Can You Lay a Refrigerator on Its Side? Pros, Cons, and How-to Guide

Introduction

When it comes to moving a refrigerator, one question that often arises is whether it’s safe to lay it on its side. While it may seem like an easy solution to transport a refrigerator in a tight space, laying it down can pose some risks. This article will explore the pros and cons of laying a refrigerator on its side, how to do it safely, frequently asked questions, precautions to take, and expert advice.

Pros and Cons of Laying a Refrigerator on Its Side

Laying a refrigerator on its side can have both advantages and disadvantages.

Pros include:

Easier transport in tight spaces, such as moving through narrow doorways or hallways
Less likelihood of damage to the exterior of the refrigerator during transportation
Simplified installation process once you reach the new location since you won’t have to lift the refrigerator too high

Cons include:

Potential damage to the compressor or cooling system due to the displacement of oil or refrigerant while laying the refrigerator on its side
The need to wait for at least 24 hours after moving the refrigerator to allow the oil to settle back before plugging it back in, meaning the food may spoil if you don’t transfer it to another fridge
The possibility of accidental tilting or displacement of the refrigerator

Tips for deciding whether laying a refrigerator on its side is the best option:

Consider the size and weight of your refrigerator as smaller or lighter models may be easier to handle in a vertical position
Consult the owner’s manual for guidance as some models may discourage laying the refrigerator down
Assess the accessibility and configuration of the original location and new location the refrigerator will be moved to

How to Safely Lay a Refrigerator on Its Side

If you’ve decided to lay your refrigerator on its side, follow these steps to do it safely:

Empty all contents from the refrigerator and freezer
Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall
Remove all parts that can be removed, such as shelves and drawers, and wrap them in blankets or bubble wrap before keeping them somewhere safe
Clean the refrigerator thoroughly before transporting it
Secure the refrigerator with straps or bungee cords to keep it from moving or tilting during transportation
Use protective blankets or padding to protect the sides of the refrigerator from scratches or other damage
Transport the refrigerator carefully, keeping it flat as possible and avoiding jostling or bumping it
Once you reach the new location, unwrap and reinstall all the parts and let the refrigerator sit upright for at least 24 hours before turning it back on and restocking it with food

Tips for avoiding common mistakes:

Don’t tilt the refrigerator too much or at an angle greater than 45 degrees as that could cause the oil to seep into the lines or compressor
Don’t lay the refrigerator on its back as it can damage the evaporator coil or other components
Avoid stacking anything on top of the refrigerator during transportation

Frequently Asked Questions About Laying a Refrigerator on Its Side

Below are answers to some common questions about laying a refrigerator on its side:

Can a refrigerator be transported on its side in a truck? Yes, you can transport a refrigerator on its side in a truck. However, it’s essential to keep it secure and stable throughout the journey.
How long can a refrigerator stay on its side? A refrigerator should only stay on its side for a maximum of four hours.
Will laying a refrigerator on its side affect the cooling system? Yes, laying a refrigerator on its side can displace oil within the compressor, which could damage the cooling system or decrease its efficiency.

Tips for troubleshooting problems that may arise during or after transport:

If the refrigerator doesn’t seem to be cooling efficiently after transportation, wait for 24 hours before checking it again as the oil could need settling time.
If you notice any strange sounds or leaks after transporting a refrigerator laying on its side, call a professional technician to diagnose the problem and fix it to avoid any potential danger or risk of electrical fires.

Precautions to Take When Laying a Refrigerator on Its Side

Laying a refrigerator on its side can be dangerous, especially for someone who is not comfortable handling heavy and bulky objects. Here are some precautions that should be taken when laying a refrigerator on its side:

Make sure the refrigerator is fully defrosted before laying it down as the water inside can cause damage
Never lay a refrigerator on its back during transportation as it can damage the compressor and coils
Strap the refrigerator securely so that it doesn’t move while tilting or jostling in the car or truck
Again, ensure that the refrigerator sits upright for at least 24 hours before turning it on or restocking it with food items to allow the oil to distribute evenly to its components

Expert Advice: Can You Lay a Refrigerator on Its Side?

According to Scott Mackintosh, a repair technician with 18 years of experience in repairing refrigerators, laying a refrigerator on its side is not a recommended option. He says, “It’s always best to transport a fridge in its upright position. It’s risky to lay a refrigerator on its side as it could cause the oil to mix with the refrigerant, which will ultimately damage the compressor.”

However, there are some instances where it is not avoidable to lay the refrigerator on its side, like transporting it on a narrow staircase or through a tiny door. In this scenario, the owner’s manual should typically be consulted to determine if the refrigerator model prohibits laying it on its side. Manufacturers typically recommend never laying bottom-freezer refrigerators on their sides.

Conclusion

Laying a refrigerator on its side can be a controversial subject, but the bottom line is that it’s not generally recommended. However, in some situations, it can sometimes be a viable option. This article explored the advantages and disadvantages of laying a refrigerator on its side, how to do it safely, frequently asked questions, precautions to take, and expert advice. Remember, if you’re not comfortable handling a refrigerator laying on its side or have doubts about the move, consider hiring a professional moving company or appliance repair service to assist with the transport to avoid damage to the asset, complications, or risk of injuries.