Side by side refrigerators are a popular choice among homeowners for their spacious design and convenient storage compartments. However, when it comes to moving or transporting these large appliances, many people are left wondering how to do it safely without causing any damage. In this article, we will provide you with expert tips and guidelines on how to transport a side by side refrigerator safely.
Preparing for the Move
Before you start the process of moving your side by side refrigerator, there are a few important steps you need to take to ensure a safe and successful transportation. These steps include:
Gather the necessary supplies
To transport your refrigerator safely, you will need to gather some essential supplies. These include moving blankets, straps or bungee cords, a dolly, and a sturdy appliance dolly strap. These supplies will help you secure the refrigerator and protect it from any potential damage during the move.
Empty the refrigerator
Before you start moving the refrigerator, it is crucial to empty its contents. Remove all food items, shelves, and drawers. Make sure to properly pack any fragile items such as glass shelves or jars. Also, remember to disconnect the refrigerator from the power source and defrost it if necessary.
Secure the doors
Securing the doors of your side by side refrigerator is essential to prevent any accidental opening during the transportation process. You can use strong straps or bungee cords to firmly hold the doors shut. This will ensure that the refrigerator stays in its place and does not swing open during the move.
Properly Packaging the Refrigerator
To protect your side by side refrigerator from any scratches or damages during transportation, it is important to properly package it. Here are some steps you can follow to ensure the refrigerator is packaged securely:
Wrap the refrigerator with moving blankets
Before placing the refrigerator on the dolly or any other moving equipment, wrap it with moving blankets. This will act as a protective layer against any bumps or scratches that may occur during the move.
Use a dolly for transportation
A dolly is an essential tool for moving heavy appliances like side by side refrigerators. It helps distribute the weight evenly and makes it easier to maneuver the refrigerator. Make sure to secure the refrigerator to the dolly using straps or a sturdy appliance dolly strap.
Secure the refrigerator in the moving vehicle
When loading the refrigerator into the moving vehicle, make sure it is positioned securely and does not move around during transit. Use straps or bungee cords to firmly hold it in place. It is also advisable to place the refrigerator upright to prevent any potential damage to its internal components.
Tips for a Smooth Move
Now that you know how to prepare and package your side by side refrigerator, here are some additional tips to ensure a smooth move:
Measure doorways and hallways
Before attempting to move the refrigerator, measure all doorways and hallways to ensure it will fit through them without any issues. This will save you from the hassle of getting stuck or causing damage to the walls or the refrigerator itself.
Ask for help
Transporting a side by side refrigerator is a challenging task and requires multiple people to do it safely. Reach out to family, friends, or professional movers to help you with the process. Having extra hands will make the move more manageable and reduce the risk of accidents or injuries.
Take precautions while driving
During transportation, keep in mind that the refrigerator is delicate and can be easily damaged by sudden movements or bumps. Drive carefully, avoiding any rough roads or sharp turns. Also, be aware of the temperature inside the moving vehicle, as extreme heat or cold can affect the refrigerator’s performance.
Unpacking and Installation
Once you have safely transported the side by side refrigerator to its new location, it is time to unpack and reinstall it. Here are some steps to follow:
Remove packaging and secure the doors
Carefully remove all the moving blankets and packaging materials. Inspect the refrigerator for any damages or signs of shifting during the move. Make sure the doors are still securely closed and adjust them if necessary.
Allow the refrigerator to stabilize
After transportation, it is important to let the refrigerator sit for a few hours before plugging it back in. This helps the appliance stabilize and prevents any potential damage to its compressor or cooling system.
Properly reinstall shelves and drawers
Before you start using the refrigerator again, reinstall all the shelves and drawers that you removed before the move. Make sure they are properly positioned and secure, preventing any accidents or spillage.
In conclusion, moving a side by side refrigerator requires careful planning and execution to ensure its safe transportation without any damages. By following these expert tips and guidelines, you can confidently move your side by side refrigerator to its new location, knowing that it will arrive in perfect condition. Remember to gather the necessary supplies, secure the doors, properly package the refrigerator, and take necessary precautions while driving. By doing so, you can successfully transport your side by side refrigerator without any worries.