Laying down a freezer on it's side?

[flatts1]

I am picking up a used freezer (circa 1984) that is not frost free. I have been told in the past that it is not a good idea to lay down a freezer when transporting. Is this true?

Thanks,
Mike

[Gloucester2]

That's what I've always heard . . . something about the coolant used should not be transported except upright . . . may be an ole wive's tale - an appliance guy will jump in I'm sure

[Fishpart]

The oil in the compressor can get up into the cylinders when you tip it. Can't compress a liquid only a gas, so the valves break and the compressor is wiped out. If you do tip it let it sit upright a while (couple of days) in a warm spot so the oil drains back into the crankcase where it belongs before you start it .

[beamie]

Fishpart is right on with that answer.


By the way. When buying freezers and fridges understand their is no such thing as frost free. This is just a fancy way to say that there is an automatic defrost freature with either hot gas bypass or an electrical coil that comes on, on a timer/pc board. Which after time fails too.

Most chest freezes do not have any defost and the inside of the box will cake up over the season.

Sounds like Mike will have lots of Maceral in the freezer by the end of May.

[fisherman jim]

i think you can but,,, you need to let it stand upright for a while to let the oil drain back

[flatts1]

Mission accomplished. I let it rest for 2 days before plugging it in and it works fine.

Thanks,
Mike