Yes, you can move a refrigerator to a different location. However, you should use the utmost caution when doing so as the weight of a refrigerator can range between 150-475 lbs and there are a few steps you should take to ensure a safe move.
First, you should make sure that the appliance is completely empty of food and has been thoroughly cleaned. Secondly, you should carefully tilt the refrigerator back and use strong ropes or straps to secure it to a dolly as you maneuver it out of the space.
Moving slowly and in short steps should help make sure that it does not inadvertently tip over or slide off the dolly.
Thirdly, if you have a two-person team make sure you evenly distribute the weight along the dolly by having one person in front and the other in the back. This will help make sure that the refrigerator does not suddenly tip forward as you move it.
Additionally, you should make sure that the doorway to the new space is able to fit the appliance, accounting for any doors that may need to be removed for a smooth move.
Finally, once you have the refrigerator in the new space, you should make sure to level it properly to prevent it from placing any unnecessary pressure on the internal systems. This requires a level or carpenter’s bubble along with a few adjusting points (usually located at the bottom of the appliance) that will allow you to get the refrigerator to the desired level.
Overall, moving a refrigerator from one space to another is a possible task, though you should use caution when doing so and make sure to take the necessary steps to safely move the appliance and level it in the new space.
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How much does it cost to move a refrigerator?
The cost of moving a refrigerator will depend on a number of factors. If you need the help of professional movers, the cost will depend on the distance to be traveled and the size and weight of the refrigerator.
Local moves will typically cost much less than long-distance relocations. The professional movers will also need to know about any special considerations, such as if the refrigerator needs to be taken up or down stairs, or whether there are any sharp turns or tight spaces that need to be navigated.
If you are attempting to move the refrigerator yourself, you will need to factor in the cost of any necessary special equipment and the cost of fuel for the vehicle used for the move.
On average, moving a refrigerator can cost anywhere from $30 (for a local DIY move) to $200 or more (for a long-distance move with full-service movers).
Can I just move my fridge?
Moving a fridge can become a difficult job and it is important that you ensure the correct steps are taken to avoid any damages done to both your fridge and your home. Moving a fridge can cause damages if done incorrectly, such as dented walls, ruined hardwood flooring and even fracturing of the appliance.
The first thing to consider before relocating your fridge is whether it has a top-mounted or bottom-mounted freezer. This is important because it determines which side the fridge needs to be tipped to the side when slid out of the back.
A top-mounted freezer should be slid out so the top of the refrigerator is completely out of the doorway or walls, whereas a bottom-mounted freezer should be slid out so the bottom of the fridge is completely out of the doorway or walls.
When sliding the fridge, it is necessary to have it inclined and do not attempt to slide your fridge straight out because it could cause severe damages to both the walls of your home and the fridge itself.
Make sure you have help available that can act as a human dolly and tilt at the same time you are pushing your refrigerator out of its spot.
When it comes time to move the fridge to its new spot, it is highly recommended to tip it on its back, with the outlet face pointed up. This will ensure the least possible damage and ensure that all of the contents of the refrigerator remain safe and secure during the move.
Make sure you have helping hands when tipping the appliance on its back, as this is a bigger job than it may appear on the surface. In addition, don’t forget to plug it in after you get it to its new spot.
You can also choose to hire a professional during the move. A professional has the expertise and knowledges necessary to move your fridge appropriately, without the chance of damaging it or your home.
How long should you wait to turn on a refrigerator after moving?
It is important to wait 24 hours before turning on your refrigerator or freezer after moving it. This will allow time for the compressor oil to settle, which helps make sure that it will run properly.
Additionally, if your refrigerator or freezer has been moved upright, you should wait at least four hours before turning it on. During this time, make sure to keep the doors of the refrigerator or freezer shut to keep all the cold air inside.
After 24 hours, plug it in, adjust the settings, and let it run to your desired temperature.
Can moving a refrigerator damage it?
Yes, moving a refrigerator can damage it if you don’t take the proper precautions. Refrigerators are heavy and bulky, so they require extra care when transporting. You need to be sure to secure the fridge well with moving straps or blankets to prevent it from shifting during the move.
