Can You Transport A Refrigerator On Its Side? Here’s What The Experts Say

Moving can be a daunting task, and transporting bulky appliances like refrigerators can be particularly challenging. One question that often arises is whether it’s acceptable to transport a refrigerator on its side. This blog post delves into the complexities of this topic, exploring the potential risks and providing guidelines for safe transportation.

The Risks of Transporting a Refrigerator on Its Side

While it may seem convenient to transport a refrigerator on its side, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks involved.

• Compressor Damage: Refrigerators rely on compressors to circulate refrigerant, which is essential for cooling. Transporting the appliance on its side can cause the compressor to shift, resulting in damage to its internal components.
• Oil Leakage: Refrigerant compressors contain oil that lubricates moving parts. Transporting the refrigerator on its side can cause oil to leak out, potentially damaging the compressor.
• Bent Condenser Coils: The condenser coils on the back of the refrigerator help dissipate heat. Transporting the appliance on its side can bend or damage these coils, impairing cooling efficiency.
• Door Misalignment: The doors on a refrigerator are designed to fit snugly when the appliance is upright. Transporting it on its side can cause the doors to shift and become misaligned, affecting their sealing ability.

Guidelines for Safe Transportation

Despite the risks, it may be necessary to transport a refrigerator on its side in certain situations. If so, it’s imperative to follow these guidelines to minimize the chances of damage:

• Secure the Doors: Tape the doors shut to prevent them from swinging open during transport.
• Protect the Compressor: Place a thick layer of foam or cardboard around the compressor to cushion it from shocks.
• Support the Refrigerator: Use straps or ropes to secure the refrigerator to the moving vehicle and prevent it from tipping over.
• Upright Position: Once the refrigerator is at its destination, allow it to sit upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it in. This gives the oil time to settle back into the compressor.

Transporting a Refrigerator with a Side-by-Side Configuration

Side-by-side refrigerators present a unique challenge when it comes to sideway transportation. Due to their dual compressor design, it’s generally not recommended to transport these refrigerators on their sides. However, if it’s unavoidable, follow these additional steps:

• Secure the Compressor: Place a thick layer of foam or cardboard around each compressor to provide ample cushioning.
• Support the Water Dispenser: If the refrigerator has a water dispenser, disconnect the water line and secure the dispenser to prevent damage.

Transporting a Refrigerator with an Ice Maker

Refrigerators with ice makers require special attention during sideway transportation.

• Empty the Ice Maker: Remove all ice from the ice maker and disconnect the water line.
• Secure the Ice Maker: Tape or wrap the ice maker in place to prevent it from moving and damaging internal components.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

If you’re unsure about transporting your refrigerator on its side or encounter any difficulties during the process, it’s highly advisable to seek assistance from a qualified appliance technician. They possess the expertise and tools to handle the appliance safely and minimize the risk of damage.

Wrapping Up

Transporting a refrigerator on its side can be a risky endeavor, but it’s sometimes necessary. By following the guidelines outlined in this blog post, you can increase the chances of a successful move. Remember, if you have any concerns or uncertainties, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional appliance technician.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I transport a refrigerator on its side for a short distance?
A: While not ideal, transporting a refrigerator on its side for a short distance (less than 1 hour) may be acceptable if you follow the safety guidelines mentioned above.

Q: How long should I wait to plug in my refrigerator after transporting it on its side?
A: It’s recommended to wait at least 24 hours before plugging in a refrigerator that has been transported on its side to allow the oil to settle back into the compressor.

Q: Can I transport a refrigerator on its side in a moving truck?
A: It’s not advisable to transport a refrigerator on its side in a moving truck due to the increased risk of damage during transit.