How Long Can a Refrigerator Lay on Its Side? Find Out Now!

You’ve just moved or bought a new fridge, and maybe it had to be placed on its side. You wonder, “How long can a refrigerator lay on its side without breaking?” You’re not alone! This is a common worry because refrigerators are delicate machines inside. The good news is, there is a safe way and time limit to keep it on its side. In this article, you’ll learn everything about this, why it matters, and how to keep your fridge working perfectly after laying it down.

Understand Why Laying a Refrigerator on Its Side Matters

When a refrigerator is moved on its side, the oil inside the compressor can flow into places it shouldn’t be. The compressor is like the heart of the fridge, pumping refrigerant to keep it cool. If oil gets in the wrong spot, the fridge might not work well or could get damaged. This is why how long you leave the fridge on its side is important.

Besides the oil, the refrigerant inside the fridge moves in a special way. Laying the fridge down can change how the refrigerant flows. This can cause problems if the fridge is started too soon after moving.

If you keep a fridge on its side too long, you might need to wait extra time before turning it back on. Waiting allows the oil to go back to the compressor and the refrigerant to settle.

Refrigerators have oil inside compressors that can move when laid sideways.
Wrong oil movement can harm the fridge’s cooling system.
Refrigerant inside can also get disturbed if the fridge is on its side.
The longer a fridge lies on its side, the longer you must wait before using it.
Proper care helps avoid damage and keeps the fridge running well.

Safe Time Limits for Laying a Refrigerator on Its Side

The most common advice is not to keep your fridge on its side for more than 24 hours. If you lay it down for less than 24 hours, you should still let it stand upright for a while before turning it on. This waiting time helps the oil and refrigerant get back to where they belong.

Some fridge brands or models might have different instructions, but 24 hours is a good general rule. If the fridge is on its side longer than a day, you may need to wait even more before plugging it in.

When you pick up the fridge and put it back upright, keep it still and don’t move it again for some time. Usually, waiting about the same time it was on its side is safe. For example, if it was down for 12 hours, wait 12 hours standing up.

Maximum safe time on side is about 24 hours.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for your fridge model.
Wait the same amount of time it was on its side before turning on.
Moving the fridge again before waiting can cause damage.
Let the fridge settle fully to keep it working well.

How to Prepare a Refrigerator Before Laying It on Its Side

If you must lay your fridge on its side, prepare it carefully to reduce risks. First, unplug the fridge and empty all food and shelves inside. Remove any loose parts like drawers and shelves if you can.

Try to keep the fridge as dry as possible. Wipe away any water or moisture to avoid leaks or rust.

It is better to lay the fridge on the side opposite the door hinge. This helps protect the door and seals.

Make sure you have a soft surface like a blanket or cardboard to lay the fridge on. This protects it from scratches or dents.

Check the user manual or manufacturer’s website for specific advice about your fridge model. Some fridges have parts that need special care.

Unplug and empty the fridge completely.
Remove shelves and drawers to avoid damage.
Dry the inside well to prevent water damage.
Lay the fridge on the side opposite the door hinge.
Use a soft surface to protect the fridge from scratches.

What to Do After You Put the Refrigerator Upright

Once the fridge is back upright, don’t rush to turn it on. Let the fridge stand still for several hours. This time lets the oil in the compressor settle back where it belongs. It also helps the refrigerant to spread evenly inside the cooling system.

Usually, the waiting time is at least as long as the fridge was on its side. Some people wait 12 to 24 hours or even longer just to be safe.

While waiting, keep the fridge door closed. This keeps the inside cool and clean.

Before turning the fridge on, check it carefully for any damage. Look for dents, broken parts, or leaks.

Wait several hours before turning the fridge on after standing it up.
The wait time should match how long it was on its side.
Keep the fridge door closed during the waiting period.
Check for any visible damage before use.
Patience helps avoid serious fridge problems.

