After purchase and delivery With large household appliances, there comes a time for installation that is often overlooked in a hurry. Newcomers to operation often wonder: how to remove the transport bolts from the refrigerator and why is it so important to do this before turning it on? Ignoring this step can lead to serious damage, thunder and vibration, which will negate all the benefits of your new purchase.
Transportation elements are intended solely to secure the moving parts of the unit during movement from the factory to your kitchen. The compressor, which is the heart of the system, is suspended inside the housing on shock-absorbing springs to dampen vibrations during operation. Transport bolts This unit is rigidly fixed, preventing it from dangling, but if they are not removed, the compressor will not be able to function normally, which will lead to rapid wear or destruction of the fasteners.
The dismantling process usually does not require calling a specialist or special skills, but it does require attentiveness and a minimum set of tools. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances of the procedure, consider the differences between models of different brands and answer frequently asked questions so that you can be confident in the correct installation of your equipment.
Why are locking elements needed during transportation
The main task of transport packaging and locking elements is to maintain the integrity of the internal mechanisms under conditions of shaking and shock. During loading, unloading and driving on rough roads, the compressor, which weighs quite a lot, could easily damage the tubes or come off the frame without being firmly secured. It is the bolts that take on the entire mechanical load, leaving the internal suspension alone.
The design of most modern refrigerators means that the motor vibrates during operation. If the bolts are left tightened, the vibration will be transmitted directly to the housing, causing a lot of noise. Moreover, without the possibility of free movement, the springs will not be able to perform their shock-absorbing function, which will lead to premature failure of the compressor suspension.
Some users think that if the refrigerator is quietly standing in the store, then it will be the same at home. However, on the sales floor, equipment is often fixed or simply not connected to the network. Once turned on, the difference between a bolted unit and a freed unit becomes obvious literally from the first seconds.
- 🔩 Rigid fixation prevents the heavy motor from moving due to shocks during delivery.
- 🛡️ Protects tubes and condenser from rupture or deformation when shaking.
- 🔇 Reduced risk damage to internal wiring and electronic components.
- 📦 Ensuring the integrity of packaging for storage in a warehouse.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
Before starting dismantling, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and tools. You don't need a complex professional set; usually what's in every home is enough. The main thing is to provide yourself with convenient access to the rear wall of the unit, since this is where the fixing elements are located.
Move the refrigerator away from the wall at a sufficient distance so that you can freely walk around it. Make sure that the floor under your feet is dry and not slippery, and that the equipment is stable under your back. If the floor is slippery, place cardboard or rubber mats under the feet to avoid accidental shifting when applying force.
For work you will need open-end wrench or a head of the appropriate size. The most commonly used sizes are 10, 11, 12 or 13 mm, but in some models, for example Liebherr or Bosch, other options may be found. A flathead screwdriver may also be useful if the plastic plugs are very tight.
☑️ Ready for dismantling
Step-by-step instructions for removing fasteners
The process of removing clamps looks standard for most models, but requires a sequence of actions. First you need to remove the decorative plastic plugs, if any, on the rear panel. They can be round or rectangular and are simply pulled out with your fingers or carefully pryed off with a flat screwdriver.
After removing the plugs, access to the metal bolts will open. Take the key and start unscrewing them counterclockwise. There is no need to apply excessive force; if the threads are not stuck, they should go smoothly. Unscrew the bolts completely and set them aside.
It is important not to forget about the plastic bushings, which often remain inside the case after unscrewing the bolts. They must be carefully removed by pulling them towards you. If the bushing is tight, you can help yourself with pliers, but be careful not to damage the housing.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave plastic bushings inside the housing! Even if the bolt is unscrewed, the presence of a sleeve may indicate that the system is not completely freed, although the main retainer is a metal rod.
After all elements are removed, the holes must be closed with decorative plugs, which are usually included in the kit or are already installed in special grooves on the panel. This is necessary to maintain an aesthetic appearance and protect the internal parts from dust.
What to do if the bolt is rusty or does not spin?
If the bolt does not give way, do not use force so as not to tear off the edges. Try adding a little penetrating lubricant (like WD-40) and wait 10-15 minutes. You can also try to slightly heat the area around the bolt with a hairdryer, but be careful with the plastic parts of the case.
