Buying a new refrigerator is always a joyful event, marking an update to kitchen appliances. However, the joy of the purchase can quickly give way to disappointment if the rules of initial installation are neglected. Improper unpacking or haste to connect to the network often causes expensive equipment to fail in the first months of operation.
Modern models, be it Liebherr, Indesit or Samsung, require delicate handling during transportation and installation. The internal mechanisms, compressor and refrigerant circulation system are extremely sensitive to mechanical stress and incorrect positioning.
In this article we will analyze in detail each stage: from removing the outer packaging to the moment when you can load the first products. The critical point is the time the equipment rests after transportationwhich directly affects the service life of the compressor. Following the algorithm of actions will save you from unnecessary expenses on repairs.
Preparation of the place and tools before unpacking
Before you begin to remove the factory packaging, you need to prepare the space. A refrigerator is a large item, and handling it in a cramped hallway or a crowded kitchen is extremely inconvenient and dangerous. Clear the path from the front door to the installation point by removing carpets, shoes and foreign objects.
You will need a minimum set of tools that can be found in every home. To remove the tape and film, you will need a stationery knife or scissors. You may need adjustable wrench or a set of screwdrivers to adjust the legs and remove the shipping bolts. It would also be a good idea to prepare a soft rag for wiping the surfaces.
Pay attention to the floor at the installation site. The coating must be smooth and durable. If you plan to install equipment on slippery linoleum or tiles, make sure that the legs have rubber compensators to avoid spontaneous movement of the unit.
- 🛠️ Tools: scissors, screwdriver, adjustable wrench, level.
- 🧹 Cleaning: rags, mild detergent, vacuum cleaner.
- 📏 Measurements: tape measure for checking the dimensions of the niche.
☑️ Preparation for unpacking
Removing the outer packaging and shipping elements
Factory packaging provides protective function, protecting the case from scratches and dents upon delivery. You need to remove it carefully, trying not to damage the enamel with the sharp edges of the cardboard. First, the outer cardboard box is removed, then the foam plugs on top and bottom.
Particular attention should be paid to the internal contents. Inside the cells there are often shelves, drawers and documentation. Transportation tape may fix doors or internal elements, it must be completely removed. Do not use aggressive solvents to remove glue; it is better to use a hairdryer to lightly heat the adhesive layer.
The most important step is finding and removing the shipping bolts. They secure the compressor and suspension springs, preventing them from being damaged by shaking. They are usually located on the back wall at the bottom. If you forget to unscrew them, the refrigerator will vibrate and make a lot of noise during operation.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the shipping bolts in place. Their presence blocks the operation of the compressor shock absorbers, which leads to rapid destruction of the suspension and failure of the unit.
After removing all external elements, wipe the housing with a damp cloth. This will remove production dust and allow you to visually inspect the surface for hidden defects that may have occurred during delivery.
What to do if the bolts are rusty?
If the shipping bolts cannot be removed due to corrosion, do not use excessive force. Treat the threads with a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40) and leave for 15-20 minutes. Then try again carefully. If it doesn’t help, call a specialist so as not to break the compressor mounting thread.
Transportation and installation: vertically or lying down?
The question of how to properly move the refrigerator is especially acute if the apartment has narrow doorways or flights of stairs. Manufacturers strongly recommended transport and carry equipment strictly in an upright position. This is due to the design of the cooling system.
When transporting lying down, there is a high risk of oil leaking from the compressor into the refrigerant circuit. The motor may also become displaced relative to the fastening elements. If a horizontal position is unavoidable, the unit can only be laid on its side, and then for a very short distance.
| Method of movement | Risks | Recommended settling time |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical | Minimum | 2-4 hours |
| On the side (up to 30 min) | Medium (oil displacement) | 8-12 hours |
| On back/face | Critical (damage to the heat exchanger) | 24 hours+ |
If you had to carry the refrigerator lying down, its “rest” time before turning on should be significantly increased. It takes time for the oil to drain back into the compressor crankcase, and for the refrigerant to distribute throughout the system.
How long should the refrigerator stand?
Settlement time is the period necessary to stabilize the internal processes in the cooling system after transportation. Even if you transported the equipment carefully, the oil in the compressor could become agitated. A sharp start with cold or churned oil will lead to dry operation and jamming of the piston group.
For models that were transported vertically, the minimum waiting time is 2-3 hours in winter and 1-2 hours in summer. This is enough for the temperature of the internal components to be equal to room temperature, and the condensation formed due to the temperature difference to evaporate.
