Transportation of large household appliances, such as refrigerator, on commercial vehicles like Gazelle requires not only physical strength, but also strict adherence to technical regulations. Device safety during transportation directly affects its further performance and service life of the compressor. Errors during the loading stage or incorrect activation immediately after arrival can lead to expensive repairs.
Many owners make a critical mistake by trying to start the unit immediately after unloading body Refrigerant and compressor oil move through the system during shaking and tilting, and they need time to return to their standard tanks. Ignoring this rule often becomes the cause of water hammer, which puts expensive equipment out of action.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions: from choosing the correct position when loading into Gazelle until the first connection to the network. Compliance with timeout before starting - this is not just a recommendation, but a necessity dictated by the physics of the refrigeration machine. Let's look at all the stages in detail so that your equipment lasts a long time.
Rules for transportation in the back of a Gazelle
The main question that arises when ordering GazellesRegarding the position of the refrigerator: can it be carried lying down or strictly vertically? The ideal option is always vertical transportation. In this position, the compressor springs do not experience excess pressure, and the oil remains in the crankcase, where it should be.
However, the dimensions of the body Gazelle or the height of the doorways often dictate their conditions, forcing equipment to be laid horizontally. If vertical transportation is not possible, tilting or "on its side" position is allowed, but subject to strict restrictions on angle and side. Critical Do not place the refrigerator on the back wall or on the door, as this may damage the heat exchanger or handles.
⚠️ Attention: When transporting in Gazelles the tilt of the body should not exceed 40 degrees. If the equipment is placed more strongly, oil may flow into the refrigerant circuit, which will lead to clogging of the capillary tube during the first start.
For reliable fixation in the body, use soft gaskets and belts to prevent the load from shifting while driving on uneven roads. Vibration When driving at empty or full speed, it can damage the internal fastenings of the shelves and the compressor if it is not firmly secured.
Preparation for the first turn on after delivery
After Gazelle arrived at the destination and the loaders brought the equipment into the room, it begins preparation stage. Don't rush to look for an outlet. The first step is to carry out visual inspection the housing for dents, chips or damage that could have occurred along the way.
Remove all shipping elements: tape, foam pads between the doors and shelves, as well as protective film. Internal shelves and the drawers must be installed in their regular places, but not tightly fixed, so that the glass can adapt to temperature expansion.
☑️ Check before turning on
Pay special attention to the installation location. Refrigerator should not stand close to the wall or furniture. Ventilation gaps the back and sides (usually 5-10 cm) are necessary to remove heat from the condenser. If you ignore this rule, the compressor will work for wear, trying to gain temperature, which will lead to overheating.
Settlement time: after how long can you turn it on
The most important parameter that is forgotten after active unloading from Gazelleis the holding time. Compressor oil is a viscous substance that, when shaking and tilting, spreads through the pipeline system. It takes time to drain back into the compressor crankcase, depending on the ambient temperature and the transportation position.
If the refrigerator was transported vertically, the minimum settling time is 2-3 hours. This is enough for the pressure to stabilize and the oil to settle. However, if Gazelle was shaking on a bad road, it is better to increase this interval to 4 hours for complete confidence.
| Position during transportation | Summer period (>20°C) | Winter period (<10°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical | 2-3 hours | 4-5 hours |
| Inclined up to 40° | 4-6 hours | 8-10 hours |
| Horizontally (on the side) | 8-12 hours | 12-24 hours |
In winter, especially if the equipment was transported to in an unheated body Gazelle at sub-zero temperatures, the settling time increases. Cold oil becomes thicker and drains more slowly. In addition, abruptly starting a cold compressor can lead to cracking of the tubes due to temperature changes.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is brought in from frost, let it warm up to room temperature for at least 4-5 hours before turning on. Condensation inside the electrical circuit can cause a short circuit.
Algorithm for the first start of the refrigerator
When the holding time has expired, you can proceed to the first start. Connect the power cord to a separate outlet with grounding Using extension cords or tees when first turned on, it is not advisable, since the starting current of the compressor is high, and poor contact can cause sparking or heating.
After connecting to the network, you will hear a characteristic startup sound motor. Refrigerator will start working, and after 10-15 minutes the side walls (if it is a No Frost model or with a hidden capacitor) should begin to heat up slightly. This is a normal sign of operation condenser.
Why does the refrigerator hum after turning on?
Humming in the first minutes of operation is normal. The compressor runs at full power to cool the empty chamber. Also, sound can be made by the refrigerant passing through the pipes (gurgling). If the sound is not grinding or knocking, but a steady hum, the equipment is working properly.
Do not load products right away. Allow the empty chamber to idle for 2-3 hours until it reaches the set temperature. Only after this can you place products, starting with those that require the least cold.
Setting temperature modes
Modern models refrigerators are equipped with electronic or mechanical controls. After the first launch, you must set the correct parameters. For mechanical regulators, the optimal position is the average value or number 2 - 3 out of five possible ones.
In models with a system No Frost and electronic display, it is recommended to immediately set standard values: +4°C for the refrigerator compartment and -18°C for the freezer. Accurate calibration important for the correct operation of the sensors and saving energy.
If after 5-6 hours of operation the temperature inside has not dropped to a comfortable level, check the tightness of the door seals. Leakage may be a consequence of improper transportation, when the door was fixed too tightly or, conversely, dangled.
Diagnostics of possible problems after transportation
Even with careful loading into Gazelle nuances may arise. If, after the standstill time has expired, the refrigerator turns on, works for 10 minutes and turns off, but the cold does not come out, this is an alarming signal. Perhaps there was oil injection airing or airing in the system.
Pay attention to the noise. If, instead of a smooth hum, you hear a metallic knock, grinding or loud gurgling that turns into vibration of the case, immediately unplug the device. Extraneous sounds Often indicate that the compressor has come off the springs or is touching the tubes.
Also worth it check the operation of the defrosting system (if it is automatic). A day after turning it on, look into the drainage hole (usually on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment). It should be dry or with a minimum amount of moisture, but not clogged with ice.
What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after transportation?
If after When plugged in there is silence and there is no light inside, check the socket and the integrity of the cord. If everything is fine electrically, the compressor thermal protection relay may have tripped due to overheating during transportation. Let the equipment stand turned off for another 3-4 hours. If the problem is not solved, you need to call a specialist.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator in a Gazelle with an open side in winter?
Technically it is possible, but it is extremely undesirable. An open side means direct contact with the icy wind. Door seals may become stiff and lose elasticity, and the plastic may become brittle. If there is no other way out, cover the equipment with a warm blanket and transport it very carefully.
Is it necessary to defrost the refrigerator before transportation?
Absolutely. The presence of ice in the freezer or water in the tray when tilting will lead to water leaking into the mechanisms and onto the floor of the body. Complete defrosting and drying of the chambers is a mandatory stage of preparation.
How to understand that oil has entered the system?
Signs of oil getting into the circuit are: the refrigerator operates continuously, without turning off, but there is little or no cold; The condenser (grid at the back) remains cold or heats unevenly. In this case, professional cleaning of the system and oil change are required.
Is a tilt of more than 40 degrees dangerous?
Yes, it is dangerous. At an inclination of more than 40 degrees, oil from the compressor is guaranteed to flow into the heat exchanger. When starting, the compressor will try to compress the liquid (oil), which will lead to water hammer and valve failure. Or the oil will clog the capillary tube, and the refrigerant circulation will stop.