Purchasing a new refrigerator is always a joyful event that marks the renewal of household appliances in the kitchen. However, the euphoria of the purchase often gives way to confusion when the delivery people leave a huge box in the middle of the room and walk away, leaving you alone with the task of unpacking it. Particular attention should be paid to how to remove the refrigerator from the foam, since this step is critical to maintaining the functionality of the compressor and the integrity of the case.
The foam base, or the so-called skid tray, acts as a shock absorber during transportation, protecting the lower part of the unit from shock and vibration. Incorrect actions during dismantling can lead to damage to the condenser tubes located at the rear, or disruption of the door geometry due to misalignment. Safe unpacking requires not only physical strength, but also compliance with a certain sequence of actions, which we will describe in detail later.
In this article we will look at all the nuances of the process: from preparing the instrument to the final check of the stability of the device. You will learn why you cannot simply turn the unit over or sharply pull it up, ignoring the weight of the structure. Modern models can weigh more than 80 kilograms, and careless movement can result in back injury or damage to the floor covering.
Preparatory stage and necessary tools
Before taking active steps, you need to free up the space around the packaging. Make sure there is nothing blocking your movement and the floor is clear of small objects that could become an obstacle or cause you to slip. For the job, you will need simple tools that are usually found in every home: a sharp knife (stationery or construction knife), a screwdriver (often required to remove shipping bolts, if any) and thick gloves to protect your hands from splinters and sharp edges of cardboard.
It is important to understand that polystyrene foam is a fragile material, but it can also have sharp edges, especially if it is old or of poor quality. When cutting the outer cardboard box, try not to make deep cuts in the lower part where the tray itself is located, so as not to damage the plastic base of the refrigerator or its metal elements. Clerical knife Must be well sharpened, a dull blade will tear the cardboard, creating excess dust and uneven edges.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly not recommended to use a power tool (for example, a grinder or a jigsaw) to cut packaging near a household appliance. Vibration and sparks can damage paintwork or, in the worst case, puncture thin cooling system tubes if they are located close to the bottom of the case.
If you plan to keep the foam base for possible future transportation, carefully fold it to the side. However, if the pallet is damaged during unpacking, it is better to dispose of it immediately, since the polystyrene foam that has lost its integrity will not be able to provide adequate protection during transportation. Transport boltsif they are present in your model, you should also prepare for dismantling by finding the appropriate key in the kit.
Assessment of design and search for fastening elements
After removing the top of the box and the side walls, you will see the refrigerator itself, standing on a foam platform. At this stage, it is necessary to carefully inspect the lower part of the unit. Manufacturers of household appliances use different methods of fixing the device on a pallet. Most often, there are plastic clamps that tighten the body with foam, or special transport brackets screwed to the bottom.
Carefully examine the perimeter of the base. If you find plastic ties, they must be carefully cut with scissors or a knife, being careful not to scratch the legs of the refrigerator. Some models, especially recessed or premium ones, may use screw connections. In this case, you will need a Phillips or flat-head screwdriver. Transport fixation created so that the device does not move relative to the pallet, so the fastening can be quite tight.
Do not forget that modern ones LG, Samsung or Bosch refrigerators often have a complex system of legs that can be recessed into foam for additional protection. Make sure you have completely cleared all contact points before attempting to move the unit. Sometimes the foam can be glued to the bottom with double-sided tape - in this case, a force will be required to pull it off, but you need to act carefully so as not to deform the thin metal of the bottom.
Safety precautions when lifting and moving
The most crucial moment is the direct separation refrigerator from a foam base. The weight of an average two-chamber refrigerator varies from 60 to 90 kg, and Side-by-Side models can reach 120 kg or more. Lifting such a heavy weight alone is not only difficult, but also dangerous for the health of the spine. The ideal option is to have an assistant who can take the unit from the opposite side.
If you are working together, stand on the sides of the refrigerator, firmly grasp the body and, on the count of three, simultaneously lift the equipment by 2-3 centimeters. This distance is enough for a second person (or you yourself, if you act carefully) to pull the foam out from under the legs. Sharp jerks are unacceptable, as they can lead to loss of balance and a heavy load falling on your feet.
☑️ Safety rules lifting
If you work alone (which is highly not recommended for large models), you can use the tilt method. Gently tilt the refrigerator toward you, resting the top on your shoulder or chest, and use your free hand or foot to pry up the foam. However, this method carries risks: if the unit slips, it may hit the back wall, damaging the radiator. Compressor It is also sensitive to strong impacts, so it is better not to take risks.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to move a refrigerator standing on foam plastic by dragging it along the floor. Polystyrene foam has a high coefficient of friction and can crumble, leaving hard-to-remove balls on the floor, and a sharp slip from the pallet will result in a strong impact of the housing on the floor.
