can i move my fridge

by Casey Welch Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

A refrigerator should really only be transported in an upright position. If you are deciding how to transport a refrigerator in a pickup truck, trailer or moving truck, remember that it's best to keep the refrigerator upright, and rent or borrow a vehicle that will allow for that positioning.

How to prepare your fridge for moving?

Jan 10, 2022 · STEP 1: Measure your fridge and your home’s doorways. Measure and record down the width, height, and depth of your fridge. Measure and write down the width and height of the clearance of any...

How many people does it take to move a refrigerator?

Moving a refrigerator to another wall may drastically change the look of your kitchen since this appliance takes up a large amount of space. Bear in mind, the cost to move the refrigerator in your kitchen may be more than you anticipate. It's not as simple as relocating a lamp, partly because of its size and partly because the kitchen's design and workflow revolve around it.

How to prepare a refrigerator for a move?

Jan 15, 2020 · There are two ways you can move your fridge from one room to another: place it on a furniture dolly (also known as a hand truck) or slide it across the floor. Both are much easier and safer if you have at least one other person helping you.

How to make a fridge at home?

Nov 30, 2020 · Tips for Moving Your Fridge . Don't place it on its side. Always keep the refrigerator standing upright as much as possible. This ensures that oil won't seep into the cooling tubes which can cause permanent damage. Read the manual. Check moving instructions in your refrigerator's manual before you move.

What happens if you move your fridge?

You're not supposed to move a refrigerator on its side. If you do, you can ruin the internal mechanisms and potentially break the refrigerator. When a refrigerator is laid on its side, the oil in the compressor will flow from the compressor tube into the coolant lines.

Is it hard to relocate a fridge?

Moving a refrigerator is hard enough without its doors flying open during the move. So before placing your refrigerator on the dolly, wrap the appliance with either a moving strap or strong rope. Make sure the rope is tied tightly and the doors are securely closed before sliding it onto the dolly.Jan 16, 2018

Can you move a fridge to a different location?

Yes, if you take the time to learn how to move a refrigerator the correct way. No magical formula will make moving a fridge any less painstaking. Not only are refrigerators cumbersome and bulky, but they're also costly as well. However, you can make the job much easier by knowing how to move a refrigerator properly.Sep 6, 2017

Can you move a fridge to another wall?

If there is already plumbing on the wall where you'd like to place the fridge, it can be repurposed for the refrigerator or you can purchase a water line installation kit and slice into the existing lines.

How long does a fridge need to be turned off before moving?

When should you turn it off before moving? If you're moving a fridge or freezer into your new home, it's best to turn it off 24 hours before. This gives the fridge's evaporator time to defrost, which reduces the risk of any damage during the move.Mar 15, 2021

What is the best way to move a fridge?

How do I prepare my refrigerator for moving?

Empty out the fridge.
Disconnect water lines and wiring.
Defrost the fridge, if necessary.
Remove the doors, if necessary.
Protect the floors, walls, and refrigerator.
Physically move the fridge with a dolly.
Secure it safely in the truck.
Reassemble and reconnect in the new house.

Mar 17, 2020

Why do you have to wait 24 hours to plug in a fridge?

Let the refrigerator sit upright for the recommended 24 hours before plugging the refrigerator into power so the oils can settle into place and not cause any issues or error codes.Jun 3, 2021

How do you move a short distance fridge?

If you want to move the fridge a short distance in the same room, to clean behind it or reorganize the kitchen, remove the items anyway, and place them on the counters. It'll make it safer to move and you won't risk tipping over the fridge. Use moving rollers, and place them under the feet of the fridge to do this.

How long do you wait to plug in a fridge after moving it?

When you plan to restart the refrigerator after moving it, wait at least twelve hours before plugging in to ensure that any lubricant or coolant is settled into place and isn't going to gush out or damage the function of your refrigerator when plugged back in.Sep 22, 2021

Can you put a fridge anywhere in the kitchen?

First of all, it's important to place the fridge away from direct sunlight because it can heat it up during the summer. The fridge should also be placed away from the oven and microwave because they too produce heat. So it's ok to put it in the kitchen as long as you keep these details in mind.Nov 16, 2010

How do you move a refrigerator across a kitchen?

Empty, clean out, and unplug the refrigerator. Measure the appliance and doorways and plan your move carefully. Recruit a helper to secure the fridge, load it on the dolly, and move carefully and efficiently it to the van, across the room, or maybe out to the garage if you're getting a new fridge for the kitchen.Jan 10, 2022

When Can I Turn My Fridge Back on After Moving?

It is always recommended that you avoid lying a fridge or freezer on its side but sometimes there may be no other option e.g. if you only have an e...

Can I Lie A Fridge Down to Move It?

As mentioned above, It is always best to keep a fridge or freezer upright when moving, if possible, but if you do need to lie it down make sure you...

