Step-by-Step Guide to Moving Heavy Appliances the Easy Way
Moving large household items can be stressful, especially when it comes to appliances. Many people ask the same question before a move: How to Move a Heavy Appliance? The truth is that appliances are bulky, awkward, and heavier than they look. If they are not handled the right way, they can damage your floors, walls, or even cause serious injuries.
The good news is that moving heavy appliances does not have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation, tools, and step-by-step approach, you can move them safely and with less stress. This guide explains everything you need to know in simple terms, whether you are moving across the room or preparing for a full home move.
Why Moving Heavy Appliances Requires Special Care
Heavy appliances are not like regular furniture. They are often tall, unbalanced, and connected to power, water, or gas lines. One wrong move can lead to injuries such as back strain, crushed fingers, or slips and falls. Appliances can also be expensive, and a single scratch or dent can reduce their lifespan or resale value.
Another concern is your home itself. Floors, door frames, and staircases are common areas where damage happens during appliance moves. Taking extra care helps protect both you and your property. This is why many homeowners choose to work with a professional moving service when dealing with large appliances.
What Counts as a Heavy Appliance?
A heavy appliance is any household machine that is difficult to lift or move without assistance or special equipment. These items usually weigh well over 100 pounds and are hard to grip due to their shape.
Common heavy appliances include refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, ovens, dishwashers, freezers, and stoves. Some newer appliances may look sleek, but their internal components add significant weight. Understanding what you are dealing with helps you prepare properly before the move.
Tools You Need Before Moving a Heavy Appliance
Having the right tools makes a big difference. Trying to move appliances without them increases the risk of injury and damage.
An appliance dolly is one of the most important tools. It allows you to tilt and roll heavy items instead of lifting them. Moving straps help distribute weight evenly and give you better control. Furniture sliders are useful for sliding appliances across floors without scratching them. Protective gloves improve grip and protect your hands. Moving blankets help prevent dents and scratches, while tape or zip ties keep doors and cords secured.
Preparing these tools ahead of time saves time and keeps the move organized.
Step-by-Step Guide to Moving a Heavy Appliance
Step 1: Plan the Path Before You Move Anything
Start by measuring doorways, hallways, staircases, and corners. Make sure the appliance can fit through each space. Remove rugs, furniture, or obstacles along the path. If needed, take doors off their hinges to create more clearance.
Planning ahead prevents getting stuck midway through the move.
Step 2: Empty, Clean, and Dry the Appliance
Remove all contents from the appliance. Refrigerators and freezers should be defrosted at least 24 hours before moving. Washing machines and dishwashers should be drained and dried completely.
Moisture inside appliances can cause leaks, mold, or internal damage during transport.
Step 3: Disconnect Power, Water, and Gas Safely
Unplug electrical cords and secure them to the appliance. Turn off water supply valves and disconnect hoses carefully. Place disconnected hoses in plastic bags to prevent dripping.
If the appliance is connected to a gas line, do not attempt to disconnect it yourself unless you are trained. A professional should handle gas connections for safety.
Step 4: Secure Doors, Shelves, and Loose Parts
Appliance doors can swing open during movement, causing damage or injury. Use tape or straps to keep doors shut. Remove or secure shelves and drawers inside refrigerators and ovens.
Make sure nothing moves while the appliance is being transported.
Step 5: Protect Floors, Walls, and Corners
Place cardboard, floor runners, or moving blankets on the floor. Furniture sliders help prevent scratches on hardwood or tile. Use corner protectors or blankets in narrow hallways.
Protecting your home is just as important as protecting the appliance.
Step 6: Load the Appliance Onto a Dolly Properly
Tilt the appliance slightly backward and slide the dolly underneath. Secure it tightly using straps so it does not shift. Keep the appliance upright unless the manufacturer allows otherwise.
Move slowly and maintain control at all times.
Step 7: Move Slowly and Communicate Clearly
Never rush when moving heavy appliances. If you are working with another person, communicate before lifting, turning, or stopping. Take breaks if needed.
Slow and steady movement reduces the risk of injury.
What Appliances Are Hardest to Move?
Some appliances are more difficult to move than others because of their weight, size, or design.
Refrigerators with ice makers are heavy and sensitive to tilting. Washing machines are challenging because of their internal concrete weights. Gas stoves require extra care due to gas connections. Large chest freezers are bulky and hard to grip. Commercial-style appliances are often oversized and extremely heavy.
These appliances often require additional equipment or professional help to move safely.
How to Move Heavy Appliances Up or Down Stairs
Stairs add another level of difficulty. Always have at least two people when moving appliances on stairs. Use an appliance dolly designed for stair use if possible. Move one step at a time and keep the appliance tilted slightly backward.
If the staircase is narrow, steep, or curved, hiring movers is the safest option. Stair-related injuries are common during appliance moves, and it is not worth the risk.
When Should You Hire Professional Movers?
There are times when hiring a moving service is the smart choice. If the appliance is extremely heavy, if stairs are involved, or if you are worried about injury or damage, professionals can help. Moving appliances across long distances or into tight spaces is another reason to call experts.
Professional movers have the training, equipment, and experience needed to handle appliances safely and efficiently.
How Professional Movers Handle Heavy Appliances
Professional movers use specialized dollies, straps, and protective materials. They know how to balance appliances properly and how to navigate stairs and tight areas. Their experience reduces the risk of damage and injury. Most importantly, they save you time and stress.
Safety Tips to Remember Before You Start
Always lift with your legs, not your back. Wear closed-toe shoes with a good grip. Never try to move an appliance alone. Take your time and plan each step before you move.
Final Thoughts
Moving heavy appliances can feel intimidating, but it becomes much easier with the right preparation and approach. Measuring paths, using proper tools, and moving slowly can help prevent accidents and damage. Knowing your limits is just as important as knowing the steps.
If you want a safe and stress-free move, professional help can make all the difference.
If you need help moving heavy appliances, Aleks Moving’s movers in Burlington are ready to assist. Our team handles appliances with care, skill, and efficiency, so you do not have to worry.
Contact us now to make your move easier and safer. Let us take the heavy lifting off your hands so you can focus on settling into your new space.
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