Moving a fridge is tricky. The big question most people ask is: can you lay a refrigerator down when moving? The short answer is yes, but only as a last resort. Laying a fridge down can cause damage to its cooling system if not done right.
This guide covers everything you need to know about moving your refrigerator safely. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring help, these tips will protect your appliance and save you money on repairs.
Understanding Your Refrigerator’s Cooling System
Before moving your fridge, it helps to know how it works. The cooling system has a compressor, condenser coils, and refrigerant oil. This oil keeps the compressor running smoothly. When you lay refrigerator on side, the oil can flow into the cooling tubes where it doesn’t belong.
The compressor sits at the bottom of most fridges. It pumps refrigerant through the system to keep food cold. If oil blocks these tubes, your fridge won’t cool properly. This is why keeping it upright during transport is always best.
Modern refrigerators have sealed systems that work best when vertical. Even a short time on its side can cause problems. The risk increases with older models that have less stable oil systems.
What to Avoid When Moving a Fridge Lying Down
Never rush the process when you need to transport fridge on side. Here are the biggest mistakes people make:
Don’t Skip the Defrost Step
Always defrost your fridge 24 hours before moving. Water in the freezer will leak everywhere if you tip it over. This creates a mess and can damage floors in your moving truck or new home. Empty all food and turn off the power a full day ahead.
Avoid the Back Side
If you must tip your fridge, never lay it on the back where the compressor sits. This puts direct pressure on sensitive parts. The compressor and coils can get damaged under the fridge’s full weight. Always check your manual to find the correct side.
Don’t Move It Alone
Fridges are heavy and awkward. Most weigh between 200 and 300 pounds when empty. You need at least two strong people to move one safely. Trying to do it alone leads to injuries and appliance damage.
Skip the Rolling Over Carpet
If you use a dolly, avoid thick carpets or rugs. The wheels can get stuck and cause the fridge to tip suddenly. Clear a path with hard flooring when possible. Remove any obstacles that could cause tripping or tipping.
Never Plug It In Right Away
This is critical. After laying a fridge on its side, wait before turning it on. The oil needs time to settle back into the compressor. Turning it on too soon can burn out the motor. This mistake costs hundreds in repairs.
The Potential Risks of Moving a Fridge on Its Side
Laying a fridge on its side creates several risks. Understanding these helps you prevent damage and costly repairs.
Compressor Oil Migration
The biggest risk is oil moving into the refrigerant lines. The compressor needs this oil to work without overheating. When the fridge tips over, gravity pulls oil where it shouldn’t go. This blocks the cooling system and can damage the compressor permanently.
Cooling Line Damage
The thin tubes that carry refrigerant can bend or kink when a fridge lays down. These lines are delicate. A kinked line stops refrigerant flow, which means no cooling. Fixing this requires a professional technician and often costs $200 to $500.
Door Seal Problems
Fridge doors have rubber seals that keep cold air inside. Laying the fridge down puts pressure on these seals. They can tear or lose their shape. A damaged seal wastes energy and makes your fridge work harder. You’ll notice higher electric bills and warmer food.
Internal Component Shifting
Shelves, drawers, and internal parts can shift or break during transport. Even if you remove loose items, fixed components can come loose. Glass shelves are especially fragile. Always secure or remove what you can before moving.
Warranty Voidance
Many manufacturers void warranties if you transport the fridge incorrectly. Always check your warranty terms before moving. Some brands require professional moving services to keep coverage active.
You may read How to Move a Fridge?
What Happens When You Lay a Fridge on Its Side
The moment you tip your fridge, several things occur inside. The compressor oil begins flowing toward the cooling tubes. This happens within minutes of laying a fridge on its side.
Refrigerant, which is normally gas, can also shift position. In an upright fridge, refrigerant circulates in a specific pattern. Tipping disrupts this pattern. The liquid refrigerant can pool in the wrong areas.
The compressor motor, designed to work vertically, now sits at an angle. Internal parts meant to stay separated can touch. This puts stress on connections and seals. Some seals are only meant to handle vertical pressure.
If the fridge stays on its side for hours, more oil migrates. The longer it stays tipped, the more time you’ll need to wait before using it again. A fridge left on its side overnight needs at least 24 hours upright before turning on.
Temperature changes during transport also affect the system. Cold weather can make oil thicker and harder to drain back. Hot weather can increase pressure in the sealed system.
How to Move a Refrigerator Laying Down Safely
When you have no choice but to transport your fridge on its side, follow these steps to minimize damage.
Preparation Phase
Start by emptying everything from your fridge and freezer. Remove all shelves, drawers, and loose parts. Pack these separately with bubble wrap. Defrost completely for 24 hours with doors open.
Clean the inside with mild soap and water. Dry thoroughly to prevent mold during transport. Tape the doors shut with strong moving tape. Don’t use duct tape as it leaves residue.
Unplug the fridge and let it sit for several hours. This allows the compressor to cool down. Secure the power cord to the back of the fridge with tape.
Choosing the Correct Side
Check your owner’s manual for transport instructions. Most manufacturers specify which side is safe for laying down. Generally, lay the fridge on the side opposite the compressor location.
