Refrigerator

Don't do it. The problem is (can be) the compressor oil. If you absolutely must do it, let the thing sit a while or so before plugging it in. Also, even if you're only tilting the thing on a dolly, you want to keep the suction line side of the compressor lower. And finally, do all tilting, step-bumbing, etc gently so you don't bust the compressor mountings.

Rule of thumb

If it must be laid down, You should let it sit in the upright position for 20 minutes to 1/2 hour before plugging it in.

This allows the freon and compressor oil to settle back where it is supposed to.

If you miss this, you will have a high chance of burning out the compressor.

If you use these, you do not have to tip it over.

Measure the doorways, and the width of the fridge. Some times it is necessary to unbolt the doors to get it through.

Hello Neil Kwyrer:

Geneouz thet I om.......ahem! I did not know you should try and move or, let your fridge stay standing for at least a couple of hours before pressing the switch.

Thanks.

I agree, I've moved hundreds of fridges and the only ones I worried about were those where the compressor wasn't actually bolted to anything (quite a few have them mounted loose on rubber pads). So do check that, coz the pumps are heavy and you can break the pipes if they shift. AND the ammonia/electolux cycle fridges such as the gas or kero operated ones (mostly caravan/motorhome type). It is very important you don't turn these sideways as it mixes up the contents. There is a set procedure for these before restarting to get the hydrogen and ammonia back in the right places. The manufacturere will tell you what to do as the procedures vary between models.

Otherwise for normal heat pump fridges as long as there is no gurgling noises nor any components falling off a few minutes at most is all you really need. The compressor pumps the oils back anyway; it is designed to flow around the system, not just through the compressor. Remember to A. Take all the food/Beer out and B. allow for the water tray at the bottom being full from melted ice, so you will wet everything if you turn it sideways without drying it out first!

Speaking from years of experience of carting fridges about; best if transported upright but in reality, treat them how you like but when re-installed, leave them "overnight" to settle.

"Overnight" means that the beer begins to call around 6pm and the bacon begins to sizzle around 8am.

carrying the refrigerator from the kitchen to the pick-up truck) this will be in a horizontal position?

Don't take chances with your backs; get a hand truck; some are not expensive (think Harbor Freight)--even less when borrowed from friend/neighbor. Good reefer dollyies can also be rented from moving truck rental agencies.

As usual, on this site, I got my answers. The experience of some and the logic of others reassured me that it will not be the end of the world if the refrigerator will be in horizontal position, for a while. Also, I liked the "overnight" notion. I will take into account.

Thank you, guys.