Transporting a fridge freezer is a task that requires careful planning and execution to ensure that the appliance reaches its new destination in perfect working order. Whether you’re moving house or simply relocating the appliance to another part of your home, understanding the correct procedures for moving a fridge freezer is crucial. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you transport your fridge freezer safely and efficiently. If you also need to move a single-door unit, our guide on transporting a refrigerator safely covers the key differences in handling and positioning.
Preparation is Key For a step-by-step walkthrough of the full process, our guide on how to move a fridge takes you through every stage from defrosting to placing the unit in its new home. Before you start, read our guide on lifting heavy appliances safely to protect your back and avoid injury.
Before moving your fridge freezer, it is essential to prepare it adequately. Start by emptying the contents of the fridge and freezer compartments. Perishable items should be consumed or stored in a cool bag or another fridge during the move. Next, defrost the freezer section to prevent water damage caused by melting ice during transportation. This can be done by turning off the appliance at least 24 hours before the move. Our guide on moving heavy objects with simple tools explains how a sack truck and furniture sliders can make the job much safer for one or two people. The same principles apply when lifting heavy objects safely applies to any bulky appliance you need to manoeuvre through doorways or down stairs.
Once defrosted, thoroughly clean the interior with a mild detergent or baking soda solution to prevent odours and mildew growth. Ensure the fridge freezer is completely dry before you move it. Disconnect the appliance from the power supply and secure the electrical cord to the back using tape to prevent tripping hazards. Before you attempt to move the unit, brush up on proper lifting technique for heavy objects to protect your back and avoid injury. If you are moving home at the same time, our advice on packing for a house move efficiently will help you plan the rest of your belongings.
Protecting Your Appliance If the appliance is going into storage rather than straight into a new kitchen, read our advice on storing a fridge correctly to keep it in good working order. If your move also involves glassware or breakables, our guide to packing fragile items for a move covers protective wrapping techniques in detail.
To protect your fridge freezer from scratches and dents during the move, wrap it in moving blankets or bubble wrap. Pay special attention to the corners and edges, which are particularly susceptible to damage. Secure the wrapping with tape, making sure that the doors are closed and will not swing open during transportation. If the fridge is going into temporary storage, our tips on organising a storage unit will help you make the most of the space.
If your fridge freezer has glass shelves, remove them and wrap them separately. This prevents damage from shifts or impacts when in transit. Additionally, if your model has a water dispenser or ice maker, disconnect the water line and empty the system to avoid leaks. For other large bedroom items, our advice on moving a bed without dismantling it walks through the same door-clearance and padding checks.
Moving Your Fridge Freezer If your move date has crept up on you, our last-minute moving and storage cover situations where time is short.
When moving the fridge freezer, it’s advisable to keep it upright. Tilting or laying the fridge on its side can cause oil from the compressor to flow into the cooling tubes, which can damage the appliance. If it is necessary to tilt the fridge freezer, do so as minimally as possible and return it to an upright position quickly. Preparing other bulky items follows a similar process, and our guide to dismantling a mattress before moving outlines the key steps to keep things safe.
Use a dolly or a hand truck to move the appliance. Secure the fridge freezer to the dolly with straps to prevent it from slipping. Move slowly and carefully, especially when navigating through doorways, around corners, or down steps. It’s always best to have an extra pair of hands to help guide the dolly and ensure the fridge freezer remains stable.
At the New Location If you plan to put the appliance into storage rather than reinstall it straight away, it is worth calculating how much storage space you need before booking a unit.
Once at the new location, do not rush to plug in the appliance immediately. If it was transported in an upright position, wait at least an hour before reconnecting it to the power supply. If it was transported on its side, wait at least 24 hours. This allows the oil to settle back into the compressor, preventing potential damage.
Position the fridge freezer in its new spot and adjust the feet for level placement. This ensures optimal operation and minimises vibration and noise. Finally, reconnect the water line if your model has a dispenser or ice maker, and allow the appliance to reach its operating temperature before restocking it with food.
Conclusion
Transporting a fridge freezer is not merely about moving an object from A to B; it involves a series of steps to ensure the appliance’s functionality and longevity. By following these guidelines, you can move your fridge freezer safely and set it up for continued use in its new home. If you’re replacing your old appliance, you can find out how your local council collects large electrical items using the government’s recycling tool. Whether you’re an individual doing a DIY move or a professional removal and storage provider, handling appliances with care is paramount to delivering a successful service.
