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08719844416Proper setup of a new fridge freezer requires specific waiting periods to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Rushing to use your appliance immediately after delivery could potentially damage it and affect its cooling efficiency.Whether you've just purchased a fridge freezer or a fridge, following the correct setup procedure is essential for protecting your investment and ensuring it works efficiently for years to come.
After your new fridge freezer is delivered, it's important to let it stand upright for at least 4 hours before plugging it in. This waiting period is crucial, especially if the appliance was transported horizontally or tilted during delivery.
The reason for this waiting period is to allow the refrigerant and oil in the cooling system to settle back into their proper positions. During transport, these fluids may have moved through pipes where they shouldn't normally flow.
If you switch on your fridge freezer too soon, the compressor might try to pump refrigerant while oil is still in the wrong part of the system. This can cause significant damage to the compressor – one of the most expensive components to replace.
For appliances that have been transported on their side, manufacturers often recommend waiting even longer – up to 24 hours – before plugging in. Always check your specific model's manual for the manufacturer's guidelines.
Once you've allowed your fridge freezer to stand upright for the recommended time and plugged it in, there's a second waiting period before you should start loading food. Most manufacturers advise waiting approximately 24 hours before stocking your new appliance.
This additional waiting time serves several important purposes:
During this 24-hour period, you can set the temperature controls to the recommended settings (usually the middle position on the dial). For most fridge freezers, this means approximately 3-5°C for the fridge compartment and -18°C for the freezer compartment.
If your model has a fast freeze function, you might want to activate this a few hours before adding frozen food to help the freezer reach optimal temperature more quickly.
Taking the time to set up your new fridge freezer correctly might seem inconvenient when you're eager to use it, but these waiting periods are a small investment that helps protect your appliance, ensures food safety, and can save you from costly repairs in the future.
