How to move a Refrigerator
Written by Admin on . Posted in Moving Tips
Amidst the many large and bulky things you have to move, it’s important you give your refrigerator the proper treatment it needs. This includes preparing it properly (before it moves an inch), transferring it smoothly, and setting it up perfectly in your new home. We’ve compiled some easy steps to follow– so your fridge can welcome that first grocery haul at the new place!
1. Empty and clean:
Make sure everything is removed and nothing is left behind before you even think about unplugging your appliance. Open every drawer, check it twice (don’t forget the freezer), and use it as an opportunity to throw out any spoiled or excess food you don’t need to take with you. If you’ve got a really dirty fridge, wipe down the entire unit thoroughly before you unplug it. This is so that food won’t have a chance to spoil before you get around to cleaning it. If you’ve removed shelving for cleaning (which is a good idea) make sure you keep them out of the fridge, along with any other moving parts, and pack them separately.
2. Unplug and defrost
Defrosting a freezer can take upwards of 8 hours, so make sure you’re not leaving your refrigerator prep until the last minute. Unplug your unit and leave the door ajar. You might need to hang a towel over the door to keep it open. Keeping the door open is imperative to preserve the freshness of your refrigerator– don’t forget this point! Since condensation might have appeared during the cool-down, give it a final wipe and dry before closing it up to move.
3. Close and seal
You’ll need to find something other than tape to ensure your fridge doors stay close, because tape might damage its finish. Pick up a few bungee cords or use a rope to securely tie around the appliance. If your fridge has multiple doors, ensure you connect them with an additional rope or tie. You’re ready for lift off!
4. Slide and Load
Besides padding any walls that might need extra protection from your fridge’s wideness, make sure you have a sturdy moving dolly on hand. A dolly is imperative for easily moving a fridge. This is because your fridge should ideally be staying upright to avoid having oil seep into the cooling lines.
Once you’re in position, tilt the fridge only slightly, and slide the dolly underneath. Make sure your path is clear and have some friends on hand to help guide you. Move it slowly and in the direction opposite to the tilt of the dolly– this will provide maximum sturdiness.
Once wheeled into the moving truck, feel free to leave the dolly underneath if it can sit flat. Block the wheels and ensure nearby items aren’t going to be harshly bumping into it.
5. Set up in your new home
Retrace the previous step as you wheel it into your new home. Just to be safe, let it sit upright in its new position for at least 3 hours before plugging it in again. This will allow all its internal fluids to completely settle and prevent any damage. Once you plug it in, it might take a few hours for it to fully come to temperature again. Make sure you’ve got icy coolers on hand for your cold food so it doesn’t spoil!
Recent Posts
- Thanks Mr. Wolff for the kind words
- Moving terms (Long Carry, Net Weight)
- 2020 Food Drive
- Atria Covell Gardens in Davis
- Recent 5 Star Reviews from Google
- Moving terms (Extra Stop, Flight Charge)
- Recent 5 Star Reviews from Facebook
- Thank you Liz for the 5 star review!
- Beware of Moving Brokers
- Maximizing Space for a Storage Unit
- Thanks For The Review Barbara!
- 12 things your homeowners insurance may not cover
- Organizing a Storage Unit
- What does homeowners insurance cover?
- More great reviews from our recent moves!
- Thank You For The Review Diane!
- Plan for Your Successful Garage Sale
- Five Stars From Jon
- Post Move Home Essentials
- What to Pack First When Moving
- How to move a Refrigerator
- Prepping a Storage Unit
- Thanks Kris for the Five Star Review
- Packing for a Storage Unit
- Moving Boxes
Search All Posts
Archives
- January 2021 (1)
- December 2020 (4)
- November 2020 (1)
- October 2020 (1)
- September 2020 (3)
- August 2020 (5)
- July 2020 (8)
- June 2020 (4)
- May 2020 (9)
- April 2020 (6)
- March 2020 (8)
- February 2020 (4)
- January 2020 (12)
- December 2019 (7)
- November 2019 (7)
- October 2019 (14)
- September 2019 (11)
- August 2019 (12)
- July 2019 (21)
- June 2019 (13)
Categories
- Company Info (54)
- Did You Know (22)
- Events (10)
- Helpful Tips (23)
- Moving Tips (41)
- On Location (1)
- Organizing & DIY (12)