How to Properly Transport a Fridge During a Move?

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Introduction

Transporting a refrigerator during a move is often one of the most delicate steps. A refrigerator is both bulky and fragile. It contains electrical components and a cooling circuit that can be damaged if the appliance is mishandled. Such damage can not only be costly to repair, but it can also compromise the quality of your food and reduce the overall lifespan of the appliance.

In this article, we will detail how to prepare your fridge before the move and how to move it appropriately. We will also discuss the precautions to take to restart it under the best conditions. Follow these tips to avoid unpleasant surprises and keep your refrigerator in perfect working order.

Why Should a Fridge Be Transported with Care?

One might think that simply unplugging and lifting it would suffice. However, this simplicity is not a good approach, as a refrigerator includes several sensitive mechanical and electrical components. When handled carelessly, it can suffer:

Moreover, the fridge is a heavy appliance. Lifting it without proper technique can lead to back injuries or cause loss of balance. In a moving context, it is best to minimize risks to your health and your appliances. By adopting best practices, you will save time and effort.

Step 1 - Preparation Before Emptying and Defrosting

1.1 Allow Sufficient Time

The first thing to consider is the preparation time. Planning an appropriate time frame will help you avoid rushing on moving day. It is advisable to start preparing your fridge at least 24 hours before transport. This precaution allows the appliance to defrost and dry properly, thus reducing any risk of water damage.

1.2 Completely Empty the Refrigerator

First and foremost, remove all food items from your fridge. Don't forget to check the door compartments, vegetable drawer, freezer if you have a combo or fridge-freezer, as well as less accessible storage areas. Take the opportunity to discard expired products and freeze those that can be saved in a backup freezer or at a neighbor's. If you don't have another freezer available, try to prepare your meals in advance using your food reserves. This will prevent waste and the hassle of having to preserve food during the move.

1.3 Start Defrosting

To defrost your fridge, you can turn it off and let the ice melt naturally. Place towels or absorbent containers around the appliance to collect the escaping water. In some cases, you can speed up the process by placing a pan of hot water inside the fridge, but this trick should be used cautiously to avoid creating excessive condensation inside.

Defrosting is crucial as it prevents the formation of water droplets that could cause mold or damage the internal circuits of the appliance during transport.

Step 2 - Cleaning and Drying the Refrigerator

2.1 Clean the Interior

Once completely defrosted, proceed with a deep cleaning of the interior. Use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to eliminate odors and stuck residues on the walls. You can also use a mild detergent suitable for refrigerators. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Don't forget the door seals, as they can easily accumulate residues that compromise the appliance's airtightness.

2.2 Wash and Dry Accessories

Remove all shelves, drawers, and other removable accessories. Wash them separately in the sink or bathtub with a non-abrasive sponge and mild soap or detergent. Let them dry completely before putting them back in place. Dismantling these elements makes transport easier and limits the risk of breakage. You can transport them separately, wrapped in bubble wrap or cardboard to ensure their integrity during the move.

2.3 Let the Appliance Air Dry

It is essential that the refrigerator is perfectly dry before packing or handling it. Any residual moisture could cause mold or unpleasant odors during the journey, especially if the move takes time. Leave the door open for several hours to allow complete evaporation of moisture. You can also place a towel or dry cloth inside to absorb excess water.

Step 3 - Preparing for Transport

3.1 Unplug the Appliance and Secure the Cable

Once your fridge is clean and dry, unplug it from the power supply. To avoid tripping or damaging the cable, roll it up and secure it with tape or a cable tie. It is important that the cable does not drag on the floor during the move, as it could get caught under the refrigerator or in the stairs.

3.2 Protect the Exterior of the Fridge

To avoid scratches and bumps during transport, cover the refrigerator with a blanket, plastic wrap, or appropriate cardboard. Thick blankets, often called moving blankets, are very useful for cushioning blows. You can secure them in place with straps or tape. Be careful not to stick tape directly on the fridge surface, as it may leave marks or peel off the paint.

3.3 Secure the Doors and Accessories

Prevent the doors from opening by using straps or tape suitable for household appliances. Make sure to protect the handle to avoid breaking it. If you have left some shelves inside, ensure they are firmly immobilized so they don't move during transport. Glass shelves are particularly fragile and require adequate protection to avoid cracking at the slightest shock.

Step 4 - Handling and Loading

4.1 Assess Access Paths

Before lifting the refrigerator, examine the route to take the appliance out of your home. Measure doors, hallways, stairs, and elevators to ensure the fridge can pass easily. In some cases, you may need to remove the refrigerator doors or dismantle the front door if it is too narrow.

4.2 Organize Labor and Equipment

It is highly recommended to move a refrigerator with two or more people. Prepare in advance the necessary equipment, such as a hand truck (a device with wheels and a platform), straps to better secure it, and a pair of gloves to prevent blisters or slips.

Make sure to distribute the carrying task to limit the risk of injury. A refrigerator can weigh between 60 and 100 kg, or even more for large models. It is crucial to lift by bending the knees rather than the back to avoid back problems.

