Dear luv100-ga;
Let me take a trial shot at it and see if this is helpful (let me know):
When a refrigerator or freezer is placed on it?s side, the oil from
the compressor tends to run up the cooling lines or into the discharge
line. If you plug the unit in immediately after standing it upright
again without allowing the oil to drain back down into the compressor,
you risk causing serious damage while the oil level in the compressor
is insufficient. This could lead to insufficient lubrication and could
cause the compressor to overheat and some internal parts might even
get hot enough to break or fuse together. If this happens it normally
requires a complete compressor replacement in order to rectify the
problem.
Secondly, in all units placed horizontally, but in old units in
particular where somewhat worn parts are present, oil can flow past a
piston or valve. When this happens oil can be pushed through the
condenser and may saturate the gas dryer. The gas dryer may need to be
cleaned or replaced (and since this is a hermetic system repair you?ll
probably need to enlist the aid of a qualified technician). The
refrigerant will need to be evacuated in this process and later
replaced, of course. This may be outlined in your unit?s
manufacturer?s documentation.
Thirdly, refrigeration compressors use oil to function, but they are
specifically designed to PUMP gas, not liquid. Liquid refrigerant is
not compressible, and if the refrigerant gets into the compressor from
lying horizontal and is not sufficiently drained before use, the
pistons, valves, and connecting rods can bend or break when the
compressor tries to pump the liquid instead of gas. This may require
valve or piston replacement, but it may be easier (if not more
economical) to just replace the entire compressor. These pistons, rods
and valves may be available for purchase from your manufacturer or
some other parts supplier.
Finally, a refrigerator or freezer moved horizontally can sometimes
lead to the breaking or bending of the springs that act as shock
absorbers for the compressor. Imagine a heavy compressor attached to
the bottom of the inside of a box, suspended by brings attached to its
underside. When you turn the box horizontally the compressor has no
support and simply hangs there (or bounces there) under it?s own
weight until it is returned to its upright position. This lack of
support can lead to the disconnecting of wires and connections
required to provide electrical power to the compressor. Check all the
wires for a disconnection or torn wire.
There?s no way for me to really diagnose your particular problem but
maybe this will get you started. Please let me know if this is what
you were hoping to learn as an answer.
Best regards;
Tutuzdad-ga ? Google Answers Researcher |