How to Move a Fridge

How To Move A Fridge Safely? – The Ultimate Guide

Moving a fridge or freezer is a task that requires careful planning and execution. These appliances are not only heavy but also contain delicate internal components that can be easily damaged if not handled correctly. 

At Central Coast Moving Co, we’re experts in how to move a fridge and appliances, and we’re here to share our knowledge to help you move your fridge safely and efficiently and to answer common questions such as “Can you transport a fridge laying down?”

Understanding the Complexity of Fridge Moving

Transporting a fridge during a move is a task that demands special attention due to several factors. Firstly, their bulky size and heavy weight make them challenging to maneuver, especially through narrow doorways, tight corners, or up and down staircases. 

This bulkiness requires not just physical strength but also strategic planning to navigate through various spaces safely.

The internal workings of these appliances contribute to their moving complexity. Fridges and freezers house sensitive components like compressors, cooling coils, and electrical parts. 

These elements are crucial for the appliance’s functionality and are prone to damage and mishandling can lead to costly repairs or permanent damage. 

Initial Preparations To Move Your Fridge

It’s important for the safety of your fridge move that the correct preparations on done. Let’s take a look at the initial preparations: 

• Emptying the Fridge: The first step is to empty your fridge of all its contents. For perishables, especially if you’re planning a short move, a cooler can be a great temporary storage solution. For longer moves, it’s an opportunity to clear out old or unused items – consider it a mini decluttering session. Donate what you can and consume the rest to avoid waste.

• Cleaning: Once empty, cleaning your fridge is crucial. Not only does this prevent any unpleasant odors from developing, but it also gives you a chance to start fresh in your new home. Disinfect all surfaces, drawers, and shelves. Remember, a clean fridge is also more inviting to restock once you’re settled in your new place.

• Defrosting: Defrosting your fridge is a step that cannot be overlooked. Turn off your fridge at least 24 hours before the move. This allows any built-up ice to melt, preventing water damage during the move and making the cleaning process easier. Ensure your fridge is completely dry before moving to avoid any moisture-related issues.

• Securing Internal Components: Your fridge’s internal components, like shelves and drawers, need to be secured. Remove them and pack them separately, using bubble wrap or protective materials. This not only prevents damage during the move but also makes the fridge lighter and easier to transport.

• Disconnecting Water Lines: If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, you’ll need to disconnect the water lines. Drain these lines to prevent any water leakage during the move. This step is crucial to avoid any messes and potential water damage.

• Securing the Doors: Secure the doors of both the fridge and freezer. You can use adhesive tape for this, but be cautious as some tapes can leave a residue or damage the surface of your fridge. The goal is to prevent the doors from swinging open during transit, which can be a hazard and potentially cause damage.

• Protective Wrapping: Finally, wrap your fridge in protective materials. Moving blankets and similar padding can prevent scratches and dents during the move. Ensure the wrapping is secure but not too tight to avoid damaging the fridge’s surface.

The Moving Process: How to Transport a Fridge.

Successfully moving a fridge is a task that requires the right equipment and techniques. It’s not just about brute strength; it’s about understanding the appliance’s structure and handling it in a way that ensures its safe arrival at your new home. 

Here’s a detailed look at the safest and easiest way to move a fridge:

1. Selecting a Suitable Trolley or Dolly: The cornerstone of moving a heavy appliance like a fridge is the right moving trolley or dolly. This equipment should have a weight-load rating that comfortably supports the weight of your fridge. A sturdy trolley not only makes the move safer but also significantly reduces the physical strain on the movers.

2. Importance of a Ratchet Strap: A ratchet strap is crucial for securing the fridge onto the trolley. This strap ensures that the appliance doesn’t shift or topple over during movement, which could cause damage to the fridge or injury to the movers.

3. Multiple Wheels for Navigation: Choose a trolley with multiple wheels, preferably ones that can swivel, to navigate corners and tight spaces more easily. This feature is particularly useful when maneuvering through narrow hallways or turning corners.

