Installing a large Side by Side refrigerator is a task that requires not only physical strength, but also thorough technical training. Unlike classic two-chamber models, these units have an impressive width and are often equipped with complex water supply systems and ice makers, which significantly complicates the installation process. Incorrect installation can lead to impaired air circulation, increased noise and even breakdown of the compressor.
Before bringing the equipment into the room, you need to make sure that all preparatory steps are completed. Critical important check the condition of the flooring and communications, since after installing heavy equipment it will be extremely difficult to correct errors. The weight of such models often exceeds 100–120 kilograms, so ignoring transportation rules is unacceptable.
In this article we will analyze all the nuances, from choosing a location to the final connection to the water supply. You will learn why you should not rush to connect to the network and what tools you will need for self-installation. The right approach will ensure the long service life of your Side by Side and maintain the manufacturer's warranty.
Selection and preparation of installation location
The first step to successful installation is choosing the right location. Side by Side refrigerators require more free space around the case for the cooling system to work effectively. Air must circulate freely at the back wall and on the sides, otherwise the compressor will work with overload.
Pay attention to the floor covering. A heavy unit can damage soft linoleum or push through old laminate. If the floor is uneven, additional adjustment of the supports will be required, but ideally the surface should be rigid and horizontal. Load-bearing capacity Floor is a parameter that is often overlooked, especially when installing on second floors or in old houses.
Think over the skidding route in advance. Refrigerator and freezer doors on Side by Side models are often wider than standard door openings. In some cases, it is necessary to dismantle the doors of the refrigerator itself or remove the door frames in the apartment.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install the refrigerator near heating appliances, stoves or in direct sunlight. This will lead to a sharp increase in energy consumption and a reduction in the service life of the motor.
Do you need to remove the doors when skidding?
In most cases, the doors of Side by Side models are removable. If the width of the opening is less than the width of the refrigerator (usually 90-91 cm), the doors will have to be removed. To do this, you need to unscrew the hinges, having first secured the door in the open position so that it does not fall. In some premium models, the hinges may be hidden by decorative overlays.
Required tools and measurements
For high-quality installation, you will need a minimum set of tools, which most home craftsmen can find. However, the specifics of water connection may require additional devices. Prepare everything you need in advance so as not to interrupt the work process.
Pay special attention to measurements. The width of the niche should be at least 2–3 cm greater than the width of the refrigerator on each side, and the height should allow the doors of the upper drawers to be folded back when the refrigerator doors are fully open. Depth also matters: protruding parts should not interfere with opening.
The table below shows the recommended distance parameters for different types of installation:
| Parameter | Minimum distance | Recommended value | Value for installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| From the back wall | 5 cm | 7–10 cm | According to the diagram in the instructions |
| On the sides | 2 cm | 5 cm | Tight fit (if built-in) |
| Top | 5 cm | 10 cm | Depends on cabinet ventilation |
| Up to (stove) | 30 cm | 40+ cm | Not recommended |
For work you will need: building level, tape measure, adjustable wrench (for water connections), screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead) and possibly a pipe stripper. If the floor is slippery, also prepare anti-slip pads.
☑️ Tools for installation
Transportation and unpacking
Bringing in the Side by Side refrigerator is the most risky stage. Due to its large dimensions and weight, moving it alone is strictly prohibited. You will need at least two people, and preferably three, if you have to climb flights of stairs.
When moving, maintain the angle of inclination. The compressor contains oil, which should not flow into the cooling circuit. Tilt angle should not exceed 40 degrees. If you had to carry the refrigerator lying down (which is extremely undesirable), it needs to stand much longer before turning it on.
After installation in place, remove the transport bolts and clamps. Often internal shelves and drawers are secured with tape or foam. Remove all packaging materials, including the film from the back of the condenser, if any.
⚠️ Attention: Never grasp the refrigerator by the door handles or decorative elements when lifting. This will lead to the handles coming off and the blade being deformed. You can lift only by the base of the body.
Even if they are secured, shaking during skidding can cause hidden cracks. Carefully remove all removable elements before moving, if the design allows it.
Aligning the case with a level
Correctly leveling the refrigerator is the key to quiet operation and proper closing of the doors. If the body is skewed, the doors may open by themselves or, conversely, not fit completely, breaking the tightness.
