Problem after transporting refrigerator?

Question

I recently purchased a used refrigerator and transported it to my home on its back. It was on its back for approx. 10 min. I stood the unit upright and allowed it to stand for approx. 1 hr. prior to plugging in. After plugging in, the unit started and ran for about 3 min. and shut off. The inside light remained on but that was all.

Answer 1

The freon in the cooling lines is mixed with a oil to lubricate.  When you tip the unit on its side the oil will mix with the freon.  You should let the unit sit upright for about 24 hrs till you restart the unit.  I am not sure if you have damaged the compressor, but I think that if you let the unit sit, unplugged, for 12 hrs min.  then try again I believe you will see that things are ok.  Check to see if any visible damage has occurred like any leaking of freon or do you see any liquid leaking from the compressor unit on the rear of your frig.  Worse comes to worse  you might have to call an appliance repair man.  Good luck

Answer 2

You need to let these stand at least 24 hours for the oil to drip back into the compressor..1 hour was not near enough time..chances are the compressor has now burnt up...This is a sealed system and the oil takes a long time to return to where it should be , especially being sealed  for it has no way of letting air into it like a car from the filler cap before the oil drips back down