5 Important Tips For Moving a Refrigerator

So, you’re in the process of moving into a new home and are now faced with the task of handling the appliances. Due to its heavy weight and large size, the refrigerator is one of the most difficult home appliances to move. Moving a refrigerator is a back breaking task that requires planning and preparation. Before you throw in the towel and hire a professional moving company, however, you should first read the following tips.

#1) Clean It Out

Some people may attempt to move their refrigerator while all of the food and beverages are still inside, but this isn’t recommended. It’s not uncommon for a typical family’s refrigerator to contain over 100 pounds in food and beverages, making it just a little more difficult to carry, not to mention the fact that everything inside your refrigerator will get tossed around during the move.

Go ahead and pull everything out of your refrigerator and freezer and place it inside a cooler for the time being.

#2) Unplug

With all of the food and beverages removed from your refrigerator, unplug the electrical cord and disconnect the water line (if your refrigerator has an icemaker). Don’t just leave the electrical cord and water line dangling on the ground, but instead tape it to the front or back. This will eliminate the possibility of you or anyone else accidentally tripping on the cords.

#3) Secure The Doors

Wrap some bungee cords or rope around your refrigerator doors to prevent them from swinging open during transit. The gasket alone isn’t enough to keep the doors in place, and moving a refrigerator with doors that swing freely open is just asking for trouble. Pick up either some bungee cords or basic rope from your local home improvement store to secure the refrigerator doors before moving it.

#4) Use a Dolly

Rather than trying to manhandle your refrigerator, you should invest in a dolly. Trust me, this tool will make moving your refrigerator a hundred times easier, while helping to prevent back injuries in the process. GE recommends sliding the dolly or hand truck from the side, as damage could occur from sliding the dolly into the front or rear.

#5) Keep It Upright

The golden rule of moving refrigerators is to keep it upright as much as possible.

If you are forced to lay or carry the refrigerator on its side, leave it standing upright for 24 hours before turning it back on.