Moving a chest freezer upright is not ideal, but sometimes it may be necessary due to space constraints or other logistical reasons. Ideally, a freezer should always be transported in an upright position to avoid any potential damage or issues with its functionality. However, if you find yourself in a situation where moving it upright is not possible, there are some steps you can take to minimize any potential problems.
Firstly, it's important to understand that moving a chest freezer in any position other than upright can potentially cause damage to the compressor and other internal components. The compressor is designed to work in an upright position, and tilting or laying the freezer on its side can cause oil from the compressor to flow into other parts of the system, leading to malfunctions or even permanent damage.
If you absolutely must transport the chest freezer in a non-upright position, the best option is to place it on its side, specifically on the side where the compressor is located. This is usually the back or bottom of the freezer. By placing it on the compressor side, you minimize the risk of oil leakage and potential damage to the compressor.
To prepare the freezer for transport, it's crucial to defrost and clean it thoroughly. Remove all the food items and shelves, and allow the freezer to defrost completely. Clean the interior with a mild detergent or a mixture of water and vinegar to eliminate any odors or residue. Once cleaned, ensure that the freezer is completely dry before moving it.
When moving the chest freezer on its side, it's important to be extremely careful to avoid any sudden jolts or movements that could potentially damage the internal components. Secure the freezer properly in the moving vehicle to prevent it from shifting or falling during transit. It is recommended to use straps or bungee cords to keep it in place.
Upon reaching the new location, it is advisable to let the freezer sit upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it in. This allows any oil that may have migrated during transport to settle back into the compressor. Once the freezer has been allowed to stabilize, plug it in and let it run for a while to ensure that it is functioning properly.
While moving a chest freezer upright is the best practice, sometimes circumstances may not allow for it. By following these precautions and taking extra care during the transport process, you can minimize the risk of any potential damage. However, it is important to note that moving a chest freezer in any position other than upright is not recommended and should only be done if absolutely necessary.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had to move freezers and refrigerators on several occasions. While I always strive to transport them upright, there have been instances where it was simply not feasible due to space limitations or other factors. In those cases, I took extra precautions to ensure that the freezer was secured properly and placed it on the compressor side to minimize any potential damage. Thankfully, I have not encountered any significant issues or malfunctions as a result of transporting a freezer in this manner. However, I cannot stress enough the importance of moving freezers upright whenever possible to avoid any unnecessary risks.