Additionally, the door must be left slightly open for best results. If not, vacuum pressure can build up which can cause damage to the refrigerator’s cooling system and will require a professional to repair.
Additionally, you should make sure that the door is secured closed so it doesn’t swing open during the move. Finally, you should avoid dragging the refrigerator across carpet, as particles from the carpet can get lodged in its condenser coils and decrease its performance.
Why do you have to wait 24 hours to plug in a fridge?
It is important to wait 24 hours before plugging in a refrigerator after it is delivered. This is because when the fridge is set up and moved, the internal components that contain refrigerant, such as the compressor, evaporator, or condenser, can be disturbed and may need time to settle.
Failing to do so may cause damage to the internal components and prevent the refrigerator from cooling properly. Additionally, when a refrigerator is moved, the hot and cold gas pipes may become unbalanced, making it difficult for the evaporator to reach an even temperature.
If it is not given enough time to settle, cooling won’t occur properly. Additionally, if a refrigerator is plugged in before it has had time to settle, it can cause the compressor to experience a greater strain and may result in failure over time.
To ensure optimal performance from your refrigerator and avoid unnecessary repair expenses, it is strongly recommended that you wait 24 hours before plugging your fridge in.
What to do before you move a refrigerator?
Before you move a refrigerator, there are several steps you should take to ensure the process goes safely and smoothly. First, make sure the refrigerator is unplugged and defrosted. Let the ice, snow, and water inside melt away to make the unit lighter and reduce any potential mess during the moving process.
With the power cord, you should use caution to properly disconnect the refrigerator without causing any damage to the appliance, power source, or the wiring in your home.
Once the appliance is unplugged, you should remove any removable parts. This includes detaching the doors, shelves, vegetable drawers, and light fixtures. It may be a good idea to pack the parts in containers and store them safely in the back of the truck to avoid any potential damage or loss.
Before you move the refrigerator to the truck, you should ensure there are no sharp edges or corners on the floor around the appliance, as this can damage the floors and hurt you or your helpers in the process.
Finally, make sure you use safety equipment such as moving straps, lifting bars, or lifting harnesses for lifting and shifting the unit before you load it onto the truck. These items will provide additional protection and help make the move much easier and safer.
How long can you lay a refrigerator down to transport it?
When transporting a refrigerator, you should generally try to keep the unit in an upright position whenever possible. However, if this is not possible, the longest you can lay the unit down is 24 hours, as long as it is done properly.
For instance, it should be laid on its side with the appliance doors secured in the locked position; the defrost drain pan should also be properly secured to prevent spills. Afterward, the unit should be allowed to sit upright for at least 24 hours before use to ensure all the oil drain back into the compressor.
It is important to keep the refrigerator level when moving it in order to avoid damaging the internal components. Additionally, extra support and cushioning should be used when loading and unloading the fridge in order to avoid any damage.
How do you move a large fridge?
Moving a large fridge can be a daunting task. It’s important to prepare so that the job goes as smoothly as possible. Here are several tips to help make your fridge move a success:
1. Preparing the fridge: Make sure to defrost the fridge and freezer beforehand. This will help prevents spills and makes the process a lot easier. Unplug the fridge, and make sure all food is removed.
Gently slide out the drawers and remove any removable pieces.
2. Getting the right equipment: To safely move a fridge, it is essential to have several items: furniture dollies, blankets or other furniture pads, and straps or rope. Make sure you have enough help to lift the fridge and load it onto the dolly.
3. Securing the fridge: Once you’ve loaded the fridge onto the dolly, secure it in place with ropes or straps. Make sure it’s secure and won’t move during transport.
4. Moving the fridge: Make sure to take extra care when moving the fridge. Ask for help from others if necessary, and take your time. Relevant knowledge on sharp corners, staircases, and doorways is also necessary.
Avoid dragging the fridge on the ground and make sure it’s evenly distributed on the dolly.
5. Unloading the fridge: Once the fridge is in its new location, unpack the furniture pads and get ready to lift it off the dolly. If necessary, ask for help and take your time to make sure the fridge is kept level while off the dolly.
Slide the fridge back into place and plug it in.
Following these tips will help ensure a successful relocation of your fridge. It is important to be aware of all the essential tools, personnel, and movements to avoid damaging the appliance and your home.
