Before transporting the refrigerator, you need to prepare it thoroughly. To avoid injuries to loaders and equipment breakdowns, you need to read the rules in detail. It is important to be careful when transporting your refrigerator . To get started, check your device’s manual – there may be important steps unique to your model. It is also important to know what to do after delivery. If you are wondering how you can transport a refrigerator or how long it can take, then you have come to the right place.
How to transport a refrigerator: recommendations from manufacturers
Each freezer appliance manufacturer has specific instructions for installing and properly using their products. While most instructions are similar, some manufacturers have different recommendations to consider. We’ve put together the most important information with tips on what to do when moving a freezer from any of the leading brands. It is advisable to transport the refrigerator according to the following recommendations:
- Don’t ignore the rules.
Do not attempt to defrost the freezer faster than usual by using additional tools or unusual interventions. Follow the exact defrosting instructions in your manual.
- Use transport wheels to transport the refrigerator.
Adjust the wheels during transport to make it easier for you to carry large equipment. The settings for a static position are different from those for moving the device. Read the section in the manual about door alignment and door closing settings.
- Select the correct position to transport the refrigerator.
Some manufacturers warn that under no circumstances should you transport your refrigerator on its side. For example, GE’s website specifies which models can be moved on their sides if necessary, and which cannot be placed horizontally.
- Securely secure the refrigerator before transporting it.
The best way to transport a refrigerator is to secure it to a corner of the car, completely preventing it from moving in two directions. If possible, attach equipment to car railings or use other furniture to create a tight frame around it.
- Care is key to transporting your refrigerator safely.
The most dangerous thing on the road is driving. Driving should be careful and sudden acceleration or braking should be avoided; sharp turns and speed bumps.
Features of transporting a new refrigerator
You only need to transport the refrigerator carefully and thoughtfully in order to deliver it undamaged. Many models already have wheels on the bottom for transportation; this is especially convenient if transportation does not involve climbing stairs. Don’t worry if you are delivering equipment to a neighboring house – it is safe and not difficult. Unplug it and move it carefully. A few important recommendations:
- Consider food delivery.
To reduce losses when moving, plan your food consumption in advance, since you won’t be able to leave it inside.
- Protect equipment from vibrations and vibrations
Vibrations can affect the operation of the equipment in the future, so it is important not only to pack the refrigerator, but also to decorate the lining.
- The refrigerator and freezer can be transported in an upright position, slightly tilted.
Use a level to position the appliance optimally. Secure the appliance with straps to prevent it from tipping over. Secure the appliance door with tape to prevent it from opening during transport.
- Installation.
When you install the appliance in a new location, be sure to leave a small gap between the back and the wall.
- Let the device sit.
If your device has been tilted, then you need to let it stand so that all the liquids return to their places.
- Clean the device thoroughly with a neutral cleaning agent.
Do not use vinegar as it may damage the plastic.
Is it possible to deliver the equipment on its side or lying on its back?
The safest way is to always keep it upright. However, depending on the make and model (especially the latest versions), some manufacturers allow the refrigerator to be transported on its side. For exact instructions, see the user manual that came with the equipment. Is it possible to transport a refrigerator on its side? The answer is clear – no! You can make an exception only if the manufacturer himself wrote about it in the instructions.
The compressor is filled with oil, which is critical to its operation. In a normal vertical position, gravity holds the oil in the compressor. When we place the refrigerator horizontally, some of the oil may leave the compressor and enter the cooling pipes. Oil is a thick, viscous liquid and can clog cooling lines, preventing the refrigerator from cooling. Lack of oil in the compressor can also damage the compressor. If we need to put down equipment:
- It is better not to lay it 100% level, but keep it at such an angle that gravity holds the oil in the compressor.
- If you absolutely cannot transport your refrigerator horizontally, you can try to minimize oil leakage. This can be achieved by placing it so that the compressor tube faces upward. In other words, if the compressor lines are coming out of the right side of the compressor, place the unit on its left side.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator on your back? If you transport the refrigerator in this position, the weight may damage its internal parts. If it has been sitting for some time, wait at least 24 hours with the refrigerator in a normal upright position before turning it on. This will allow enough time for any oil that may have gotten into the cooling lines to drain back into the compressor.
Transportation of a used refrigerator
Before moving, make sure the unit is well protected by securing any loose items to prevent scratches and dents. Use a security blanket to completely cover the outside. This will help soften the effect of sudden movements, protect the facade, and also prevent damage to internal components. Before transporting your refrigerator, you should secure the doors using moving straps or bungee cords. Secure grills, storage compartments, ice trays and any other items that may move during transport with tape. Better yet, remove them completely by wrapping them in packing paper or bubble wrap to ship separately.
Depending on the type of home you are moving from, there are two ways to load the device into the car: carry it on a cart or lift. In both cases, make sure it is upright to avoid damaging it. Transfer methods:
- Moving by lifting.
If you need to move the refrigerator by lifting it, do so using moving belts. Otherwise, you’ll only be putting the weight of the load on your fingertips, making it difficult to maneuver around corners, stairs, and onto your vehicle. Moving with a cart.
Tilt the device slightly just a few degrees so your partner can push the cart in. Wrap the moving straps around both to secure the unit to the cart and carefully roll it toward the vehicle. When using a ramp, one partner should always pull the device backwards while the other guides the device into the truck by pushing it from behind. It’s best to leave the cart attached at this point so you can unload it easily.
How to properly prepare a refrigerator for transportation?
Transporting a refrigerator requires preparation. Set aside at least 24 hours to complete the following steps:
- Make room.
Since the move may take more than a day, your cooler may not work for a long time. For this reason, start with a complete clean.
- Wash.
As the temperature rises, the refrigerator will become an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold. So after it’s empty, take the time to thoroughly clean the appliance. Remove all compartments by wiping down the interior and exterior surfaces. A thorough cleaning will ensure it is odor-free and immediately available for use in your new home.
- Turn off for at least 24 hours.
At this point you can turn off the device completely. This will allow the freezer and evaporator coils to defrost and allow the oils in the compressor to settle. If your unit has a water and ice dispenser, you will need to disconnect the tubing leading to the water supply to prevent any leaks or spills during shipping. As a precaution, place a few towels under the equipment to prevent water from dripping as the ice melts. After completing these steps, you can transport the refrigerator.
The equipment stopped freezing after delivery
If you transported a refrigerator and it stopped freezing, this means that transportation rules were violated. This usually occurs due to strong tilts, transportation on its side, but it could also be affected by excessive shaking during transportation. If the driver was driving too fast and the road is not smooth. To diagnose the problem, you need to check a number of things. For example, the operation of the thermostat, the integrity of the wires, the tightness of the door, whether the equipment is set correctly (level), whether the condensate passages are cleaned, the operation of the ventilation. Repairing household appliances costs much more than ordering the services of an experienced carrier.
Conclusion – rules for transporting a refrigerator
Depending on the type and size, the device can weigh up to 100 kg. You must do everything possible to prevent serious injury. Don’t risk your health by following these rules:
- carry it with 2 or more people so that the weight can be distributed evenly, reducing the carrying capacity;
- use suitable equipment such as trolleys or moving belts;
- Secure equipment and all elements to prevent accidental collisions with doors and falling trays.
If your planned move will take more than a day or you plan to store the appliance for a long time, leave the doors slightly open to ensure a constant flow of air. This will help prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Now you have answers to the question “how to transport a refrigerator?” and this procedure will not cause you any difficulties.