Moving or purchasing new household appliances is always associated with logistics issues, among which the most critical is becoming a way to deliver large-sized devices. Owners of Belarusian equipment often wonder which way to transport the refrigerator Atlantto avoid damaging expensive equipment and voiding the warranty. Improper transportation can lead to failure of the compressor, deformation of the housing or damage to the integrity of the refrigerant pipes.
There is a common misconception that modern models are so durable that they can be transported in any way as long as the glass is not broken. However, the internal structure, including motor-compressor and the oil circulation system, requires strict adherence to the rules of tilting and fixing. Ignoring the manufacturer's recommendations often becomes the reason for expensive repairs in the first months of operation.
In this article we will analyze in detail the technical nuances, determine the permissible angles of inclination and find out why the settling time before turning on is so important for the durability of your unit. Proper preparation for moving will save your nerves and budget.
Design features of Atlant refrigerators during transportation
Brand refrigerators Atlant are equipped with compressors of various designs, and it is the type of engine that dictates the basic rules of transportation. Most modern models use compressors with internal suspension, which are less sensitive to vibrations, but extremely susceptible to shocks and sharp tilts. Oil system The inside of the motor is designed so that, with a strong roll, oil can flow into the refrigerant circuit.
If you are planning transportation, it is important to consider the weight and dimensions of the device. Tall models of two-chamber refrigerators create a large windage and center of gravity, which makes them unstable when transported in the back of a truck. Pipelinesconnecting the condenser and evaporator can burst if the case is skewed if it is not securely fixed.
Particular attention should be paid to the system No Frost, if provided in your model. Fans and ducts located inside may become dislodged or broken due to shaking. Therefore rigid fixation contents and external elements are a prerequisite for safe logistics.
⚠️ Attention: When transporting refrigerators with the No Frost system, it is strictly forbidden to shake the unit vigorously, since the plastic elements of the ventilation system can crack even without visible damage body.
Vertical transportation: the optimal and safe option
The manufacturer Atlant recommends transporting refrigerators exclusively in a vertical position. This is due to the fact that in this state all internal components, including compressor suspension and the oil bath, are in their normal operating position. Vertical transportation minimizes the risk of oil leakage into the cooling circuit and mechanical damage.
When installed in a vehicle body, it is necessary to ensure reliable fastening. The unit must not be able to move or fall over while moving. Use straps and supports to secure the body. The doors should be tightly closed and, preferably, additionally sealed with masking tape or secured with shipping straps so that they do not swing open due to vibration.
If you are transporting a refrigerator in an elevator, make sure that its top does not rest against the ceiling or doorway. The angle of inclination during loading should not exceed 40 degrees. Exceeding this angle creates excess pressure on one side of the compressor, which can lead to breakage of the suspension springs.
Transportation in a horizontal position: risks and limitations
Situations often arise when vertical transportation is impossible due to the size of the vehicle. In this case, it is allowed to transport the refrigerator Atlant lying, but in compliance with strict rules. The main condition is that the unit can only be placed on certain sides indicated in the instructions, usually the right side or the back wall (depending on the compressor model).
It is strictly forbidden to place the refrigerator on the door. Door handles and the hinges are not designed to support the weight of the entire body and can come off, deforming metal sheet. It is also dangerous to place the device on the front, as you can damage the control panel or squeeze out the thermal insulation.
When transporting horizontally, the compressor ends up in an unnatural position. Oil from the crankcase may partially flow into the system. To minimize the risks, place a soft but elastic pad (for example, cardboard or polystyrene) under the bottom to dampen vibrations from the road. Coolant pipes On the back wall, when lying down, they become vulnerable to compression, so provide them with protection.
⚠️ Attention: Never transport a refrigerator on your back (back wall down) if tubes or radiator grille protrude from under the compressor - they can burst under the weight of the device.
What happens to the oil when transported lying down?
When positioned horizontally, the oil from the compressor flows into the evaporator circuit. If you immediately turn on the refrigerator, the compressor will try to push liquid (oil and freon), which will cause water hammer. The piston group may jam and the motor may burn out from overload. This is why long periods of storage are required.
Preparing the refrigerator for moving: a step-by-step checklist
Successful transportation depends not only on the installation method, but also on the quality of the preliminary preparation. Ignoring simple steps can cause mold to form inside your refrigerator or the shelves to break. Below is an algorithm of actions that must be performed before loading.
