How to use a new fridge for the first time?

Author: Leonora Ward DDS  |  Last update: Saturday, November 22, 2025

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.

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

When you get a new refrigerator, clean the interior with a mixture of water and baking soda. Then set the temperature so the refrigerator is 40°F/4.44°C and the freezer should be 0°F/-17.77°C. Eggs should be kept in the back of the refrigerator. Make sure to separate fruits and vegetables.

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

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.

How do I activate my new refrigerator?

Wait before Turning It On: It's recommended to wait for a few hours before turning the refrigerator on, especially if it has been transported in a non-upright position. This waiting period allows the refrigerant inside the compressor to settle, ensuring the appliance works efficiently.

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.

IMPORTANT Things to know before plugging in Brand New Refridgerator

What happens if you plug a new fridge in too soon?

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 turn on my new fridge straight away?

Once your fridge has been safely moved into the desired position, it needs time to settle. As aforementioned, you should leave the appliance to stand unplugged, in an upright position, for at least 4 hours to allow its compressor oil to settle. Once 4 hours have passed, you can plug your appliance in.

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.

Can I just plug in my new fridge?

Your refrigerator should be left in an upright position when being moved or stored to prevent damage to its cooling mechanism. If it must be transported on its side, leave it for no more than 8 hours and do not plug it in for at least 24 hours after arriving at its installation location.

How long should a fridge run when first plugged in?

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). During this time, the fridge is working to remove heat from the interior and establish a stable environment for food storage.

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.

Do you need to clean a new fridge before use?

Because you're going to be storing food in it, it's a good idea to give it a clean before you use it. You don't need to go overboard, just a quick wipe down with warm water and washing up liquid in each cavity. Make sure it's completely dry before putting the compartments back in.

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

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.

What goes bad first in a fridge?

Milk has been named the item most likely to expire in the fridge, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans has revealed that 46 percent say they've been caught by a sour scent in their bottle or carton.

Which brand of refrigerator is the best?

Our Top Pick: LG produces excellent refrigerators that perform well in our tests and receive high satisfaction ratings from consumers, including our survey participants. The Smart French Door Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker stands out for its simple, user-friendly design and customizable features.

How long before putting food in a new fridge?

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 to use a refrigerator for the first time?

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 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.

Can you plug in a fridge after it's been on its side?

If the refrigerator has been laid on its side, it should remain in an upright position for up to 24 hours before attempting to reconnect and run it.

Can you use a brand new fridge straight away?

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 many hours before you turn on 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.

Why does my new fridge not work?

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.

Do you have to wait 24 hours before plug-in a refrigerator?

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.

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 to clean a new fridge before use?

Avoid using any chemical products– soap and water will work best. Wipe the inner walls and all the shelving. If your refrigerator comes with an ice maker or water option, you will want to run some water through the lines before ingesting it.

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