How Should I Carry Or Move My Fridge Or Freezer?

As stated, you should not try to lift the fridge on your own; always lift it with at least one other person to avoid straining your back.It is also...

Transporting A Fridge Safely

Make sure you secure the fridge to avoid it moving in the van – use straps and take particular care if the fridge has rollers underneath, you may w...

Moving A Fridge Freezer Or Freezer

Moving a freezer or a fridge freezer is the same process, and obviously you should make sure that the freezer is empty and defrosted before you att...

Moving A Fridge, Freezer Or Other Appliance Into Position Under A Countertop

If anyone has tried to do this before you will be well aware that it’s not an easy job. If the appliance, be it a fridge, freezer, washing machine,...

Where Is The Best Place to Put A Fridge Or Freezer?

This is one of those questions that you might never think to ask, however there are places that you should avoid placing a fridge or freezer.It is...

How to move a fridge?

Before you begin the move, it’s essential to take proper measurements and ensure that your fridge can fit through any doorways and openings. Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of the fridge with your tape measure. Next, map out your exact path for moving the fridge.

How to move a fridge to a new home?

Unload the fridge near its new position and slightly rock it from side to side until it’s in the correct spot. Place any drawers, shelves, and lids back into their correct positions.

How to wrap a fridge with a dolly?

Once the fridge is placed onto the dolly, use moving straps and automatic tighteners to wrap the entire length of the appliance and secure the doors. Bungee cords are not recommended due to their flimsiness. Lastly, add an extra layer of protection by wrapping your fridge with moving blankets as well.

Why do you need a dolly for a fridge?

If your fridge is being moved more than just a few feet, an appliance dolly is crucial for safe transportation. For a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to use an appliance dolly, check out our tips here.

How much does a refrigerator weigh when moving?

When dealing with refrigerators, one small misstep can lead to a broken appliance or worse, a broken back. The average refrigerator weighs roughly 300 pounds, which means proper care must be taken during the moving process. Whether you’re relocating to a new home or renovating your kitchen, moving a fridge is a challenging job that requires time, ...

How long does it take for a fridge to chill?

Finally, plug in the fridge to the nearest electrical outlet and let it reach its optimal temperature. The fridge may take up to a few days to become adequately chill, so you should wait to store your foods and beverages inside until you’re completely sure that it’s safe to do so.

What to do before unplugging refrigerator?

Before you unplug the refrigerator, take out any contents inside to reduce its weight and preserve any perishable foods and beverages. If you’re planning for a longer move, place these contents into a cooler for safe chilling.

What to do if there is no outlet for refrigerator?

If there is no outlet, hire an electrician to install one as extension cords are unsightly and potentially dangerous. If the best location for your refrigerator is currently obstructed by furniture, cabinetry or built-ins, you'll need to plan and budget for removing or repositioning them. Advertisement.

Do refrigerator doors block doorways?

Also, ensure that the refrigerator doors do not block doorways or interfere with other pathways. An island or another object may be near the refrigerator and prevent the doors from opening fully.

Can you move a dishwasher and a refrigerator at the same time?

Verify that if another appliance, such as a dishwasher or stove, is near the refrigerator that both appliance doors may be opened at the same time; otherwise the move may cause difficulty for more than one person to be in the kitchen working at the same time.

Do refrigerators need electricity?

Refrigerators require electricity to run; therefore, examine the wall where you want to set it for a proper electrical outlet. If the wall currently has no cabinetry, built-in shelving or large furniture to relocate, positioning the fridge where it has access to electricity and provides practical, day-to-day access should be straightforward.

Do refrigerators have doors?

Refrigerators come with many types of door openings. Whether you have a top or bottom freezer, side-by-side or a French door refrigerator, measure the clearance space of the doors before moving the appliance. Verify that if another appliance, such as a dishwasher or stove, is near the refrigerator that both appliance doors may be opened at ...

How to move a refrigerator to another room?

There are two ways you can move your fridge from one room to another: place it on a furniture dolly (also known as a hand truck) or slide it across the floor. Both are much easier and safer if you have at least one other person helping you. Placing the refrigerator on a furniture dolly is definitely the way to go if you need to navigate steps along the way. Place the bottom of the furniture dolly under the refrigerator, as close to the middle as possible and use a large bungee cord to secure the fridge to the furniture dolly to prevent it from slipping off.

How to lift a fridge?

Gently tilt the dolly back to lift the fridge. It will be heavy, so take your time and have someone help you guide the fridge as you move it. Take care not to tilt the fridge more than necessary in order to avoid contaminating the coolant tubes with oil. Even when the fridge is upright again, the oil can linger in these tubes, and your refrigerator won't cool down like it's supposed to.

How to make a refrigerator slide on top of wood?

You start by laying one piece of plywood in front of the refrigerator and sliding it onto the wood (with a friend's help since refrigerators are heavy).