☑️ Preparation for transportation
First of all, you need to defrost the refrigerator. Even if you have a model with No Frost, the condensation inside could freeze or simply accumulate moisture. Unplug the device at least 24 hours before transport. Wipe all internal surfaces with a dry cloth.
It is better to remove all removable elements - glass shelves, plastic containers, egg trays - and transport them separately, wrapped in a soft cloth. If you can't remove them, tape them securely in several places to keep them from wobbling. Glass can crack during vibration even in a fixed state, so additional foam padding will not hurt.
The doors must be tightly closed. Use standard latches, if available, or wrap the case with strong twine, tape, or special straps. Do not overtighten so as not to deform the sealing rubber, but also do not allow play. Seal Must be clean and dry, otherwise it may stick together or become moldy during transportation.
Comparison of transportation methods: table risks
For clarity, let’s compare the main transportation methods and their impact on the state of equipment. The choice of method depends on the distance, type of road and model of your Atlanta.
| Parameter | Vertical | On the side (correct) | On the side (wrong) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Risk of compressor failure | Minimal | Average (requires settling) | High |
| Risk of tube damage | Low | Average | Critical |
| Time before switching on | 2-4 hours | 12-24 hours | Not recommended |
| Preservation of appearance | Good | Depends on packaging | Bad (scratches) |
As can be seen from the table, vertical transportation is the safest. However, if you choose the "on its side" option, it is critical to observe the settling time. Refrigerant and the oil must completely return to the compressor under the influence of gravity.
Dwell time and first start after transportation
After delivering the refrigerator to the site, do not rush to plug it into the network. This is the most common mistake that leads to breakdowns. The time that the unit should stand depends on the ambient temperature and the position in which it was transported.
If transportation was carried out vertically and the temperature outside was above zero, 2-3 hours is enough. If the refrigerator was transported in winter, it needs to warm up to room temperature so that condensation does not form on the internal electrical contacts, which will cause a short circuit. In winter, this process can take up to 4-5 hours.
When transporting lying down, the settling time increases to 12, and in some cases up to 24 hours. This is necessary so that compressor oil the glass flows back into the engine crankcase. An early start will lead to dry operation or an attempt to compress the liquid, which is fatal for the piston group.
⚠️ Attention: Do not check the operation of the refrigerator by turning it on for 5 minutes “just to see.” The compressor should be fully started, but only after the internal fluids have been completely restored.
Before turning on, inspect the housing for dents and check the integrity of the power cord. Make sure the refrigerator is on a level surface and the legs are level. Only after all conditions have been met can you connect the device to the network.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after transportation?
If after 24 hours of storage the refrigerator does not cool, there may be an oil leak into the system or a freon leak. Try letting it sit for another day. If the problem is not solved, call a specialist to purge the system or refill it.
Common mistakes when transporting independently
Even knowing the rules, people often make mistakes, relying on chance. One of these mistakes is transportation in a passenger car. The refrigerator Atlant may not fit diagonally, and it will have to be bent or pressed strongly, which is unacceptable. In addition, exhaust gases and the smell of the interior can be absorbed into plastic elements.
Another mistake is using thin tape to secure the doors. If it vibrates, it may come off, the door will swing open, and the lock mechanism will be disrupted. Use only wide reinforced tape or special belts. It is also dangerous to carry a refrigerator holding only door handles or the bottom plinth - the structure simply will not support the weight.
Remember that saving on the services of loaders or specialized transport can result in the cost of a new compressor, which is often up to 50% of the price of a new refrigerator. Take care of your equipment and follow technical regulations.
Is it possible to transport the Atlant refrigerator at sub-zero temperatures?
You can transport it, but you absolutely cannot turn it on right away. Compressor oil thickens in cold weather, and condensation forms inside the device. After being brought into a warm room, the refrigerator should remain turned off for at least 6-8 hours (preferably a day) to warm up and dry.
Do you need to remove the doors during transportation?
Removing the doors is not recommended, as this violates the geometry of the case and can damage the hinges. It is better to securely secure them in the closed position with tape or straps. Removal is required only if the refrigerator does not fit through the doorway.
What to do if the transport foam is lost during transportation?
The transport foam at the bottom protects the compressor from impacts from below. If it is lost, when transporting vertically, place thick cardboard or soft cloth underneath, but try not to place the refrigerator on sharp corners. When transporting horizontally, the lack of bottom protection is critical - use a thick layer of foam.