Moving to a new apartment or replacing old household appliances with a more modern model is almost always associated with logistical difficulties, including transportation of large-sized devices takes first place. The question of which side to place the refrigerator during transportation becomes critically important, since the further performance of this expensive unit depends on the correct performance of this action. Compressor, which is the heart of the cooling system, is extremely sensitive to incorrect positioning, and ignoring transportation rules can lead to failure of the entire refrigeration unit.
Many owners mistakenly believe that modern equipment is so reliable that it can be transported in any position, as long as the glass shelf does not break. However, the physics of the operation of the refrigeration circuit dictates its own strict conditions: the oil in the compressor must remain in the crankcase, and the refrigerant must not flow into areas of the tubes that are not intended for this purpose. Violation of these conditions is fraught with water hammer during the first start-up or blockage of the capillary system.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the nuances of transportation, explain the difference between transportation on different sides and provide a clear algorithm of actions to minimize risks. You will learn why manufacturers often recommend vertical transportation, but in what cases tilting is acceptable, and what is strictly prohibited from doing with the device while moving. Proper preparation and knowledge of technical nuances will save you money on repairs and nerves.
Why do manufacturers recommend vertical transportation
The ideal scenario for any manufacturer of household appliances is to transport the refrigerator exclusively in a vertical position. This requirement is dictated by the design features compressor of the entire closed refrigerant circulation system. In normal operation, the compressor is suspended on springs inside the casing, and its correct position ensures uniform load distribution and effective lubrication of rubbing parts with oil.
During vertical transportation, the risk of displacement of internal components is minimal. The oil remains in the engine crankcase, and freon is distributed throughout the system according to the laws of physics, without creating plugs in the condenser or evaporator. In addition, the vertical position allows you to securely fix the doors and moving elements, preventing them from opening and damaging the hinges during shaking in the truck bed.
⚠️ Attention: Even during vertical transportation, the tilt angle of the body should not exceed 40 degrees. Exceeding this angle is equivalent to transportation in a lying position with all the ensuing consequences for the compressor.
However, the realities of life often make their own adjustments: the dimensions of the elevator, narrow doorways or the low ceiling of the cargo compartment can make vertical loading physically impossible. It is in such situations that the question arises about the permissibility of tilting or laying the unit on its side. Understanding the reasons why vertical is so important helps you understand the risks you take when choosing horizontal transportation.
Which side is safe to transport on: risk analysis
If vertical transportation is excluded, you have to put the refrigerator on its side. Here the main rule comes into force, which is often ignored: you can only place it on one specific side, and it is absolutely forbidden to confuse the parties. For most refrigerator models (Indesit, LG, Samsung, Bosch), the safe side is the right side, when looking at the device from the front, from the door.
Why the right side? The design of the compressor unit for most manufacturers is made in such a way that the tubes coming out of the motor are directed upward or in the direction opposite to the left wall. When laid on the right side, gravity allows oil to flow to the bottom of the compressor (sump) but does not flow into the refrigerant circuit. In this case, the tubes are on top, which prevents liquid from flowing into the system.
If you place the refrigerator on its left side, the situation becomes critical. The oil flows by gravity into the circuit, filling the capillary tube and evaporator. Upon subsequent startup, the compressor will try to push through this oil plug, which will lead to operation at maximum load, overheating and, with a high degree of probability, death. Repair in this case will be expensive and difficult. water hammer. Repairs in this case will be expensive and difficult.
There are rare exceptions, depending on the design of a particular model. Some manufacturers may position the output line differently. Therefore, there is no universal answer “always to the right”, although it is correct in 95% of cases. Always check the documentation, where it is written in black and white that contact with the surface is allowed. which side contact with the surface is allowed.
Preparing the refrigerator for moving: a step-by-step algorithm
Successful transportation begins long before you pick up the cargo belt. High-quality preparation reduces the risk of mechanical damage and internal breakdowns by an order of magnitude. Ignoring the preparatory stage can negate all efforts to correctly select the side for installation.
