What are the rules for a new refrigerator?

Author: Mrs. Laurie Tremblay  |  Last update: Thursday, December 11, 2025

If your Whirlpool refrigerator was recently installed, it is recommended that you allow 24 hours for the refrigerator to achieve full functionality. This allows time for the refrigerator to achieve the following: Correct Internal temperature. Properly chilled water.

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

When you buy a new fridge or freezer, don't put food in it straight away or you'll end up with spoiled milk or thawed meat. Let it cool for 12 hours at the minimum; a good way to test this is to put an ice cube tray in the freezer filled with wate...

How long should a new fridge be on before use?

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. When doing so, make sure that the thermostat control is set to on.

Do new refrigerators need to sit for 24 hours?

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.

How long do you have to leave a refrigerator on after installation?

Essential Waiting Period for Optimal Performance

Many people wonder how long to leave fridge after moving. It's important to plan ahead and consult your user manual for specific guidance. After moving a fridge, it's best to let it stand upright and stand unplugged for at least four hours before turning it on.

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

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.

What happens if I plug my fridge in too soon?

Plugging in and turning on the fridge immediately can cause the compressor to run dry, leading to damage.

What is the downtime for a refrigerator?

As the USDA notes in Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency, your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power.

How long after plugging in a fridge can it be used?

How Long After Plug-in Can I Add Foods in a New Fridge? Right after plugin, in order to ensure normal operation and storage effect of the machine, you need to wait at least another 2 hours before putting food or drink inside.

How long should you wait to plug in a fridge on its side?

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.

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.

What happens if you plug a new fridge freezer in straight away?

The refrigerant used to make the appliance work has to settle before you can plug it in. Please wait 2 hours before you plug it in. If you plug it in straight away it is possible that damage may occur to your new appliance. The refrigerant used to make the appliance work has to settle before you can plug it in.

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

They might take between 12 and 24 hours to get to temperature. The FDA says the temperature inside your refrigerator should be under 40 degrees.

Can you use a new refrigerator right away?

I have just had my fridge/freezer delivered how long do I need to leave it before using? 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.

What happens if you don't put food in the fridge?

Bacteria can grow rapidly on food left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If food is left out in a room or outdoors where the temperature is 90 degrees F or hotter, food should be refrigerated or discarded within just 1 hour. Myth: When I microwave food, the microwaves kill the bacteria.

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.

How long to leave a new fridge before turning on?

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 to do with food when getting a new refrigerator?

But slow down for just a sec; after you plug in your refrigerator, you should wait two hours to make sure your fridge is cooling before you begin storing food in it. And it's okay if you want to store warm food in the refrigerator too. You just have to remember that condensation will form when hot and cold air mix.

When can I put food in my new fridge freezer?

You can put food in your new fridge freezer after letting it settle for 4 hours if it was transported on its side or 1 hour if it was transported upright. After this amount of time you're absolutely fine and safe to put your food in your new fridge freezer.

What shortens the life of a refrigerator?

For example, overloading the fridge with too much food can put extra strain on the motor, which will cause it to work harder and potentially fail sooner. Similarly, frequently opening and closing the fridge door can also lead to premature wear and tear.

What if my fridge has been off for 12 hours?

According to FoodSafety.gov, food stored in the refrigerator is still safe to eat for no more than four hours, while a full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if half-full). Once the temperature inside the refrigerator reaches 40°F or higher, perishable food is only good for two more hours.

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 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.

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.

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