Moving to a new apartment or simply changing the kitchen is always stressful, especially when it comes to large-sized household appliances. Owners of modern units with a system No Frost often wonder whether their transportation is different from the transportation of the good old models with a crying evaporator. At first glance, it is just a large box with a door, but inside hides a complex engineering system that requires careful handling.
The main difficulty lies not in the appearance, but in the design of the compressor and the refrigerant circulation system. Improper transportation can lead to oil leakage into the cooling circuit, which can lead to costly repairs or complete replacement of an expensive unit. That is why horizontal transportation without observing time intervals for settling is the most common cause of compressor failure.
In this article we will analyze all the stages of preparing and moving equipment so that you arrive at a new place with a working device. You will learn why you should not ignore the manufacturer's recommendations and how to minimize the risk of damage to the case or internal components. The right approach will save you money and nerves.
Design features of the No Frost system when moving
The system No Frost implies the absence of ice on the walls of the chamber due to the constant circulation of cold air. Not only the compressor is responsible for this process, but also a complex network of air ducts, fans and sensors. If the delicate parts are shaken or hit, the fastening elements may be damaged and the plastic air ducts may crack. Unlike static models, there are more moving parts that are vulnerable to vibration.
The compressor in such refrigerators is often suspended on special springs or rubber shock absorbers inside the housing. When transported in a truck without proper fixation, these shock absorbers may not withstand the load, and the engine will “move” out of its place. This will result in broken copper tubes or damaged electrical contacts. Therefore, preparation begins long before loading into the car.
⚠️ Attention: In some models, the compressor has a rigid suspension, but even this does not guarantee protection from strong impacts when driving on uneven roads. Always check the condition of the vehicle before loading.
Another important aspect is the refrigerant. Modern models use gases that are sensitive to circuit integrity. If, when the case is skewed, a microcrack occurs in the soldering, the gas will escape and the refrigerator will stop cooling. Restoring the tightness requires calling a technician and vacuuming the system, which cannot be done on your own at home.
Why is it humming after transportation?
If after installation the refrigerator began to hum more than usual, the compressor may have touched the walls of the housing or the casing. Let the equipment stand; if the noise does not stop after a day, the legs need to be adjusted or the motor mounts checked.
Preparing the refrigerator for transportation
You must begin preparation at least 24 hours before the planned move. The first step is to completely defrost the unit, even if the manufacturer claims the system No Frost. Moisture may remain in the drainage channels and tray, which, when tilted, will flow into the housing or onto the electronic control boards, causing a short circuit.
After defrosting, all internal shelves, drawers and racks should be removed. Glass may burst when shaken, and plastic elements may become chipped. It is better to wrap each part in bubble wrap or soft cloth. The doors must be secured in the closed position so that they do not swing open en route and damage the hinges or the façade of adjacent furniture.
To secure the doors, use masking tape or a special belt. It is better not to use ordinary stationery tape, as it can leave sticky traces of glue on the glossy surface that are difficult to clean. If you still have the original packaging, this is an ideal option - it is designed to protect all corners and edges.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Do not forget to disconnect the power cord and carefully wind it up, securing it with electrical tape or a tie so that it does not dangle. If the kit included shipping bolts for the compressor (found in some models), they must be tightened. They firmly fix the motor, preventing it from moving when shaking.
Is it possible to transport a Know Frost refrigerator lying down
This is the most common question that causes the most controversy. Manufacturers' instructions usually categorically prohibit transportation in a supine position, recommending only a vertical position with an inclination angle of no more than 40 degrees. However, in practice, especially when moving in a car or van with a low ceiling, there is often a need to put equipment down.
You can transport a refrigerator lying down, but subject to strict rules. The main danger is oil draining from the compressor into the discharge tube of the circuit. If you start the engine immediately after such transportation, oil will enter the system, clog the capillary tube and create a hydraulic shock. The compressor may burn out or simply not start due to high pressure.
If there is no choice and you have to put the unit down, observe the following conditions:
- 😐 Place the refrigerator only on the side opposite the outlet of the compressor tubes (usually the left side when viewed from the rear, but it is better to check with the model).
- 📏 The angle of inclination of the tubes should be minimal so that the oil does not flow into the circuit.
- 🛡️ Place a soft blanket or foam plastic under the bottom to avoid dents and damage to the thermal insulation.
- ⏱️ After installing in a vertical position, be sure to let the equipment settle.