4. Tilting the Fridge: When tilting the fridge to move it onto the trolley, be cautious not to tilt it more than 45 degrees. Excessive tilting can cause the internal refrigerant to shift, which might lead to cooling issues later. Gentle and minimal tilting is key.

5. Keeping the Fridge: The best practice is to keep the fridge upright throughout the move. If circumstances require laying the fridge down, such as in a vehicle with height restrictions, ensure it’s well-padded and secured with straps. This position should be maintained for as short a time as possible to prevent any internal damage.

Post-Move: Setting Up Your Fridge Safely

This phase is as important as the move itself, as improper handling post-move can lead to potential issues. Here’s our recommendation on how to set up your fridge after the move:

• Upright Transportation: If your fridge has been transported upright, the internal mechanisms are likely to remain undisturbed. In this case, you can plug in and turn on your fridge immediately upon arrival at your new home. This immediate power-up is safe because the coolant and oils within the compressor have stayed in place, avoiding any risk of compressor or cooling system damage.

• Transportation in a Non-Upright Position:  If your fridge was transported in a non-upright position (laid down), it’s crucial to let it stand upright for several hours before turning it on. This waiting period allows the oils and coolant, which may have moved out of their designated compartments, to settle back into their correct positions. The general recommendation is to wait at least 3 to 4 hours, but waiting longer, up to 24 hours, is even safer. Turning on the fridge too soon after it has been laid down can cause damage to the compressor, as the oils need time to drain back to their proper place.

Conclusion: How to Move a Fridge?

In conclusion, moving a fridge safely is indeed a complex and nuanced task that demands attention to detail, careful planning, and a methodical approach. By adhering to the steps and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your fridge during the moving process.

It’s about understanding the unique challenges that come with transporting such a large and delicate appliance and taking the necessary steps to address them.

Why Choose Central Coast Moving Co for Your Fridge Move

At Central Coast Moving Co, we specialize in moving large appliances like fridges and freezers. 

Our team of professionals is equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle your fridge move efficiently and safely. 

We understand the nuances of appliance moving and are committed to ensuring your fridge arrives at your new home in perfect condition. With us, you can expect:

• Expertise and Specialized Equipment: Central Coast Moving Co is equipped with specialized trolleys and padding materials, essential for safely moving your fridge. 

• Commitment to Safety and Efficiency: We prioritize the safety of both your appliance and our moving team by taking all necessary precautions.

• Guaranteed Peace of Mind: Choose Central Coast Moving Co for a worry-free moving experience. We meticulously manage every aspect of your fridge’s move, from careful preparation to efficient transportation.

For any inquiries or to discuss the specifics of your fridge move, feel free to reach out to us at +1 (805) 441-4429. You can also get an instant price estimate through our website, making your planning process even more convenient.

FAQs: How to Move a Fridge

Read our most frequently asked questions on how to move a fridge safely: 

Can you transport a fridge laying down?

While it’s always preferable to move fridges in an upright position to protect their internal components, there are situations where laying them down is unavoidable. If you need to lay your fridge down, ensure it’s well-padded to protect it from jostles and bumps and secure it to prevent any shifts during transport.

How long should you wait to turn on a fridge after moving?

If your fridge was kept upright during the move, you can safely turn it on immediately upon arrival. If it was transported lying down, it’s crucial to let it stand upright for a few hours before powering it up. This allows the internal fluids to settle back into their proper places, ensuring the cooling system functions correctly.

Can moving a fridge damage it?

Moving a fridge can potentially cause damage if not done correctly. It’s essential to handle the fridge with care, using appropriate equipment and techniques. Ensure the fridge is securely fastened during transport and avoid excessive tilting or shaking, which can disturb the internal mechanisms.

What happens if you plug in a fridge too soon after moving?

Plugging in a fridge too soon after it has been laid down can lead to damage to the cooling system. The refrigerant needs time to settle back into the compressor. Waiting a few hours before plugging it in helps prevent any potential damage and ensures the fridge resumes normal operation.