Propane Refrigerator Transporting and Storage

Whether it be a brand new purchase or just re-locating a propane refrigerator, transporting the unit is not as complicated as some might believe.  The gas refrigerator or gas freezer is not built with the same components as an electric refrigerator. The rules of not laying the fridge on the side and keeping them upright at all times does not apply to the gas fridge absorption system.  In fact, laying a gas refrigerator on the side while transporting has no long term affects to the operation, performance, or lifespan of the unit.  Although some brands may need a little more care than others, all gas fridges can be transported or moved on their side. Laying them on the back or even the front door is not out of the question but if you have a choice, we suggest the side lying down. For most brands, we suggest the side to the left as you look at the fridge door be the side to the floor.

Why do we suggest laying the gas refrigerator on one specific side? For two reasons. First -  it is possible that in some brands, the solution within the sealed absorption system may get trapped in the wrong location and limit or block the circulation of fluids during operation. In this case, a burping procedure must be used to free the “Lock” or “Blockage”. This simple process is explained here - Burping Your Propane Refrigerator. This only happens in some brands in some cases. We find that for these brands, laying the left side down keeps the fluid where it needs to be, and when standing the fridge back upright again, a “Lock” or Blockage” is less likely. We find that the EZ Freeze brand is not susceptible to this type of “Lock” or “Blockage”. In fact, of all the years we have been selling EZ Freeze gas refrigerators, we have never seen this happen.  Secondly – The side of the fridge is a flat surface and will hold up better during transporting and be less prone to damage compared to the front or back. Extra padding is always good practice to avoid damage to the thin sheet metal cabinet.

Long term or short term storage of a propane refrigerator both fall under the same guidelines. The gas fridge being out of service or shut off will have no short or long term ill affect. If the gas refrigerator is being shut down from operation, the most important thing to consider is to remove any moisture from the interior to prevent mold buildup. Putting some charcoal inside the fridge or freezer compartment will help absorb moisture and odor while in storage. In a pinch, old newspaper will work as well. Leaving the doors open is an option but no recommended if critters are present and will invade the space.

In freezing climates the unit will withstand sub freezing temperatures. Do not leave canned drinks inside the fridge as they will explode and have been known to cause damage to the interior. Even if the door is closed, the cans will freeze.

Another helpful hint is to spray an insect repellent around the burner box to deter insects such as spiders from nesting in the burner . An insect nest in the burner will cause performance issues and possibly a danger upon startup. Always check your flame condition immediately after startup from a storage period. The flame should be a bright blue at the base and have a clear tip with no yellow or white color. This clear tip is usually at the very top of the flame located up inside the flue exhaust and will require a mirror at the floor facing upwards to inspect it. If a yellow or white tip is present, maintenance is required. Find some tips here - Maintenance for Gas Refrigerators.

More Information:
Gas Refrigerators for Sale
Gas Fridge Comparison
All Off-Grid Appliances