Transporting a refrigerator lying on its side: when can it be done and how to do it correctly

Transporting a refrigerator is a task that requires special care. Even a small mistake can lead to compressor failure, freon leakage, or damage to internal parts. The question is especially relevant when it comes to transportation in a horizontal position: many manufacturers strictly prohibit placing the refrigerator on its side, but in some cases this is unavoidable. For example, when the dimensions of the equipment do not allow it to be placed vertically in the cargo compartment or when moving in a small-sized car.

In this article we will analyze Is it even possible to transport a refrigerator lying down?which models allow this method of transportation and which do not. We'll tell you how to properly prepare equipment for transportation, what precautions to take, and what to do after delivery to avoid damage. You will also find out Which refrigerators with the No Frost system can be transported horizontally without risk, and which ones can only be transported in a strictly vertical position.

Why do manufacturers prohibit transporting a refrigerator lying down?

The main reason is risk damage compressor i oil system. In modern refrigerators, the compressor is filled with special oil, which, when positioned horizontally, can leak out of the working area and enter the refrigerant circuit. This leads to:

• 🔧 Compressor jamming when first turned on (the oil does not have time to return to the crankcase).
• ❄️ Loss of refrigerant due to depressurization of the tubes during vibration.
• 💥 Failure of the starting relayif oil gets into the electrical contacts.
• 🔄 Impairment of the capillary system tubes (in models with a drip system).

In addition, in refrigerators with electronically controlled (for example, Samsung RB37A5200 or LG GA-B489YGLZ) the horizontal position can lead to failure of the temperature sensors or damage to the display. Manufacturers Liebert, Indesit and Atlant directly indicate in the instructions that transporting lying down will void the warranty.

⚠️ Attention: If you are transporting a refrigerator with with an inverter compressor (for example, Mitsubishi Electric MR-CX46N), the risk of breakdown increases by 2–3 times. Such models require mandatory vertical transportation!

Which refrigerators can be transported horizontally?

Not all models are equally sensitive to transportation lying down. Here are the main criteria by which you can determine whether your refrigerator allows this method of transportation:

If the instructions for your model do not directly prohibit horizontal transportation, this does not mean that it can be transported in any way. For example, refrigerators Samsung RT38K6030S9 allow a tilt of up to 40°, but no more than 1 hour. Exceeding this time can lead to failure of the cooling system.

Preparing the refrigerator for transportation lying down: step-by-step instructions

If you decide to transport the refrigerator horizontally, you need to properly prepare it for. 12–24 hours before transportation:

Unplug and defrost (if there is ice)

Remove all products and shelves

Secure the compressor (if there are shipping bolts)

Wrap the door with tape or with a rope

Pack in bubble wrap or cardboard-->

1. Defrosting and cleaning. Turn off the refrigerator, remove all food and wait until it is completely defrosted. Wipe the internal surfaces with a dry cloth - moisture can cause corrosion due to vibration.
2. Fixing the compressor. Some models (for example, Atlant MXM 1708) are provided with shipping bolts that secure the compressor to the frame. If there are none, wrap the compressor with foam rubber or soft cloth.
3. Securing the doors. Use wide tape or shipping straps to prevent the door from opening during transportation. In models with French door (for example, Samsung RF23A9671SG), secure both doors separately.
4. Packaging. Wrap the refrigerator in bubble wrap or thick cardboard, paying special attention to the corners and door. If transporting in the cargo compartment with other items, use wooden blocks for shock absorption.

If the refrigerator is equipped water dispenser (for example, LG Instaview Door-in-Door), drain all the liquid from the system and close the water supply tap. Otherwise, when tilted, water may flood the electronic unit.

How to properly lay out the refrigerator. in the car?

If you transport the refrigerator lying down, it must be placed strictly on the back wall (where the compressor grill is located). Laying it on the side walls or door is strictly prohibited! Here's how to do it correctly:

• 🚛 Use a truck with a flat floor (for example, GAZelle or Ford Transit). You cannot transport a refrigerator lying down in a passenger car - it will not fit in size, and the vibrations will be too strong.
• 🔄 Position “on the back” (compressor up) is allowed only for models with No Frost, but not longer than 2 hours. For drip refrigerators this is deadly!
• 🛠️ Place soft material (blanket, cardboard) under compressor to reduce vibration.
• 🔗 Secure the refrigerator with beltsso that it does not move when braking. Place fabric between the belts and the body so as not to damage the enamel.

If refrigerator double-chamber (for example, Indesit DF 5200 W), place it so that the freezer compartment is on top. This will reduce the risk of damage to the refrigerant pipes, which in such models often run along the back wall of the freezer.

⚠️ Attention: If you are transporting a refrigerator in open body (for example, on GAZ-53 or ZIL-130), cover it with a tarpaulin. Rain or dust can cause corrosion of metal parts within a few hours.

What to do after transportation: how to avoid breakage?

Even if you correctly transported the refrigerator lying down, it cannot be turned on immediately after delivery. Here's what you need to do before turning it on for the first time:

1. Vertical position. Install the refrigerator level and let it settle:
   • ⏳ Drip models — 12 hours.
   • ⏳ No Frost — 4–6 hours.
   • ⏳ Inverter compressors — 24 hours.

