Can You Plug In A Refrigerator After Moving It?

Whether you’re relocating to a new home or simply rearranging your kitchen, moving a refrigerator is no small task. Apart from the physical challenges of moving such a large appliance, there are also specific considerations you should take into account to ensure it continues to operate efficiently. One of the most common questions we get here at TheKitchenApplianceDad.com is about the immediate plugging in of a refrigerator after it has been moved. Let’s delve into this topic to ensure your fridge maintains its cool without any hitches.

Understanding the Importance of Waiting

When you move a refrigerator, you typically tilt it or lay it on its side to navigate doorways, stairs, or tight corners. This movement can cause the oil in the compressor to shift and move out of place. The compressor is crucial as it pumps refrigerant throughout your refrigerator’s cooling system, and the oil within the compressor helps keep it running smoothly.

Why wait? If you plug in your refrigerator immediately after moving it, especially if it has been on its side, there’s a risk that the compressor will start pumping without sufficient oil. This can lead to increased friction and potentially cause the compressor to fail, which can be a costly problem to fix.

Recommended Waiting Times

The general rule of thumb is to keep your refrigerator upright for at least the same amount of time it was laying on its side. However, here are more specific guidelines to consider:

• Less than 1 hour on its side: If your fridge was on its side for less than an hour, it’s safe to plug it in after waiting for about an hour. This gives the oil enough time to flow back into the compressor.
• More than 1 hour on its side: If the refrigerator was lying on its side for more than an hour, it’s advisable to wait at least 4 hours before plugging it in.
• Completely on its side for a long duration: In cases where the fridge has been on its side for several hours, it would be best to wait for approximately 24 hours before turning it on.

Tips for Moving Your Refrigerator Safely

To minimize the risk and reduce waiting time, here are some tips for moving your refrigerator:

Prepare in Advance

Before moving your fridge, it’s important to prepare it properly. Remove all the contents from inside to make it lighter and prevent items from shifting or breaking. Defrost the freezer compartment to avoid water leakage during the move.

Secure Loose Parts

Tape down any removable shelves, drawers, and doors. This prevents them from opening or breaking while you move the refrigerator.

Use the Right Equipment

Employ a dolly or hand truck to move your refrigerator instead of dragging it. Ensure that the fridge remains as upright as possible, tilting only slightly if necessary to navigate through doorways.

Protect Your Floors

Place cardboard or a soft cloth under your refrigerator while moving it to avoid scratching your floors.

Long-Term Storage

If you’re planning to store your refrigerator before using it again, here are a few additional considerations:

• Clean thoroughly: Ensure that your refrigerator is clean and dry to prevent mold and odors.
• Store upright: Always store your refrigerator in an upright position to avoid oil and refrigerant issues.
• Cover it up: Use a breathable cover to protect it from dust while ensuring air can circulate.

Key Takeaways

Moving your refrigerator requires more than just physical effort; it involves understanding how your actions can affect its functionality. Here are some bullet points to remember from TheKitchenApplianceDad.com:

• Wait Before Plugging In: Always wait before plugging your refrigerator in after moving it. If it was on its side, the longer it was in that position, the longer you should wait.
• Move It Safely: Use the right equipment and take precautions to keep your refrigerator upright as much as possible during the move.
• Prepare for Storage: If storing your refrigerator for a long period, clean it thoroughly, keep it upright, and cover it properly.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your refrigerator continues to run efficiently and effectively, even after a big move. Remember, the key is patience — giving your fridge the time it needs to settle could save you from costly repairs down the line.