you to carry the unit while standing.