How To Move a Fridge Freezer

Moving a fridge freezer can be one of the most challenging tasks during a house move. With its size, weight, and delicate internal components, it requires careful preparation and handling to avoid costly damage. In this guide, we’ll take you through the essential steps to safely prepare, move, and set up your fridge freezer at your new home.

Preparing Your Fridge Freezer for Moving

Meal Planning and Reducing Food Waste

The first step in moving a fridge freezer is dealing with the contents. Plan your meals in the week leading up to the move to use as much perishable food as possible. Moving day is stressful enough without having to throw away good food! Any leftover items can be shared with neighbors or listed on community platforms like Olio, where you can offer fresh or frozen food to others.

For the food you want to keep, use cool boxes to maintain proper temperatures during the transition. Friends or neighbors may also be able to help by storing food for a short time. Remember, food safety is crucial, so check out NHS guidelines if you’re unsure about storage.

Defrosting the Freezer

Once the fridge is empty, unplug it at least 24 hours before the move. Keep the doors open during defrosting to speed up the process. This step is vital, as any leftover ice or water can leak and damage both the fridge and your belongings. If your fridge-freezer has an ice dispenser, disconnect it from the water supply to prevent leaks during transit. Refer to the appliance manual for specific defrosting instructions, as some models may vary.

Cleaning and Securing Components

Removing and Packing Shelves and Drawers

Remove glass shelves, drawers, and other loose components from inside the fridge. These pieces are prone to breaking during transport, so pack them separately, wrapping each one securely in bubble wrap or a similar protective material. Taping shelves in place may seem like a shortcut, but removing them is safer and ensures no items get damaged on the move.

Lining with Towels for Water Absorption

During defrosting, water can still leak from hidden areas, especially if your fridge is not frost-free. Place towels at the base of the fridge to soak up any moisture, and replace them with fresh towels if they become soaked. This step will keep your fridge and surrounding areas dry and minimize mess.

De-Icing and Cleaning

Removing Ice Carefully

As the freezer defrosts, you might find ice chunks that can be removed by hand. Use only plastic or wooden tools, like a spatula, to gently loosen any ice. Avoid metal utensils, as they can damage the unit. Be patient – if ice is stuck, give it more time to melt. Forcing it could puncture or scratch the interior, leading to unnecessary repair costs.

Thorough Cleaning Inside and Out

Moving a fridge freezer is a perfect opportunity to give it a thorough clean. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent to clean every surface, both inside and out. Wipe down the back coils with a brush or a vacuum to remove dust, which will help the appliance run more efficiently. After cleaning, leave the doors open to let the fridge dry completely. Any trapped moisture can lead to mold and odors, especially if you won’t be using the fridge immediately at the new location.

Final Checks Before Moving

Before you start moving the fridge, take a moment to go through these final checks:

• Ensure the fridge is completely empty, clean, and dry.
• Secure the doors with a ratchet strap or tape to prevent them from swinging open.
• Pack loose components separately in boxes or secure containers.
• Prepare any perishable items in cool boxes for the move.

These steps will make your move easier and protect your fridge freezer from damage.

Moving the Fridge Freezer Safely

Gathering Equipment and Helpers

To move a fridge freezer safely, you’ll need a dolly with straps and at least one helper. Heavy lifting isn’t recommended alone, especially if stairs are involved. Arrange for help in advance, and make sure your assistant can manage the weight.

Using a Moving Dolly

A dolly is essential for moving large appliances. Carefully slide the dolly under the fridge from the side, ensuring the fridge is centered. Strap the fridge securely to the dolly, and gently tilt it back. This positioning protects the compressor and internal components, which are designed to operate upright.

For those tricky staircases, proceed slowly, taking one step at a time. The person at the base of the fridge should guide the dolly, and the person at the top should assist with balance. Using a ramp to load the fridge onto the truck is ideal; keep it on the dolly if possible for easier handling at the destination.

Loading and Securing in the Truck

Once on the truck, keep the fridge upright and wedge it securely among other large items. If you can, attach straps or use ropes to secure it to the truck walls. Movement inside the truck can damage the compressor if the fridge isn’t secured. If laying it down is unavoidable, follow manufacturer guidelines and remember to allow extra time for the oils to settle before turning it on again.

Unloading and Setting Up at Your New Home

Reversing the Moving Process

Unloading is essentially a reversal of the moving steps, with careful handling to avoid bumps. Once inside your new home, decide on a spot for the fridge that’s close to an electrical outlet and water supply if needed.

Allowing Time Before Powering On

After moving, it’s essential to let the fridge sit upright for several hours before plugging it in. This waiting period allows any oil that may have shifted during transport to settle back into the compressor. Depending on your model, this may be anywhere from 30 minutes to 24 hours, so consult your appliance manual for specific recommendations.

Conclusion

Moving a fridge freezer requires a bit of patience and planning, but following these steps can make it a straightforward process. By preparing the fridge in advance, securing its parts, and handling it carefully, you can ensure that it arrives safely at its new home, ready to work efficiently. If in doubt, consider hiring professionals who can handle the heavy lifting, giving you peace of mind and protecting your appliance from potential damage.