When
You Have to Transport a
Refrigerator by Laying it Down
Even
though it's not the preferred method of transport, it's OK to lay a
refrig down for moving, even a R134a system, if you pay close
attention to the refrigerant lines.
Determine
where the suction line runs up into the freezer. This is the largest
tube connected to the compressor, and is usually (though not always)
visible running up the back of the cabinet.
As
long as the refrig is laid down on whichever side allows this line to
stay 'high', there'll be minimal oil migration, and when you arrive at
your destination, just stand it upright for an hour or so and it'll be
fine. Obviously, the shorter the trip, the better.
If
the suction line runs up the door handle side, just duct-tape the doors
securely closed before you lay it down to keep them from opening and
getting damaged. It helps to lay a block of wood under the top end, just
to keep it inclined a bit, too.
I moved refrig's for some 40 years, and while moving them in an
upright position IS best, sometimes you just can't. I worked out of a van,
and have often laid both refrig's and upright freezers down in it for
transport with no ill effects.
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