There are plenty of things that are hard to move when you’re moving house, and a fridge is typically one of the heaviest and most awkward to transport in most homes, making you wonder if you can lay one down on its side during a move: Can You Lay a Refrigerator Down When Moving? The short answer is yes. Then it can only be done when the date is during transportation (and with the right precautions.) It should not be necessary. I just had my 4th and 5th fridges delivered and installed with no problem. Refrigerators are bulky, complex devices whose internal workings are delicate and can be damaged if not handled properly. So if you’re asking yourself how to move one safely, this comprehensive guide breaks down the risks, the right moves, and expert advice to protect your investment.
Whether you’re moving it across the street or up to another city, understanding how a fridge works and what happens when it is laid on its side will help you avoid unnecessary repairs. Let’s get started with everything you need in order to make your refrigerator move smooth efficient and damage-free.
Understanding How Your Fridge Works Before You Move It
Refrigerators appear solid and robust, but inside, they have a fragile system of compressors, cooling lines, coils, and oil. The compressor depends on the lubricating oil to operate smoothly. When you lay refrigerator on side, gravity relocates this oil into places where it shouldn’t be–particularly the cooling lines.
These tubes were not made to contain oil. The refrigerant becomes blocked and cannot circulate properly, leading to cooling problems and possibly permanent compressor damage. As the compressor is generally located at the bottom of the unit, the position of the appliance in an upright position is best to ensure that everything is in the right place.
Contemporary refrigerators are meant to be operated in an upright position, and just that brief tilt can detract from their performance. Old refrigerators are even more susceptible since their oil systems are not as secure. Knowing this will help you understand why you need to be extra careful if you ever have to move a refrigerator on its side.
What NOT to Do When Transporting a Fridge on Its Side
When you can transport a fridge lying down is ever uttered, that’s usually when most mistakes happen, even before you start moving it. Do not follow:
1. Skipping the Defrosting Process
Defrost and unplug the fridge for a minimum of 24 hours. If you don’t follow this step and lay it down, there will be melted water all over that will cause damage to the truck bed floor and even electrical parts on the inside of the fridge. Before this, remove all food, ice, and freezer items.
2. Laying It on the Back
Lying on your back is the most risky position for them. The compressor and coils get crushed under the weight. Always check for the right side up before you tip it – your owner’s manual will tell you.
3. Moving It Alone
With refrigerators tipping the scales at 200-300 pounds, they are very dangerous to move alone. The appliance can not only get damaged, but back injuries are also very common. Move a fridge with at least two burly men.
4. Rolling Across Thick Carpet
When you use a dolly on thick carpet or distance outdoor it is more likely to tip over. Make a clean, obstacle-free line, preferably on hard flooring, for transportation.
5. Plugging It In Immediately
This is yet one of the costly mistakes people make. After laying a fridge down, it is recommended that the oils return to their place. Plugging it in too soon can cause the compressor to burn out—an expensive repair that might not be worth making.
The Hidden Risks of Transporting a Fridge on Its Side
Before you decide, can you lay fridges down? It is safe or not, you need to know what the risk is first.
Oil Migration
The most prevalent problem is that the compressor oil makes its way up and into the lines. When they don’t have enough oil to function, the compressor gets too hot. With too much oil in the lines, the cooling stops. Both contribute to poor performance.
Bent or Damaged Cooling Lines
These thin tubes are easily crimped as the weight shifts inside the fridge. Even a small crimp can stop the flow of refrigerant. Repairing this usually means getting a technician, and it can be very expensive.
Damaged Door Seals
Pressing a fridge on its side can strangle the door gaskets, flatten or tear them. Once compromised, the fridge has to work harder to keep cool, resulting in higher energy bills and less even cooling.
Internal Parts Can Shift
Shelves, drawers, rails, and even wiring can shift or break during travel. Glass shelves, especially, are prone to cracking. Taking them off and packing them separately saves from breakage.
Warranty Problems
Most refrigerator warranties state that the appliance must be transported upright or by professionals. The wrong transport can void your coverage and turn the damage into your financial responsibility.
You may read How to Move a Fridge?
What Actually Happens Inside When You Lay a Fridge Down
Fridge oil-filling drains into the cooling lines as soon as a fridge tilts. Refrigerant also migrates and pools in places where it is not supposed to pool as a liquid. The compressor motor is mounted at an oblique angle, placing stress on seals and connections. If on its side for too long, it is more difficult to get back to the compressor.
