It is okay to leave the fridge standing up or on its side. But make sure that it is not lying on its back. If you do lay your mini-fridge on its back or side, no worries! Simply make sure to wait 24 hours before plugging it in and using it.
Laying a mini fridge on its side is generally not recommended, as it can lead to several issues: Compressor Oil: Refrigerators use a compressor that contains oil. When you lay the fridge on its side, this oil can flow out of the compressor and into the cooling lines.
I'd do it for a 20% tip. Mini fridges aren't THAT big and would fit in my car. They're also not that heavy. I'd consider myself a decent shopper with over 1500 orders and a 5* rating.
Loading the Mini Fridge into Your Car
Positioning in the vehicle. Ideally, place the mini fridge upright. This is how it functions and should travel that way if possible. Tilting it on its side can cause the coolant to flow incorrectly, potentially damaging the unit.
If it is transported upright, wait at least two to three hours before plugging it in. If transported on its side, turn it upright and let it stand for at least four hours.
It can take up to 24 hours for the oil in the compressor to return to the location of the compressor that the oil needs to be. If you plug the appliance in too early or before the oil returns to the bottom of the compressor, you lower the life of the appliance.
It's important to keep your fridge or freezer upright during transportation. Some brands of refrigerators have compressor brackets that absorb vibrations while in an upright position. Lying these fridges on their sides can place a strain on the bracket and cause damage to the internal machinations of the fridge.
While moving, it is best not to tilt your fridge back more than a 45-degree angle to prevent damage to the internal components and coolant from leaking.
Don't use the mini fridge outdoors or anywhere it is likely to come into contact with the elements. Don't place a mini fridge near cookers, radiators, or in direct sunlight, as this will result in it having to work harder to maintain the required internal temperature.
Secure the fridge with straps or ropes to prevent it from shifting during transit. Place the fridge on a flat surface in the car, ideally in the trunk, front passenger seat, or backseat, to keep it stable.
Yes, you can. Looking from the front tip it on the right side. Tape the doors shut. Don't leave it laid down longer than you needs to, ideally less than 24 hours.
Mini Fridge – depending on the brand should not take more than 4 hours. Top-freezer fridge – depending on the brand will take 4 hours to 24 hours. French door fridge – depending on the brand will take 2 hours to 24 hours. Side-by-side fridge – depending on the brand will take 2 hours to 24 hours.
Curbside Collection
Most do not, and those that do require you to set it out no sooner than the day of pickup. Keep in mind you need to drain the Freon, secure the doors shut or remove them altogether for safe and proper pickup. Otherwise, you risk the city leaving your refrigerator behind.
A refrigerator should really only be transported in an upright position. If you are deciding how to transport a refrigerator in a pickup truck, trailer or moving truck, remember that it's best to keep the refrigerator upright, and rent or borrow a vehicle that will allow for that positioning.
The compressor is the heart of your mini fridge, responsible for cooling. It's normal for compressors to make some noise, but if it becomes excessively loud, it might indicate an issue. The compressor could be overworking due to a malfunction, or it might simply be wearing out.
If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.
However, if it's necessary to move it on its side, there are some precautions you can take: Keep the refrigerator upright as much as possible. If it must be laid down, ensure it is placed on the side where the compressor and coolant lines are least likely to be affected (consult your manufacturer's instructions).
Compact models: These must always remain upright.
The sizes of mini refrigerators typically range from 1.7 to 4.4 cubic feet. Energy Star estimates that mini-fridges of this size consume between 233 and 310 kWh. In the meantime, tests conducted by Consumer Reports show that an energy-efficient 4.4 cubic foot mini fridge has an annual energy cost of $27.
While there's no strict rule, it's best not to put a mini fridge on its side for more than a few hours.
However, putting a fridge in a horizontal position can permanently damage its ability to cool. Even just tilting it at an angle for a short period of time runs the risk of introducing unwanted chemicals and oils into your cooling system. In fact, transporting a fridge horizontally may void your warranty.
It is important to leave your fridge to settle after moving to protect the appliance's internal parts and to ensure that the fridge continues to work to maximum efficiency. When moving a fridge, the compressor oil can leak into the refrigeration system, causing a blockage if the appliance is turned on too quickly.
Can you lay a refrigerator down to transport it? Never lay a refrigerator on its front or back as it could cause damage. It is advised to strap it standing upright to the side of a moving truck or other tall truck. If the refrigerator must be laid down, only do so on the left or right side.
It's generally recommended to wait at least 24 hours after transporting a fridge before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant and compressor oil to settle back into their proper positions.
It is always best to keep a fridge or freezer upright when moving, but you can transport a fridge on its side too. Just remember that before it is plugged in and switched on, it should be left upright for a minimum of 3 hours.