Moving a Sub-Zero refrigerator is a big job and it is important to take extra precautions to ensure it is done properly. Before disconnecting the unit, be sure to unplug it or disconnect it from its power source.
Make sure that all shelves, bins and drawers are empty, and then unplug the power cord. Then, you need to open the doors, loosen the compressor flap and move the drain tube away from the unit. You’ll also need to disconnect the water line if the refrigerator is connected to the house water supply.
Next, the refrigerator needs to be moved to its new location. Have at least two people carry the unit from the back, using wide appliance straps or a large appliance dolly. It is important to keep the refrigerator vertical as you’re moving it to avoid damaging the electronics or seals in the doors.
Once it is in the new spot, use a level to make sure that the refrigerator does not tilt too far towards the back or front.
Once the refrigerator is in the correct position, reconnect the power cord and water line if needed, remove the appliance straps or dolly and close the compressor flap. Adjust the leveling feet if needed, and then turn the power back on to ensure the unit works and makes sure that the proper temperature settings are entered.
How long does a refrigerator need to sit after moving?
A refrigerator needs to sit for at least 24 hours after being moved before it is plugged in and turned on. During that time, all loose items inside the refrigerator should be secured or removed to prevent them from toppling over when the refrigerator is turned on.
The refrigerator should be level and should not be tilted more than 1/8 inch during transport. Additionally, any packing material used to secure the refrigerator should be removed. During the 24-hour waiting period, the compressor, condenser, and evaporator have time to settle, ensuring the appliance will run properly.
Refrigerator motors tend to overheat if turned on before giving them a chance to settle. After 24 hours, plug in the refrigerator and wait another four to six hours before placing any food into it. You may also want to check the temperature of the refrigerator with a thermometer to ensure it is running properly.
Can you lay fridge down to transport?
Yes, it is possible to lay a fridge down to transport it. However, there are some important things to consider before doing so. The coils on the back and sides of the unit can be damaged if they are not properly secured and protected when moving.
In fact, the manufacturer of the fridge may even void the refrigerator’s warranty if it is moved while in the upright position.
Additionally, the weight of a typical refrigerator is considerable, so it’s important to have some help when laying the unit down and then back up. This is also true if you need to maneuver it up or down stairs or through tight doorways and hallways.
Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the fridge is stable when tilting it onto its side and when standing it back up. Additionally, the compressor and the cooling tubes of a fridge can be damaged if it is left on its side for too long or too often.
Therefore, if you are going to lay the fridge down for transport you need to be sure you are confident in your handyman skills. You must tie down any loose parts; protect the coils; utilize assistance when flipping it, moving it, and standing it back up; and make sure it is stable once it’s in the upright position.
Additionally, make sure the fridge is upright in its new place for a minimum of 12 hours before powering it back up.
Why not plug in refrigerator after moving?
It is not recommended to plug in the refrigerator after a move because there can be significant damage to the appliance if it is plugged in too soon. If the refrigerator was laid on its side during the move or if it wasn’t properly secured in the back of the truck, the refrigerator may have sustained some damage to its compressor or its seals.
Plugging it in could cause the appliance to leak refrigerant, leading to further damage to the compressor. Additionally, it can take several hours for the oils used in the compressor to be redistributed after a move and until the oil is back in circulation, leaving the appliance plugged in could result in serious damage to the compressor.
It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after a move before plugging in the refrigerator.
Can moving a fridge damage the compressor?
Yes, moving a refrigerator can cause damage to the compressor. The compressor is a pressure-sensitive unit that works to keep the fridge cool. Improperly handling or transporting the fridge can cause damage to a number of components, including the compressor, which can lead to a number of issues.
When moving a fridge, be sure to secure the door, stand it upright, and avoid shaking or bumping it along the way. If possible, have more than one person to help with the move. Anything higher than a few feet must be done by a professional.
Professional movers know the right techniques to transport a fridge and will ensure the components remain intact, avoiding preventable damage.
Can you just unplug and move a fridge?
No, you should not just unplug and move a fridge. First, you should remove any food from the fridge, disconnect it from the power source, and level the appliance with adjustable feet or a spirit level.
You should also make sure it’s securely secured when being transported. Moving a fridge without taking proper safety precautions can damage the machine or injure someone. Additionally, you should check with any local regulations regarding fridge disposal or recycling before disposing of it.
Do fridges need to be turned off before moving?
Yes, fridges should be turned off before moving. This is because fridges contain delicate operating components and require special care. Moving a fridge while it is still plugged in and powered can cause damage, not only to the unit itself, but to the electric cords.
Furthermore, the appliance may contain hazardous substances such as refrigerants, oils or lubricants that may leak if it is not properly handled or not properly sealed when moving. It is best to turn off the fridge and unplug it from the wall socket at least 24 hours before moving it.
Additionally, you should also empty the fridge of all perishable and frozen food. Moving the fridge while it is full can cause the food to spoil or cause the appliance to become imbalanced.
Do you have to wait 24 hours after moving a fridge?
