Yes, if you have to, though upright is always best. If it must go on its side, check your manual for which side, never lay it on its back, and once it’s upright again give it time to settle before you switch it on: Which? advises at least 24 hours.
Why upright is better
A fridge freezer is cooled by a compressor, which relies on oil and a refrigerant staying where they belong. Laying it down lets them move. Which?’s cold appliances expert explains that the waiting time allows “the compressor oil and refrigerant to get back to where they need to be”, and that switching on too soon “can cause blockages and affect its performance”.
If it has to go on its side
- Check the manual first. Which? says the right side is usually hinged side up. Bosch says to lay it so the pipes that carry the refrigerant are uppermost.
- Never lay it on its back. Bosch warns this is likely to damage parts, even if the damage can’t be seen.
- Pad it with a blanket and strap it so it can’t slide around in the van. Our full guide to moving a fridge freezer also covers keeping it fresh in storage.
How long to wait before switching on
Makers give different times, which is why your manual comes first:
| Guidance | Wait after travelling on its side |
|---|---|
| Which? | At least 24 hours before turning it on |
| Bosch | At least 3 hours upright, or 24 hours if it was on its side for more than a day |
| Liebherr | At least 12 hours, or 24 hours for older fridges |
If you can’t find your manual, waiting a full day covers all three.
Getting it ready to move
Empty it, unplug it and leave it to defrost fully; Which? suggests at least 24 hours. Wipe it out, let it dry with the doors open, and pack glass shelves separately so they can’t break.
If it’s going into storage
A fridge freezer stores well with us. Keep it upright if you can, and strap it to a trolley rather than tipping it; trolleys are free to use at all our sites, and you can park for free while you unload. In the unit it stays switched off (our units have no power sockets, and it doesn’t need to run), clean, dry and upright, with the door left open so air can move through it. When it comes home, give it its settling time before you plug it in.
Our guide to storing a fridge or freezer has the full checklist. To find space for it, get a price online or call us on 0800 2545585.
Related questions
- Can I store a fridge or freezer in a storage unit?
- Can I store a washing machine or tumble dryer?
- Are trolleys or sack trucks available on site?
- What should I do on the night before moving day?
Further reading