Use a building level, installing it on the top panel and alternately on the shelves inside. Adjustment is carried out using the front support legs, which are usually unscrewed with a key or manually. The rear legs, as a rule, are non-adjustable or require special tools.
There is an important nuance for Side by Side models: the back of the refrigerator must be raised 3-5 mm higher than the front. This ensures spontaneous closing doors when they open less than 90 degrees. If you tilt in the other direction, the doors will constantly strive to open.
After adjustment, press firmly on the corners of the case to make sure it is stable. The refrigerator should not wobble. If there is any play, tighten the supports. In some cases, especially on smooth tile floors, special anti-vibration stands may be required.
Plumbing and Sewer Connections
Many Side by Side models are equipped with water dispensers and ice makers, which require a water connection. This is the most technically difficult stage and requires accuracy. A mistake here can lead to flooding of the kitchen.
For connection, use the flexible hose included in the kit or a copper tube. You will need to tap into the water supply using a special tee with a tap. Do not forget to install a fine water filter before entering the refrigerator, otherwise ice maker it will quickly fail due to scale.
The connection process is as follows: turn off the water, insert a tee, connect the hose to the tee and to the fitting on the back wall of the refrigerator. Then open the tap and check the connections for leaks. Only after this can you start the system filling cycle.
Sequence of actions:1. Turn off the cold water.
2. Install the tee insert.
3. Connect the water supply hose.
4. Open the valve and check the tightness.
5. Start the ice maker filling program.
⚠️ Attention: The pressure in the water supply must comply with the instructions (usually from 0.5 to 7 bar). If the pressure is higher, be sure to install a reducer, otherwise the water supply valve may not be able to withstand it and burst.
First start-up and operation check
After the refrigerator is installed, leveled and connected, do not rush to load food. Let it idle first. The standing time depends on how the unit was transported: if vertically, 2–4 hours is enough; if tilted or lying down, it is better to wait 12–24 hours.
Plug in the refrigerator. Make sure the outlet is grounded and meets the wattage requirements (usually a separate line is required for high-power models). During the first hours of operation, the compressor may work intensively, gaining temperature - this is normal.
Check the operation of all modes. Make sure that ice has formed in the freezer compartment and that the refrigerator compartment is at the correct temperature. Listen to the sounds: the hum of the compressor is acceptable, but there should be no knocking, gurgling or whistling.
If the model is equipped with electronic control, adjust the desired temperature settings. For the main compartment it is optimal +3..+5°C, for the freezer - -18°C and below. Do not fill the chambers with food at once: cooling a large volume of warm objects will take a lot of time and energy.
Why does the refrigerator not turn off for a long time after the first turn on?
When you first start up, the system needs to cool not only the air, but also the walls of the chambers, shelves and food (if they are already inside). The compressor can operate non-stop for up to 12 hours. This is the normal run-in and primary cooling mode.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to place a Side by Side refrigerator close to the wall?
No, it is not. The minimum gap from the back wall to the wall should be 5–7 cm for air circulation. In some models with bottom ventilation, the requirements may be lower, but ignoring the manufacturer's instructions is dangerous for the motor.
What to do if the refrigerator does not fit into the doorway?
In most cases, the doors of the refrigerator and freezer compartments can be removed for Side by Side models. This reduces the depth of the cabinet by 20–30 cm. You can also try removing the door handles if they protrude too much. As a last resort, dismantle the door frame in the apartment.
Do you need to wait if the refrigerator was delivered in the cold in winter?
Yes, definitely. If the refrigerator is brought in from the cold, it needs to warm up to room temperature while turned off for at least 4–6 hours. Turning on a cold compressor can damage the valves and cause freon leakage due to condensation inside the system.
Why is water noise heard from the Side by Side refrigerator?
Gurgling sounds are often the norm for models with a No Frost system and refrigerant circulation. The noise may also come from water flowing through the ice maker tubes. If the noise is not accompanied by vibration of the body, there is no need to worry.
How often should you change the water filter?
The service life of a standard filter is about 300–400 liters or 6 months of use, depending on the hardness of the water. The control panel of modern models often has a replacement indicator, which signals the need for maintenance.