Tips on Moving Major Appliances
Despite being heavy and durable, major home appliances are actually relatively fragile items because of all of their delicate inner workings. When it comes to moving them, it's necessary to exercise some caution. Pack and store kitchen and laundry appliances properly to ensure safe transit. Whether you hire professionals for your move or go the DIY route, don't skip these tips on preparing major household appliances for a move.
Moving a refrigerator
Refrigerators are one of the trickiest major appliances to move. Not only are they heavy and cumbersome, but they also need to be kept upright at all times. Lay a fridge on its side and you risk having oil from the compressor flood the cooling lines. In short: if you tip the fridge over, you could ruin it. If you hire professional movers, they'll already know not to lay the fridge down. But if you're moving appliances yourself, be sure to rent an appliance dolly so you can easily handle the weight of your fridge and avoid accidentally tipping it.
To prepare your large kitchen appliances such as the fridge, stove, and dishwater for a move, first empty them all of shelves and racks. Pack up these accessories separately so they don't shift inside your appliances during the move. When it comes to the fridge, you should also remove all the food. Don't try to move your fridge with all of the food still in there - that's bad news: you risk creating a mess in the fridge during transit, not to mention that keeping foods at unsafe temperatures is hazardous for your health. Unplug the fridge at least 24 hours prior to your move so it can defrost.
After the fridge is empty, consult the manual for instructions on how to remove the doors. Fridge doors are heavy, and removing them can make the move easier. If you're hiring professional movers, let them decide whether they want to take the doors off or not.
Moving a stove
You should also consult the instruction manual for your stove before trying to move it. Manufacturers usually include special tips and precautions for moving large kitchen appliances in their instructions.
After you've removed the racks and any loose grates, secure your oven doors and drawers with movers' plastic wrap. Bungee cords could damage the finish or cause dents, so plastic is the best option. Secure the cord with plastic as well.
If you're moving a gas stove by yourself, make sure the gas is completely off before you disconnect the lines. Use caution when you disconnect the lines because they can be fragile. And if you're ever in doubt, call your gas company for advice. Better to be safe than risk a gas leak.
Moving a dishwasher
Clean your dishwasher before you move by running it with detergent and hot water while it's empty. After you remove and pack the detachable bottom shelf, secure the door and cord with mover's plastic.
Moving a washer and dryer
You'll also need to use caution when moving laundry appliances. Disconnecting all of the cords and hoses can be time-consuming, especially if you don't have experience with their installation. Consult your owner's manuals for instructions on this process, and call your gas company for tips if you'll be disconnecting a gas dryer.
Be particularly careful with your washing machine. Manufacturers usually recommend securing the drum in a washing machine before a move to avoid damage. Your model may require you to remove the top and bolt down the drum, so consult the manual for step-by-step instructions. Be sure to take care of this preparation before your movers arrive.
General tips for moving appliances
No matter which appliances you move, use these tips to make your move easy and safe:
- Allow extra prep time to clean appliances thoroughly before you move.
- Use furniture pads to protect major household appliances as well as the walls of your apartment.
- Always have adequate assistance when moving heavy appliances.
- Always follow manufacturer's safety precautions.
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