How to Move Large Appliances Like a Refrigerator or Washer

by

Moving large appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and ovens, can be one of the most daunting tasks when relocating. Their size, weight, and fragility make them difficult to transport safely without the proper planning and equipment. However, with the right preparation and support from professionals like Tetrisflytt, you can ensure that your large appliances are moved securely and efficiently, without causing damage to your property or the appliances themselves.

This article provides you with a comprehensive guide on how to move large appliances like refrigerators and washers. By following these steps and considering trusted moving services such as tetrisflytt, you’ll ensure a smoother moving experience.

Table of Contents:

  1. Why Moving Large Appliances Requires Special Care
  2. What You Need to Move Large Appliances
  3. Preparing Your Appliances for the Move
  4. How to Move a Refrigerator
    • Disconnecting the Refrigerator
    • Securing the Refrigerator for Transport
    • Transporting the Refrigerator
  5. How to Move a Washer
    • Preparing the Washer for the Move
    • Disconnecting the Washer
    • Securing the Washer for Transport
  6. Tips for Moving Other Large Appliances
  7. Hiring Professionals vs. DIY
  8. Conclusion

1. Why Moving Large Appliances Requires Special Care

Large appliances are often bulky and cumbersome, making them challenging to move. Their weight can range from 100 pounds for a small refrigerator to over 200 pounds for a washer or dryer. Additionally, these appliances often contain fragile components like glass shelves, coils, or internal circuits, which can be damaged if not handled properly.

Moreover, the process of disconnecting and reattaching the appliances involves careful attention to detail, such as turning off water connections, unplugging electrical wires, and ensuring there are no leaks in gas lines or plumbing systems. Improper handling could lead to costly repairs, water damage, or even personal injury.

Moving large appliances without proper planning can be risky. Therefore, it’s important to approach the task with the right tools, preparation, and a clear understanding of the process.

2. What You Need to Move Large Appliances

Before moving any large appliance, gather the following items:

  • Moving Blankets and Pads: To protect the appliance from scratches and dings.
  • Dolly or Appliance Cart: A heavy-duty dolly or appliance cart will help you transport the appliance without damaging the flooring or injuring yourself.
  • Rope or Moving Straps: To secure the appliance to the dolly or cart.
  • Plastic or Heavy-Duty Tape: For taping down doors or securing parts.
  • Screwdrivers and Wrenches: For disconnecting hoses, electrical lines, or other attachments.
  • Two Straps or Moving Ramps: To help move the appliance up stairs or into the moving truck.
  • Cleaning Supplies: For cleaning and preparing the appliance for transport.
  • Protective Gloves and Footwear: To ensure safety during the move.

Having the right tools on hand will make the process easier and safer.

3. Preparing Your Appliances for the Move

Preparation is key to a successful move. Whether you’re moving a refrigerator, washer, or other large appliances, or working with nationwide movers, follow these general steps:

  1. Clean the Appliances: Thoroughly clean the appliance to prevent odors or mold from developing. This is especially important for refrigerators, as food debris and moisture can cause problems during transport.
  2. Empty the Appliance: Remove all food from the refrigerator or any other contents from the washer or dryer. This reduces the weight and prevents items from shifting during the move.
  3. Defrost the Refrigerator: If you’re moving a refrigerator, make sure to defrost it 24 hours before the move. This prevents excess water from leaking and potentially damaging the floor or truck.
  4. Disconnect Power and Water: Unplug the appliance and disconnect any water supply lines. For refrigerators with ice makers or washers, turn off the water supply valve and disconnect the hose. If you have a gas-powered appliance, make sure to safely disconnect the gas line.
  5. Secure the Components: Tape the doors shut on the refrigerator or washer to avoid them opening during the move. If necessary, remove shelves, trays, or other loose parts and pack them separately to avoid breakage.

