How long should I leave a new fridge before turning it on?

Author: Prof. Cathy Connelly  |  Last update: Thursday, February 26, 2026

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.

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.

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 turn a new fridge on too soon?

The reason you cannot turn on a new refrigerator right away, is the freon has to settle into the holding tank before the compressor forces it to move through the cooling system. You can risk damaging your compressor and other components if you do not let it settle for a day or so before turning it on.

How long should I wait to switch on a new fridge?

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.

IMPORTANT Things to know before plugging in Brand New Refridgerator

Why can't you turn a new fridge on for 4 hours?

Once your fridge has been safely moved into the kitchen of your new home and is in the desired position, you should let it stand unplugged, in an upright position, for at least 4 hours to allow its compressor oil 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.

Why can't I turn on a new refrigerator immediately?

Fridges and freezers are full of fluid that's used to cool the compartments. In transit, your appliance gets shaken around, so it's best to let everything settle and consider the duration needed to 'let it stand' before you plug it in.

How long should a new refrigerator cool before putting food in it?

When a new refrigerator or freezer arrives in their home, most people can't wait to use it. But remember, it usually takes a unit between 6 and 12 hours to get to the proper temperature to safely store food or keep frozen items properly frozen.

Why do you have to wait 24 hours to use a new fridge?

Plugging in and turning on the fridge immediately can cause the compressor to run dry, leading to damage. Waiting gives the oil enough time to settle, ensuring proper lubrication and protecting the compressor from damage. Additionally, waiting allows the compressor to settle into its correct position.

Can I use a new fridge immediately?

You should leave your fridge/fridge freezer to settle for at least 4 hours. Once 4 hours have passed, you can plug your appliance in. When doing so, make sure that the thermostat control is set to on. Before placing food into the appliance, allow your fridge some time to cool down to temperatures safe for food storage.

What happens if you don't let a fridge sit for 24 hours?

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.

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.

What are the rules for a new refrigerator?

Once you have received your new refrigerator it is best to let it sit for at 4 hours before you turn it one. This needs to be done to let the gas and lubricants settle back into the compressor again. You will then need to wait for your refrigerator to come to temperature before you start to use it.

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 refrigerator compressor to turn on?

How Long Does It Take For a Refrigerator Compressor to Turn On? Typically, a standard time delay for refrigerator units is about 3 minutes.

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.

Why does my new fridge take so long to cool?

Size: Generally, the larger the unit, the longer it will take to cool. Storage Temperature: A unit stored in a warm location or delivered in a warm compartment will take longer to cool. Room Temperature: Fridges stored in warmer areas like an outdoor kitchen or garage don't cool as fast.

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.

How long does it take a refrigerator to get cold after opening the door?

If the door was left open it could take as long as 24 hours for it to cool down to normal operating temperatures .

When can I put food in my new fridge?

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).

How do I know if my fridge needs gas?

The Foodstuff Starts Getting Spoiled or at Best Starts Remaining Warmer. If you find the foodstuff stacked in your fridge has started getting spoiled or getting warmer, that's a red flag. This is the first sign of the fridge losing gas, and the rate of the loss speeds up, you can find a freezing effect.

What is a good price to pay for a refrigerator?

Refrigerators can cost anywhere from $500 to $12,000 depending on what brands and styles you are shopping for. You can find mid-range models that fit most homes for $1,500 or less if you are on a budget.

Why is my fridge not getting cold?

There are several causes for a refrigerator that doesn't cool, including dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation, improper installation, faulty or dirty gasket seals, unorganized food storage, appliance location and malfunctioning internal parts.

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