If you're planning to buy a new refrigerator, you should also consider where to install it in your house. If you have carpet flooring, would it be a good idea to place a fridge right on top of it? That's what we will talk about today. We asked the experts if you could put your refrigerator on your carpeted floor, and here's what they have to say.
It is not recommended to put a fridge right on top of your carpet flooring. This would prevent proper airflow, overwork your fridge, and damage your flooring. The carpet will also retain the heat from the fridge, which can be a fire hazard. The carpet fibers can also be an obstruction when closing the door of your fridge.
Keep on reading so we can explain further why it won't be a good idea to position your fridge directly on your carpet flooring. We'll also give you tips on what you can put under the refrigerator to protect both your carpet and appliance. We'll also answer why the pan under your fridge is full of water and if it's safe to use a mini-fridge inside your bedroom. Let's get this started!
Can I put the refrigerator on the carpet?
A refrigerator is a must-have in every home. It allows us to store our foods and beverages and keep them fresh until it's time to consume them. However, refrigerators can be huge and take up a lot of space in our homes. That's why you have to consider where you'll put your fridge even before you buy one. It should fit in the allotted space and be accessible for everyone using it.
But what if you have limited space in your house and you also have end-to-end carpet flooring installed?
It is not recommended to put your fridge directly on top of your carpet flooring for the following reasons.
Hinder Ventilation
The carpet will be an obstruction to proper airflow, especially when there are vents underneath the fridge. Air circulation is important so that the cooling system, fan, and compressor can function properly. This could also result in overheating, which could damage your fridge.
Overwork Your Fridge
When your fridge can't breathe through its vents, it will work harder to achieve your desired temperature. This means it has to consume more energy to function properly and this translates to higher electric bills and faster deterioration of its components.
Damage To Your Carpet
The fridge is heavy. It'll leave dents or marks on the carpet. If you have to move your refrigerator for cleaning, you might even rip off the carpet.
It is also prone to spills. There's a water tray at the bottom that can overflow. This will cause stains and discoloration on your carpet if not treated right away. It can also be conducive to mold growth which would further destroy your carpet. It is also unhealthy and causes foul odors in your room.
Heat Retention
Carpets would retain the heat given off by your refrigerator. They are an effective insulating material. This could become a fire hazard, especially if the fridge's coils are located at the bottom of the unit.
Prevent Fridge From Closing
The fibers of the carpet material can get in the way when you're closing the refrigerator door. This can cause the door not to shut tightly, and you'll have leaks and cooling problems because of this.
In other words, putting your fridge directly on top of your carpet can cause damage to the appliance and your flooring, which is why it isn't recommended. This also goes for freezers and refrigerators of all sizes.
What To Put Under Refrigerator On Carpet
However, if there's no other option but to put your fridge on top of your carpeted flooring, there are some products that you can use to protect both your refrigerator and carpet.
Plastic Or Vinyl Mat
A plastic or vinyl mat will serve as a protective layer over your carpet. These materials are waterproof so you can avoid spills and water damage from affecting the carpet flooring.
Check out this vinyl plastic floor runner on Amazon.
Plastic and vinyl are also heat-resistant. This means that your carpet is safe from burns. Their smooth surface would also help reduce friction between the carpet and the fridge. The fibers won't get in the way when you're closing your fridge, so there's no energy lost or wasted.
Best of all, they're affordable and so easy to install. You can just get plastic mats about the size of the bottom of your refrigerator or trim them according to the size that you need and place them over the carpet where you will install your fridge.
Mats Or Rugs
You can also put a durable rug underneath the fridge. Choose one that has intact and short fibers. It will absorb the leaks from the refrigerator and help protect the carpet from dents, stains, and dirt. However, you would have to replace it regularly. Don't leave it soaking wet, or you'll just be faced with the same problem as before.
Click this link to find this floor mat on Amazon.
A plastic straw rug would be an excellent idea. It is waterproof and easy to clean. You won't have any problem installing it over the carpet. Once you have the right size, you just place it underneath the fridge, and you can be assured that you've given your floor enough protection.
Refrigerator Base
You can also buy or make (if you're into DIY) a base for your refrigerator. It can be made of plastic, metal, or wood. This will help elevate the fridge to give enough breathing space for its vents and allow proper airflow. This will also avoid direct contact with the carpeted floor, thus protecting it from damage.
Find this adjustable fridge stand on Amazon.
Take note that the best and smartest way for you to use your fridge in a carpeted room is to put something underneath it to protect both your refrigerator and carpet from getting damaged.
Why is the pan under my refrigerator full of water?
You might notice that there's some water leaking under your refrigerator, and when you go and check it, it's coming from your overflowing drip pan.
The drip pan is filled with water from the condensation that happens inside your fridge. When you defrost your refrigerator, the ice melts, and the excess water flows into the drain tube and ends in the drip pan.
Don't worry. This is normal, especially after you've defrosted your fridge recently. This is also one of the reasons why we don't recommend you to put your fridge right on top of your carpet. It is advisable to check on your drip pan regularly to avoid spills and foul odors.
Are mini-fridges safe in bedrooms?
It is very convenient to have a mini-fridge inside your bedroom, right? You don't have to go all the way down to the kitchen or basement just to satisfy your late-night sweet cravings. Or for those working or studying inside their rooms, they wouldn't have to trouble themselves to go out just to get an ice-cold juice during their break.
If you're concerned regarding their safety, experts say that mini-fridges are safe in general. Some people are worried about gas poisoning. But since modern fridges are now powered by electricity, there's very minimal exposure to harmful gases. For example, they don't use too many refrigerants, which addresses the concern about gas leaks and inhalation of these toxic compounds.
But since these are electrical appliances, precautionary measures are recommended to ensure your welfare and protection while using these mini-fridges inside your bedroom.
Here are some safety tips to follow:
- Never use an extension cord. Always plug your mini-fridge directly into your power outlet.
- Leave enough space on all sides to allow proper ventilation.
- Place it on a solid base or level floor. Make sure it is not leaning on one side so that your mini-fridge will work properly.
- Vacuum the area around the fridge regularly to avoid the buildup of dust. But remember to turn off the appliance when you do this to avoid electric shocks.
These are just some of the safety reminders that would be worthwhile to consider when you do decide to put a mini-fridge inside your bedroom.
Final Thoughts
Don't put your fridge right on top of your carpet flooring to avoid causing damage both to your refrigerator and carpet. It's best to put a plastic mat or durable rug underneath it or place the fridge on top of a base to serve as a layer of protection between your appliance and flooring.
You may also visit the following posts for some related reading:
How To Use A Carpet Cutter Or Trimmer [A Complete Guide]
What Types Of Carpet Are Easiest To Clean?