The answer is no. A refrigerator should never be transported on its back; the weight of the fridge can damage internal parts, and the internal fluids such as the oil inside the motor; or the refrigerant may shift and settle in undesirable places in the machine's system.
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).
While there's no strict rule, it's best not to put a mini fridge on its side for more than a few hours. Can you lay a mini fridge on its back? No, do not lay a mini fridge on its back during transport. Doing so can cause irreparable damage to its internal mechanisms and fluids.
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. However, if space constraints require laying the fridge down, always lay it on the opposite side of the compressor.
If you must transport a mini fridge on its side, it's best to let it stand upright for at least several hours (or ideally 24 hours) before plugging it in. This allows any oil that may have flowed out to return to the compressor.
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.
Keep the fridge upright during transport. If you must lay it down, only do so on its side, and never on the front or back. Secure it well in the moving vehicle to prevent any shifts during the drive. Once at your new place, don't rush to plug it in.
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.
Don't leave it laid down longer than you needs to, ideally less than 24 hours. When you get it where it needs to be, leave it turned off, standing upright, for at least 24 hours. Longer if possible. There's a tiny chance you've broken your fridge.
Never lay a fridge completely flat. If you must transport it horizontally, tilt it at a 45-degree angle and secure it firmly. Having the fridge lying on its side should be avoided if possible. Before plugging in a tilted fridge, let it stand upright for at least 4 hours.
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.
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.
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.
However, it requires a stable power source to operate. If the car is not running, the fridge will draw power from the car battery. Extended use without the engine running can drain the battery, potentially leaving you with a dead battery when you return.
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.
In conclusion, keeping a mini fridge in your car is not only possible, but it's also convenient and can make your road trips and travels more enjoyable. The WOLFBOX Car Fridge is an excellent option for those looking for a portable mini fridge for their car.
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.
After Transporting Your Refrigerator
If it was on its side for more than a day, leave it standing upright for 24 hours before running the refrigerator. If laying on its side just briefly to service, clean or adjust, just a few minutes of stand time will be enough.
Make sure to choose a mini-fridge that is designed for the space you have in mind and has proper ventilation to ensure fire safety while you sleep. You should also ensure that there is enough space around the fridge to allow for proper airflow.
A mini-fridge won't even feel like it's taking up space in your garage because it's recessed into the cabinet system's design! Other traditional indoor living space amenities that can be added to a cabinet system design are a TV and a sink with a faucet.
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.
Though not preferable, you can move your refrigerator laying on its side. Remember, your fridge needs to stand still for hours after the move. If transported on its side, this wait time goes up to twice the time that the appliance has laid on its side.
The unit should rest on the side that is opposite from where the compressor lines are installed. For example, if the compressor lines are attached to the compressor on the left side of the refrigerator, then it can be transported laying on its right side.