Laying a Kenmore Refrigerator on Its Side: Is It Safe and What to Consider
Refrigerators are an essential appliance in every household. They help keep our perishables fresh and extend their shelf life. However, there may come a time when you need to move or transport your Kenmore refrigerator. In such situations, you may wonder if it is safe to lay it on its side. In this article, we will explore the safety aspects of laying a Kenmore refrigerator on its side and discuss the key considerations to keep in mind.
Is it safe to lay a Kenmore refrigerator on its side?
Many people have concerns about laying a refrigerator on its side, and understandably so. Refrigerators contain delicate components such as compressors and refrigerant systems that need to be handled with care. When you lay a refrigerator on its side, you may disturb these components and potentially cause damage. However, Kenmore refrigerators are designed to handle moderate tilting during transportation or installation.
Factors to consider
Despite the relative safety of laying a Kenmore refrigerator on its side, there are several factors you should consider before doing so:
Type of refrigerator
The first and foremost consideration is the type of refrigerator you own. Certain refrigerator models are more resilient to being laid on their sides than others. Kenmore refrigerators have sturdy constructions that can withstand the occasional tilting. However, it is always advisable to consult the refrigerator’s user manual or contact Kenmore customer support for specific instructions regarding your model.
Duration of the tilt
Even though Kenmore refrigerators can tolerate being laid on their sides, it is important to minimize the duration of the tilt as much as possible. The longer the refrigerator remains tilted, the higher the risk of damaging the internal components. If you need to lay your Kenmore refrigerator on its side, aim to keep the duration as short as possible, ideally no longer than 15 minutes.
Transportation precautions
If you are laying your Kenmore refrigerator on its side for transportation purposes, take extra precautions to ensure its safety. Secure the refrigerator with straps or bungee cords to prevent it from shifting or falling during transit. Additionally, cover the refrigerator with a protective blanket or cardboard to shield it from any potential bumps or scratches.
Recovery time
Once you have safely laid your Kenmore refrigerator on its side and transported it to its destination, allow it ample time to recover before plugging it in. This recovery time is crucial for the refrigerant system to settle back into its proper position. It is generally recommended to wait for at least 3 to 4 hours after moving the refrigerator before plugging it in.
Checking for issues
After the recovery period, carefully inspect your Kenmore refrigerator for any signs of damage or issues. Look out for leaking fluids, strange noises, or malfunctioning components. If you notice any abnormalities, contact Kenmore customer support or a professional technician to assess and fix the problem.
Why is it important to consider these factors?
Considering these factors when laying a Kenmore refrigerator on its side is essential for preserving its functionality and lifespan. Failure to exercise caution can result in irreparable damage to the refrigerator’s internal components, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a replacement. By taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure the safe transportation and installation of your Kenmore refrigerator.
When should you avoid laying a Kenmore refrigerator on its side?
While Kenmore refrigerators are designed to handle moderate tilting, there are certain situations where you should avoid laying them on their sides altogether. These include:
Extreme tilting
It is important to differentiate between moderate tilting and extreme tilting. Extreme tilting, where the refrigerator is angled significantly more than the recommended tilt, can cause irreversible damage to the internal components. As a general rule, try to keep the tilt angle below 45 degrees.
Recent power outage
If your Kenmore refrigerator has recently experienced a power outage, it is advisable to avoid laying it on its side. Power outages can cause the refrigerant system to become unstable, and tilting the refrigerator immediately after an outage can further disrupt its equilibrium.
Unsteady or damaged refrigerator
Do not attempt to lay a Kenmore refrigerator on its side if it is already leaning or unstable. An unsteady or damaged refrigerator may lack the necessary stability to endure the tilting process, further exacerbating any existing issues.
In conclusion
In conclusion, laying a Kenmore refrigerator on its side can be safe if done correctly and within certain parameters. However, it is crucial to consider factors such as the type of refrigerator, duration of the tilt, transportation precautions, recovery time, and checking for issues. By taking these precautions, you can ensure the safe transportation and installation of your Kenmore refrigerator while preserving its functionality and longevity. Always consult the refrigerator’s user manual or contact Kenmore customer support for specific instructions and guidance regarding your model.