How to move a Fridge and Freezer: tips & tricks

Given size and weight, moving a fridge and freezer can be challenging while ensuring your appliance stays in top-notch condition during the transition. Whether you're relocating to a new home, upgrading your appliances, or simply rearranging your living space, these tips will ensure your fridge arrives in perfect condition without breaking a sweat (or your back!).

Preparing A Fridge & Freezer Before You Move

Before you start the moving process, it's crucial to turn off your fridge in advance. This allows it to defrost and prevents any water leakage during transportation. Don't forget to empty and clean the interior, removing all items, including shelves and drawers.

To safeguard the interior of your fridge, wrap delicate shelves and drawers in bubble wrap or blankets. This additional layer of protection minimises the risk of breakage during the move.

Secure the fridge and freezer doors with strong tape or a bungee cord to prevent them from swinging open during the move. This simple step ensures the doors stay in place and avoids potential damage.

How Long Should The Fridge Be Off Before Moving?

After turning off the fridge and freezer, it's crucial to give them sufficient time to settle. We recommend waiting at least 24 hours before moving. This waiting period allows the refrigerant oils to settle, ensuring optimal performance once it's back in operation.

How To Move A Fridge Safely

Use A Trolley Or Moving Dolly

When it comes to moving heavy appliances like a fridge, using a trolley, or moving dolly is a must. This minimises the strain on your back and makes transportation smoother, especially when navigating stairs or tight spaces.

Use Safe Lifting Techniques

It’s essential to prioritise safety for both you and the appliance. Before lifting, ensure you have a firm grip on the fridge, bending your knees, not your back. Use your leg muscles to lift and keep the fridge close to your body to maintain balance. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to make the lifting process more manageable. Take breaks if needed, and if the fridge is exceptionally heavy, consider using additional tools like forearm forklift straps to distribute the weight more evenly.

Have The Fridge Loaded Into The Truck Gently

Take the time to position the fridge securely, ensuring it won't shift during transit. Use moving straps or bungee cords to fasten the fridge to the truck's interior, preventing any unnecessary movement. If you're using professional movers, communicate the importance of gentle handling to ensure your fridge arrives at its destination unscathed. Loading your fridge into the truck with care is the final touch in guaranteeing a smooth and damage-free journey to its new home. By paying attention to these details, you can rest easy knowing your fridge is in good hands during the move.

Consider Using Professional Movers

If the thought of moving your fridge is overwhelming, consider hiring professional movers. They have the experience, equipment, and expertise to handle heavy lifting and transportation with ease. This option is particularly beneficial if you're dealing with multiple appliances or need to navigate tricky and tight spaces.

Buying a new fridge? From delivery to installation, The Good Guys Home Services will do it all for you. Once they’ve taken care of the fridge installation, they can even take away your old one, and take away all the rubbish with them. All work by The Good Guys Home Services is guaranteed so you can relax knowing everything is taken care of.

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Can You Transport A Fridge Laying Down?

It's a common question, but the answer is a resounding no. Transporting a fridge laying down can lead to compressor damage and other issues. When it comes to moving fridges, always transport your fridge in an upright position to maintain its functionality and longevity.

How Long Should You Leave a Fridge After Moving It?

After successfully moving your fridge to its new location, exercise patience before plugging it back in. The recommended time to wait can vary from model to model so it’s best to check your manual or ask the manufacturer. As a general rule, we recommend waiting at least 12 hours before turning the fridge on to be on the safe side, but it’s best to follow the manual. This waiting period allows any residual oil to settle, ensuring your fridge operates at its best once powered up. If you accidentally put it on its side at any point, you should wait at least 24 hours before plugging it back in.  Once it’s plugged in, check the manual to find out how long you should wait before restocking the fridge.

Moving a fridge doesn't have to be a stressful experience. With proper preparation, the right equipment, and a bit of patience, you can ensure your fridge and freezer arrive at their destination in perfect condition. If you’re looking to buy a new fridge, our Fridge Buying Guide is a great place to get started so you can learn everything you need to know about the latest features and innovations. Discover The Good Guys range of fridges and freezers in-store and online.