Can You Lay Down a Refrigerator?
A refrigerator is a major appliance in the home and not a small expense if it needs to be repaired or replaced. In addition to regular care and maintenance, an owner should ensure a refrigerator is transported properly -- for example in the event of a move -- to prevent damage to the unit.
Moving the Fridge
Refrigerators should always be unplugged, emptied, defrosted and packaged securely to protect the unit during transport. Most manufacturers recommend that refrigerators always be moved in the upright and vertical position. When a refrigerator is placed on its side, oil from the interior compressor can drain into the refrigerant tubes and cause damage to the unit. If it is unavoidable to transport a refrigerator upright, lay the unit down on its side -- on the freezer side for side-by-side models or else opposite the hinges -- instead of the back. Stand the unit upright at the new location and allow it to sit unplugged for the same amount of time that it was on its side to allow the oil to drain back down. Compact units should always be transported upright because of the drain design.
The Drip Cap
- A refrigerator is a major appliance in the home and not a small expense if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Lake Mary, Fla., Charity Tober writes mainly on finance, career, interior decorating, parenting and weddings. Tober has also self-published two children's picture books. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from the University of Florida.
Photo Credits
- Ernest Prim/Hemera/Getty Images
- Ernest Prim/Hemera/Getty Images
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