Can You Transport a Fridge on Its Side?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 09, 2020

A refrigerator can be transported on its side, but proper precautions must be taken to ensure damage does not occur during the move. This includes securing items inside and allowing the evaporator to defrost.

It is recommended to move a refrigerator in an upright position. If a refrigerator is on its side for a long period of time, oil leaks out of the compressor into the lines used to cool the unit.

If a refrigerator is transported on its side, it must be left upright for the same amount of time it spent on its side before resuming operation. The refrigerator must also be unplugged during this time.