Moving or purchasing new household appliances is always accompanied by the question of delivery, especially when it comes to large-sized appliances. Owners often wonder whether it is possible to transport Atlant refrigerator lying down, whether this will damage the compressor and cooling system. Manufacturers of household appliances, including the Belarusian brand Atlantgive clear recommendations, ignoring which can lead to expensive repairs.
The main difficulty lies in the design of the compressor and the presence of refrigerant in the system, which, when not working, can migrate to various components of the circuit. If transportation rules are violated, oil from the compressor may enter the freon circulation circuit, which will cause blockage of the capillary tube. That is why understanding the physics of the process and following the manufacturer’s instructions is critical to maintaining the warranty.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances of transportation, consider the differences between models with one and two compressors, and also give a step-by-step algorithm for preparing for the move. It is strictly forbidden to plug in the refrigerator immediately after horizontal transportation without long-term settling. Compliance with time intervals is the key to the long service of your unit.
Why do disputes arise about the position during transportation
The question of what position is best for transportation refrigeration equipmentis surrounded by many myths. Some argue that only the vertical position is safe, others claim that it is more convenient to carry while lying down and there will be no consequences. The company's engineers Atlant have developed a design that allows certain liberties, but with serious reservations.
The main enemy during improper transportation is a violation of the tightness and integrity of the internal tubes. When shaking and vibration in a horizontal position, the load on the compressor suspension increases many times. In addition, the oil, which is in the engine crankcase during operation, can flow into the discharge tube at tilts of more than 40 degrees.
There is also a risk of mechanical damage to the housing and internal shelves. Doors that are not secured properly can open during transit, damaging the hinges or glass. Therefore, the choice of transportation method should always balance between the convenience of logistics and the technical safety of the device.
⚠️ Attention: Even a short-term tilt of the refrigerator at an angle of more than 45 degrees during loading can lead to oil leakage into the cooling circuit, which will require professional purging of the system.
Transportation in a vertical position
The ideal option, which is recommended by service centers and the manufacturer itself, is transportation in the original, vertical position. In this case, all internal components are in normal operation, the oil remains in the crankcase, and the refrigerant is distributed throughout the system according to gravity. However, this method requires a high cargo compartment.
When installed in a body, the unit must be securely fixed to prevent any movement. Belts, stops and soft pads are used. It is important not to rest the device on the door handle or plastic decor, since these elements will not withstand the weight of the structure when jerked. Fixation should occur due to pressure on the side walls or a special base.
If you use the services of loaders, make sure that they do not drag the equipment along the floor. The presence of a wheeled trolley greatly simplifies the process and reduces the risk of hitting door jambs. Vertical transportation virtually eliminates the need for long-term settling before turning on.
Particular attention should be paid to models with the system No Frost. Although they are less sensitive to tilting than classic drip systems, the risk of damage to the plastic air ducts inside the chamber due to vertical shaking remains high. Therefore, high-quality packaging and securing the contents inside the chambers are mandatory.
Features of transporting a refrigerator lying down
Situations often arise when the dimensions of the vehicle do not allow installation Atlant refrigerator vertically. In this case, transportation in a horizontal position is allowed, but subject to strict rules. The basic principle is that you can only lay the appliance on its side, and strictly on a certain side.
The manufacturer recommends laying the unit on its right side (when viewed from the front). This is due to the structural arrangement of the compressor and pipes. If you put it on the left side, there is a high risk that the oil from the compressor will go by gravity into the circuit, from where it will be extremely difficult to get it back out. Also on the left side there are often tubes that can be easily pressed by the weight of the refrigerator itself to the ground or floor of the body.
Before installation, it is necessary to remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, trays. The doors must be tightly closed and secured with tape or stretch film in several layers. Under the bottom (which will now become sideways), thick cardboard, foam plastic or an old blanket must be placed for shock absorption.
It is important to understand that during horizontal transportation compressor it experiences enormous loads. The springs on which it is suspended may snap or burst if subjected to strong shaking. Therefore, the speed of the vehicle should be minimal, and the road should be as smooth as possible.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to lean the refrigerator on the back (back) during transportation. In this position, the tubes and radiator grille are pressed to the floor, which is guaranteed to lead to their flattening and depressurization.
