Moving a refrigerator is a task that seems simple only at first glance. In practice, even a slight shift of 10–20 cm can result in scratches on the floor or scratches on the floor. It is especially risky to move models with a system damage to the compressor, scratches on the floor or depressurization of the door. It is especially risky to move models with the system NoFrost or built-in refrigerators - here errors cost 5,000 rubles in repairs. In this article we will look at how to prepare the equipment, what tools to use and why even a life hack with “water under the feet” can play a cruel joke with modern electronically controlled refrigerators.
Difficulties begin with weight: the average two-chamber refrigerator weighs 60–90 kg, and models Side-by-Side (for example, Samsung RS62R5001M9 or LG GC-B247JLVL) - up to 120 kg. At the same time, center of gravity is shifted to the rear wall due to the compressor, so if the tilt is more than 15°, the equipment may tip over. Add here fragile parts: plastic shelves, glass containers and electronic displays - and it becomes clear why manufacturers like Bosch or Liebherr strongly recommend contacting specialists. But if you decide to handle it yourself, follow our recommendations.
1. Preparing the refrigerator: what must be done BEFORE moving
The first step is disconnection from the network. But don’t just pull the plug out of the socket: for models with inverter compressor (for example, Hitachi R-BG410P6M) a sudden disconnection can cause a malfunction of the electronic unit. Correct algorithm:
- Set the temperature regulator to position
0orOFF. - Wait until the compressor stops (stops hum).
- Only after this, remove the plug from the socket.
Next - defrosting and releasing chambers. Even if you plan to move the refrigerator 30 cm, ice on the walls or heavy food (cans, bottles) can shift the center of gravity. For models NoFrost it is enough to remove all products; for drip systems (Indesit BIAA 13, ATLANT MXM 1705-80>) - complete defrosting 12–24 hours before moving.
Glass shelves and containers|Bottles and jars (risk of breaking)|Vegetable boxes (may fall out)|Magnets and door decorations-->
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was installed less than 24 hours ago, it is strictly forbidden to move it! The compressor needs time for the oil circuit to stabilize. Ignoring this rule leads to jamming of the motor and repairs from 8,000 ₽.
2. Tools and materials: what you will need for safe moving
Minimum set for moving the refrigerator a short distance (up to 1 m):
- 🧲 Rubber pads on the legs (sold in furniture fittings stores) - prevent slipping and scratches.
- 🛠️ Flat screwdriver or hexagon - for adjusting the height of the legs (relevant for ATLANT, Stinol).
- 🧴 Silicone grease or WD-40 - if the legs are “stuck” to the floor.
- 🧤 Gloves with rubber pads - for a secure grip of the case.
To move long distances (for example, to another room), additionally prepare:
- 🚪 Furniture trolleys with belts (load capacity from 100 kg).
- 📏 Square or laser level - to check evenness after installation.
- 🧊 Thermal film or blanket - for wrapping equipment during transportation in the cold season (relevant for NoFrost).
Screwdriver and gloves|Furniture carts|WD-40 or lubrication|None of the above-->
For models with built-in ice maker system (for example, Liebherr ICBN 3366), you will need to drain the water from the tank through the drain hose. ice maker Water Dispenser Maintenance in the user manual.
3. Safety precautions: how not to damage the refrigerator and the floor
Main risks when moving:
| Error | Consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Tilt more than 45° | Damage to the compressor, leakage of freon | Use carts or the help of a second person |
| Moving on an uneven floor | Scratches on the laminate, chips on tiles | Lay cardboard or special mats |
| Sharp lowering to the floor | Cracks in the pan, displacement of shock absorbers | Lower smoothly, holding the upper corners |
| Transportation with the power on | Short circuit, failure of the electronic unit | Turn off 12 hours before moving |
Special attention - floorLaminate and parquet boards may not work. withstand the weight of the refrigerator when sliding. Solution:
- 📦 Place sheets Fibreboard or plywood (5-10 mm thick) under the legs.
- 🧹 Vacuum the floor - grains of sand act as an abrasive.
- 💧 To facilitate sliding, use soap solution (but not water!), applying it to the path of movement.
4. Step-by-step instructions: how to move the refrigerator yourself
Consider the algorithm for moving a short distance (up to 1-2 m):
- Adjust the legs. Tighten them with a screwdriver so that the refrigerator stands straight, but does not “fall” back For models Samsung i LG use a hex wrench (usually included).
- Tilt your body. Gently pull the upper part towards you so the front legs have come off the floorthe tilt angle is no more than 30°!
- Place sliding material. Place plywood or plastic slides (available in hardware stores) under the rear legs.
- Slide smoothly. Move the refrigerator with small jerks, holding the side walls. Do not pull the door - this will deform the hinges!
To move over a long distance (for example, to another room):
- Pack the refrigerator in bubble filmfixing the door with tape (but do not block it completely - this will damage the seal!).
- Use furniture carts with belts, securing the case at 4 points: in the corners from above.
- When climbing stairs, move back wall forward —it’s easier to control the center of gravity.
What to do if the refrigerator does not fit into the doorway?
If the width refrigerator (for example ATLANT MXM 2806-80 - 60 cm) larger opening, try:
1. Remove the door (a screwdriver and the help of a second person are required).
2. Use rotary mechanism (available in some carts).
3. Raise the refrigerator and tilt it at an angle of 45° (risky for the compressor!).
If all else fails, call movers with professional equipment.
