Transporting Refrigerators Upright Or Lying Down? Facts Vs. Myths
You will encounter several popular myths about transporting refrigerators. Some people insist it’s best to lay them down. Others are certain they can only be transported upright. There will also be discussions about what to do on arrival at your destination. Don’t you have to leave appliances standing for a few hours before switching them back on?
Liebherr refrigerators and freezers should always be transported in an upright position, at most only slightly tilted. The compressor bracket is designed to absorb vibrations from the compressor during operation, with the appliance in an upright position. If the appliance is transported horizontally, vibrations place lateral strain on the bracket. It can be damaged.
Customers ask us whether they can immediately switch their refrigerator or freezer back on at their destination. For Liebherr appliances the answer is short and sweet: Yes!
The Secret To Successful Transportation
If you’re only moving your refrigerator across the street, there isn’t too much to think about. Unplug the appliance, get a couple of strong helpers to move it, and plug it back in at its new home.
When transporting appliances over greater distances, adhere to the following:
- Use up as much of the stored food as possible before your move.
- Unplug the appliance way ahead of moving. This allows the freezer compartments to defrost.
- Carefully clean the appliance with a neutral cleaner. Water with a dash of dish soap is all you need. Warning: Although you will frequently find this “advice” online, we strongly recommend you do not clean your appliance with vinegar. The acids it contains can damage the inner container’s plastic. Learn more about cleaning your Liebherr appliance here.
- Remove all glass shelves from the appliance. Ensure that they are carefully packaged for transportation.
- Wrap the appliance in blankets or sheeting to prevent scratching.
- Always transport refrigerators and freezers in an upright position, tilt-only slightly.
- Secure the appliance with straps to prevent it from tipping over.
- Secure the appliance door with tape to prevent it from opening during transportation.
- Protect the appliance from any strong vibrations.
- Use a spirit level to optimally reposition the appliance.
- You can switch your Liebherr appliance back on immediately the following transport.
Our advice only applies to transporting Liebherr appliances. Following our advice should make transporting a refrigerator a little less stressful.
What experiences did you make with transporting your refrigerator or freezer? Write to us! Use the comment function below this post or start/join a discussion on Facebook.