What Happens If You Lay a Fridge Down on Its Side?

Refrigerator Basics

• The refrigerator has a compressor, which pushes liquid and gas through tubes to cool down the refrigerator. Oil flows into the compressor to keep it running smoothly. When the refrigerator is turned off, there is no pressure inside these tubes, allowing the oil to run more freely into the compressor.

Problems of Side Transport

• When the refrigerator is tipped on its side, the oil can run from the compressor into the cooling lines. An upright refrigerator prevents this. If oil gets into the cooling and discharge lines, it can affect the performance of the refrigerator, and prevent it from cooling effectively. When this happens and the oil does not drain back into the compressor, the refrigerator requires professional servicing before it will work properly.

Side Transport Tips

• Sometimes it is unavoidable and you must transport a refrigerator on its side. To minimize the oil flow, first identify which side of the refrigerator the cooling and discharge lines are located. Identify them by looking at the back of the refrigerator, and checking the owner's manual. Lay the refrigerator on the side opposite the lines to minimize oil flow. Lay the top of the refrigerator at an angle, resting on a cloth-covered block or box to further reduce the chance of oil moving into the lines. When the refrigerator is at the new location, let it stand upright for at least three hours before plugging it in. This gives any oil a chance to drain back into the compressor.

Refrigerator Moving Tips

• Because of the awkward dimensions and sheer weight, get help when transporting a refrigerator. Use a dolly with straps to move the refrigerator. It can handle the weight and will give the appliance a smoother ride to and from the moving truck. Remove all the contents from the refrigerator and take out any shelves before transport. Tape the doors shut with a painter's tape so they won't swing open while moving. Leave the refrigerator upright at the new location several hours before plugging it in and filling it with food. It may take up to 72 hours before the refrigerator will be at the appropriately cool temperatures.