Transport a refrigerator upright whenever possible. Whether it may be laid on its side, back or another permitted position depends on the exact model. Check the moving instructions before loading it; the door style alone is not enough to decide.
Do not assume that leaving it upright for 24 hours will undo physical damage or make any transport position safe. If you cannot find the instructions, ask the manufacturer or a qualified appliance mover before laying it down.
Why Does the Transport Position Matter?
A refrigerator contains a compressor, refrigerant tubing, mounts and other parts that can be damaged by handling or unsupported loads. In some designs, tilting can also move compressor oil into parts of the cooling circuit where it should not remain when the unit restarts.
Beko describes standing a refrigerator upright after moving so compressor oil can settle. The permitted position and waiting period still need to come from the instructions for the actual appliance. Oil does not instantly solidify because the refrigerator is switched on.
Which Side Should You Use?
Use only a position explicitly permitted for your model. Do not choose a side by inspecting the size of exposed tubes or guessing which one is the discharge line. A generic pipe-identification rule does not account for the whole appliance.
The front is not a universally safer alternative to the back. Doors, handles, tubing and other components can be damaged by loads they were not designed to support. Whirlpool’s moving guide advises upright transport and warns against laying a refrigerator on its front or back. Follow the model’s instructions for positioning straps and protective padding.
Recommended Further Reading:
- Do Refrigerators Have Fuses? (Which Ones Have It & Which Don’t?)
- How Much Time is Needed for Refrigerator Cooling?
- Uncovering the Reason for Automatic Closing of Refrigerator Doors
How Long Should It Stand Before You Plug It In?
Follow the waiting period in the model instructions or advice from its manufacturer. Published guidance varies between refrigerator designs, so one fixed waiting time cannot replace those instructions. For example, Whirlpool’s side-by-side moving guidance distinguishes between refrigerant types when describing its wait times.
If the refrigerator was delivered on its side and you do not know whether that is permitted, tell the supplier the model and how it was transported. Keep it upright and disconnected while you obtain the correct instructions. A quiet first few minutes of operation does not prove that no damage occurred.
Related Further Reading:
- Do Fridges Come with a Reset Option?
- Why Does a Rice Cooker Boil Over?
- Can You Store Onions In The Refrigerator? [Cut, Uncut, Peeled…]
Prepare the Refrigerator for Moving
Remove the food and keep perishables safely chilled elsewhere. Disconnect power and handle any water supply connection according to the installation instructions. Allow for defrosting and drying if the model requires it.
Remove or secure shelves, drawers and other loose parts as directed so they cannot move and break. Protect the finish and secure the doors without using handles as lifting points. Use suitable moving equipment and enough help for the weight. Do not attempt to carry a heavy refrigerator alone.
Interesting Further Reading:
- Overcoming the Problem of Internal Rust Formation in a Microwave Oven
- What Is An Anti-Griddle? (The Complete Guide)
- Can You Leave Oil In Your Deep Fryer? (When Should You Change?)
Once it is in place, follow the installation instructions for clearance, leveling, reconnection and cooling. Confirm safe storage temperatures before putting perishable food back.
