Can a New Refrigerator Be Set on Its Side for Hauling?

Prep the Fridge for the Move

• If the new fridge has already been installed and you are moving it to a different location, unplug the unit at least six hours in advance. GE recommends, however, that if you are moving a compact model, it should be unplugged 24 hours before. This will allow the unit to defrost. Remove food items, shelves, drawers and trays out of the fridge to prevent damage. Place a piece of cloth between the door and the fridge to let air circulate during the move and prevent fungus growth later on. This is especially helpful if the fridge is going to be sitting unplugged for several hours. When ready, secure the doors shut with a piece of rope, to keep them from opening and closing during transport.

Loading the Fridge on Your Truck

• You should recruit the help of an assistant to move and load your new fridge onto the moving truck. When loaded, cover the fridge with a thick blanket for protection and secure it with rope to keep it from bouncing around. Fill the spaces between the fridge and the truck with enough padding, if necessary. When driving, avoid going over road imperfections as much as possible or drive slowly over them. This will prevent the fridge from bouncing and possibly damaging the compressor, motor, lines and connections inside.

Getting Your Fridge Running

• Once you have your fridge in its new place, let it stand upright and unplugged for the same amount of time it was laying on its side. If the fridge was laying on its side for more than a day, for example, let it stand upright for 24 hours before plugging it in for service. This will give the lubricating oil inside the assembly time to return to the compressor.

If in Doubt

• Double check with your local dealer you bought the fridge from or the manufacturer, if you still have doubts about laying your fridge on its side for hauling. As previously noted, with some specific models it is not recommended to lay them on their sides. In such case, there might be a risk of oil inside the compressor flowing into and clogging cooling tubes or valves, preventing your unit from operating again. Your dealer or manufacturer may suggest an alternative method, like transporting the unit at an angle, if necessary, to prevent system damage.