The first and most important step is complete defrosting. The refrigerator must remain unplugged with the doors open for at least 24 hours (for models with No Frost, 10-12 hours is enough). This is necessary so that all the ice melts and the water evaporates. Residual moisture inside the case with a sharp tilt can get on the electrical contacts, causing a short circuit.
☑️ Checklist for preparation for transportation
After defrosting it is necessary fix all moving elements. Remove all shelves, drawers and containers. If it is impossible to remove (for example, glass shelves with latches), secure them tightly with masking or packing tape, after laying soft cloth or foam. The doors of the refrigerator and freezer must also be securely fixed so that they do not swing open during travel and do not deform the hinges.
The packaging of the case is protection against scratches and dents. It is ideal to use the original cardboard box with foam inserts. If the box is lost, wrap the case with several layers of stretch film, and then with a thick blanket or special soft pads. Corners require special attention, as they take the brunt of inaccurate loading.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use regular office tape to secure the doors - it can leave sticky marks or damage the paintwork. Use only masking tape or soft belts.
Technique for laying and fixing in a vehicle
The loading process requires the participation of at least two people, even if the refrigerator seems light. Sharp jerks and impacts on door frames are unacceptable. The unit should be laid on a previously prepared surface. If you are transporting a refrigerator in the back of a Gazelle or a van, the floor must be flat and clean.
You must place thick cardboard, foam plastic, or an old blanket under the refrigerator. This will create a shock-absorbing cushion that will dampen vibration of the wheels. Vibration is the main enemy during horizontal transportation, as it promotes more active movement of oil inside the compressor, even if the unit lies on the “correct” side.
| Element | Risk due to improper fixation | Recommended solution |
|---|---|---|
| Doors | Opening, deformation of hinges, impacts on the side | Wrapping with stretch film in 3-4 layers, fastening belts |
| Compressor | Separation of springs, displacement of the housing | Soft substrate underneath, no shocks during loading |
| Housing | Dents, scratches, chips paint | Packaging in cardboard, bubble wrap, blankets |
| Position in the body | Load shifting, falling, tipping over | Rigid fixation with stops, no other heavy objects on top |
After laying it on its side, the refrigerator must be firmly fixed. It should not be able to move even a couple of centimeters. Use block supports, sandbags, or special straps. It is strictly forbidden to place other heavy items, tool boxes or furniture on the refrigerator. Pressure from above can deform the thin metal of the case or damage the capacitor on the back wall.
What to do if you have to carry it on the left side?
If the design of your refrigerator allows for laying only on the left side (which is rare, for example, in some Indesit models with a special arrangement of tubes), check this according to the instructions. If you are forced to break the "right side" rule due to lack of space, the risk of compressor failure increases to 80%. In this case, the settling time before turning on should be increased to 24-48 hours so that the oil flows back into the crankcase as much as possible, although this does not give guarantees.
Features of transportation of different types of refrigerators
Not all refrigerators are the same, and the approach to their transportation may vary depending on the type of defrosting system and year of manufacture. Old Soviet models, such as ZIL or Biryusa early series, had more massive compressors and thick walls, which made them somewhat more resistant to shaking, but extremely sensitive to shock due to the use of low quality steel.
Modern models with the system No Frost have a more complex system of air ducts and fans inside the case. During horizontal transportation, plastic elements of the air ducts may not support the weight of the unit itself and may become deformed or crack. Therefore, for No Frost refrigerators, vertical transportation is preferable to an even greater extent than for drip systems.
Built-in refrigerators require a special approach. They cannot be transported assembled with the kitchen set. The device must be removed from the niche, all decorative facades removed and transported as a regular free-standing unit. An attempt to transport a built-in refrigerator fixed in a cabinet will lead to broken facade hinges and damage to the walls of the refrigerator itself due to different coefficients of expansion of materials.
Two-compressor models (a separate motor for the refrigerator and a separate one for the freezer) are theoretically twice as vulnerable. It is important here that both compressors are in a safe position. Typically, the design of such models also involves laying them on the right side, but double-checking the instructions for a specific brand (for example, Liebherr or Siemens) is mandatory.