This time is needed for the oil to flow back into the compressor.

Checking the fasteners. Make sure that the shipping bolts (if any) have been removed and the compressor is not pinched by the shock absorbers.

Inspect for damage. Check for dents in the refrigerant pipes (especially at the bottom of the rear wall). If they are damaged, you cannot turn on the refrigerator!

First turn on. Connect the refrigerator to the mains and let it run idle for 1-2 hours (without food). If it makes unusual sounds (knocking, humming), immediately turn it off and call a technician.

If after turning on the refrigerator does not cool or an error appears on the display (for example, E1 or OF on models Samsung), this may mean a freon leak or a jammed compressor. In this case do not try to repair it yourself contact the service center.

Common mistakes when transporting a refrigerator lying down

Even experienced movers sometimes make mistakes that lead to equipment breakdown. Here are the most common of them:

• 🚫 Transportation on its side (not on the back wall). This leads to oil displacement in the compressor and piston jamming. It is especially dangerous for models with linear compressor (for example, LG GA-B489YGLZ).
• 🚫 Use of ropes instead of belts. Ropes can slip and the refrigerator will fall. Belts must have a ratcheting mechanism (like in trucks).
• 🚫 Transportation without defrosting. Ice in the freezer during vibration can damage the evaporator, especially in models with No Frost.
• 🚫 Switch on immediately after delivery. Even if the refrigerator was transported vertically, it it takes 2-3 hours to stabilize the oil.
• 🚫 Ignoring transportation bolts. In models Atlant or Stinol the compressor is secured with bolts, which must be tightened before transportation and removed after.

Another typical mistake is transporting the refrigerator in light trailer (for example, on Lada Largus or Renault DusterSuch trailers are not designed for the weight of the refrigerator (from 50 kg) and). can break on bumps. In addition, vibrations in the trailer are 2 times stronger than in the cargo compartment.

What happens if you transport the refrigerator to side?

If the refrigerator was transported on its side (not on the back wall), oil from the compressor will enter the refrigerant circuit. When turned on for the first time, this will lead to water hammer - the compressor will try to compress the incompressible liquid (oil), which will cause its instant failure. In 80% of cases, such a compressor cannot be repaired, only replaced (cost - from 8). 000 to 20,000 rubles).

Alternative methods of transportation: when lying down is not possible

If your refrigerator does not allow horizontal transportation (for example, models with inverter compressor or glass shelves), consider alternative options:

• 🚚 Renting a truck with a high body. For example, LAWN Next or Mercedes Sprinter allow you to transport the refrigerator vertically.
• 📦 Use of special transport covers. They protect equipment from impacts and allow you to fix it in a vertical position.
• 🔄 Transportation in a semi-lying position (at an angle of 30–45°). Suitable for models with No Frostif it is not possible to transport strictly vertically.
• 💰 Call professional movers. Companies specializing in moving have equipment for safe transportation (for example, trolleys with locks).

If the refrigerator is built-in (for example, Bosch KIV38X20), it cannot be transported separately from the furniture module. In this case, you will have to dismantle the entire kitchen section or use special shipping boxes.

⚠️ Attention: Details of transportation may depend on the rules of the carrier or equipment lessor. For example, some rental companies (for example, Eldorado) prohibit horizontal transportation even for models with No Frost. Check the conditions in the rental agreement or warranty card.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transporting a refrigerator lying down

Is it possible to transport a refrigerator No Frost on its side if it is new and not yet turned on?

No, even a new refrigerator with No Frost cannot be transported on its side. The compressor is already filled with oil, and in a horizontal position it can get into the refrigerant circuit. The exception is industrial models designed for such loads.

How long can you transport a refrigerator lying down without risk. breakdown?

The maximum time depends on the type of compressor:

• Drip models —no more than 1 hour.
• No Frost —up to 2–3 hours (only on the back wall).
• Inverter — 0 minutes (vertical only).

Exceeding this time leads to a guaranteed breakdown.

What to do if the refrigerator does not turn on after being transported lying down?

Most likely it happened water hammer of the compressor (oil got into the refrigerant system). Do not try to turn it on again - this may lead to a short circuit. Disconnect from the network and call a technician for diagnostics. In 90% of cases, the compressor will need to be replaced.

Is it possible to transport the refrigerator in passenger car (for example, in UAZ Patriot or Niva)?

No, even if you fold down the rear seats, the refrigerator cannot be transported safely. In passenger car:

• No reliable fixation (belts, fastenings).
• Vibrations are 3-4 times stronger than in the cargo compartment.
• Risk of damage to the interior (scratches, dents).

Use only freight transport.

How to understand that the refrigerator was damaged during transportation?

Signs of damage after improper transportation:

• Compressor buzzes, but does not start (jammed piston).
• There is an error on the display E1, OF or F2.
• The refrigerator does not cool, but the light inside is on.
• Appeared loud noise (knocking, grinding) during operation.
• On the back wall you can see oil stains (oil leak).

If any of these signs occur, immediately turn off the equipment and contact service.