Moving a refrigerator takes more prep work than most people realize. You can't just unplug it and roll it out the door. There's defrosting, cleaning, and securing parts that need to happen first. A dependable moving crew knows exactly how to handle bulky appliances like fridges without causing damage. This guide walks you through each step so your refrigerator arrives at your new place in working condition. Follow along, and you'll avoid the common mistakes that lead to water leaks, broken shelves, or worse.
Defrosting the Refrigerator
Before moving a refrigerator, you need to defrost it completely to stop water from leaking everywhere during the trip. Start by unplugging the fridge and taking out all the food. Put some towels around the base to soak up melting ice. Leave the door open so the ice can melt on its own. If you want to speed things up, use a hairdryer on a low setting to help melt the ice faster. Don't use knives or sharp tools to chip away at the ice; you'll scratch up the interior. Once all the ice is gone, dry everything out with towels. This whole process can take several hours, so plan.
Cleaning the Interior and Exterior
Start by unplugging the fridge and pulling out all the shelves and drawers so you can reach every surface. Use a gentle all-purpose cleaner or mix some water with mild dish soap, then wipe down the interior walls, shelves, and drawers. Focus on any stubborn stains or dried spills, using a soft sponge or cloth so you don't scratch anything. For the outside, wipe down the doors, handles, and sides with a damp cloth. Don't forget the rubber door gaskets and any exposed coils on the back of the fridge. Once everything is clean and dry, put the shelves and drawers back in place before moving on to the next step.
Securing the Doors and Shelves
Make sure all shelves are firmly back in place and the refrigerator doors line up correctly and seal tightly before you move the appliance. Check that the doors close all the way and the seals aren't worn out. Loose shelves can shift during the move, so we recommend removing them and packing them separately. For adjustable shelves, lock them in position so they don't slide. Secure any removable compartments inside the fridge to prevent damage. Use strong tape or straps to keep the doors shut during transport. Taking these steps protects both the refrigerator and its contents while you're on the road.
Disconnecting and Draining Water Lines
Unplug the refrigerator before you touch any water lines. Find the water shut-off valve behind the fridge and turn it clockwise to cut off the water supply. Grab an adjustable wrench and loosen the nut that connects the water supply line to the fridge's water inlet valve. Keep a towel handy to catch any water that drips out. Once the nut is loose, carefully pull off the water supply line. To drain any leftover water from the line, place a bucket under the disconnected end and press the dispenser until all the water drains out. Check for any other water lines connected to ice makers or water filters that also need to be disconnected.
Safely Moving the Refrigerator
Follow these steps to move the refrigerator without damaging it or hurting yourself.
- Empty the Fridge: Take out all food, shelves, and drawers so nothing shifts around or breaks during the move.
- Secure the Doors: Tape the doors shut or use bungee cords to keep them from swinging open while you're moving.
- Use Proper Equipment: Use a dolly or moving straps to transport the fridge safely. Lift from the bottom, not the handles or doors, to avoid damage or injury.
Preparing the New Location
Before the refrigerator shows up, make sure the new spot is ready for it. Measure the space to confirm the fridge will actually fit. Check that there's enough ventilation so the appliance doesn't overheat. Clean the area thoroughly, as dust and debris can affect the fridge's performance. Make sure the floor is level so the appliance doesn't rock back and forth. Confirm there's a nearby power outlet, and consider using a surge protector. If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, check that you have access to a water line. Keep a clear path from the entrance to where the fridge will go so the move goes smoothly.
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