How long should the refrigerator stand after transportation
After the refrigerator is delivered to its destination, it is installed on a level surface and freed from packaging, the most important stage begins - rest time. Many people make the fatal mistake of plugging the device into the network right away. This should not be done under any circumstances.
The time that the refrigerator should stand before being turned on for the first time directly depends on the position in which it was transported and what the ambient temperature was:
- ❄️ If the transportation was vertical: 2-4 hours are enough to stabilize the temperature and calm the refrigerant.
- 🛌 If the transportation was horizontal (on its side): the minimum settling time is 8 hours, and better - 12 hours.
- 🌨️ If the transportation was carried out in winter at negative temperatures: the settling time increases to 24 hours so that the device warms up to room temperature and the condensation on the contacts completely evaporates.
Why so long? Any oil that enters the circuit must drain completely back into the compressor under the influence of gravity. If you start the engine ahead of time, the oil in the system will create a plug. The compressor will start running “dry” or trying to compress an incompressible liquid, which will lead to jamming of the piston group.
It is also important to let the electronics warm up. Sudden temperature changes can cause condensation to form on the control board. Turning on wet electronics is guaranteed to cause a short circuit. Therefore, if you bring the refrigerator from cold to warm, do not touch it and do not open the doors until the acclimatization time has expired.
Common mistakes and myths during transportation
There are many myths around the transportation of refrigerators that can cost you money. One of the most common myths is: “If you drive slowly and carefully, you can do it in any position.” This is not true. The speed of movement does not change the physics of oil flowing out of the compressor at an incorrect angle of inclination.
Another mistake is using a loading trolley without fixation. When one person pulls the cart and another holds the refrigerator from behind, misalignment often occurs. The unit may hit the threshold or step at an angle. Hitting the compressor on a hard surface while the engine is running (or just running) can break the internal springs of the motor suspension.
⚠️ Attention: Never grab door handles or plastic elements when lifting the refrigerator. This will cause them to break away. You can only lift it by the bottom or by special technological protrusions on the back wall (if they are provided for in the design).
Some people believe that if the refrigerator is old, then “it doesn’t care anymore.” On the contrary, older compressors have more wear and tear, and their mechanisms are less resistant to water hammer than modern high-efficiency inverter motors. Careful transportation extends the life of any equipment, regardless of the year of manufacture.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator inside a passenger car?
Technically, it is possible if you remove the back seat and put the unit on the floor. However, this is extremely risky due to limited space and the inability to ensure proper fixation. In addition, there is a high risk of damaging the car interior. It is better to use a roof with a reliable fastening or order a cargo taxi.
What to do if the refrigerator is turned on immediately after transportation and it does not cool?
Urgently unplug it! Let stand for at least 24 hours in an upright position. If after this, when turned on, the compressor hums, but there is no cold, or gurgling sounds are heard, a water hammer or blockage may have occurred. You will need to call a technician to purge the system and change the oil.
Is transportation in rain or snow dangerous?
Moisture itself is not harmful to the housing, but water getting into the electrical compartment of the compressor or onto the rear grille is dangerous. Be sure to cover the refrigerator with a waterproof film or tarpaulin while driving, even if the body is closed, since when the sides are opened, moisture can get inside.
Do you need to remove the compressor during transportation?
No, it is strictly prohibited to remove the compressor yourself. This requires special equipment for pumping out freon, welding pipes and evacuating the system. Any attempt at independent dismantling will lead to depressurization of the circuit and leakage of refrigerant, which will make repairs economically unfeasible.
Is it possible to place the refrigerator on the freezer compartment (on its “back”)?
Absolutely not. On the rear wall there is a condenser (grid) and often the compressor itself. Laying it on the back is guaranteed to lead to deformation of the condenser tubes, separation of the compressor from its mounts and damage to the insulation. This is the most dangerous method of transportation.