Moving a refrigerator can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and equipment, moving a refrigerator can be done easily and safely. Whether you’re moving to a new house or just rearranging your appliances, here is a comprehensive guide on how to move a refrigerator.
Ready to move soon but don’t know how to move a refrigerator?
Read on to learn the steps you need to take before, during, and after moving your refrigerator!
What Is The Easiest Way To Move A Refrigerator?
The easiest way to move a refrigerator is to hire professional movers who specialize in moving appliances. They have the equipment, knowledge, and experience to move your refrigerator safely and efficiently. However, if you prefer to move your refrigerator yourself, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful move.
How Can I Move My Refrigerator By Myself?
Moving a refrigerator by yourself can be challenging, but it is possible. To move your refrigerator yourself, you’ll need some essential equipment, such as a dolly, moving straps, and blankets. You’ll also need to plan ahead and follow a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful move.
Keep in mind that moving a refrigerator by yourself is not recommended if you have back or joint problems, as it can be physically demanding. And not to mention, it can be dangerous if you don’t have the right equipment or know-how.
Can You Lay A Refrigerator Down To Move It?
Yes, you can lay a refrigerator down to move it, but it’s not recommended. Laying a refrigerator on its side can cause the compressor oil to flow into the cooling tubes, potentially causing damage to the compressor and the refrigerator. If you must lay your refrigerator down, ensure that it is placed on a soft surface, such as blankets or towels, to protect it from scratches and damage. Additionally, once you’ve laid your refrigerator down, it’s essential to wait before plugging it in.
How Long Do You Wait To Plug In A Fridge After Moving It?
You should wait at least 3-4 hours before plugging in your refrigerator after moving it. This time allows the compressor oil to settle back into its original position, reducing the risk of damage to the compressor and the refrigerator. Additionally, waiting a few hours also gives the refrigerant time to stabilize, which helps your refrigerator cool more efficiently.
Moving A Refrigerator: A Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Map out a path – Before moving your refrigerator, measure your doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure that your refrigerator will fit through them. Clear out any obstacles or debris in your path to ensure a smooth and safe move.
Step 2: Remove food and clean – Empty your refrigerator of all its contents, including food, drinks, and ice trays. Clean the inside of your refrigerator with a mild cleaner, and wipe down the exterior.
Step 3: Remove shelving – Remove all shelves, drawers, and other detachable parts from your refrigerator. Pack them separately, and label them to ensure that you can easily put them back in place.
Step 4: Disconnect and defrost – Turn off your refrigerator and unplug it from the wall. Allow the refrigerator to defrost, and remove any ice or water from the inside. If your refrigerator has a water line, turn off the water valve and disconnect the line.
Step 5: Slide out and cover – Use a dolly or slide the refrigerator out of its place carefully. Wrap your refrigerator with blankets or moving pads to protect it from scratches and damage.
Step 6: Load – Load your refrigerator onto the moving truck, ensuring that it is secure and stable. Place it upright, and avoid laying it down if possible.
Step 7: Secure and transport – Use moving straps to secure your refrigerator to the truck to prevent it from shifting during transit. Drive carefully, and avoid sudden stops or turns that can cause damage to your refrigerator. Read more about how to use moving straps on our blog page today!
Step 8: Arrive and unload – When you arrive at your new home, carefully unload the refrigerator from the truck. Use a dolly to move it into its designated place, and remove all blankets or covers used for protection.
Step 9: Unload and install – Unload your refrigerator carefully, using a dolly if needed. Place it back in its spot, and reconnect the water line if necessary.
Step 10: Enjoy! – Plug your refrigerator back in, turn it on, and enjoy your newly-moved refrigerator!
After transporting the refrigerator to its new location, it’s important to wait before plugging it back in. This allows the refrigerator to settle and prevents potential damage to the compressor. It’s recommended to wait at least 3 – 4 hours before plugging in the refrigerator and up to 24 hours if the refrigerator was transported on its side. This allows the oil in the compressor to settle back into place and ensures that the compressor will not be damaged during the startup process.
Moving a refrigerator can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and preparation, it can be done safely and efficiently. Whether you choose to hire professional movers or tackle the job yourself, following these steps will help ensure that your refrigerator arrives at its new location in the same condition it was in before the move.
When you decide to hire professional movers, Aleks Moving is just a phone call away. Contact us today to schedule your move, and let us take the stress out of moving a refrigerator! We have years of experience in moving appliances, furniture, and other items safely and efficiently. Follow updates on our social media pages as well – Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Give us a call today for more information about our appliance movers services!
FAQs: How to Move a Refrigerator
Can you move a refrigerator by yourself?
It is possible to move a refrigerator by yourself, but it’s not recommended. Refrigerators are heavy and bulky, making them difficult to maneuver. In addition, refrigerators contain delicate components that can be easily damaged if not handled properly. It’s best to enlist the help of at least one other person, or hire professional movers, to ensure that the refrigerator is moved safely and without damage.
Can you lay a refrigerator down to move it?
Yes, it is possible to lay a refrigerator down to move it, but it’s not recommended. When a refrigerator is laid down, the oil in the compressor can flow into the refrigerant lines, potentially causing damage to the compressor and other components. If laying the refrigerator down is necessary, it’s important to wait at least 30 minutes before plugging it in to allow the oil to flow back into the compressor. It’s also recommended to transport the refrigerator upright whenever possible to minimize the risk of damage.
What is the easiest way to move a refrigerator?
The easiest way to move a refrigerator is to hire professional movers who have experience moving large appliances. They will have the necessary equipment and knowledge to safely move the refrigerator without causing damage. If hiring movers is not an option, enlisting the help of at least one other person is recommended. It’s also important to plan the move ahead of time and make sure you have the necessary supplies and tools.
How long do you wait to plug in a fridge after moving it?
It’s recommended to wait at least 30 minutes before plugging in a refrigerator after moving it, and up to 24 hours if the refrigerator was transported on its side. This allows the oil in the compressor to settle back into place and ensures that the compressor will not be damaged during the startup process. Waiting for the recommended amount of time can help prolong the lifespan of the refrigerator and prevent costly repairs.