In the case of horizontal transportation or if there was severe frost outside (below -10°C), the settling time increases to 12-24 hours. The refrigerator must warm up completely to avoid cracking of plastic parts and damage to the wiring insulation.
⚠️ Attention: Plugging in a frozen refrigerator may cause a short circuit or damage to the thermostat. Give the equipment time to acclimatize.
Do not rush things. It is better to spend a day waiting than to change the compressor in a month. At this time, you can start placing the internal shelves and washing the chambers.
Primary washing and preparation of internal chambers
The inside of a new refrigerator may have a specific smell of plastic or factory grease. Before loading food, the chambers must be thoroughly washed. Use a warm solution of water with baking soda or a mild detergent.
Remove all removable shelves, drawers and containers. Wash them separately under running water. Wipe the inner walls with a soft sponge, avoiding abrasive materials that can leave micro-scratches on the plastic. Pay special attention to door seals - dust often accumulates in the folds of rubber.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with a clean rag. Leave the doors open for 30-60 minutes to completely dry and remove odors. You can use activated carbon or special odor absorbers for refrigerators.
- 🧼 What to wash: soda solution (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or dishwashing detergent.
- 🚫 What to avoid: chlorine-containing products, abrasive powders, hot water.
- 👃 Odor elimination: ventilation, coal, lemon.
Alignment and adjustment temperature control
Correct level setting is the key to quiet operation and proper closing of the doors. If the refrigerator is tilted, the door may open by itself or, conversely, not fit completely, breaking the seal. To adjust, use the front legs, rotating them clockwise or counterclockwise.
The ideal position is when the body is slightly tilted back. In this case, the door will close itself under the influence of gravity if it is opened less than 90 degrees. You can check the horizontal position using a building level, placing it on the top cover.
After connecting to the network, do not load products immediately. Let the refrigerator run idle for 1-2 hours until it reaches the required temperature. Then set the operating mode to medium. For most models, this corresponds to the position of the regulator in the middle of the scale or the temperature +4...+5°C in the main chamber.
Recommended settings after the first start:- Main chamber: +4°C
- Freezer compartment: -18°C
- Super Cool mode (if available): turn off after 2 hours
It is important to ensure adequate ventilation of the rear wall. The distance to the wall should be at least 5-7 cm, to the side cabinets - at least 5 cm. This will ensure effective heat exchange and reduce energy consumption.
Why does the refrigerator hum after installation?
The hum can be caused by the fact that the refrigerator touches the wall or cabinets. Check clearances. Also, a slight hum during the first hours of operation is normal, since the compressor operates at full power, cooling the empty volume.
Frequent errors during the first start
Many users make typical mistakes that can shorten the life of the equipment. One of the most common is to install the refrigerator close to the wall or in a niche without gaps. This leads to overheating of the compressor and increased energy consumption.
Another mistake is ignoring the operating instructions for a specific model. Different brands (Bosch, LG, Atlant) may have their own nuances, for example, the location of the drain hole or the method of attaching the handles. Always check the product data sheet.
You should also not overload the refrigerator with food on the first day. A sharp change in the thermal balance will force the compressor to work in enhanced mode for a long time, which is undesirable for a new motor.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice sparking in the socket or hear the smell of hot wiring when you turn it on for the first time, immediately unplug the device and contact a service center. Do not try to fix the problem yourself.
Questions and answers (FAQ)
Is it possible to turn on the refrigerator immediately after delivery in winter?
No, it is not possible. If the refrigerator is brought in from the cold, it needs to stand in a warm room for at least 4-6 hours (preferably a day). This is necessary so that the condensation on the internal elements evaporates, and the oil in the compressor warms up and becomes fluid.
Is it necessary to remove the film from the internal shelves?
Yes, all protective film from plastic parts, drawers and shelves must be removed. It is intended only for protection during transportation and can release harmful substances or interfere with normal air circulation inside the chambers.
What to do if the shipping bolts are lost?
You cannot operate the refrigerator without the bolts unscrewed. If you have lost them or they were lost during delivery, please contact your brand's authorized service center. They will select compatible analogues or help dismantle the fasteners without harming the equipment.
At what distance from the battery can you place the refrigerator?
The minimum distance from heating devices (batteries, ovens) should be at least 60 cm. Thermal radiation disrupts the operation of the condenser, forcing the refrigerator to work almost non-stop, which leads to excessive energy consumption and wear and tear.