When it comes to packing and moving appliances, your refrigerator is an exception because there are many more procedures you must take to prepare it. Not to mention the fact that you must avoid wasting any food.

You may require expert assistance to disconnect your fridge, as with other appliances. If it contains an ice machine, for example, it suggests there is a water supply connected to your plumbing. We recommend contacting a professional for assistance and turning off the water supply before you begin. Additionally, make arrangements for reconnection at your new house and confirm you have the proper type of hookup.

Carrying a refrigerator safely might be challenging. As a result, we recommend employing expert movers.

If you aren’t employing professional movers and your fridge is making its way to your new home, here is step-by-step advice to assist make the process go as smoothly as possible.

• Develop a Moving Game Plan

The first step should always be to plan before you begin packing. In this manner, you can rule out any potential problems along the way.

Are you thinking about relocating to New York? Or do you intend to relocate to another province or country?

The remaining procedures should address any concerns you may have about moving and packing refrigerators.

• Have the plan to consume everything

Arrange your grocery shopping and meals in advance of your big day, and make sure you buy enough so that you don’t waste good food. Make arrangements with a neighbor to assist you with finishing any leftovers.

You may not be able to eat everything but try to waste as little as possible. If you want to save money, it may be beneficial to live on takeout for the last few days or plan pantry-only meals.

• Prevent a Meltdown

If you don’t defrost your refrigerator a few days before moving, you risk causing a mess when it defrosts in transit. The first person to open the freezer section may be rewarded with a tsunami.

While the freezer is defrosting, unplug the refrigerator completely. Pull your fridge carefully away from the wall (here’s how to do it without harming your floors). – Spoiler alert: a floor protector and an appliance dolly are required to access the outlet.

While you’re there, vacuum away any dust that has accumulated on the evaporator coils, as this affects the effectiveness of your furnace. Clean the sides of the fridge as well.

As previously stated, if your refrigerator includes a cold water or ice dispenser, have a professional turn off the water supply and unhook any hoses. Let the hoses dry before packing them. Check that the water reservoir is empty.

Give time for the freezer to thaw. You can help the process by removing chunks of ice once they’ve thawed.

The bottom of most modern frost-free refrigerators houses an evaporator pan. Drain it, clean it, and set it aside to dry.

• New and Clean

Make time to thoroughly clean the refrigerator before moving. It’s much preferable to start over in your new house with a clean fridge. Do you want to see that dried-up juice spill on the refrigerator door that’s been there for months when you’re setting up in your new kitchen?

Use soapy water or other cleaners indicated in your owner’s manual to thoroughly clean the interior of your refrigerator.

When you’re finished, separate all of the removable bins and racks; you don’t want them moving around on you in the moving truck.

• Guard the Electricity Supply

Before you return the fridge, take additional care to coil the power wire and tape it safely out of the way so it doesn’t get mangled. You may choose to utilize a dolly at this stage to assist you position furniture sliders under the feet- it will be easier to transfer a refrigerator when moving day arrives.

• Let Dry

Let it stand with the refrigerator doors open for at least 48 hours. This will allow it to completely dry. Let your refrigerator dry for a week if it will be stored for an extended period. This may appear foolish, but it will aid in the prevention of mold and mildew growth.

Another tip for long-term storage is to use a spacer to keep the door open about an inch to allow air to circulate. Finally, use a bungee cord or movable strap to keep the fridge door closed in transit.

• Keep the Look Safe

Does your refrigerator have a unique finish that will not improve with scratches? Consider wrapping your fridge in a protective layer to keep it looking immaculate, especially if it’s stainless steel and will expose everything.

Your best bet is to use a professional moving pad. If you’re moving the fridge yourself, use moving blankets and heavy plastic to ensure it arrives in the same condition you left it. Afterwards, test it to guarantee that it will not come off when people start moving the fridge. Some people use packing tape as an extra precaution to keep doors closed and parts in place.

• Safeguard the Operating Components

If your refrigerator contains an ice and water dispenser or other specific electronics that must be safeguarded during the relocation, check the handbook to see if any special procedures or equipment are required.

It may, for instance, have a compressor motor that must be bolted down. Check the owner’s manual for any moving refrigerator guidelines, since there may be extra parts, luxuries, or energy-efficient properties with their safety advice to bear in mind when moving your refrigerator.

Should You Leave Your Fridge at Home?

If you’re moving abroad, take the time to learn about electricity requirements. For example, if the electrical voltage in your new home is 220 rather than 110, you may wish to sell your present fridge and get a new one when you arrive, as well as your other electrical equipment.

If you wish to take crucial items with you, special adaptors can be purchased; however, weigh the expense of relocating your fridge or appliances versus the cost of purchasing a new (more energy-efficient) refrigerator. You may typically recoup part of your costs by selling it secondhand online, plus you avoid the stress of hoping it arrives safely.

Need Help Moving? Trust Empire Movers & Storage

Relocating yourself, whether locally or long distance, may be stressful and expensive. Empire Movers & Storage provide NYC residents with movers they can rely on. Now, request a price for a local or long-distance move!