The Careful Approach to Fridge Relocation
How do I move a refrigerator without damaging it or injuring myself? This is a common question faced by many homeowners planning a relocation. Moving fridges presents unique challenges due to their significant weight, awkward dimensions, and delicate parts. Refrigerators and freezers contain complex cooling systems with refrigerant oils and compressors that you risk damaging if handled improperly.
Beyond the threat to your appliance, improper moving techniques can lead to personal injuries or damage to your house. However, with proper planning, the right equipment, and careful technique, you can successfully move your fridge safely, whether you’re relocating to a new home or simply rearranging your living space.
Disclaimer: The following tips are general in nature and do not take into account your specific circumstances. Moving heavy appliances like refrigerators can be dangerous if done incorrectly. If you’re unsure or unable to move your fridge safely, we strongly recommend contacting professional removalists. Call us on 02 7201 9367 for expert assistance.
Before You Start: Essential Preparation
When to Power Down Your Fridge
Timing is crucial when preparing your refrigerator for transport. Expert advice suggests turning off your fridge at least 24 hours before moving day. This waiting period serves two important purposes: it allows the evaporator sufficient time to defrost completely and permits the refrigerant oils to settle properly within the system. These oils are vital to the cooling mechanism, and movement without proper lubrication can cause potential damage to the compressor.
If you’re transferring your refrigerator into storage rather than immediately to a new home, consider powering it down a week in advance. This extended preparation provides ample time for the unit to dry out completely, which, combined with thorough cleaning, prevents the unpleasant surprise of mould and mildew growth during storage.
What You’ll Need To Move Your Fridge
Successfully moving a fridge requires proper equipment to ensure both your safety and the protection of the appliance. Here’s a comprehensive list of essential items:
- A moving trolley or dolly with an appropriate weight rating
- Moving straps to secure the appliance to the trolley
- Bungee cords or strong tape for securing refrigerator and freezer doors
- Moving blankets or bubble wrap for protective wrapping
- Plastic wrap or packing tape for additional security
- A measuring tape to verify clearances along your exit route
- Basic cleaning supplies for interior preparation
- Flat timbers or planks to slide under the refrigerator if needed
- At least one strong helper (moving the refrigerator is not a solo task!)
- Optional: Forearm forklift straps for better grip and weight distribution
Having these materials ready before you begin will make the moving process significantly more manageable and help prevent damage to your valuable appliance.
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Moving a Fridge Safely in 8 Easy Steps
Step 1: Empty and Thoroughly Clean Your Fridge Freezer
The first step in moving your fridge safely is to completely empty it. Remove all food, drinks, and frozen items from both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Transfer perishables to a cooler with ice if you plan to keep them, or consider donating non-perishables to local charities if you’re moving long-distance.
This empty state provides the perfect opportunity for a thorough cleaning. Use mild soap and warm water to clean all interior surfaces, including glass shelves and storage compartments. Pay special attention to any spills or food residue, as these can create persistent odours once the unit is powered off.
After cleaning, ensure all surfaces are completely dry to prevent water damage and mould growth during transport. Moisture left inside a powered-off refrigerator can quickly lead to mildew issues, particularly if the unit remains closed for an extended period.
Step 2: Defrost Your Freezer Safely and Properly
After unplugging your fridge, allow a full 24 hours for the freezer to defrost completely. Place towels around the base of the appliance to catch any water runoff as the ice melts. This step is essential not only for cleaning purposes but also to prevent water leakage during transport, which could damage your other belongings or create slip hazards.
Never use sharp objects like knives or ice picks to chip away at stubborn ice, as this can puncture the cooling coils hidden within the freezer walls. Instead, you can speed up the natural defrosting process by placing bowls of hot water inside the freezer compartment with the door closed and replacing them as they cool. Once defrosted, thoroughly dry all interior surfaces with absorbent cloths to eliminate any remaining moisture before transport.
Step 3: Remove Glass Shelves and Pack Detachable Components
To protect the internal components of your refrigerator and reduce its overall weight, remove all detachable parts. These typically include glass shelves, drawers, storage pans, ice trays, water filters, and any removable shelves from the fridge doors. Handle these items with care, particularly glass components, which can easily break during transit.
Wrap each removable part separately using bubble wrap or soft towels, securing them with packing tape. Store these wrapped components in clearly labelled boxes separate from the main appliance. Not only does this step protect these potentially fragile items, but it also significantly reduces the refrigerator’s weight, making it easier to manoeuvre. The lighter weight also reduces strain on the refrigerator’s frame during transport, preventing potential internal damage.
Step 4: Secure Doors with Bubble Wrap to Prevent Swinging Open
Properly securing the refrigerator and freezer doors is essential to prevent them from swinging open during transport. You can use bungee cords wrapped around the entire unit or strong tape such as packing tape or moving straps. If using tape, be cautious about applying it directly to finished surfaces, as some adhesives can leave marks or damage the exterior finish when removed.
For extra security, consider wrapping the entire unit in plastic wrap after the doors are secured. This provides additional protection against the doors opening unexpectedly and offers some protection against scratches. Don’t forget to secure the power cord by taping it to the back of the fridge to prevent it from dragging or becoming a tripping hazard during the move.