4.3 Lift and Move with Care

Ideally, slide the fridge on its base and tilt it slightly towards the hand truck for easier transport. Always keep the appliance as upright as possible. The tilt should only be temporary, just enough to overcome an obstacle or get into the vehicle. Indeed, laying the refrigerator down or leaving it inclined for too long can lead to refrigerant leaks in the internal circuit, affecting compressor performance.

Try to avoid making too many sudden movements. Any violent jolt can cause internal damage or destabilize the compressor. If you need to go up or down stairs, do it slowly, ensuring that the person holding the fridge at the bottom can support most of the weight. Good communication between the people transporting the appliance is essential.

Step 5 - Loading into the Vehicle

5.1 Choose the Right Vehicle

If you are moving by yourself, choose a truck or van spacious enough to install the fridge upright. This vertical position is the most recommended to preserve the proper functioning of the cooling circuit. If you have no choice but to lay it down, make sure it rests on the side opposite the door hinges, and try to minimize the time it remains inclined.

5.2 Secure the Fridge in Place

Once in the vehicle, secure your refrigerator with straps to prevent it from tipping or sliding during the trip. You can place wedges between the appliance and the vehicle walls. Moving blankets also help protect surfaces if the fridge moves a bit. Avoid placing it near heavy objects that might move and hit the appliance during the journey.

5.3 Anticipate Stops and Turns

Drive carefully by anticipating braking. Avoid sharp turns and sudden direction changes. By adopting smooth driving, you significantly reduce the risk of internal shocks in the fridge. It is always useful to plan a route that limits the number of speed bumps and rough roads.

Step 6 - Installation and Restart

6.1 Unpack and Check the Condition

Once you arrive at your destination, take the refrigerator out of the vehicle with the same precautions. Remove the blankets and other protections to check that no major damage has occurred. If any parts have come loose or been damaged, repair or replace them before restarting.

6.2 Let the Fridge Rest Before Plugging In

It is strongly recommended to let the fridge rest for several hours (2 to 6 hours depending on the models) before plugging it back in. This rest allows the compressor oil and refrigerant liquids to stabilize in the circuit. Plugging the appliance in immediately after transport can cause irreversible damage to the compressor. Use this time to find the ideal location for it.

6.3 Find the Right Location

Place your refrigerator in a space where the ambient heat is not excessive. Avoid placing it against a wall to allow air to circulate properly at the back. If your fridge is built-in, make sure to respect the minimum space required between the appliance and the cabinet walls. Proper positioning promotes better energy efficiency and prevents the motor from overheating.

6.4 Plug In and Set the Temperature

Plug in your refrigerator after the rest period and set the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. Generally, the ideal temperature in the fridge section is around 4°C, while the freezer section should be at -18°C. Let the appliance run empty for a few hours before introducing your food. This allows the temperature to stabilize and prevents your products from spoiling too quickly.

Additional Tips for Better Fridge Transport

1. Label Your Boxes and Accessories

It is common to get lost among the many boxes during a move. To avoid searching for a long time for the fridge shelves or confusing parts, label them clearly. Also, note "Fragile" on the box to remind that it contains accessories that can easily break.

2. Check the Appliance Warranty

If you have a refrigerator still under warranty, check the manufacturer's conditions. Some models require transport exclusively in an upright position. Failure to comply with these conditions during the move may result in the warranty being voided in case of subsequent breakdown.

3. Hire Professionals if Necessary

If your fridge is very heavy, very large, or if you have doubts about your ability to transport it safely, hiring professional movers can be an excellent idea. These experts have the right equipment and experience to handle bulky items. This will save you time and prevent injuries or accidents.

4. Regularly Clean Your Fridge

After the move, maintain good habits. Regular maintenance limits frost buildup, prevents odors, and maintains the appliance's performance. Defrost it every three to six months if your refrigerator does not have an automatic defrost function. Cleaning the coils at the back (or under the appliance) is also recommended to improve energy efficiency.

5. Pay Attention to Malfunction Signals

Once you have reinstalled your fridge, be attentive to signs indicating a possible malfunction: unusual motor noise, sudden temperature change, or excessive frost buildup. If you notice abnormal behavior, quickly consult a professional to identify and resolve the issue before it worsens.

Conclusion

Transporting a fridge during a move requires good planning and particular attention. Although it may seem imposing and complicated to move, a well-prepared, protected, and methodically moved refrigerator will help you avoid major damage. Be sure to defrost and clean the appliance several hours before the big day, use the right tools for transport, keep it as vertical as possible during the trip, and let it rest before plugging it back in at your new home.

By applying the tips outlined in this article, you maximize your chances of preserving your refrigerator's lifespan. You won't have to worry about compressor-related breakdowns or fear refrigerant leaks. You will thus be able to fully enjoy your appliance in your new home, without stress and with the certainty of having protected all your belongings during the moving process.

If you follow these steps and remain vigilant throughout the move, you will have a fridge that works wonderfully in your new home. Take the time to organize yourself and don't hesitate to ask for help from friends or professionals. Your back, your walls, and your refrigerator will thank you. Happy moving and enjoy your new living space while keeping your refrigerator in perfect working order!