After delivery of new household appliances or moving For another apartment, owners often have questions about how to properly start the unit. Rushing in this matter can be costly, because compressor is the heart of the device, sensitive to any violations of operating rules. Incorrect actions in the first hours can lead to serious damage that will not be covered by the warranty.
The main reason for the need for rest lies in the physics of the cooling system. During transportation, especially if the equipment was tilted or shaken, refrigerant and compressor oil could move into contours where they should not be. If you turn on the unit immediately, the oil will enter the capillary tube, creating a plug, which will lead to overheating of the motor and failure of the entire system.
The time that must be waited depends on several factors, including the season of the year and the method of transportation. The minimum waiting time for vertical transportation in summer is 2 hours, and in winter - at least 4 hours. Ignoring these time frames jeopardizes the durability of expensive equipment.
Why you can’t turn on the refrigerator right away
Physical processes occurring inside the sealed circuit during shaking, require time to stabilize. The oil, which is normally located in the compressor crankcase, spreads through the evaporator and condenser tubes under the influence of inertia and gravity. If you start the engine before the fluid returns to its original position, it will run “dry” or try to push the hydraulic plug.
This leads to a critical increase in pressure and temperature. Piston group experiences colossal loads, which can cause parts to jam. In addition, the oil in the heat exchanger reduces the efficiency of heat transfer, which is why the unit will operate continuously, trying to reach the set temperature, which will quickly deplete the engine's life.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to start the unit ahead of time can lead to ruptured tubes or breakdown of the insulation of the motor windings. Repair in this case is often not economically feasible.
It is also worth considering that with a sharp temperature change (for example, bringing in from the cold) condensationis formed on the internal electronic boards and contacts. Moisture is a conductor and can cause a short circuit when electricity is applied. Therefore, temperature adaptation is no less important than oil drainage.
What happens to freon when shaking?
Freon is in a closed circuit under pressure. When shaking, it does not evaporate if the integrity of the tubes is not broken. However, it can mix with oil to form an emulsion that is less able to circulate and transfer heat. Sludge helps the gas and oil to separate back into fractions.
Factors influencing settling time
There is no single figure that fits all cases. The waiting time depends on the type of refrigerant, the design of the compressor and, most importantly, the ambient temperature. In winter, oil viscosity processes slow down and it takes longer for it to drain back into the crankcase.
The method of transportation also plays a key role. If the equipment was transported strictly vertically, the risks are minimal. However, during inclined transportation, when the angle exceeded 40 degrees, oil is guaranteed to flow into the evaporator circuit. In such cases exposure time should be maximum.
- 🌡️ Temperature: in the cold, the oil thickens and drains more slowly, requiring double rest time.
- 🚚 Position: vertical transportation safer, but even this requires a short rest for the equipment.
- ⏳ Duration of journey: After a long journey on bad roads, vibration mixes the working fluids more strongly.
Differences for different types of refrigerators
The modern market offers various cooling technologies, and each has its own nuances. Older models with conventional compressors are more demanding on the quality of the oil and its presence in the crankcase. New inverter models may have a more complex position-sensitive lubrication system.
Units with the system No Frost have a more complex system of air ducts and evaporators hidden behind plastic panels. If oil gets into this system, it can not only damage the compressor, but also clog the condensate drainage channels, which will lead to the formation of ice plugs and leaks inside the chamber.
| Type of equipment | Summer period (warm) | Winter period (cold) | After transportation lying down |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-compressor | 2–3 hours | 4–6 hours | 8–12 hours |
| Double-compressor | 3–4 hours | 6–8 hours | 12+ hours |
| Inverter | 2–3 hours | 4 hours | 8 hours |
| No Frost | 3–4 hours | 6 hours | 10 hours |
Two-compressor systems, where one motor is responsible for the freezer and the other for the refrigerator, require special attention. It is important here that the oil flows into both compressors. If one of them is without lubrication, it will burn out almost instantly after switching on.
Specifics of winter transportation
Winter dictates its own harsh conditions. When you bring a cold unit into a warm room, moisture from the air begins to actively appear on its surface and inside. This process is called condensation. Water may get on the electrical contacts of the thermostat or control board.
In addition, compressor oil at low temperatures it becomes thick, like tar. It takes much longer to warm up and drain into the desired zone. If you turn on such a refrigerator, the thick lubricant will not have time to cover the rubbing parts, which will lead to their accelerated wear.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to speed up the heating process using heaters or hair dryers. A sharp temperature change can deform plastic elements and break the tightness of soldering tubes.
The optimal strategy in winter is to let the equipment stand in the off state for at least 4-6 hours, and it is better to leave it overnight. This ensures that not only the oil returns to the crankcase, but also all internal components warm up to room temperature, evaporating the condensation.
Instructions: how to properly start the equipment
After the required time has passed, you cannot simply plug the plug into the socket and fill the chambers with food. There is a correct algorithm of actions that will help extend the life of the device. First, you need to conduct a visual inspection for external damage that may have occurred during delivery.
Then you should wipe the internal chambers with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove factory dust and plastic odors. The doors should be open during this process for ventilation. Only after complete drying can you begin the electric start.
☑️ Check before starting
Plug the unit into the network without loading products. Let it run idle for at least 1-2 hours. During this time, it should enter operating mode and turn off (or switch to temperature maintenance mode). Only after hearing the characteristic click of the compressor turning off, you can begin to gradually load the products.
Typical mistakes when turning on for the first time
The most common mistake is ignoring the manufacturer’s instructions. Many users believe that modern technologies allow you to turn on the equipment right away, but physics remains physics. Another mistake is installing the device close to a wall or furniture, which interferes with the air circulation around the condenser.
People often forget to remove shipping bolts or fastening tapes if they are on interior shelves or drawers. This may cause the plastic parts to break due to vibration. Also, do not immediately set the minimum temperature, forcing the motor to work at its limit.
- 🔌 Use of extension cords: connection through long or low-quality extension cords can cause a voltage drop, which is harmful to the engine.
- 📦 Loading with warm products: placement of a large volume of warm food upsets the temperature balance and overloads the system.
- 🧊 Ignoring the level: installation on an uneven floor will cause increased noise and vibration, as well as problems with oil outflow.
⚠️ Attention: If after starting you hear an unusual knocking, hum or gurgling sound that does not stop after 15 minutes, immediately disconnect the device from the network and contact the service center.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to transport the refrigerator lying down?
Technically it is possible, but it is highly undesirable. When transporting lying down, the risk of oil leaking into the evaporator circuit is almost 100%. If there is no other choice, after delivery, such equipment should be allowed to stand upright for at least 12–24 hours before turning it on.
What should I do if I turned on the refrigerator right away?
If a little time has passed and the device is working normally, you may be in luck. However, if you hear strange sounds or the compressor does not turn off, it is better to turn off the unit, let it stand for several hours and try to start it again. If signs of malfunction appear, call a specialist.
Do you need to remove the packaging before settling?
Yes, the cardboard and film must be removed immediately. They interfere with normal air circulation around the case, which is necessary to equalize the temperature. In addition, packaging materials can hide damage received during delivery.
Does the brand of the refrigerator affect the standing time?
The principle of operation is similar for all, but the design features may differ. For example, in some models Indesit or Atlant compressors are more sensitive to oil than in some industrial models. Always check the passport of a specific device.