How to Move a Refrigerator - The Right Way

If you are in the process of moving to a new living space without the help of a moving company, dealing with appliances will likely be your biggest problem. Refrigerators can be especially difficult due to their large dimensions and heavy weight. But where there is a will, there is a way – so if you are ready to conquer this challenge, this guide is here to help you.

What You Will Need

• A friend or two – moving a refrigerator is at least a two person job, three would be ideal.
• A moving dolly
• Moving straps
• Rope or bungee cords
• Masking or scotch tape

Step 1: Remove all items from the refrigerator. Remove everything that can be removed from the inside of your refrigerator and freezer. This includes food items, ice cube trays, and adjustable shelves. You can also remove the drawers or tape them shut – whichever you prefer. You should also remove all exterior items, such as magnets.

Step 2: Defrost. After everything is removed from the refrigerator, unplug it from the wall and allow all of the ice in the freezer to melt. This process will take several hours, so it is a good idea to do it overnight. After it is unplugged, secure the power cord so it does not get in the way during the moving process. A simple way of doing this is taping it to the side of the unit.

Step 3: Clean the inside. When your refrigerator has defrosted, dry the inside thoroughly with a towel. Once it is all dry, it is a good idea to give the entire interior a wipe down with your favorite cleaning agent. This will prevent mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors from developing during the move.

Step 4: Secure the doors. Use your bungee cords or rope to tie the refrigerator doors shut so there is no chance of them opening during the moving process. Using tape will likely leave sticky residue along the exterior.

Step 5: Load the refrigerator onto the dolly. With most refrigerators, you will simply be able to slide the dolly right underneath the base. Make sure the back of the dolly is firmly pressed against the refrigerator and tie it in place with moving straps. This is a particularly good idea if you have to go down stairs.

Step 6: Move it onto the truck. Once the refrigerator is securely positioned on the dolly, tip it back and begin making your way to the truck with one person in back and one person in front helping to guide the process. Always move forward, or opposite the position that the refrigerator is tilted, to maintain optimal safety.

When moving the refrigerator down a flight of stairs, slow and steady is the key. Take it one step at a time, literally, and have one or two people easing the bottom on to each step. Always make sure to be communicating so that everyone is on the same page.

When loading the refrigerator onto the moving truck, pull the dolly instead of pushing it (or moving it backwards as opposed to forwards). Unload it from the dolly and place it upright. Try to secure it by barricading it with other heavy furniture to make sure it maintains an upright position throughout the move. It is important that the refrigerator stays upright so that oil from the compressor does not mix with the coolant.

Step 7: Unload it and put it in its new position.

When you arrive at your new home, move the refrigerator into its new place using the same method you used to get it in the truck. Plug it in immediately and give it at least a full 24 hours to cool to a sufficient temperature before putting any perishable food in it.

Speedy Subzero is a New York-based company specializing in the repair of Subzero refrigerators. If you need your Sub Zero refrigerator repaired in Dix Hills, Port Washington, Brookville, Huntington, Great Neck, or the surrounding areas, give us a call at 866-782-9376. We offer 24/7 emergency service and can be at your door within an hour. You can like us on Facebook for more refrigerator advice.