4. How to Move a Refrigerator

Moving a refrigerator is no small feat, but with careful planning, it can be done with relative ease. Follow these steps:

Disconnecting the Refrigerator

  1. Unplug the Refrigerator: Ensure that the refrigerator is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet.
  2. Remove the Shelves and Drawers: Take out all shelves, drawers, and other removable parts. Wrap them separately in moving blankets to prevent damage.
  3. Defrost the Freezer: As mentioned earlier, defrost the freezer and allow any excess water to drain completely. Wipe down the interior to remove moisture.
  4. Disconnect the Water Line: If your refrigerator has an ice maker or water dispenser, disconnect the water line. Be sure to turn off the water valve before disconnecting the hose to avoid any leaks.

Securing the Refrigerator for Transport

  1. Tape the Doors Shut: Use moving tape or a strong strap to secure the refrigerator doors. This will prevent them from swinging open during the move.
  2. Wrap the Refrigerator: Use moving blankets to cover the refrigerator and protect it from scratches and damage. Ensure that the appliance is completely wrapped.
  3. Lift the Refrigerator Using a Dolly: Slide the dolly underneath the refrigerator, ensuring it’s balanced. Use moving straps to secure the refrigerator to the dolly. With the help of a friend, slowly tilt the refrigerator backward and roll it onto the dolly.

Transporting the Refrigerator

  1. Move Carefully: Slowly and steadily transport the refrigerator through doorways and onto the truck. Be sure to lift the appliance gently to avoid scraping floors or damaging walls.
  2. Keep the Refrigerator Upright: It’s important to keep the refrigerator upright during the entire move to avoid damaging the compressor.
  3. Secure It in the Moving Truck: Once inside the truck, use straps or ropes to secure the refrigerator so it doesn’t shift during transit.

5. How to Move a Washer

Moving a washer requires similar care as moving a refrigerator, but there are a few additional considerations:

Preparing the Washer for the Move

  1. Disconnect the Water Hoses: Turn off the water supply to the washer and disconnect the hoses. Be sure to drain any excess water from the hoses before moving.
  2. Remove the Washer’s Drainage Pipe: If your washer has a drainage pipe, detach it and clean it to remove any residual water.
  3. Secure the Drum: Many washers have a drum or agitator inside that could become loose during the move. To secure it, use a shipping bolt (which is often included with the washer) to lock the drum in place.

Disconnecting the Washer

  1. Unplug the Washer: Unplug the power cord from the wall.
  2. Disconnect the Hoses: Disconnect the water supply hoses and make sure they are drained of water.
  3. Remove the Washer’s Feet: If your washer has adjustable feet, lower them to their lowest setting to make the appliance easier to move.

Securing the Washer for Transport

  1. Tape the Door Shut: If the washer has a door or lid, tape it shut securely to prevent it from opening during the move.
  2. Use a Dolly: Place the washer on a dolly or appliance cart and use straps to secure it. Like with the refrigerator, be sure to keep the washer upright to avoid damaging internal components.

6. Tips for Moving Other Large Appliances

While refrigerators and washers are among the most commonly moved large appliances, here are some general tips for moving other bulky appliances:

  1. Ovens and Stoves: Be sure to turn off the gas supply (if applicable) and disconnect the oven’s power supply. For electric ovens, unplug the appliance and remove any racks or trays.
  2. Dryers: Unplug the dryer and disconnect the vent hose. Secure any parts inside the dryer, such as the drum.
  3. Dishwashers: Disconnect the water line and drain the appliance before moving it.

7. Hiring Professionals vs. DIY

While it’s possible to move large appliances on your own, it’s often best to hire professional movers, especially for heavy, delicate items. Professionals have the necessary tools and experience to handle large appliances safely and efficiently.

Consider hiring professional movers if:

  • The appliances are heavy or difficult to maneuver.
  • You lack the proper equipment (e.g., dollies, straps, etc.).
  • You are unfamiliar with disconnecting plumbing, electrical, or gas lines.
  • The move involves a long distance or navigating tight spaces.

8. Conclusion

Moving large appliances like refrigerators and washers requires careful planning, preparation, and the right tools. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your appliances are moved safely and efficiently. However, if the task feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals who can handle the heavy lifting for you.

With the right approach, you can enjoy a smooth move with minimal stress and damage to your appliances!

Leave a Comment