Signs Your Refrigerator Might Be Damaged After Laying on Its Side

Sometimes a fridge can be damaged if it was laid on its side too long or turned on too soon. Here are signs to watch for:

If the fridge makes strange noises like banging, humming, or clicking more than usual, it could be a sign of compressor trouble.

If the fridge does not cool well or stays warm inside, the refrigerant or compressor may have problems.

Look for leaks or puddles under or around the fridge. This could mean refrigerant or water leaks.

If the fridge runs non-stop without stopping, this might mean it is working too hard to cool.

If you notice any of these, stop using the fridge and call a repair person.

Strange noises from the fridge can mean compressor problems.
Poor cooling means something might be wrong inside.
Leaks around the fridge show possible damage.
Constant running could mean a cooling failure.
Get help from a professional if problems appear.

Tips to Move and Lay a Refrigerator Safely

To avoid problems, moving a fridge carefully is very important. Always use help when lifting or carrying a fridge because it is heavy and can be damaged easily.

Try to keep the fridge standing upright when moving it. Only lay it on its side if absolutely necessary.

If you must lay it down, remember the side opposite the door hinge is safest.

Use furniture straps or dollies to move the fridge safely and avoid bumps or jolts.

Take your time when moving and place the fridge gently on the ground or truck.

Check the path you will use before moving so there are no obstacles.

Get help to lift and move the fridge safely.
Keep the fridge upright as much as possible.
Lay the fridge on the side opposite the door hinge if needed.
Use straps or dollies for better control.
Move slowly and carefully to avoid damage.
Clear the path before moving the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how long a refrigerator can lay on its side helps protect your investment. The key is to limit the time it spends lying down, usually no more than 24 hours. After laying it on its side, always give it enough time to stand upright before turning it on. Following these tips and being patient can save you from costly repairs and keep your fridge running smoothly for years. Moving a fridge safely and correctly is simple once you know the right steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to lay a refrigerator on its side for a few hours?

Yes, it is generally safe to lay a refrigerator on its side for a few hours, but you should always let it stand upright for at least the same amount of time before turning it on. This waiting period allows the oil inside the compressor to flow back to the right place and the refrigerant to settle. Moving a fridge on its side for a short time usually won’t cause damage if you follow these steps carefully.

Can a refrigerator be damaged if turned on immediately after laying on its side?

Yes, turning on a refrigerator immediately after it has been on its side can cause damage. The oil inside the compressor may not have returned to its proper place, which can make the compressor work badly or break. Refrigerant flow can also be affected. Waiting helps protect the fridge from these problems and keeps it working well.

Do I need to wait the same time it was on its side before turning it on?

It is a good idea to wait at least the same amount of time that your fridge was on its side. If it was down for 10 hours, wait about 10 hours standing upright before plugging it in. This waiting time helps ensure the oil and refrigerant settle safely. Some people wait even longer to be extra careful.

Is there a difference in laying side for different fridge models?

Yes, some fridge models are more sensitive than others. Always check your user manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific advice. Some fridges have parts that need special care when moving. When in doubt, follow the 24-hour rule and wait after standing it up before use.

Can laying a fridge on the wrong side cause door damage?

Yes, laying the fridge on the same side as the door hinges can cause the door to become loose or damaged. It is safer to lay the fridge on the side opposite the door hinge to protect the door and seals. This also prevents extra pressure on fragile parts.

Do I need to remove shelves before laying the fridge down?

Removing shelves and drawers is a good idea before laying the fridge down. This helps prevent damage to the shelves and keeps them from breaking or shifting during the move. It also makes the fridge lighter and easier to handle.

Is it okay to lay a fridge on its back instead of side?

Laying a fridge on its back is usually not recommended because it can cause oil to flow into places it should not go. The side opposite the door hinge is safer. If you must lay it on its back, be sure to wait longer before turning it on and check the manual for advice.

Can a refrigerator be moved without laying it down?

Yes, it is best to move a refrigerator while keeping it upright. This is the safest way to avoid damaging the compressor and refrigerant system. Use dollies or furniture straps to help move the fridge carefully without tipping it over.