Moving a fridge or freezer can be a heavy lift, but with proper planning and technique, it’s manageable. Whether you’re relocating within your home or to a new address, safeguarding your appliance is essential. This guide will highlight the best way to move a fridge and more, including preparation, packing, transportation, and post-move care.
Preparation Before the Move
Before you start moving a fridge or freezer, preparation is key. Proper planning ensures that the appliance is moved safely without causing any damage to the unit or your home. You should turn off the appliance at least 24 hours before the move. This allows the evaporator coils to defrost and prevents the buildup of condensation, which can cause internal damage. If you’re moving the fridge a short distance and time is a constraint, turning it off a few hours prior can suffice, but be cautious of water leakage.
Remove all food items and allow the appliance to defrost completely. This process can take around a few hours to a full day, depending on the amount of ice buildup. Once defrosted, clean the interior with a mild detergent and water. Ensuring the appliance is dry before moving prevents any water from leaking, which could damage the appliance or the floor.
All food should be removed from the fridge or freezer before moving. This lightens the load and prevents any spills. After removing food, take out shelves, drawers, and other removable parts. These components can easily shift during the move and cause damage to the interior of the appliance.
Packing and Protecting the Fridge and Freezer
Proper packing and protection are vital when moving a fridge or freezer to avoid dents, scratches, and other damages. Use moving blankets or padding to cover the entire appliance. This helps protect the exterior from scratches and dents. Secure the blankets with strong tape or straps, and ensure they don’t slip off during the move.
To prevent any internal damage, remove shelves and drawers and pack them separately. If you decide to keep them inside, ensure they are tightly secured to avoid any movement.
Using the correct equipment is essential when moving the refrigerator safely. Tools provide stability and make it easier to transport the heavy appliance. Ensure the dolly is rated to carry the weight of the fridge or freezer and has straps to secure the appliance in place.
Moving the Fridge and Freezer Safely
After preparing and packing, it’s time to move the fridge or freezer safely. Proper technique is crucial to avoid injury and damage to the appliance and your home.
When lifting the fridge or freezer, always have at least one other person to help. Position the dolly under the appliance, tilt it back slightly, and carefully lift it onto the dolly. Ensure that the appliance is balanced on the dolly and secured with straps. When loading it into a moving truck, use a ramp if available, and proceed slowly to avoid any sudden movements that could cause the appliance to tip over.
A common concern when moving a fridge is scratching the floor. Place thick cardboard or furniture sliders under the appliance before moving it. This creates a barrier between the appliance and the floor, reducing friction and preventing scratches.
Once the fridge or freezer is in the moving truck, ensure it remains stable during transit. Place the appliance against a wall of the truck and secure it with straps or ropes. Surround it with other large items that won’t shift during the move. This will help prevent the appliance from moving and tipping over during transport.
Special Considerations
A common question when moving a fridge or freezer is whether it can be laid down. You should keep the appliance upright during the move. Laying it down can cause the oil in the compressor to flow into the cooling lines, which can damage the appliance when turned back on. If laying it down is unavoidable, do so for as short a time as possible and allow the appliance to sit upright for several hours before plugging it back in.
Large or double-door refrigerators require extra care due to their size and weight. These appliances are wider and heavier, making them more challenging to manoeuvre. Consider removing the doors to reduce the width and make the appliance easier to navigate through doorways and tight spaces.
After the Move
After moving a refrigerator, let it sit for a while before plugging it back in. This allows the compressor oil to settle back into place if the appliance was laid down during the move. Wait at least four to six hours before plugging it back in, though 24 hours is recommended if the appliance was laid on its side.
Before plugging the fridge or freezer back in, reassemble all the removed parts, like shelves and drawers. Once the appliance is reassembled, check for any visible damages that may have occurred during the move. If everything looks good, plug the appliance in and monitor it closely for the first few hours to ensure it’s cooling properly.
Professional Moving Services
If you’re dealing with a large or heavy fridge or freezer, or if you’re moving it up or down stairs, it may be best to hire professional movers. They have the experience and tools to handle these challenges without causing damage to the appliance or your home. If you’re moving long-distance, professional movers ensure to move the fridge or freezer safely.
When hiring professional movers, you can expect them to handle all aspects of the move, from preparation to loading and unloading. They’ll use specialised equipment like moving dollies, straps, and padding to protect the appliance. Many moving companies offer insurance, so you’re covered in case of any accidental damage. To find a reliable mover, you might search for fridge repairs near me as many companies also offer moving services.
Conclusion
Fridge shifting requires careful planning, the right tools, and proper techniques. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your appliance arrives at its new location in perfect condition, and ready to be used again. Whether you are moving a fridge short distance or across the country, taking the time to do it right will save you from costly repairs.
Ensure your appliances are in expert hands with Ideal Refrigeration & Appliance Services. Whether you’re moving a fridge or freezer or need professional repairs, we provide top-notch service suitable to your needs. Call 0428 149 923 to schedule your service and experience the difference.