Moving a refrigerator is a common task when relocating homes or replacing appliances. A frequent question that arises is: Can You Transport A Refrigerator Laying Down? At worldtransport.net, we understand these concerns and aim to provide you with expert guidance on safely moving your fridge. Based on years of experience in appliance handling and transportation, this article will delve into the best practices for moving your refrigerator, ensuring it arrives at its destination in optimal condition.
The Compressor Mount Myth Debunked
There’s a common apprehension about transporting refrigerators horizontally, rooted in the belief that it might damage the internal compressor mounts. The original manufacturer designs these mounts to primarily handle vertical movement, and they typically use springs or similar suspension systems. The concern is that laying the fridge down could exert sideways force during transit, especially when encountering bumps or uneven road surfaces. Theoretically, this force could indeed damage or break these mounts, leading to a noisy or malfunctioning compressor upon restarting.
However, in practice, this is an extremely rare occurrence. In our extensive experience handling thousands of refrigerators, we’ve never encountered a situation where compressor mount damage was directly attributed to laying down the appliance for transport. While the theoretical risk exists, the robustness of modern compressor mounts and the short duration of typical moves minimize this possibility significantly. You’d have to experience an exceptionally jarring event to cause such damage – think hitting a severe pothole at speed.
The Real Danger: Issues with Upright Refrigerator Transport
Ironically, transporting a refrigerator standing upright presents a different set of, often more impactful, challenges. While it avoids the theoretical compressor mount issue, securing a tall, top-heavy appliance in a vertical position during transit can be surprisingly difficult and risky.
One of the most common problems we see arises from the refrigerator doors. Regardless of how well you tape them shut, the vibrations and movements during transport in a truck or trailer often cause refrigerator doors to open. Whether facing forward and braking causes them to swing open, or wind resistance at speed forces them ajar, open doors lead to further problems.
When refrigerator doors open during transit, shelves and drawers are likely to slide out. These components can then become projectiles, or worse, jam against the door. The door can then slam shut with considerable force, potentially damaging both the door itself and the internal shelving. Furthermore, straps used to secure an upright fridge, if overtightened, can dent the relatively thin sheet metal of the refrigerator exterior.
Best Practices for Laying Down a Refrigerator for Moving
Given the practical downsides of upright transport and the minimal risk associated with laying a fridge down, we often recommend horizontal transport as the easier and safer method. Here’s how to do it correctly:
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Preparation is Key: Before moving, ensure the refrigerator is completely defrosted and empty. Remove all food items, shelves, and drawers and pack them separately for safe transport. This reduces weight and prevents loose items from causing damage inside.
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Protect the Exterior: Lay down a thick blanket or moving pads in your truck bed or trailer. This cushioning is essential to protect the finish of your refrigerator from scratches and dents.
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Positioning the Refrigerator: Carefully tilt the refrigerator and lay it down on its side or back onto the prepared blanket. Most refrigerators can be transported on their side without issue. However, if you are unsure, check the manufacturer’s recommendations, although these are often geared towards professional upright transport.
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Secure the Load: Center the refrigerator on the blanket and use strong straps or ratchet straps to secure it firmly. Ensure the straps are snug but not excessively tight to avoid denting the appliance.
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Allow Settling Time: Once you reach your destination and place the refrigerator in its upright position, it’s crucial to let it stand for a period before plugging it in. We recommend waiting for at least a day. This allows the compressor oil to settle back into the compressor after being tilted, preventing potential damage upon startup.
My Fridge Isn’t Cooling After Moving – What Now?
If, after moving your refrigerator (whether upright or laid down), you find it’s not cooling, don’t immediately assume the worst. However, it’s true that moving can sometimes exacerbate pre-existing issues or, in rare cases, cause new problems.
A common issue after moving, especially if laid down incorrectly and started up immediately, is a blocked refrigeration system. This is a complex problem that often requires professional intervention. It could also indicate a compressor issue, although less likely directly caused by laying it down as discussed.
Deciding whether to repair or replace depends on the age and value of your refrigerator, and the local cost of appliance repair services. In many regions, particularly in places with high labor costs like Australia, repairing a blocked system or replacing a compressor can be economically unviable, often costing $300 to $600 or more. For older or less valuable refrigerators, replacement might be the more practical option.
When disposing of an old refrigerator, remember to do so responsibly. Refrigerant gases are harmful to the environment and require proper handling. Look for certified disposal services that hold certifications like the Australian Refrigeration Council trading authorization to ensure environmentally sound disposal and refrigerant reclamation. Responsible disposal may sometimes incur a small fee, reflecting the cost of proper degassing.
Conclusion: Laying Down Your Fridge for a Smoother Move
In conclusion, while the question “can you transport a refrigerator laying down?” sparks valid concerns about compressor damage, practical experience demonstrates that it is a safe and often preferable method for moving your appliance. The risks associated with upright transport, particularly door and shelf damage, are frequently more significant. By following best practices for horizontal transport and allowing adequate settling time before restarting, you can move your refrigerator effectively and minimize potential issues.
