Do new refrigerators need to sit for 24 hours?

Author: Olen Walsh  |  Last update: Tuesday, December 16, 2025

When deciding how long you leave a fridge or freezer to settle for once positioned, there are conflicting recommendations. Generally, if you're going to be 100 percent sure that the oil has settled back down into the compressor, you should leave it for 24 hours.

What happens if you don't wait 24 hours to plug in the fridge?

Turning the fridge on too soon can lead to a coolant rush, which can cause problems like leaks or blockages. This can damage the fridge, and you may need to pay for expensive repairs. Waiting allows the coolant to settle back into its correct position and ensures that there are no leaks or blockages.

How long should you leave a new fridge before plugging in?

Manufacturer Recommendations: Many manufacturers advise this waiting period to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the appliance. To summarize, waiting 24 hours before plugging in a fridge helps ensure that the compressor oil is properly settled and that the appliance operates efficiently and safely.

How long after getting a new fridge can it be used?

After transporting a new refrigerator, it's generally recommended to wait 2 to 24 hours before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant to settle back into the compressor and ensures optimal performance.

How long before a new fridge is cold enough to use?

Owners should wait at least 24 hours for a new refrigerator to fully cool down before loading it with perishable items.

How long should I wait before plugging in my fridge after moving it?

Does a new fridge need to stand for 24 hours?

Let it stand

In transit, your appliance gets shaken around, so it's best to let everything settle before you plug it in. If it was transported upright, give it at least an hour before you plug it in. If it was transported on its side, turn it the right way up and leave it for at least four hours.

What happens if you don't let a fridge settle?

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.

How long after plugging in a new fridge can you put food in it?

How long should I wait after plugging in the refrigerator before putting food in? After plugging the refrigerator in, wait two to four hours and verify that the unit is cooling before putting food inside. Only add food to the freezer once the freezer temperature is below 0°F (-18°C).

Can a new fridge be used immediately?

To keep your fridge or freezer working properly, it's recommended to wait a few hours, at least 4-6 hours, before plugging it in after it's been moved. This allows the compressor oil, which lubricates the internal components, to settle back into place.

Can you lie a brand new fridge down?

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.

How long does it take for a new GE refrigerator to get cold?

When a refrigerator is first installed, allow 24 hours for it to stabilize to normal operating temperatures. Some cooling should be obvious in the freezer compartment within approximately one hour. The recommended initial temperature settings are 37 degrees F. in the fresh food compartment and 0 degrees F.

How long do you have to wait to put food in a new LG refrigerator?

Let your refrigerator run for at least 2 or 3 hours before putting food in it. Check the flow of cold air in the freezer compartment to ensure proper cooling. Your refrigerator is now ready for use. Be careful when you work with hinge, base grille, stopper etc.

What happens if the fridge door is left open for 12 hours?

Since the compressor has to work harder to maintain the temperature inside the fridge, it puts extra load and pressure. This leads to increased wear and tear on the compressor. This is potentially detrimental to the overall lifespan of the refrigerator leading to frequent breakdowns.

How long to let a new fridge sit before plugging in?

Allow your refrigerator to sit in place for 12 to 24 hours before plugging it in to allow the refrigerator to settle.

How much is a fridge gas refill?

Fridge freezers repair and gas refilling on-site ,R400 for gas refill. 0646213749 call or WhatsApp Lesley for assistance.

What is the first thing you should do with a new fridge?

Once the unit is in the house you should: Leave the appliance to sit for 3 hours. Then plug it in and switch it on. It should then be left overnight to stabilize before putting any fresh food into it.

Do you have to wait 24 hours after moving a fridge?

After the Move

After you have moved the refrigerator to its new location, let it stand upright for 24 hours before plugging it in to allow all the fluids to settle. While you are waiting, place the shelves and drawers back in their original positions.

Can new fridges be plugged in right away?

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.

How long does it take a new refrigerator to get cold once plugged in?

The cooling process in a refrigerator isn't instantaneous. According to Whirlpool, it generally takes about 24 hours for a fridge to reach the correct internal temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit to 40 F (3 C to 5 C).

When you buy a new refrigerator, do they take the old one?

Appliance haul away refers to the removal and disposal of old appliances. Haul away is an additional cost during an appliance purchase. For Pros, haul away is free with product purchase only. Add haul away at checkout.

How much water should I run through a new refrigerator filter?

Run two to four gallons of water through the new filter. This helps prevent your water dispenser from sputtering and clears impurities left over from manufacturing. Check for leaks around the filter.

Can I use my new fridge straight away?

The oil in a refrigerator protects the appliance's parts, working to ensure that the appliance does not break down or deteriorate when in constant use. Once 4 hours have passed, you can plug your appliance in.

What number should a fridge be on?

Fridge temperature settings are generally numbered from 1 to 5, with 5 being the coldest. A fully stocked fridge may need to be set to a higher setting (around 3 or 4), whereas one with more space is best suited to temperature setting 2 or 3.

How long does a new Frigidaire refrigerator take to cool?

If your refrigerator was just installed, it takes about 24 hours for the temperature to stabilize. It is preferred that you do not adjust the temperature from the recommended setting during the 1st 24 hours.

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