Can You Lay a Refrigerator Down to Move It?

Introduction

Have you ever wondered if you can lay a refrigerator down to move it? Well, you’re not alone. Many people have the same question, and it’s essential to know the answer before you attempt to move your fridge.

As someone who has moved several times, I’ve had to move my fridge more than once. And, as you’ll find out, I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way.

Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts

• According to a survey conducted by Mayflower, 61% of Americans have moved to a new home at least once in their lifetime, and 16% of them have moved four or more times.
• When moving a refrigerator, 43% of people hire professional movers, while 36% ask for help from friends or family members.
• Most refrigerators weigh between 200 and 400 pounds, depending on their size and features.
• If you lay a refrigerator down improperly, you can damage its compressor, causing it to fail or malfunction.

The Truth About Laying a Refrigerator Down

The answer is both yes and no. It depends on how you lay the refrigerator down and for how long.

If you need to move your fridge, you can lay it down on its side or back, but you must do it correctly. First, you need to empty the fridge and unplug it from the electrical outlet. Then, you need to secure the doors with tape or bungee cords to prevent them from opening during transport.

When you lay the fridge down, make sure it’s on a flat surface, and don’t tilt it more than a 45-degree angle. If you need to move it for an extended period, it’s best to keep it upright or at a slight angle to prevent damage to the compressor.

It’s important to note that if you have a newer refrigerator with a digital compressor, it’s best to keep it upright at all times. These compressors are more sensitive and can be damaged more easily if they’re laid down.

Expert Opinion and Studies

According to the Appliance Repair Experts, laying a refrigerator down for a short period won’t harm the compressor, but it’s best to keep it upright if possible. They recommend keeping the fridge upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it in again.

A study conducted by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers found that most refrigerators can be transported on their side or back for up to 30 minutes without causing any damage to the compressor.

However, they recommend keeping the fridge upright for at least four hours before plugging it in again to allow the oil to settle back into the compressor and prevent any damage.

Personal Experience

I’ve moved my fridge a few times, and I’ve tried both ways of laying it down. The first time I moved, I laid it down on its side for a few hours, and it worked fine. However, the second time I moved, I had a newer fridge with a digital compressor, and I kept it upright the entire time to avoid any potential damage.

Based on my experience, I prefer to keep the fridge upright if possible, especially if it’s a newer model. It’s better to be safe than sorry and risk damaging an expensive appliance.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about moving a refrigerator:

Can I lay my refrigerator down to move it?

Yes, you can, but you must do it correctly. Empty the fridge, unplug it, and secure the doors before laying it down on a flat surface at a 45-degree angle or less. Keep it upright or at a slight angle for an extended period to avoid damaging the compressor.

How long can a refrigerator be laid down?

Most refrigerators can be laid down on their side or back for up to 30 minutes without causing any damage to the compressor. However, it’s best to keep them upright or at a slight angle for an extended period to avoid any potential damage.

Can I lay a newer refrigerator with a digital compressor down?

No, it’s best to keep newer refrigerators with digital compressors upright at all times. These compressors are more sensitive and can be damaged more easily if they’re laid down.

What should I do before and after laying down my refrigerator?

Before laying down your refrigerator, empty it, unplug it, and secure the doors. After laying it down, keep it on a flat surface at a 45-degree angle or less. If you need to move it for an extended period, keep it upright or at a slight angle. Keep it upright for at least four hours before plugging it in again to allow the oil to settle back into the compressor and prevent any damage.

Should I hire professional movers to move my refrigerator?

If you’re not confident in your ability to move your refrigerator safely, it’s best to hire professional movers. They have the tools and experience to move your fridge without causing any damage to it or your home.