How to level a refrigerator in 5 easy steps

If you’re a homeowner, knowing how to level a refrigerator is essential to keep it running smoothly and for as long as possible. A leveled refrigerator helps prevent issues like inefficient cooling, uneven door sealing, excessive noise, and potential damage to its internal components.

You should also periodically check the levelness to catch any deviations before they cause operating problems.

If your refrigerator isn’t level, let’s get it fixed so you can save time and money on unnecessary repairs or service calls. You got this!

What happens if a refrigerator isn’t leveled?

Having an unleveled refrigerator can lead to a number of problems that can affect its performance and lifespan such as:

• Doors that may not close fully or seal tight, which can allow cold air to escape. This can cause a shorter compressor run time and warmer interior temperatures. As the refrigerator runs longer and works harder to maintain a set temperature, more stress is placed on its components and premature breakdowns become more likely.
• Liquids and items stored on the high side may slide or tip over more readily due to the slope, causing spills.
• Shelves that fail to properly align on their tracks or drawers that may not open and close smoothly.
• Temperature may vary noticeably between high and low shelves due to airflow disruptions.
• The fridge is more prone to rocking if it’s bumped. Over time, the feet can damage the flooring.
• The gasket seals may wear out faster from the gates constantly trying to overcome a sloped door closure.
• Sounds of rattling and humming from excess vibration.

In the long run, having an unleveled refrigerator costs more in energy bills and repair expenses. Taking the time to properly level it can save you money and time spent trying to track down replacement parts.

Gather leveling tools and materials

Have these tools and materials ready to adjust your refrigerator. Make sure to use the right tools and follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damage to your appliance.

• Bubble level: A bubble level, also known as a spirit level, helps determine the level of your refrigerator. It consists of a clear tube filled with liquid and an air bubble. Make sure you have a reliable level with accurate readings.
• Adjustable wrench: You’ll need this to adjust the leveling feet on your refrigerator. The wrench allows you to loosen or tighten the feet as needed to achieve the desired level.
• Wooden shims or leveling feet: Depending on the type of refrigerator you have, you may need wooden shims or leveling feet. Wooden shims are thin, wedge-shaped pieces of wood that can be placed under the low side of the refrigerator to level it. Alternatively, some refrigerators come with built-in leveling feet that can be adjusted to achieve proper leveling.

How to level a refrigerator on an even floor

Tips before getting started

• Be patient.
• Make gradual adjustments and check the level after each one.
• Work slowly and carefully to prevent tipping or damaging the appliance.
• Avoid laying the refrigerator on its side, especially for an extended period or during transportation. This can cause oil from the compressor to flow into the cooling lines, potentially leading to compressor damage.
• If you need to move the refrigerator, try to keep it in an upright position as much as possible, or lay it at a slight angle but not completely flat.

Prepare the refrigerator for leveling

Before you start the leveling process, you’ll need to prepare your refrigerator for the best experience:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source to avoid any potential electrical hazards or damage to the appliance.
2. Empty the contents of the fridge. Remove all food items, shelves, and drawers to lighten the load and make it easier to move and adjust the appliance.
3. Carefully move the fridge away from the wall, creating enough space for you to access the back and sides of the appliance. You may need assistance, especially if your refrigerator is heavy or bulky.

Check the refrigerator’s current level

1. Place the bubble level horizontally on the top surface of the refrigerator.
2. Check the bubble in the level. If the bubble is centered between the two lines, the refrigerator is already level in that direction.
3. If the bubble is off-center, take note of which side is higher or lower.

Adjust the leveling feet

1. Locate the leveling feet at the bottom of the refrigerator. These are usually adjustable screws or feet.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen or tighten the feet, depending on the direction needed for leveling.
3. Turn the wrench clockwise to raise the refrigerator and counterclockwise to lower it.
4. Make small adjustments to the leveling feet. After each adjustment, check the level.
5. Repeat the process until the bubble in the level is centered in both directions.

Use wooden shims

If your refrigerator doesn’t have adjustable leveling feet, you can use wooden shims to level it.

1. Place the level on top of the refrigerator and identify the low side.
2. Gently slide wooden shims under the low side until you see the bubble centered in both directions on the bubble level.
3. Recheck the levelness with the level and adjust the shims if necessary.

Allow for settling time

After leveling the refrigerator, allow it to settle in its new position for a few hours before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant and oil in the compressor to settle back into their proper positions, which helps your appliance perform its best.

How to level a refrigerator on an uneven floor

If your floor is uneven, leveling a refrigerator can be especially challenging. Follow these tips to identify uneven spots and find the right leveling point:

Check the level

1. Place a bubble level horizontally on top of the refrigerator and check if it’s level from front to back. Note which side is higher.
2. Now place the bubble level on the side of the refrigerator and check if it’s level from side to side. Again, note which side is higher.
3. Check both directions to identify exactly where the refrigerator is uneven.

Adjust the legs or rollers on the low side of the refrigerator

1. Locate the adjustable legs or rollers on the bottom of the refrigerator.
2. Use a wrench or pliers to turn the legs or rollers on the low side to raise that side. Turn clockwise to raise the refrigerator and counter-clockwise to lower it.
3. Make small adjustments and recheck the level after each adjustment until it’s leveled.

Use shims under the legs or rollers to level

If the legs or rollers cannot raise the refrigerator high enough, use shims.

1. Place wooden shims under the legs or rollers on the low side.
2. Stack the shims to gradually raise the refrigerator until it’s leveled. Check the level with a bubble level after each adjustment.
3. Secure shims with masking tape to hold them in place.

If your refrigerator is consistently unleveled despite your best efforts, consider placing a piece of plywood or a leveling platform under the refrigerator to create a stable and level surface. This can help compensate for any irregularities in the floor and ensure proper leveling.

Test the refrigerator’s level

After leveling your refrigerator, follow these steps to make sure that it’s functioning correctly and maintaining its level position:

1. Once you are confident that the refrigerator is leveled, plug it back into the power source.
2. Allow the fridge to power on and reach its operating temperature.
3. Gradually load the refrigerator with its usual contents, such as food items, drinks, and other perishables. Distribute the weight evenly to prevent any imbalance.
4. Close and open the refrigerator doors, paying attention to how they seal. Check if the doors swing freely without swinging open or closed on their own.
5. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate an issue with the leveling.
6. Monitor the temperature inside the refrigerator to ensure it remains consistent and within the desired range.

If you find any issues or abnormalities during the testing phase, you need to make further adjustments to level the refrigerator.

More information

To ensure its long-term stability and performance, make sure you regularly check its level. Vibrations and other movements can cause the refrigerator to shift slightly over time. By catching and correcting any deviations early on, you can prevent potential problems and extend its lifespan.

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you level your refrigerator.

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