How do you move a fridge without breaking it?
Moving a fridge without breaking it requires careful planning and the necessary tools. Make sure you have enough help to move the refrigerator safely. To get started, clean the refrigerator, unplug it and defrost it if necessary.
If you have a dedicated refrigerator moving dolly, use that – if not, use a hand truck with wide straps to prevent any scraping or damage. Wear work gloves as you to help you get a better grip. If you’re using a dolly or hand truck, attach the straps and make sure they are secure.
Slide the refrigerator onto the dolly and move carefully with someone helping at the other end. Try to keep the refrigerator level as you lift. Once you get to your new home, clean and level the area the refrigerator will go.
Slide the fridge into position, plug in and turn on for cool air. If you perform these steps correctly, your refrigerator should be moved safely and without any damage.
What happens if you plug in a fridge after moving it?
If you plug in a fridge after moving it, you should give it a few minutes for oil to settle in the compressor before you turn it back on. Due to the movement of the fridge, the oil in the compressor may have been moved around and will need to settle back into the right places before the fridge can be restarted.
There is a possibility of damage to the compressor if you do not allow enough time for this to happen, as the compressor may be dependent on the correct oil distribution to function properly. It is recommended that you give the fridge at least 15 minutes before turning it back on after moving it.
Additionally, check the power cord to make sure it is plugged in securely, and check any circuit breakers to make sure the fridge is getting power.
Why should a fridge stay 24hours before putting it on after moving?
It is important to allow a fridge to stay for at least 24 hours before turning it back on after you move it. This is necessary to avoid any problems associated with the movement of the fridge, such as a malfunction or the leaking of coolant gas.
This waiting period allows the compressor of the fridge to equalize and recalibrate itself, ensuring that it will work properly and will not be in danger of being damaged. 24 hours can also provide ample time for the coolant gas within the fridge to settle, eliminating any possibility for a leak.
It also gives the refrigerator time to cool down after it has been moved and exposed to higher temperatures. Always make sure to move a fridge on its side or back to minimize potential damage.
Why can’t you turn a new fridge on for 4 hours?
It is important to not turn a new refrigerator on for four hours after it is first plugged in. Doing so can cause serious damage to the fridge’s compressor and potentionally to other components within the appliance.
When a refrigerator sits in a shipping warehouse, the refrigerant, which is the chemical that cools the appliance, may collect in the compressor. If this appliance is powered on immediately after being plugged in, it can cause a sudden amount of pressure to build up in the compressor and cause the appliance to fail prematurely.
Additionally, the increased pressure and mechanical strain can cause motor burnout.
It is essential to give the refrigerator ample time after being plugged in to allow that refrigerant to dissipate out of the compressor and the other components of the appliance. This allows the appliance to settle and the internal components to balance out again.
Waiting four hours before use provides insulation against these long term issues and can protect your new appliance from an untimely breakdown.
What happens if you don’t let your fridge settle?
If you do not allow your fridge time to settle after being moved, it can result in a number of issues. Since the cooling system in many fridges rely on air circulation and temperature consistency, if the interior of the unit is in a state of flux, it could lead to an inefficient cooling system.
This means that the materials inside the fridge may not be kept at the optimal temperature for preserving. It can also lead to an increase in energy consumption, as the motor in the fridge could be going through unnecessary cycles to try and regulate the temperature.
It could also prematurely damage the unit itself, as the cooling system may be running continually due to it being unable to maintain optimal interior temperatures. In order to avoid these issues, it’s recommended to give your fridge at least 24 hours to settle after relocation.
Can you lay a refrigerator on its side for 30 minutes?
Yes, you can lay a refrigerator on its side for 30 minutes without any problems. Refrigerators are designed to be able to work in any position and all you need to do to lay it on its side is to make sure your refrigerator door seals and hinges are properly secured.
If your refrigerator door is not properly secured, it can cause the appliance to vibrate and become noisy while in operation. It’s also important to remember to secure the refrigerator with straps or bungee cords to ensure that it stays in place.
After 30 minutes, make sure to stand it back up carefully and ensure that none of the seals or hinges were damaged in the process.