Table of sizes and locations by brand
The location and size of fasteners may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific series of the refrigerator. Below is background information to help you navigate, but it is always better to check the technical documentation of your model.
| Brand | Number of bolts | Location | Type of plugs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indesit | 2-4 pcs. | Upper and lower parts of the rear wall | Round plastic |
| LG | 2 pcs. | Lower part, on the sides of the compressor | Rectangular |
| Samsung | 2 pcs. | Symmetrically on the sides of the compressor | Round, colored |
| Beko | 2-4 pcs. | Top crossbar and bottom | Round black |
| Atlant | 2 pcs. | The lower part of the back panel | Plastic covers |
It is worth noting that in some premium models or built-in refrigerators, the design may be hidden by decorative panels. In such cases, first remove the rear metal cover covering the compressor compartment, and only then dismantle it.
What are the consequences of ignoring the dismantling procedure
Many users underestimate the importance of removing transport bolts, considering it a formality. However, the consequences of operating a refrigerator with a jammed compressor can be catastrophic. The first and most noticeable sign of a problem will beexcessive noise vibration, which will increase over time.
During operation, the compressor tries to vibrate, but tightly clamped with bolts, it transfers all the energy to the body and frame. This leads to rapid wear of rubber shock absorbers, which can simply burst or become deformed. As a result, the compressor will begin to hit the walls of the housing, which can damage the copper tubes of the refrigerant circulation system.
⚠️ Attention: Operating the refrigerator with the transport bolts not removed may lead to depressurization of the cooling system. Repair in this case will be difficult, expensive and often economically unfeasible.
In addition to mechanical damage, the load on the compressor electric motor increases. He has to work in abnormal mode, overcoming the resistance of rigid fixation. This can cause overheating of the windings, activation of the protective relay and, ultimately, combustion of the motor. Warranty in such cases it often does not work, as this is considered a violation of operating rules.
- 🔊 Constant loud hum and rattling when work.
- 💥 Risk of pipe breakage and freon leakage.
- 🔥 Overheating and failure of the compressor.
- ❌ Refusal of warranty service by the manufacturer.
Disposal and storage of dismantled parts
After successful dismantling, you will be left with metal bolts, nuts and plastic bushings. It is not recommended to throw them away immediately. If you move or need to transport the refrigerator (for example, when renovating an apartment), you will need to secure the compressor again.
Place all the parts in a bag and put them in a box with documents or attach with tape to the back wall of the refrigerator (on the inside, if there is space, or in a drawer for vegetables). Some manufacturers even provide special pockets or mounts on the case for storing these elements.
If you plan to store the parts separately, sign the package indicating the model of the refrigerator. This will help in a few years to remember what equipment these bolts came from, especially if you have several pieces of household appliances. Preserving the original packaging will also make future transportation easier.
Is it possible to ride on a refrigerator without bolts?
It is strictly not recommended. Even over short distances, vibration can damage the compressor. If the bolts are lost, use thick pieces of foam rubber or foam to fix the motor, but this is only a temporary solution.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I turned on the refrigerator without removing the bolts?
Immediately unplug the unit. Let it stand turned off for a while, then carefully remove the shipping elements according to the instructions. After this, wait another 2-4 hours before turning it on again, so that the oil in the compressor is distributed correctly if it has already started working.
Where are the transport bolts in No Frost refrigerators?
In systems No Frost the bolts are usually located in the same place as in conventional models - on the back wall in the area of the compressor. However, due to a more complex ventilation system, there may be more panels at the back. Carefully inspect the perimeter of the rear part, look for symmetrical holes or plastic plugs.
Do you need to lubricate the bolts before storage?
It is not necessary to specially lubricate them, but if you live in a humid climate, you can lightly wipe the metal part with oil to avoid corrosion during long-term storage. The main thing is that there is no dirt or sand on the threads.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator lying down without bolts?
Transporting it lying down without a fixed compressor is extremely undesirable. The motor may become dislodged and damage the tubes. If the bolts are lost, it is better to transport the equipment while standing or find ways to fix the motor, for example, using wooden blocks and soft upholstery, tightly holding the compressor in a niche.
How many bolts usually need to be removed?
In the vast majority of cases, there are two or four. Models with one or three bolts are rare. Count the holes on the back panel: if you unscrewed two bolts and the holes remain, check whether the remaining holes are part of the frame structure, and not places for transportation clamps.