How to Move a Refrigerator

Moving a refrigerator is an enormous task. This bulky and heavy appliance requires careful planning and execution to ensure that your team remains injury-free and your property remains undamaged. Whether relocating to a new home or simply rearranging your kitchen, Starr Dumpsters can help you rent a dumpster for your needs and provide helpful information to make your project more successful. Here are steps to make the process smoother and safer.

Measure Your Fridge & Map Out Your Path

The first step in moving your refrigerator is to measure it and plan the path to move it out of its current location and into the new one. Measure your refrigerator's height, width, and depth and compare these dimensions to the doorways, hallways, and staircases it must pass through. Ensure there's enough clearance at every turn. This step is vital to avoid getting stuck midway through the move, which could damage the appliance and your property.

Empty and Disconnect Your Refrigerator

Before you begin moving your refrigerator, it's essential to empty and disconnect it completely. Remove all food items, shelves, and drawers, and store them separately. This makes the refrigerator lighter and prevents internal components from shifting and breaking during the move. If your refrigerator has a water line for ice makers or water dispensers, disconnect it properly to avoid leaks. Once everything is cleared, defrost the freezer and wipe down the interior to prevent lingering odors. If you prefer a hands-off approach, hire a junk removal service to handle the heavy lifting.

Protect Your Floors

When moving a heavy appliance like a refrigerator, your floors risk being scratched, scuffed, or damaged. To protect them, place a sturdy piece of cardboard, furniture sliders, or a moving mat beneath the refrigerator before you move it. This will allow the fridge to slide more efficiently and prevent it from digging into your flooring. In addition, if you're driving the refrigerator over tiles or hardwood floors, take extra precautions, as these surfaces are prone to damage. Dumpster rental or moving experts can recommend ways to cover corners and edges of the fridge, reducing the risk of dents or scrapes along the way.

Prep Your Refrigerator for Moving

Before moving the refrigerator, it's crucial to prepare it properly. Secure the doors using bungee cords or strong tape to prevent them from swinging open during the move, which could cause damage or injury. Remove the doors entirely, especially if you're dealing with tight spaces. This makes the refrigerator lighter and reduces the risk of the doors hitting walls or other obstacles. If the fridge has wheels, ensure they are locked in place. Junk removal experts can use specialized equipment to lift and move the refrigerator more efficiently, saving time and mitigating damages.

Move the Refrigerator

Finally, it's time to move the refrigerator. This step requires careful coordination and strength, so having a team of people is recommended. You can use a moving dolly to lift the fridge, keeping it always upright. Tilting it too much can cause the compressor oil to flow into the cooling lines, potentially damaging the fridge. Slowly and steadily, guide the refrigerator along the planned path, taking care at every turn and incline. If you encounter stairs, have enough people to support the weight, and take it one step at a time. As a reputable dumpster rental service, we can help you move the fridge efficiently, ensuring a successful reconnection.

Moving a refrigerator requires meticulous planning and careful execution to ensure safety and efficiency. Following these helpful tips can avoid common pitfalls and make the process as smooth as possible. Contact us at Starr Dumpsters and schedule a consultation with our experts to rent a dumpster that suits your needs. Whether moving a refrigerator or other appliances, we can ensure a safe relocation without breaking the bank.