How To Move A Refrigerator
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How To Move A Refrigerator

Aug 16, 2024

House moving is one task that most individuals have to perform at least once in their lifetimes. In fact, many people relocate regularly due to work. So this means that they need to do a long list of daunting tasks. One task that most homeowners find really hard is packing and moving heavy and large items, such as the refrigerator. Due to its weight, some heavy lifting is always expected. Plus, if the doorways and stairways are narrow, the work will become even more difficult.

When it comes to moving large and heavy items like the refrigerator, it is always a good idea to hire professional removalists Canberra. They are aware of the right techniques and use the appropriate equipment to ensure no damage is done.

However, people who do not have the budget to hire professionals can tackle this challenge themselves by following a step-by-step procedure. Here is how to move a refrigerator. These easy steps are perfect for moving the fridge.

1. Take Measurements

Taking measurements of both the refrigerator and doorways is one of the most important things. Start by measuring the appliance’s height, width, and depth. Next, measure the width and height of the doorway’s clearance and write them down.

Since an open door might protrude into the clearance space which means removing it may be required. Removing the door hinges might also be necessary. It is important to tactically plan the path to get the appliance outside. Ensure there is sufficient clearance of all sides for safely moving the fridge.

2. Disconnect the Appliance

To safely transport the fridge, it is vital to give the evaporator sufficient time to defrost. Not doing so will increase the chances of damage during transit. Switching off the appliance a night before the move will allow the oils and fluids to just settle and stop the process of moving through the compressor.

If it has an automatic ice maker, it will be essential to disconnect the water hose and take out the ice to minimise the chances of spills, leaks, and damage during transit. This will make it easier for the cheap removalists Canberra to safely move this large item.

3. Remove Items and Clean the Interiors

moving a fridge

After turning it off, start removing food items from the refrigerator. Once the interior is empty, wipe it. Giving it a thorough clean is crucial as it is likely to have bad odours particularly if some of the food items expired. Putting in some effort is vital to ensure this bulky item is clean and odour-free when it arrives at the new home.

4. Pack Glass Shelves Separately

It is important to reduce the risks of damage to ensure the refrigerator arrives safely at the new home. Not removing the glass shelves from the appliance is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make. So, once the shelves are clean, wrap them in either bubble wrap or packing paper and consider moving them separately. Leaving them inside the appliance will increase the chances of them bouncing around and shattering. This means that individuals will then need to remove all the glass and get a new set of shelves.

Tip: Hire expert removalists Canberra for safe transportation of the fridge.

5. Secure the Refrigerator Door

During transportation, it is important to ensure that the fridge doors do not open unnecessarily. So, wrap the appliance using a strong rope or moving strap. Ensure the strap or rope is tied tightly, and the doors are securely closed. In case the refrigerator has two doors, consider tying them together. Next, wrap it in moving blankets to minimise scratches and dents during transit.

6. Use a Moving Dolly

When it is time to move house, slide the moving dolly underneath the fridge and make use of a strap to fix the fridge to the dolly. At least two people will be required for this step because one of them will need to rock the dolly back while the other will push the appliance forward.

When loading the fridge on the moving vehicle, the individual holding the dolly should go backwards while the one at the front offers support and ensures the appliance does not topple forward. Remember to secure the refrigerator once it is loaded to guarantee it does not bounce.

7. Ensure Safe Transportation

Finally, people should ensure that their fridge is safely transported to the new place. Hiring budget removalists Canberra is usually the best option. For DIY moves, it is important to avoid speeding at roundabouts, as that will increase the chances of knocking the appliance over. After completing the move, take out the blankets. Place shelves back. Remember to let it stand upright for a while before plunging it back in to ensure it is ready for use.

Step-by-Step Guide to Move a Refrigerator

tips for moving a fridge

Wrapping Up

Moving a heavy and large item like the fridge is one of the hardest things to do, particularly for people who have not done it before. Fortunately, following a step-by-step guide makes the work much more straightforward while minimising chances of damage during transit.