The settling time depends on the ambient temperature and the duration of transportation in a horizontal position. In summer, 4-6 hours is enough; in winter, the time needs to be increased to 12-24 hours. This is necessary so that the oil flows back into the compressor crankcase and the refrigerant is distributed throughout the system.
Safety precautions when loading and unloading
The most traumatic stage is moving the unit from the apartment to the car and back. The refrigerator has a displaced center of gravity, so carrying it by weight is very difficult and dangerous. One person may not be able to support the weight, which will lead to the equipment falling and injuries to the legs or back.
The ideal option is to use a special trolley or loading platform with belts. If this is not possible, carry the refrigerator strictly vertically, slightly tilting it towards you. The person walking behind holds the top and handle, and the person in front holds the bottom, controlling the movement of the wheels or legs.
When going up or down the stairs, be extremely careful. Avoid strong impacts with the bottom on the steps. Vibration is transmitted to the compressor and can damage internal connections. If the stairs are narrow, you may have to turn the unit around and carry it sideways, but without falling too much.
⚠️ Attention: Never take the refrigerator by the door or cooling handles - they are not designed to lift the weight of the entire body and can come off at the most inopportune moment.
When loading into the body, make sure that the surface is smooth and clean. Foreign objects (keys, tools, small debris) can scratch the floor or cause instability. Secure the equipment on all sides to prevent any movement while the vehicle is moving.
Comparison of transportation conditions for different models
Different manufacturers and models may have their own nuances. For example, dual-compressor systems are more sensitive to tilt because they have two motors that may behave differently when tilted. Inverter compressors that operate without shutdowns also require special care due to complex control electronics.
Below is a table comparing the main transportation parameters for different types of equipment:
| Parameter | Regular refrigerator | No Frost (single compressor) | No Frost (two compressors) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permissible tilt | up to 40 degrees | up to 40 degrees | strictly vertical |
| Settling time | 2-4 hours | 4-8 hours | 8-12 hours |
| Sensitivity to shock | Average | High | Very high |
| Fixation of shelves | Required | Critically important | Critically important |
As can be seen from the table, the more complex the system, the stricter requirements. Two-compressor models Side-by-Side are best transported in their original packaging and only vertically. Saving on the services of loaders or specialized transport can be more expensive than the cost of transportation itself.
Installation and first startup after moving
After the refrigerator is delivered to the place, do not rush to plug it into the outlet. First, remove all packing materials, shipping bolts, and fasteners. Wipe the case with a damp cloth to remove dust that has accumulated during travel. Place the unit on a level place, away from heaters and direct sunlight.
Level the position using the adjustable support feet. The door should close on its own when opened to an angle of about 30-45 degrees. If not, tighten the front legs. This will ensure proper operation of the system No Frost and a tight fit of the seals.
Only after the settling time has expired (mentioned above) can the power be connected. It is better to do the first loading with products in small portions, allowing the compressor to enter operating mode. Do not overcrowd the chambers right away - this will create an extra load on the cooling system.
Monitor the operation of the equipment during the first day. The appearance of condensation, unusual noise or lack of cold in one of the chambers may indicate problems that arose during transportation. In this case, it is better to contact the service center while the delivery guarantee is valid.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on?
Check the presence of voltage in the outlet, the integrity of the power cord and the tightness of the plug connection. If everything is in order, but the motor does not start and there is no light inside, the thermal protection relay may have tripped due to overheating during transportation or a power surge. Let the device cool down and try turning it on again in an hour. If the problem persists, call a specialist.
Can it be transported with leftover food?
It is strictly not recommended. Even frozen food will turn into mush when shaken, dirty the chamber and upset the balance of the load. In addition, defrosting food can cause the growth of bacteria and an unpleasant odor, which will then be difficult to get rid of.
Do you need to remove doors when entering narrow openings?
In most modern models, the doors are removable. To do this you will need a Phillips screwdriver and possibly an Allen wrench. Remove the decorative plugs on the hinges, unscrew the mounting bolts and carefully remove the door. This will reduce the width of the refrigerator by 5-10 cm, which often helps to get through the doorway.
Is frost dangerous when transporting in winter?
Sharp temperature changes are harmful for electronics and plastic. If you brought a refrigerator in winter, bring it indoors and do not unpack it for at least 4-5 hours. Condensation formed inside on cold parts upon contact with warm air can cause a short circuit when turned on.
How to properly wash a refrigerator after moving?
Use a weak soda solution or special products for household appliances. Do not use abrasive powders or bleach - they can damage the coating and rubber seals. After washing, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry and ventilate the chambers for a couple of hours before loading.