Specifics of models with one and two compressors
Equipment Atlant is available in various modifications, and the approach to their transportation may differ. Models with a single compressor are more compact, but their cooling system can be sensitive to long periods of inactivity in the wrong position. Two-compressor units are heavier, and the load on their frame during distortions is higher.
In two-compressor models, a separate defrosting system is often used. This means that a violation of transportation rules can affect only one of the circuits, but a complete diagnosis will have to be carried out. Oil in such systems it can flow from one compressor to the system of another if they are connected by common lines (in rare cases) or simply create a plug in the circuit.
Myth about freon
Many people believe that freon leaks out when transported lying down. This is not true. Freon is a gas under pressure in a closed circuit. Only oil can leak if the compressor is above the level of the outlet tubes.
Modern inverter compressors, which are beginning to appear in top lines, are even more sensitive to mechanical stress. Their suspension is different from classic engines, and shocks when transporting lying down can damage the electronics. For such models, vertical transportation is the only recommended option.
Table: Comparison of risks for different methods of transportation
For clarity, we provide a comparative description of the risks so that you can weigh the pros and cons before starting loading operations.
| Parameter | Vertical | Lying on your side | On your back (prohibited) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Risk of oil getting into the circuit | Minimum | High (requires settling) | Critical |
| Risk of tube deformation | Low | Average (depending on the side) | Guaranteed |
| Need to settle | 2-4 hours | 8-24 hours | Will not help |
| Body height requirements | High | Minimum | Minimum |
As can be seen from the table, a compromise in the form of transportation lying down is possible, but it requires discipline from the owner in the matter of waiting time before starting. Ignoring these requirements is a direct path to the service center.
Step-by-step preparation for moving
To minimize risks, it is necessary to properly prepare the equipment. The process begins long before the trucks arrive. First of all, the refrigerator defrosts. This is a mandatory procedure, since ice in the evaporator when tilted can damage the plastic elements, and water can cause a short circuit.
After defrosting and drying (this can take up to 24 hours), all internal elements are removed. It is best to wrap glass shelves in bubble wrap and transport them separately in a box marked “fragile.” Plastic boxes can be folded inside the chambers, having previously fixed them so that they do not dangle.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Next comes the stage of fixing the doors. Use masking tape, wrapping the device around the perimeter 2-3 times. Do not glue the tape directly to the glossy side, it is better to place paper under it. If the original packaging has been preserved, this is an ideal option; it includes reinforced corners and thick cardboard.
When loading into the car, make sure that the floor is clean and dry. Dirt may scratch the bottom of the case. If you are driving a car, the interior must be covered with thick fabric. In the back of the truck, the refrigerator is pressed against the side, but a layer of foam plastic or cardboard must be laid between it and the metal.
Settling time and first start
After delivery to the site, the refrigerator cannot be immediately plugged in. This rule applies to all cases, but is especially critical after horizontal transportation. The oil should drain completely back into the compressor crankcase. In summer, the minimum waiting time is 4 hours, in winter - at least 8 hours.
If transportation was carried out in winter at temperatures below -5°C, the settling time increases to 24 hours. A sudden change in temperature can cause condensation inside the electrical board, leading to breakdown. Let the equipment warm up to room temperature.
The first start-up is best done without load. Plug in the empty refrigerator and let it run for 1-2 hours. If it reaches the temperature and turns off (or goes into maintenance mode), you can gradually load the food. The appearance of extraneous knocking or humming is a signal to immediately shut down and call a technician.
⚠️ Attention: Specifications and recommendations may be updated by the manufacturer. Before transporting a specific model, always check the current instructions in your personal account or on the brand’s official website.
Is it possible to transport an Atlant refrigerator on the roof of a car?
It is highly not recommended. It is impossible to provide reliable fixation from vibration and wind on the roof. Even when securely secured with straps, constant vibration and aerodynamic loads can damage the condenser at the rear or compromise the seal. In addition, this is unsafe for other road users.
What to do if after transportation the refrigerator does not freeze?
If after 24 hours of settling and starting the compressor works, but there is no cold, the capillary system may be clogged with oil or freon leaks due to microcracks. You cannot solve the problem on your own; you need to call a specialist to diagnose and, possibly, refill or purge the system.
Do you need to remove the doors during transportation?
Removing the doors from their hinges when transporting refrigerators Atlant is not required and is often not recommended unless you are a professional. This may disrupt the geometry of the housing and the fit of the seal. It is enough to securely fix them with tape or stretch film.