Yes, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after moving a fridge before plugging it in and starting it up. This allows the oil to settle back into the compressor, which is essential for it to run properly.
Moving a fridge can cause the compressor to become dislodged or the compressor oil to become agitated, so waiting for the oil to settle is a critical part of setting up the fridge in its new location.
Additionally, it can be helpful to have the door open for a few hours to allow the temperature to stabilize and the compressor to cool down prior to plugging in the fridge. This can help avoid any strain on the compressor as it turns on, which in turn can help extend the life of the appliance.
Why does a new fridge need to settle?
When a new fridge is first installed, it is important to allow the appliance to settle. This allows the internal and external components to come to a temperature equilibrium and enables the fridge to run more efficiently.
Settling prevents any sudden changes in temperature, which can be damaging to both the unit and the food stored inside of it. During the settling period, it is best to avoid putting too much food in the fridge, as this could overload the compressor, resulting in fridge failure.
Additionally, the door should be opened as little as possible, as this can disrupt the settling process. By allowing the fridge to settle, it can save energy, help it to run more efficiently and last longer.
Can you put a Sub-Zero fridge in the garage?
Yes, you can put a Sub-Zero fridge in the garage. Sub-Zero refrigerators are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. This means that putting a Sub-Zero fridge in the garage is perfectly acceptable, provided the temperature in the garage does not exceed 110 degrees Fahrenheit or fall below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sub-Zero also recommends that any food stored in the fridge in the garage should be wrapped properly and can-to-can contact should be avoided. Additionally, the temperature in the garage should be consistently monitored to ensure food safety.
If the garage temperature exceeds 110 degrees or falls below 30 degrees, the food should be moved to a cooler area such as a kitchen or pantry. It is also recommended to air seal the garage, as this will both keep the temperature in the garage consistent and reduce energy costs.
Can you keep a refrigerator in an unheated garage?
It is possible to keep a refrigerator in an unheated garage, but it should be done with caution. Keeping a refrigerator in an unheated garage can shorten its life expectancy, as the temperature can drop too low, putting extra strain on the cooling system.
The temperature in the garage should not be allowed to drop below freezing, as this can cause damage to the refrigerator and its components. If temperatures in the garage do drop to freezing during cold weather, consider plugging in a space heater near the refrigerator in order to keep temperatures within a safe range.
If the cold weather persists, consider moving the refrigerator indoors until temperatures rise. Additionally, make sure the refrigerator fits inside of the garage, as any additional airflow can further decrease the temperature.
Do I need a special refrigerator for my garage?
Whether or not you need a special refrigerator for your garage will depend on the conditions in your garage. If your garage is well insulated and the temperature remains relatively consistent year-round, standard household refrigerators can work in the space.
However, if your garage gets very hot in the summer or very cold in the winter, you may need to consider a garage-specific fridge. These models are specifically designed to maintain consistent temperatures despite the temperature swings, making them best-suited to the garage environment.
Additionally, some models come with reinforced doors and locks, providing extra security for the contents of your refrigerator. If you are interested in a garage-specific refrigerator, make sure to research reviews and ratings to find one that suits your needs and budget.
What is the difference between a garage fridge and a regular fridge?
The main difference between a garage fridge and a regular fridge is that a garage fridge is designed to function in an environment with higher temperature fluctuations than what a typical indoor refrigerator can handle.
Garage fridges are built with heavy-duty insulation, sealed door gaskets, and components that are much stronger than those used in household fridges. Garage fridges are specially designed to keep food and beverages at a consistent temperature despite extreme fluctuation in outside temperatures.
The extra insulation and sealed door gaskets help to keep the air inside the fridge more regulated, and the strong components are more resilient to wear and tear from the elements. Additionally, garage fridges typically include features such as an additional evaporator fan, a reversible door, and a built-in thermostat for better temperature control.
Why do people put fridges in the garage?
People put fridges in the garage for a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is to free up additional space in the kitchen. Fridges tend to be quite large and can take up a lot of space in a kitchen, so moving the fridge to the garage can free up valuable counter and storage space.
Additionally, a garage offers additional insulation from excessive heat, which can help keep beverages and other items cooler. Furthermore, it can be an effective way to store extra food items that may not fit in a regular fridge and can also help provide easy access to food or drinks while working in the garage.
Additionally, it can be a convenient way to store items such as beer and soda, since the garage temperature can typically stay cooler than the rest of the house.
What is the garage fridge?
The garage fridge is a type of refrigerator designed to be placed in a garage or similar outbuilding. These fridges are made to be hardy and more durable than traditional home refrigerators and freezers and are more specifically built for prolonged use in a harsher environment.
They are typically built with additional insulation, heavy-duty cabinets, and commercial-grade compressors and motors, as well as larger capacities than typical residential models. Garage fridges are also designed to withstand higher ambient temperatures and can even operate in temperatures as high as 110°F.
They are best suited for people who store a large amount of food and beverages and need a reliable source of cold storage.