Can I Plug in a Mini Fridge Right Away?

Jun 13, 2025

Just bought a mini or camping refrigerator and itching to plug it in? Hold up—don’t do it just yet. The short answer: no, not right away. Letting it settle first prevents damage. Keep reading to find out why rushing it could toast your compressor before it chills your snacks.

The Waiting Game: Why You Can’t Plug in a Mini Fridge Right Away

Setting up a mini or camping fridge might seem simple enough, but jumping the gun can cause long-term issues. It’s tempting to get it cooling straight out of the box, especially when you're eager to load it up.

However, plugging it in too soon can damage vital components. A few hours of patience now can save you from expensive repairs later.

Here’s what’s really going on behind that quiet little hum.

What Happens if You Plug in a Mini Fridge Too Soon?

When you switch it on immediately after moving, the fridge begins its cooling process right away. This might sound fine, but internal components may not be ready.

The result? You could be forcing the system to run when it’s not in the right state to do so.

Dometic mini fridge with open door showing empty shelves and compartments, on a white background.

Understanding Your Mini Fridge’s Compressor and Oil

At the heart of your mini fridge is the compressor. This unit moves refrigerant and keeps your food chilled.

It relies on oil to lubricate its internal parts. If the oil is out of place, the compressor can struggle—or even fail.

How Transport (Especially on its Side) Displaces the Oil

Fridges aren’t made to be laid on their sides. Doing so can cause oil to flow away from the compressor.

This displacement doesn’t fix itself instantly. The oil needs time to settle back once the unit is upright again.

The Risk: Permanent Damage to the Compressor

If you run the fridge while the oil is still displaced, it can overheat or seize. That’s because it's trying to function without proper lubrication.

This kind of stress can lead to permanent damage, cutting short the life of your appliance.

How Long Should You Actually Wait? (A Simple Timeline)

Giving the fridge time to settle is crucial. The exact waiting time depends on how it was handled during transport.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know.

If Transported UPRIGHT: The Minimum Wait Time

If your fridge was always upright, the risk is lower. Still, give it at least 2 hours before plugging it in.

This brief wait helps internal fluids settle properly.

Absorption mini fridge with closed black door and chrome sides, on a white background.

If Transported on its SIDE: The "Time-on-Side" Rule

If it was on its side, you need to be more cautious. A good rule of thumb is to wait as long as it spent on its side—at least 4 hours, if not more.

This ensures all fluids return to their correct positions.

Why 24 Hours is the Safest Recommendation

If you’re unsure how the fridge was handled, or want complete peace of mind, wait 24 hours. It’s the safest choice.

Better to be cautious than risk a costly repair or early breakdown.

The Correct Steps for a Safe Mini Fridge Start-Up

Once the waiting period is over, follow these steps to get your fridge up and running efficiently.

Doing things properly now helps ensure better cooling and a longer life for the appliance.

Position Your Fridge with Proper Ventilation

Place your fridge in a cool, well-ventilated space. Keep it away from direct sunlight, radiators, or ovens.

Leave at least 10 cm of space around it so air can circulate freely.

Let it Reach Room Temperature

If the fridge was stored in a hot van or cold garage, let it adjust to the room’s temperature first.

Extreme temperatures can affect how it starts up, so a bit of patience here goes a long way.

Plug it in and Set the Temperature

Once everything’s settled, plug in the fridge. Choose your desired temperature setting and let it run while empty.

This gives the fridge time to stabilise and chill evenly.

Compact refrigerator with open door displaying milk cartons, eggs, and fruits, on a white background.

How Long to Wait Before Adding Drinks and Food

After switching it on, wait around 4 hours before filling it. This lets the interior cool properly and prevents food from spoiling or overworking the system.

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