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How Long After Moving A Fridge Can I Turn It On?

March 23,2023

Moving a refrigerator is always a challenging task. It requires a lot of effort, planning, and precautions to ensure that the refrigerator is safely transported without causing any damage. A moving company can take care of this for you, but if you move yourself, what should you do? Once you have successfully moved the refrigerator to its new location, knowing how long you must wait before turning it on is essential. National Movers has significant experience with moving major appliances and offers the following information for your refrigerator.

General

Generally, no waiting time is required if you can keep your refrigerator upright during your move. You can plug it in immediately and start putting food in.

However, if you need to ship your refrigerator on its side, it is wise to wait the same amount of time as the move. For example, if the refrigerator move took five hours, wait at least five hours before plugging it in (assuming it is upright while you wait).

Why Wait?

This allows enough time for the refrigerant inside the appliance to settle. Refrigerant is a cooling substance that flows through the refrigerators' coils and is responsible for keeping your food cold. During transportation, the refrigerant can get disturbed, and turning on the refrigerator too soon can cause damage to the compressor.

Compressor

The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator and is responsible for compressing the refrigerant and circulating it through the coils. If the compressor is damaged, it can lead to a costly repair or even a complete refrigerator replacement. Therefore, waiting the recommended time before turning on the refrigerator is essential to avoid any potential damage.

Additional Precautions

In addition to waiting for the refrigerant to settle, there are other precautions you should take before turning on your refrigerator after a move.

  • Clean the interior and exterior of the refrigerator

Before turning on your refrigerator, take some time to clean the appliances inside and outside. This includes wiping down the shelves, drawers, and interior walls with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

  • Check the power cord and electrical outlet

Ensure the power cord is not damaged and securely plugged into a functioning electrical outlet. You should also inspect the outlet for any damage or signs of wear and tear.

  • Allow the refrigerator to stabilize

This can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours. During this time, you should avoid opening the refrigerator door too often to allow the temperature to stabilize.

  • Check for any leaks or unusual sounds

After turning on the refrigerator, watch for leaks or unusual sounds from the appliance.

  • Give it time

It is important to remember that refrigerators are complex appliances that require time to function correctly. If you have just moved your refrigerator to a new location, adjusting to its new surroundings may take some time. Be patient and give it time to settle in before expecting it to perform optimally.

National Movers

Choosing National Movers as your trusted mover is an excellent decision for several reasons. National Movers has a team of highly trained professionals experienced in handling all types of moves, big or small. We offer many services, including packing, loading, transportation, and unpacking, to ensure your move is as stress-free as possible. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your belongings are handled safely and securely during the move. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and transparent pricing makes us a trusted and reliable choice for your local moving needs.