A leveled refrigerator is very important for it to work well and avoid issues. When your fridge is level, its weight is spread evenly across all the legs. This helps the fridge run quietly, keeps the doors closed tightly, and makes the cooling system work better. This easy guide will show you how to level your refrigerator perfectly.
Preparing to Level Your Refrigerator
Before you level your refrigerator, make sure to get the right tools and follow some safety steps. This helps you to level it without any problems.
First, unplug the refrigerator from the power socket to avoid any risk of electric shock. Next, clear the space around the refrigerator so you can work easily. Move away any items, like chairs or stools, that could get in your way.
Tools and Materials Needed
Having the right tools makes leveling your fridge easier. Here is what you need:
- Level: You can use a normal carpenter’s level or a smartphone app that helps check if the fridge is straight.
- Screwdriver: This helps in taking off the grille or kick plate that covers the leveling legs. Make sure to have the right type and size that fits the screws on your fridge.
- Wrench: You will need an adjustable wrench or a set of socket wrenches to fix the leveling legs. Check the size of the nuts on the leveling legs so you know what wrench to use.
Safety Precautions Before You Start
Ensuring your safety while doing this is very important. Please follow these precautions:
- Unplug the Refrigerator: Always disconnect the refrigerator from the power source. This prevents any electrical hazards.
- Wear Gloves: Using work gloves can help keep your hands safe from sharp edges or places that could pinch when you handle the refrigerator parts.
- Get Help: It is good to have someone assist you. This is especially helpful when tilting the refrigerator to adjust the leveling legs. Ask a friend or family member for help.
Step-by-Step Guide to Leveling Your Refrigerator
Now that you have prepared well, let’s move on to the simple steps to make sure your Viking refrigerator is level. Follow these steps one by one to get a perfectly level refrigerator. Each step is important for success in the process.
Step 1: Remove the Grille or Kick Plate
Most refrigerators have a grille or kick plate at the bottom front. This piece hides the leveling legs. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to take it off for your model.
Usually, you will find screws either at the top or the bottom of the grille. Use your screwdriver to carefully take out these screws. Store them in a safe place so you don’t lose them. After removing the screws, gently pull the grille or kick plate towards you to take it off the fridge.
Now that the grille is removed, you can see the leveling legs or rollers underneath.
Step 2: Locate the Leveling Legs or Rollers
After you take off the grille, find the leveling legs. They are usually at each corner of the fridge’s base.
These legs can be adjusted in height because they are threaded. Some fridge models may have wheels or rollers instead of legs. If that’s the case, there is usually a way to lock and unlock the wheels for making adjustments.
To learn more about your fridge’s leveling system, check the manual.
Step 3: Use a Level to Determine the Height Adjustment
To adjust the leveling legs, first, check how level your refrigerator is. Put your level on top of the fridge, from front to back.
Look at the bubble in the level. If the bubble is in the center, your fridge is level. If it’s not, you will need to adjust the front leveling legs.
Then, place the level side to side to see if it is level that way. If the bubble is not centered, adjust the leveling legs on the side that is too high.
Step 4: Adjust the Leveling Legs or Rollers
Adjust the height of the refrigerator by turning the leveling legs. Turn them clockwise to raise it and counterclockwise to lower it.
If your refrigerator has rollers, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use and adjust them. Make small adjustments. Turn the legs or rollers a little at a time, checking the level often.
If your refrigerator has legs only in the front, use shims to level the back if the floor is uneven. Place shims under the back corners of the refrigerator to keep it stable.
Step 5: Check the Levelness of Your Refrigerator
After you make the adjustments, make sure your refrigerator is level by following these steps:
- Front-to-Back Leveling: Place a level on top of the refrigerator from front to back. If the bubble is in the center, it is level.
- Side-to-Side Leveling: Place the level on the refrigerator from side to side. Again, check that the bubble is centered.
- Door Closing Test: Open the refrigerator and freezer doors to a 90-degree angle, then let them go. The doors should close gently on their own. If they do not, the refrigerator might need a slight tilt back. You can make small adjustments by raising the front legs a bit if needed.
Conclusion
Keeping your refrigerator level is very important for it to work well. You can follow these simple tips on how to level your refrigerator to help it perform better and last longer. Make sure to stay safe and use the right tools. Check and adjust your refrigerator’s level regularly. This will help you avoid any problems that might come up. For more appliance insights, visit our blog on The Importance of Reliable Viking Refrigerator Repair During the Holidays. Use these easy tips to keep everything running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any risks or dangers associated with an unlevel refrigerator?
An unlevel refrigerator can cause several problems. These include using more energy, making more noise, and spoiling food because of temperature changes. It can also put extra stress on the appliance’s parts, which may lead to early breakdown.
How often should you check and adjust the level of your refrigerator?
- It is a good idea to check and change the level of your refrigerator at least two times a year.
- This should be part of your regular maintenance.
- You should also check the level again after moving the refrigerator.
- If you see any signs that it is not level, adjust it.
Are there any signs that indicate when a Viking refrigerator needs to be leveled?
Yes, common signs that your Viking fridge may need leveling include the doors not closing correctly. You might also notice vibrations or rocking. Excessive noise during use is another sign. Additionally, if there are uneven gaps between the refrigerator and freezer doors, this could mean it needs to be leveled.