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Step 5: Use Measuring Tape to Plan Your Route
Before moving day arrives, use a measuring tape to record the exact dimensions of your refrigerator – height, width, and depth. Then, measure all doorways, hallways, and stairwells along your planned exit route. This advance planning helps identify potential tight spots where you might need to remove doors (both from the rooms and possibly from the refrigerator itself) or take alternative paths.
Create a clear path by removing any obstacles, rugs, or loose items that might create tripping hazards. Pay particular attention to tight corners and elevation changes, such as steps or thresholds. For especially challenging spaces, consider whether removing the refrigerator doors might be necessary – if so, consult your user manual for specific instructions regarding door removal for your model.
Step 6: Keep Your Fridge Upright When Using a Hand Truck
Position your moving trolley or hand truck near the refrigerator and, with your helper’s assistance, carefully tilt the fridge slightly backward. Slide the dolly underneath the appliance, positioning it at the heaviest part of the unit (typically the bottom where the compressor is located). Always bend at the knees when lifting, using your leg muscles rather than your back to prevent injury.
Keep the refrigerator in the upright position as much as possible during this process – never tilt it more than 45 degrees in any direction. Excessive tilting can cause the oil in the compressor to flow into cooling lines where it doesn’t belong. Once the fridge is positioned on the hand truck, secure it firmly using moving straps or bungee cords to prevent it from shifting or toppling. The straps should be tight enough to hold the appliance securely but not so tight that they dent or damage the exterior.
Step 7: Transport Your Fridge Upright with Careful Attention
When moving the refrigerator through your home and loading it into a moving truck, move slowly and deliberately, especially over uneven surfaces or thresholds. Keep the fridge upright during transport whenever possible, as this position best protects the internal cooling system. If you must navigate stairs, always have at least two people controlling the movement – one above and one below – using the hand truck’s stair-climbing features if available.
If circumstances require laying the refrigerator down (for example, in a ute or trailer), place it on the side opposite the compressor, which is usually the door hinge side. However, always check your specific model’s user manual for guidance, as recommendations can vary. The placement of the left or right side may depend on your particular refrigerator design.
When transporting in a moving vehicle, use plenty of blankets for padding and secure the unit firmly with straps to prevent shifting during transit.
Step 8: Let Your Fridge Settle Before Restarting
Once your refrigerator arrives at its new location, carefully position it in its designated spot and allow it to settle before plugging it in. If transported upright the entire time, many models can be plugged in relatively quickly, but it’s still wise to wait at least an hour to let everything settle. However, if your fridge was laid on its side or back at any point during transport, you must allow significantly more time.
For refrigerators that were positioned on their side, wait at least 24 hours before powering on to allow the refrigerant oils to return to the compressor. During this waiting period, keep the doors closed to maintain whatever coolness remains inside. Once you plug in your old fridge or new fridge with the latest features, wait another 24 hours before fully restocking it with food. This gives the appliance sufficient time to reach its optimal cooling temperature and ensures your food stays fresh.
Read our guide on how long to leave fridge after moving for more detailed information.
Expert Tips for Smooth Fridge Moving
When it comes to moving fridges, even the most careful DIY movers can benefit from some additional guidance. Here are some professional moving appliance tips to ensure your refrigerator arrives safely:
- Consider professional movers: If your fridge is particularly large and valuable or if you need to navigate difficult spaces in your house, choosing experienced movers might be your best option. They have specialised equipment and training to handle large appliances safely and efficiently.
- Document the condition: Before moving, take photos of your refrigerator from all angles to document its current condition. This can be helpful for insurance purposes if any damage occurs during transit.
- Check insurance coverage: Confirm whether your home insurance covers damage during a self-move. If not, consider additional coverage, especially for high-value appliances.
- Plan for immediate placement: Have the exact location prepared in advance. Measure the space to ensure the refrigerator will fit, and confirm that power outlets are accessible.
- Be mindful of the floor: Use plywood sheets on delicate flooring to prevent damage when sliding or moving heavy appliances across surfaces.
- Reconnect properly: If your refrigerator has water lines for an ice maker or water dispenser, ensure they’re properly reconnected to prevent leaks. Use new fittings if the old ones show any signs of wear.
- Keep your manual handy: Your refrigerator’s user manual contains specific instructions for your model. If you don’t have a physical copy, most manufacturers offer digital versions online.
These expert tips, combined with the step-by-step instructions above, will help ensure that your refrigerator moving experience goes smoothly, with minimal stress and no damage to your valuable appliance.
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Fridge Moving Success: Making a Challenging Task Manageable
Moving a fridge doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience when approached methodically. By following these step-by-step instructions and allowing sufficient time for proper preparation, you can complete this task safely and without damaging your valuable appliance. Patience truly is key throughout this process – rushing any step increases the risk of damage to both the refrigerator and potentially yourself.
If disconnecting and reconnecting water lines to prevent leaks or the prospect of moving such a large, heavy appliance seems daunting despite these tips, remember that professional assistance is always an option. Experienced removalists specialise in handling large appliances and come equipped with all the necessary tools and expertise. Their services might be particularly valuable if you need to navigate challenging spaces like tight staircases or narrow doorways in your house.
Whether you choose to handle the move yourself or hire professionals, understanding the proper techniques for successfully moving your refrigerator is essential. The time invested in careful preparation and transport will help ensure your appliance continues to function efficiently in its new home, saving you from potential repair costs or early replacement. With proper attention to detail, your refrigerator can make the journey to stand upright in its new location and serve you reliably for years to come.