Step-by-step instructions: how to properly remove the unit
Now let's move on to the immediate algorithm of actions. Strictly following the instructions will help you avoid common mistakes. The process can be divided into several logical steps, each of which requires concentration.
- Releasing the perimeter: Cut off any remaining tape and cardboard flaps that may cling to the foam.
- Removing fasteners: Remove all shipping bolts, brackets or clamps connecting the housing to tray.
- Checking stability: Make sure that the refrigerator is level and not tilted in any direction.
- Lifting: Lift the unit strictly vertically upward or slightly tilting it in a safe direction.
- Removing the tray: With a sharp but controlled movement, pull the foam out from under the legs.
If the foam is stuck or stuck, do not use excessive force. Try rocking the refrigerator slightly from side to side (without lifting it off the floor) to loosen the connection. Sometimes it helps to use a flat spatula or a wide screwdriver to carefully separate the foam from the metal, but you need to act without fanaticism so as not to crush the bottom.
What to do if the foam has crumbled?
If during removal the foam begins to crumble and crumble, do not try to sweep it away right away. First, move the refrigerator completely out of the way. Then vacuum the area where the pan was sitting using a crevice tool. Small polystyrene foam balls become electrified and stick to the floor, so wet cleaning after vacuuming will not be superfluous. Do not leave pieces of foam under the refrigerator - they may get into the compressor vent.
After the tray is removed, inspect the bottom of the refrigerator. Make sure that there are no pieces of foam or fasteners left on the bottom. Refrigerator legs must stand on the floor with its entire area. If the model is equipped with rollers, check whether they rotate freely and whether any packaging remains are stuck in them.
Features of unpacking different types of refrigerators
The process of removing the foam may differ depending on the design of the refrigerator. For example, built-in models often have a more complex fastening system, since their facade must be perfectly flat. Built-in appliances can be attached to the pallet not only from below, but also have additional fixing elements on the sides in the lower part, which are hidden under decorative panels.
Models Side-by-Side (American type) are distinguished by their enormous weight and width. Their foam base is often divided into two parts or made in the form of a wide platform with cutouts. When lifting such a giant, it is important to distribute the weight evenly. Two people may not be enough if they do not have sufficient physical strength, so for such devices it is better to call three_helpers or use special furniture straps.
| Refrigerator type | Average weight | Tray feature | Recommended number of people |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small-capacity (single-chamber) | 30-45 kg | Thin sheet, often without fastenings | 1 person |
| Standard two-chamber | 60-80 kg | Dense block with grooves for legs | 2 people |
| Side-by-Side | 100-130 kg | Reinforced platform, often 2 parts | 3 people or trolley |
| Built-in | 50-70 kg | Complex perimeter fixation system | 2 people |
oversized equipment is also characterized by the presence of protective foam corners not only at the bottom, but also on the sides at the level of the base. They need to be removed last, after the refrigerator is in place, so as not to scratch the walls or door jambs when moving.
Disposal of packaging and final installation
After successfully removing the refrigerator from the foam, you are faced with the issue of disposing of a large amount of garbage. The cardboard box can be folded and taken to a waste paper collection point, which will be an environmentally friendly solution. Polystyrene foam (expanded polystyrene) is also recyclable, but not all collection points accept it in its normal state due to its volume. It can be crushed and used as a filler for sprinkling slippery paths in winter or given to pet stores (sometimes they are accepted for arranging rodent cages, but this is rare).
The final stage is installing the refrigerator in a permanent place. Remember that after transportation (especially if the refrigerator has been lying), it needs time to adapt. Compressor oil it must drain into the crankcase, and the refrigerant must be distributed throughout the system. It is usually recommended to wait 2 to 4 hours before plugging in if the unit was transported lying down, and about 1 hour if standing up.
Make sure the floor under the refrigerator is level and dry. Foam dust trapped under the feet may cause instability or squeaking noise when the vibration system operates. Wipe the installation area with a damp cloth. Level the refrigerator by adjusting the front legs so that the doors close tightly and independently.
⚠️ Attention: Do not plug in the refrigerator immediately after unpacking if it was exposed to low temperatures during winter delivery. Condensation inside electrical circuits can cause a short circuit. Allow the unit to warm up to room temperature for 3-4 hours.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to throw polystyrene foam into a regular trash container?
Technically it is possible, but not recommended. Polystyrene takes up a lot