How to secure refrigerator to furniture dolly?

Placing the refrigerator on a furniture dolly is definitely the way to go if you need to navigate steps along the way. Place the bottom of the furniture dolly under the refrigerator, as close to the middle as possible and use a large bungee cord to secure the fridge to the furniture dolly to prevent it from slipping off.

How to test water dispense on a refrigerator?

Finally, unplug the fridge. Secure both the water supply hose and the electric plug to the fridge (or to the rope surrounding the fridge) with a zip tie or another piece of rope.

How to push a fridge down stairs?

Take stairs one at a time and have at least one person behind and in front of the fridge to keep it balanced. If you're going up stairs, face backward and pull the fridge up one step at a time. If you're going down stairs, position the fridge in front of you and roll it down one step at a time, letting it rest on each step while you move your feet into position for the next push. Of course, if you have any sort of back problem, you should definitely recruit help for this task and assume the role of the supervisor.

How much does a refrigerator weigh?

First and foremost, a standard kitchen refrigerator/freezer weighs about 300 pounds when empty. Second, it's awkward to handle and wrangle a refrigerator, even if it's on the lighter side. But most importantly, a refrigerator has to stay as upright as possible when being moved in order to prevent oil from flowing into the coolant tubes.

How to keep refrigerator from moving in van?

Make sure you secure the fridge to avoid it moving in the van – use straps and take particular care if the fridge has rollers underneath, you may want to use chocks to make sure it won’t roll around. Cover the refrigerator with a blanket to make sure the exterior surfaces are protected and do not get scratched.

How to keep fridge from straining?

Lie your fridge on its side and never on its back – lie it on the side opposite the hinges so the door is not straining to open. If you have a side by side fridge freezer lie it down on the freezer side ( the side with the smaller door). Additionally, if possible, place a strong box or similar sturdy item under the top of ...

How to store food after moving?

Remove all food, shelves, boxes and trays. Remember to store any food contents in a family member or friends fridge or freezer for the duration of the move as you do not want any of your food spoiling or going off

What to do if a refrigerator is too wide?

If when the unit is on it’s side it is too wide to go through any doorways or openings, transport it to the opening and unload it from the trucks and then maneuver it through and load it back onto the trucks once through. Do not be tempted to ″wedge it on in there″ as this will damage the appliance and the opening.

How many people are needed to move a flight of stairs?

If you have to negotiate a flight of stairs during the move, again, make sure you have at least two people, one in front and one behind holding the sack truck. Due to their size and weight they can easily escape from you or topple over if you do not keep a tight grip on the sack trucks or keep the whole lot at a suitable angle. ...

How to protect refrigerator from scratches?

Cover the refrigerator with a blanket to make sure the exterior surfaces are protected and do not get scratched.

Can you lift a fridge on your own?

As stated, you should not try to lift the fridge on your own; always lift it with at least one other person to avoid straining your back. It is also a good idea to measure your fridge or freezer any doorways that you will have to go through to make sure it will fit.

What is the first option for moving a fridge?

First option gives you your choices in equipment to use and how to use them. If you’re just moving your fridge elsewhere in the kitchen, then the second option is probably all you need, although option 1 is just as practical if you have the equipment available.

How to take a fridge for a drive?

If you are taking the fridge for a drive, you’ll need to clear it out and defrost it before you try to take it anywhere. This requires several steps in itself: Remove any food – pack in coolers, eat, or discard. Remove shelves or ensure they are secured in place. Unplug the refrigerator.

How to lift a fridge back?

Do this safely and have at least two people to do the following: Carefully lift and lean the fridge back against the wall. Place towels/furniture sliders under the front corners or “legs” of the fridge. Gently tilt the fridge forward to lift back corners off the floor.

How to defrost a refrigerator?

If you are taking the fridge for a drive, you’ll need to clear it out and defrost it before you try to take it anywhere. This requires several steps in itself: 1 Remove any food – pack in coolers, eat, or discard. 2 Remove shelves or ensure they are secured in place. 3 Unplug the refrigerator. 4 Open all doors for air circulation. 5 Place newspaper or towels down to collect melting ice and water. 6 Place the bucket under the drainage hose if your fridge has one. 7 Clean the refrigerator immediately after ice melts. 8 Dry completely before transporting.

How to lift back corners off fridge?

Gently tilt the fridge forward to lift back corners off the floor.

How to secure fridge doors when moving?

No matter how you’re moving your fridge or where it’s going, you’ll want to secure the doors by taping them shut. This will prevent them from accidentally popping open at any time in the process. If you have highly faulty doors, or you don’t feel confident that tape will suffice, removing the doors off their hinges is always an option as well.

Why does my fridge door fly open?

But once you tilt, maneuver, and move your fridge, any bumping, jarring, or just gravity can easily cause doors to fly open, potentially causing damage or injury, so it’s important to take the time to do this step.