Cold weather thickens the oil, so the resettling process is slowed down. Hot weather causes the pressure in the sealed system to be higher, which makes it more likely to leak. These interior changes are all the reason why you need to be extra cautious if you must in a pinch move the refrigerator on its side.
How to Safely Move a Refrigerator Lying Down
If you have no other option but to tip your fridge, do so by gently rocking first one end, then the other, to minimize damage.
1. Preparation
- Empty the fridge completely
- Remove shelves, drawers, and loose parts
- Defrost for 24 hours
- Clean and dry everything
- Tape doors shut
- Secure the power cord
This stops mold, leaking, and breaking on the journey.
2. Choose the Correct Side
Never guessthis—always consult your manual. Generally, you want to set it down on the side that is away from the compressor. When in doubt, many types of fridges are safer on the right side. The idea is to keep pressure off delicate parts.
3. Loading and Transporting
- Use a heavy-duty dolly for appliances.
- Strap the fridge securely .
- Take it easy.
- Put blankets or padding in the truck.
- Strap the unit tightly to a wall.
- Minimize the duration of transport.
Avoid any abrupt stops or sharp turns that may cause internal parts to move.
4. Unloading and Setting Up
Once you reach the destination:
- Stand the fridge on end immediately , but with care
- Let it sit before turning it on
- Rest time = how long the butter has been down (at least four hours, preferably 12–24 hours)
This allows enough time for the oil to drain back to the compressor.
How to Turn On a Fridge After It’s Been on Its Side
Before turning it on, do this:
Inspect the Exterior
Check for dents around the coils, compressor, or rear panel. Check the door seals for any space or damage.
Clean Condenser Coils
Dust dulls efficiency. Gently clean them with a brush or vacuum.
Level the Fridge
Use a bubble level to check that it is stable. So the front is supposed to be a little higher so the doors will close on their own.
Powering Up
Adjust the temperature to the suggested setting:
- Refrigerator: 37°F
- Freezer: 0°F
Tell the compressor. Humming sounds normal—buzzing, grinding, or very loud clicking are not. Unplug the device if it makes any strange noises.
Monitoring
Wait a few hours for the fridge to cool down before you put food in it. Full cooling may require up to 24 hours. Check for leaks, temperature problems, or strange noises.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals
Whenever in doubt about moving your refrigerator, ask yourself if the safer option is to hire the professionals.
Hire Pros If:
- Your refrigerator is big or costly
- You’re moving across the country
- You’ve got narrow hallways or stairs to contend with
- You don’t have the right equipment
Pros reduce risk…and often are insured.
DIY Works If:
- The move is not far
- You can keep the fridge upright
- You have the right tools
- You have enough help
When in doubt: Risk it, or don’t!
When to Hire Professionals
Large or expensive fridges are better moved by professionals. French door, built-in, and commercial refrigerators need extra care and proper handling. CHAMOMILE GO, your trusted relocation specialist in Sherman Oaks, has the right tools and experience to move them safely.
For long-distance moves, professional service really helps. Movers use trucks designed to keep fridges upright and offer insurance in case anything goes wrong.
If you don’t have the right dolly, truck, or enough people to help, hiring movers is the smarter choice. The cost of renting equipment and the risk of injury often cost more than professional services.
Conclusion
Relocating a fridge is not a simple matter. Can You Lay a Refrigerator Down When Moving?—Yes, but it’s always best to transport it in an upright position if you can. If you must lay it down, observe the proper procedures to help protect the compressor, cooling lines, seals, and internal components. With the right technique, a little patience, and enough time between when you get through the move and when you plug it in at the other end, you’ll find that your fridge can weather the move and keep working efficiently at your new home. 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 should a fridge be left upright after lying on its side?
A good rule of thumb is to let it sit up for the same amount of time it was lying down, for no less than 4 hours. For optimum results, allow the product to rest for 12 to 24 hours before turning it on.
What will happen if I plug the fridge in too soon after laying it down?
This can cause the compressor to run with the oil displaced, which can cause it to overheat, cool poorly, or even damage the compressor permanently.
When transporting a refrigerator, which side can the refrigerator be on?
It varies according to the model. Most refrigerators appear to be safer on the right side, but do check your manufacturer’s manual. Certain models are not to be laid down.
Should I take out shelves and drawers when I move a fridge?
Yes, glass shelves and plastic drawers are known to crack or break in transit. Taking them out and packing them separately keeps everything inside safe, too.
