Why wait 4 hours before turning on the fridge?

Author: Samir Nolan  |  Last update: Friday, February 13, 2026

Compressors work by compressing refrigerant gas, which then cools and condenses into a liquid. During transportation, the compressor may have been tilted, causing the oil to mix with the refrigerant. Waiting for four hours allows the oil to settle back to its proper place, ensuring that the compressor works correctly.

Why wait 4 hours to turn the fridge on?

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.

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

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.

Why do you have to wait 3 hours to plug in a fridge?

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.

How long do I need to wait before plugging in my refrigerator after laying it down?

What happens if I turn my fridge on too soon?

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.

Can I use a new fridge immediately?

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.

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).

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 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.

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.

What happens if I leave my fridge open for 8 hours?

Reduced lifespan of stored goods: Due to the influx of warm air as the result of leaving the refrigerator door open, it causes the temperature to rise inside the fridge. These random temperature fluctuations potentially accelerate the decomposition phenomenon in the stored goods.

Why is my fridge not cold after 4 hours?

If your fridge is not cooling, the air vents may be blocked. Blocked air vents can prevent cool air from filtering inside the appliance. Check the vents inside your refrigerator and freezer and remove any items that may be blocking them.

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 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.

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.

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.

Should you wash the inside of a new refrigerator?

It's important to clean your new fridge before using it to remove any manufacturing residues or dust. Start by unplugging the fridge and removing any packaging materials. Mix a mild detergent with warm water and gently wipe the interior surfaces, shelves, and bins.

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 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 you use a new fridge straight away?

Let it stand

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 before you plug it in. If it was transported upright, give it at least an hour before you plug it in.

Do you remove cardboard from the bottom of a Whirlpool refrigerator?

Many Refrigerators come with a cardboard or metal cover on the rear of the Refrigerator, at the bottom. This should not be removed, as it protects components at the bottom of the Refrigerator.

How many hours to wait before turning on fridge after moving?

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 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.

Previous article
Are Lasko heaters a fire hazard?
Next article
How to add water to dry pour concrete?