Why You Shouldn't Lay a Refrigerator Down: The Risks and Consequences

Last Updated on March 3, 2023 by Roy

Refrigerators are essential appliances in every household. They keep our food fresh and prevent spoilage. However, moving them can be a hassle, and it’s natural to want to lay them down to make transportation easier. Unfortunately, laying a refrigerator down can be a costly mistake that can cause damage to the appliance and even risk food spoilage. In this article, we’ll discuss the risks and consequences of laying a refrigerator down and why it’s not recommended.

1Risks of Laying a Refrigerator Down

2Consequences of Laying a Refrigerator Down

3How to Safely Transport a Refrigerator

4Conclusion

5See Also:

Risks of Laying a Refrigerator Down

Laying a refrigerator down can cause several risks, such as damaging the compressor, breaking the cooling system, and bending the condenser coils. The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator, and it’s responsible for pumping refrigerant through the system. If the compressor is damaged during transportation, it can lead to costly repairs or replacement. Laying the refrigerator down can also cause the cooling system to break, which can lead to food spoilage and a higher risk of foodborne illness. Additionally, bending the condenser coils can restrict airflow, causing the refrigerator to overheat, and again leading to costly repairs.

Consequences of Laying a Refrigerator Down

Laying a refrigerator down can lead to several consequences, such as food spoilage, loss of efficiency, and damage to the appliance’s internal components. When a refrigerator is laid down, the oil inside the compressor can flow into the cooling system, contaminating the refrigerant and causing the system to fail. Food spoilage can also occur due to the temperature changes caused by the refrigerator’s internal components shifting during transportation. Lastly, laying a refrigerator down can cause internal components, such as the compressor or motor, to shift, leading to misalignment, damage, and reduced efficiency.

How to Safely Transport a Refrigerator

To avoid the risks and consequences of laying a refrigerator down, it’s essential to transport it upright. When transporting a refrigerator, it’s recommended to secure it with straps or bungee cords to prevent it from moving around. If you’re transporting it in a truck, it’s recommended to place it against the front wall of the truck bed and secure it with straps or bungee cords. Additionally, you should avoid tipping the refrigerator more than 45 degrees during transportation to prevent the oil from flowing into the cooling system.

Conclusion

Laying a refrigerator down during transportation may seem like a convenient solution, but it can lead to costly repairs and even food spoilage. It’s essential to transport a refrigerator upright and take the necessary precautions to secure it during transportation. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your refrigerator arrives at its destination safely and avoid the risks and consequences of laying it down.