Laying down a fridge freezer

[sloth]

Hi all, I need to move a big American style fridge freezer, and will need to lay it on its front or side to transport it a few miles. I've had a quick Google and the general view is leave it upright overnight before turning on to allow oils to resettle in the motor, and pack around the motor to prevent stretching the springs that support the motor. It all seems like old wives tales, so does anyone know the real deal? Should it be ok?

Cheers...

[skyhuck]

I don't think oil is your problem.

 

It's the fluid that is evaporated to cause cooling that the problem, you may get an air lock in the system, I think, but I'm no expert.

[Johny Walker]

youve to leave the 24hrs after moving them,youd be better trying to keep it upright during transport

[eggsarascal]

If it's in Colchester, and will stand up in my van I'll shift it for you. I'm over that way this week.

[Mesterh]

I know from repairing AC systems on cars that the fluid does contain oil and yes it needs to settle in the compressor. Plus I think every fridge/ freezer I have bought has said to leave them upright for 24hrs after transporting.

[spudulike]

Why don't you just stand it for 24hrs or is the temptation to throw the switch too great:001_rolleyes:

 

All I know is that manufacturers tend to say to leave the unit standing for a while! I would just do that....no point in possibly cocking it up with impatience!

[openspaceman]

 

All I know is that manufacturers tend to say to leave the unit standing for a while! I would just do that....no point in possibly cocking it up with impatience!

 

This

 

The oil explanation seems sensible as the compressor is probably a piston one and we know if you tip over a 4 stroke the oil can seep past the rings and hydraulic lock.

[skyhuck]

I remember when I was a lad my grandma had a problem with a fridge/freezer that was playing up. Can't remember if it had been moved. My uncle stud it upside down for a while.

 

This apparently fixed the problem.

[sloth]

Sounds OK then.

I think I have sorted a mate with a van anyway, so cheers anyway eggs, very kind offer.If I do get stuck I might well be in touch though!

Cheers guys