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Can You Put a Refrigerator on Carpet

Can You Put A Refrigerator On Carpet? (Don’t Try Before Reading)

No, you cannot put a refrigerator directly on the carpet. A carpet traps and induces more heat, causing the fridge’s compressor to work overtime to maintain the temperature. This can cause irreparable damage to the appliance. 

However, you may:

  • Place a mat or a barrier on the carpet area that does not retain heat,
  • Then install the refrigerator on the mat.

It will prevent overheating the fridge or burning your carpet. Read on to know even better and more effective methods of putting a refrigerator on a carpeted area.

Table Of Contents

🙅Can You Put A Fridge On Carpet (Safe or Not)?

No, putting a fridge on the carpet is unsafe for multiple reasons. Here is why it is a bad idea to install a refrigerator directly in a carpeted room:

  • 💨Blocks Air Circulation: The carpet will restrict proper ventilation if the refrigerator is directly placed on it. Preventing air circulation will cause the refrigerator to overheat and damage the cooling unit. Electrical appliances, like mini-fridges, have a cooling unit. Proper airflow is essential for the cooling system, fan, and compressor to operate well.
  • 🤬Damage To Carpet: The refrigerator’s weight will cause marks or other damage to the carpet. Opening or closing the refrigerator door might drag the carpet. In addition, the water tray at the base of the fridge might overflow, staining your carpet and leaving a foul odor. It might also encourage mold growth, which would further harm your carpet.
  • 😓Overworking Fridge Compressor: The pumps that help the refrigerant flow are termed compressors. They function by raising the vaporized refrigerant’s temperature and pressure. The carpet serves as a solid insulator, obstructing good airflow. The refrigerator’s compressor will operate more as the carpet traps heat. Unfortunately, the cooling problems may eventually lead to a breakdown.
  • 💸High Electric Bills: If your refrigerator can’t ventilate effectively, it will struggle to maintain the required temperature. Hence, it will need more energy to operate effectively and stay cool. The higher energy consumption will lead to higher electricity bills.
  • 🔥Fire Hazard: Installing a fridge in a small space or carpet will hinder ventilation. Carpets absorb the heat your refrigerator emits. This might create a fire risk, especially if the refrigerator’s coils are near the appliance’s bottom and it’s not a rear cooling coil.
Also Read: I Vacuumed Mouse Droppings

🧑‍🏫How To Store Fridge On Carpet?

If you plan to purchase a fridge, you should also prepare for a proper installation. 

You cannot store a refrigerator directly on a carpet, but you can install the refrigerator on a barrier underneath the fridge. Below are some options for a protective layer that keeps your fridge and carpet safe.

❓What to Put Under A Fridge On Carpet?

  • 👍Wooden Board: You can slide in a wooden board or plywood under your refrigerator on the carpet as an effective barrier between the two. However, check for leakage regularly; keep it dry. Leakage can cause mildew on the wood surface. 
  • 👉Rug: Place a durable rug underneath the refrigerator. A rug with short, unbroken fibers will function properly. It will shield the carpet from dings, stains, and grime while absorbing leaks from the refrigerator. Remember to replace it frequently and keep it completely dry, or it will cause damage.
  • 👌Plastic/Rubber Mat: Plastic and vinyl are heat-resistant materials, perfectly safe for refrigerators. It will reduce friction between the carpet and the fridge by their smooth surface. In addition, no energy would be lost as the carpet fibers won’t get in the way when you close your refrigerator. Most importantly, they are inexpensive and relatively simple to install. Simply purchase protective plastic mats of approximate size or cut them to the required size. 
  • 🤟Fridge Stand: You can purchase a wood, metal, or plastic stand for placing underneath your refrigerator. This will help raise the fridge so the vents have sufficient space for air circulation. Furthermore, this will prevent direct contact with the carpeted floor, safeguarding it from harm.
  • ✌️Drip Pan: To shield your carpet, lay down a metal or plastic drip pan. No matter your flooring, a drip pan greatly simplifies cleaning up stains and leakage.
Also Read: Cleaning Balcony Floor

✍️Things To Note While Putting Refrigerator On Carpet

While putting the refrigerator on the carpet, you must:

🌀Opt For A Rear-cooling Refrigerator

The coils prevent overheating of the fridge, protecting it from electrical fire. However, if the coils are at the bottom, they can get overheated easily due to a lack of ventilation.

Since carpets retain heat, purchasing a fridge with coils at its bottom close to the carpet will be a fire hazard. On the other hand, if the coils are located at the back of the fridge, they will stay ventilated and keep the appliance calm.

💒Opt For A Cool Room With a Door Opening Space

Installing a refrigerator in a heated room like the kitchen will make it harder to keep your items cool. The hot air will heat the cooling units.

Note:

Guard the fridge from direct sunlight. Also, not having enough space between the fridge door and the carpet flooring or the wall will cause inconvenience while operating the refrigerator. 

So install the fridge in a well-ventilated space, and do not drag the carpet while opening or closing the door.

💧Check For Leakage

Remember to inspect leakages and spills before purchasing the fridge. For example, you can run your hands under the fridge door to find dripping issues. 

It’s important to note that leakage more commonly happens due to

  • Uneven installation
  • Blocked water line
  • Blocked defrost drain and more

If your fridge has air spaces at the bottom of the unit, it can leak water, so avoid installing such fridges directly on the carpet. 

Also Read: How To Dry Wet Carpet

🔄Do Routine Maintenance 

Regular fridge maintenance is a must, along with ideal location and precautionary measures. However, be mindful of the solutions you use to clean your refrigerator. 

Keep an eye on ice formation and frosting that can cause leakage. As soon as you notice ice formation, thaw it out and defrost your fridge every six months.

Also Read: Is It OK to Vacuum a Cowhide Rug?

☝️Can You Put A Refrigerator On Carpet: FAQs

What can I put under a mini fridge on the carpet?

While installing most mini fridges on the carpet, you must ensure the following:
1. Purchase a mini fridge with the coils at the back and not the bottom.
2. Place a protective rubber mat or a sturdy plastic stand underneath the mini-fridge. 
3. Keep checking your mini fridge for leaks and spills so that you repair it on time.

Can you put a refrigerator on vinyl plank flooring?

Yes, you can put a refrigerator on vinyl plank flooring. Vinyl floors are durable and can easily withstand a refrigerator’s 200-400 pound weight.

How do you protect hardwood floors under the refrigerator?

Placing a rubber mat between the fridge and the hardwood flooring is the best way to protect your hardwood floor under the refrigerator. 

You can also place furniture sliders, plywood, or plastic protectors under the refrigerator. It would protect the hardwood floor from the moisture and heating of the fridge without causing damage to the appliance.

Can you put a fridge on cardboard?

You should never put a fridge on cardboard because:

1. The cardboard acts as a buffer that restricts airflow at the bottom of the unit, causing the condenser to overheat.
2. Cardboard is itself a flammable material that can quickly spread electrical fire. 
3. The cardboard can absorb moisture, causing rust in the refrigerator. 

Can you put a mini fridge on the carpet?

You can store mini fridges in the room, provided you install them at a distance from the floor and wall that allows enough space for proper ventilation. 

Do not put a mini fridge directly on the carpet, cardboard, or floor. Slide in a plastic mat, a rubber mat, or a refrigerator stand made to hold mini-fridges safe. Also, connect the mini fridge to the electric board only after removing the packaging.

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