The Seven Steps
Refrigerators

Refrigerators can injure you by moving, tipping over and/or spill all their contents, broken onto the floor.

Recommendations

#1 – Secure refrigerators and other major appliances to wall studs using earthquake appliance straps. Packages are available in large hardware stores.#2 – Another option is to install angle brackets or pronged zee clips. Read the “How To” below:

Supplies Required


Wall Anchorage
Source: Noson, Perbix, SSD
  • Angle bracket—4″ x 2″ x 1/8″
  • Lag bolts—3/8″ diameter x 4″ (for wood)
  • Expansion bolts—1/2″ diameter x 4″ (for concrete)
  • Metal screws—No. 14
  • Pronged zee clip

Installation


Angle Bracket Installation

    1. Secure the angle bracket to a wood wall with a lag bolt for wood.

OR

    1. Secure to a concrete wall with an expansion bolt for concrete.
  1. Use a metal screw to attach bracket to the refrigerator.

Pronged Zee Clip Installation

  1. Align the angle of the clip with the leg of the refrigerator.

Note

  • Place refrigerators and vending machines away from exits and hallways if possible.
  • Enclose refrigerators in a confined space (if possible) to prevent the machine(s) from tipping over.

Caution

When anchoring to post-tensioned slab, locate and avoid reinforcing.

©2019 SCEC Southern California Earthquake Center @ USC