Moving Tips For Large Appliances
Large appliances, like the washer or fridge, can be one of the trickiest items to move, whether you are simply moving across town or to the other side of the country. The following advice can help you move these large and awkward items safely while ensuring they still work properly once you get them to your new home.
Tip #1: Defrost completely
Fridges and freezers require the most preparation for moving, compared to other appliances. Several days before the big move, empty them of all contents and turn off the units. This will give them a chance to defrost. If there is ice buildup inside the freezer, have towels on hand to soak up the water as it melts.
Tip #2: Prep the inside
The inside of all appliances requires a little bit of prep work to ensure a safe move. Begin by wiping out the inside of fridges, freezers, washers, and dryers with a dilute bleach solution or disinfecting household cleaner. This will prevent any mildew growth or stale odors when everything is closed up for the move. Next, remove shelves from fridge and freezer units and tape any drawers closed with blue painter's tape. For top-loading washers, use the tape to secure the drum so it doesn't get knocked off balance during the move. You may also want to tape the dryer's lint trap in place so it doesn't get pulled out during the move.
Tip #3: Use the right equipment
Appliances are heavy and awkward. Before you start moving, measure all hallways and doorways to make sure the appliances will fit. This way you can remove doors or railings that are in the way before you begin. Then, use an appliance dolly, which you can rent, for the actual moving. These are sturdier and more steady than a standard box dolly. Finally, use safety straps to attach the appliance to the dolly – you don't want it sliding off halfway up the stairs.
Tip #4: Keep it upright
It's best to keep all large appliance upright as you move them so nothing shifts the wrong way, but it is especially important for fridges and freezers. Turning a fridge or freezer on its side can cause the coolant to drain out and oil to drain into the compressor. This ruins it so that it no longer cools correctly. You can tilt the items on the dolly in order to move them, just do not lay them completely on their side. Once you have the fridge or freezer in place, let it set for a few hours so the coolant can settle back into the compressor.
Talk to a local moving company for more help with transporting your large appliances. Click here for more information.
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