Look at the back of your fridge. Find where the compressor and cooling coils sit. These usually sit on one side. Lay the fridge on the other side to avoid putting weight on these parts.
If you can’t find information, laying it on the right side is typically safer for most models. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer for specific guidance.
The Moving Process
Use a heavy-duty appliance dolly rated for your fridge’s weight. Have two people guide the fridge onto the dolly while a third stabilizes it. Strap the fridge securely to the dolly with ratchet straps.
Move slowly over any bumps or thresholds. Keep the path clear of obstacles. In the moving truck, secure the fridge against a wall using straps. Place blankets between the fridge and truck walls.
Try to minimize transport time. The less time the fridge spends on its side, the better. Drive carefully, avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns.
At Your Destination
When you arrive, carefully move the fridge to its new location while still on the dolly. Once in position, stand it upright immediately. Don’t leave it laying down any longer than necessary.
Leave the fridge unplugged and standing upright. The wait time depends on how long it was on its side. As a rule, wait the same amount of time it spent laying down, with a minimum of four hours.
For maximum safety, wait 24 hours before plugging in. This gives all the oil plenty of time to drain back into the compressor. Some experts recommend waiting even longer for older fridges.
How to Turn on A Fridge That’s Been Lying on its Side
After your fridge has been upright for the proper wait time, follow these steps to restart it safely.
Inspection First
Check the fridge for any visible damage. Look at the back for dents in the coils or compressor. Inspect the door seals for tears or gaps. Make sure the doors close properly and seal tight.
Clean the condenser coils on the back or bottom. Dust buildup reduces efficiency. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment or a coil cleaning brush.
Level the fridge using a bubble level. Adjust the front legs so it tilts slightly back. This helps doors close on their own and improves drainage.
The First Power-Up
Plug the fridge into a grounded outlet. Don’t use an extension cord. Set the temperature controls to the recommended settings. For most fridges, this is 37°F for the fridge and 0°F for the freezer.
Listen for unusual sounds. The compressor should start within a few minutes. You’ll hear a low humming sound. Loud clicking, buzzing, or grinding means something is wrong. Unplug immediately if you hear these sounds.
Feel the sides of the fridge after 30 minutes. They should be slightly warm as the cooling system works. If the sides are very hot or cold to touch, something might be wrong.
Monitoring Period
Keep the fridge empty for the first few hours. Check the temperature after four hours. The fridge should reach 40°F or below. The freezer should hit 0°F within 24 hours.
Don’t load food until temperatures stabilize. Adding warm food too soon makes the compressor work harder. This stresses a system that’s already recovering from transport.
Watch for water leaks around the bottom. Check that the defrost drain isn’t clogged. Monitor the fridge for the first week. Note any strange sounds or cooling issues.
If the fridge doesn’t cool properly after 24 hours, call a technician. Don’t wait too long as the problem could worsen. Many transport-related issues are fixable if caught early.
Professional Moving vs. DIY Transport
Deciding whether to move your fridge yourself or hire professionals depends on several factors.
When to Hire Professionals
Large or expensive fridges should be moved by experts. French door models, built-in units, and commercial-grade fridges require special handling. Professional movers like CHAMOMILE GO, your trusted relocation specialist in Sherman Oaks, have the right equipment and experience.
Long-distance moves benefit from professional service. Companies have trucks designed to keep fridges upright. They also carry insurance for any damage.
If you lack a proper dolly, truck, or helpers, hire professionals. The cost of rental equipment and potential injury often exceeds professional fees.
DIY Moving Considerations
Short moves within the same building might be manageable yourself. If you can keep the fridge upright the entire time, DIY is safer. Make sure you have the right equipment and enough strong helpers.
Calculate the total cost of renting equipment versus hiring movers. Include dolly rental, truck rental, packing materials, and your time. Professional service often costs less than you think.
Conclusion
Moving a fridge requires careful planning and patience. While you can lay a refrigerator down when moving, keeping it upright is always safer. If you must tip it, follow the proper steps and wait times to avoid damage. Your fridge is a major investment worth protecting. Need expert help with your move? Contact CHAMOMILE GO today for professional appliance relocation services that keep your fridge running perfectly in its new home.
FAQs
How long can a fridge lay on its side during transport?
Keep it under two hours if possible. The shorter the time, the less risk. For every hour on its side, plan to wait that long before turning it on, with a four-hour minimum.
Can all refrigerator types be laid down?
Most standard fridges can be laid down if necessary. Side-by-side and French door models are more sensitive. Built-in and commercial fridges should never be tipped. Always check your manual first.
What if the fridge was delivered laying down?
New fridges often ship on their side. Manufacturers account for this and may pre-drain some oil. Still wait at least four hours before plugging in a new fridge to be safe.
Will laying a fridge down void the warranty?
It depends on the manufacturer. Some brands void warranties for improper transport. Others allow it if done correctly. Check your warranty documents before moving.
How do you know if you damaged the fridge during the move?
Signs include no cooling after 24 hours, loud unusual noises, excessive heat, or water leaks. If the compressor won’t start or cycles on and off rapidly, damage likely occurred.
