Fridge installation checklist

1. Decide on the space your fridge will go into.

You may already know where you intend to put your new fridge (especially if it is a simple replacement), but is it the best place for optimal operation? The more space you have around your fridge the better because it can efficiently release warm air into the surroundings.

Aiming for 5cm space is good, especially at the back where the condenser coils are. Is there a convenient plug socket near your designated space? If your fridge requires a water supply, is there a suitable connection point? You should also ensure your fridge isn't next to an oven or other heat-generating appliance. Does the temperature of the space ever fall to below 10ºC? If so, you may need to think again.

2. Clear your route.

Work out the path your new appliance will take during installation and also the exit route for your existing appliance. Make sure you check with the delivery company first if your fridge isn't on the ground floor.

Measure doorways to make certain that the fridge will fit through. Will you need to remove any doors? Is there enough space for the packaging, or will this need to be removed first? Clear away any obstructions, to avoid trips and knocks, and ensure the floor isn't slippery. Protect any door frames and furniture, especially at the corners where they could get chipped.

3. Arrange equipment and moving support.

It is always better to have at least one other person to help you move your fridge, but never attempt to move a fridge on your own if you are pregnant, have a condition that impairs your ability to lift safely or are taking any substances, including any medication that warns against operating heavy machinery. Make sure that you and any staff helpers are familiar with the latest manual handling policies and regulations.

Can you get hold of an appliance trolley or wheeled platform? It will make moving your fridges much easier. You will also need a spirit level, and possibly a set of spanners, for adjusting the feet of your fridge. If you are hiring a plumber to connect a water supply to your fridge, try to co-ordinate their arrival for immediately after installation.

4. Uninstall and remove your old fridge.

The sooner you can do this the better, although you will need to decide how you are going to store any refrigerated goods. Remember, they should be kept below 5ºC at all times. Old fridges contain gases that can contribute to global warming, so make sure you dispose of your fridge legally and responsibly.

5. Remove all packaging.

It is usually easier to transport and install a new fridge if you remove the packaging as soon as you are inside. You may want to keep the door taped shut for convenience.

6. Locate the user manual.

Read any safety information and keep the manual handy in case of any complications or model-specific instructions. You may also need to activate your manufacturer's guarantee, and the manual should tell you where to find the model number.

7. Locate and free the power cable.

It can be frustrating to move your commercial fridge into position only to realise that the cable is still clipped into the back and out of reach. Hold or secure the cable as you move your fridge to avoid it trailing on the floor.

8. Move your fridge in place.

Check your user manual for the maximum tilt angle of the fridge. Keep your appliance within that range as you carefully manoeuvre it into place.

9. Check the door opens the way you want it to.

Most fridges have reversible doors, and instructions for switching them around will be in your user manual.

10. Balance the feet.

Your fridge should be perfectly horizontal across and slightly tilted back. Your user manual will have instructions for how to do this. Some models can be adjusted by hand while others will need a spanner or other tools.

11. Connect your water supply (if relevant).

If your commercial fridge includes a water dispenser or ice maker, you will need to connect it to the water supply by following the instructions in your user manual. Water supply kits vary, but usually include a supply line, an inlet valve for connecting the line to your fridge and a valve for connecting it to your water mains.

12. Give your fridge a clean while it settles.

To allow the refrigerant gases to settle, it is recommended that you leave it unplugged for at least an hour. Some manufacturers suggest waiting up to four hours before you turn the power on (check your user manual). Now is the ideal time to untape the door, remove any internal packaging and take out all shelves, trays and boxes for washing. You will only need some washing up liquid and hot water. Wash and thoroughly dry the interior and exterior of your new commercial fridge. Dry and replace the shelves.

13. Bring your fridge down to operating temperature.

Switch on your appliance and wait for it to reach the desired temperature. It can take between two and twelve hours for a new fridge to reach a stable temperature, and we recommend using an appliance thermometer rather than relying on the display alone. Restock your fridge, ready for the working day.

Future proof your new investment - by adding your gasket to our register

While ordering a door seal for your new fridge is probably the furthest thing from your mind, it is a good idea to add the details to our Gasket Asset Register, along with the details of any other fridge and freezer seals on your premises.

This will help us to source a replacement seal even more quickly in the future, without hunting around for hidden model numbers or misplaced user manuals. Contact us for more
details.