5. Features for different types of refrigerators
Modern models differ not only in design, but also design nuancesthat affect the moving process:
| Refrigerator type | Features movements | Example models |
|---|---|---|
| NoFrost | You cannot tilt it more than 15° - there is a risk of damage to the ventilation system. Transport only vertically. | Samsung RB30J3000SA, Indesit DF 4180 W |
| Built-in | Requires dismantling of the facade. Move only with original fasteners. | Bosch KIN86VF30R, Liebherr ICUS 3366 |
| Side-by-Side | Requires 2 people + trolley. The center of gravity is shifted to the rear wall. | LG GC-B247JLVL, Haier HRF-618IG6 |
| With an ice maker | Drain the water, turn off the supply. Transport only in an upright position. | Liebherr ICBN 3366, Whirlpool WBE 20223 |
For retro refrigerators (for example, Smeg FAB28) the same rules apply, but with a caveat: their legs are often decorative and not adjustable. In this case, use furniture linings made of silicone or felt.
⚠️ Attention: Refrigerators with linear compressor (LG Inverter Linear Compressor) are extremely sensitive to vibrations. After moving, let them “settle” for 6–12 hours before turning them on, otherwise you risk encountering an error Er IF (inverter malfunction).
6. Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced users make mistakes that lead to breakdowns. Here are the top 5 of them:
- 🔌 Turns on immediately after moving. The compressor needs time for the oil circuit to be distributed evenly. For models NoFrost - minimum 4 hours, for regular ones - 2 hours.
- 🧊 Ignoring defrosting. Ice adds weight and shifts the center of gravity. As a result, the refrigerator falls when tilted.
- 🚪 Moving behind the door. The hinges are not designed for such loads. Use carrying straps (sold in hardware stores).
- 📦 Lack of corner protection. Chips on the case (ATLANT with enamel coating) or cracks on glass shelves (Bosch Serie 6) is a common problem.
- 🌡️ Transportation in a horizontal position. Allowed only for some models Indesit and Beko, but with mandatory fixation of the compressor.
Another common mistake is use of water to facilitate sliding. Water penetrates into the cracks between the legs and the floor, which leads to:
- Corrosion of metal parts (relevant for Stinol older than 2015).
- Swelling Fiberboard substrates (if they are under the refrigerator).
- Short circuit if moisture gets on the wires.
7. After moving: check and adjustment
When the refrigerator is installed in a new location, follow these steps:
- Check the evenness. Use a level or leveling app on your smartphone. The permissible slope is no more than 2°. To adjust, twist the legs.
- Inspect the seal. If the rubber is deformed, heat it with a hair dryer (temperature 40–50°C) and shape it using a flat screwdriver.
- Connect to the network. For models with a display (Samsung Family Hub), wait until the self-test is completed (the message appears on the screen
Cool Select). - Start the test mode. Set the temperature
-18°Cin the freezer and check how quickly the refrigerator gets cold (the norm is 2–4 hours).
If after switching on you appear unusual sounds (knock, vibration), this may mean:
- 🔧 Compressor displacement —a call is required technician.
- 🧊 Air entering the circuit —the refrigerator itself will “pump” in 12–24 hours.
- 🔌 Fan malfunction (for NoFrost) - check if it is blocked products.
FAQ: Answers to common questions questions
Is it possible to move the refrigerator alone?
Theoretically, yes, if the weight of the equipment is up to 60 kg (for example, ATLANT MHM 1603-80 or Beko RCSK 250M00 S). To do this:
- Use belts for carrying furniture (cost ~300 ₽).
- Put under legs plastic slides.
- Move the refrigerator in small jerks, leaning your back against the wall.
For models heavier than 70 kg (Samsung RL38T6007SA, LG GB-B409SLQZ), the help of a second person is required!
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after moving?
The reasons may be different:
- 🔌 The thermal fuse has tripped - wait 10-15 minutes and try again.
- 🧭 The temperature sensor has moved - check if it is blocking it products.
- ⚡ The power filter is damaged —if an error
E1orPFflashes on the display, diagnostics is needed.
If the refrigerator does not respond to buttons, unplug it for 30 minutes, then try again. For models NoFrost with electronic control (Electrolux ENE34200OX), you may need to reset the settings (press Super Cool + Fridge Temp for 5 seconds).
How to transport a refrigerator in a car?
Transportation rules:
- 🚗 Use cargo van or Gazelle with a flat floor.
- 📦 Fix the refrigerator belts at 4 points (in the corners).
- 🌡️ In the cold season, wrap the equipment thermal film.
- 🚫 Do not place a refrigerator sideways or upside down (except for models where this is permitted instructions).
After transportation, let the refrigerator “settle”:
- 2-4 hours - for conventional models.
- 6-12 hours - for NoFrost i inverter compressors.
Is it possible to move the built-in refrigerator without dismantling it?
No. Built-in models (Bosch KIV38X20, Siemens KI86NAD30) are attached to the furniture body bolts and guides. An attempt to move them by force will lead to:
- 🔧 Breakage of facade hinges.
- 🚪 Deformation of the door (repair cost - from 7,000 ₽).
- ⚡ Damage to the electrical wiring (if the model is backlit).
Procedure:
- Turn off the power.
- Remove the facade (usually it is attached with magnets or latches).
- Unscrew the fastening bolts (you need a 5 or 6 mm hexagon).
- Carefully pull out the refrigerator along the guides.
What to do if there are scratches on the floor after moving?
Methods of elimination depending on the type of coating:
| Coating | Solution |
|---|---|
| Laminate | Apply wax pencil a suitable color or use repair paste (for example, Bona Repair). |
| Parquet | Sand the damaged area sandpaper (grain 120–180) and varnish. |
| Tile | For small scratches use toothpaste with soda, for deep ones - epoxy resin. |
| Linoleum | Heat the damaged area with a hairdryer and smooth with a rubber roller. |
For future prevention, use silicone pads on the legs or foam polyethylene mat.