Moving or reinstalling a fridge takes a bit of preparation, as it’s a large appliance that you’ll want to keep in top condition. With the following 7 steps, you can prepare easily and properly for moving your fridge.
Follow these 7 steps to move your fridge safely:
Below, we explain each step in more detail.
Never lift a fridge on your own, always with at least 2 people to avoid accidents. Use tools such as a trolley, sack truck, rope or ratchet straps to lift and move it safely and securely. Protect the fridge with blankets or other packing materials to prevent scratches and dents.
The first step is to switch off your fridge. This is especially important if your fridge also has a freezer compartment (for example in a fridge-freezer), as this will give it time to defrost. This can take several hours, so don’t switch the fridge off on the day you move it. Ideally, do this the day before, and at least a few hours before moving. Unplug the fridge and allow it to defrost completely. Dry and clean the inside with a mild cleaning agent, drain the fridge’s outlet pipe and make sure you also clean the drainage holes at the back of the fridge.
Take all shelves, drawers and other loose parts out of the fridge. This prevents them from shifting, falling out and damaging the inside of your fridge while lifting or during transport.
Secure the doors firmly with tape or straps. This prevents them from swinging open and getting damaged while the fridge is being moved. It also makes moving it a lot easier, without doors getting in your face.
Secure the doors firmly with tape or straps. This prevents them from swinging open and getting damaged while the fridge is being moved. It also makes moving it a lot easier, without doors getting in your face.
Try to keep the fridge as upright as possible while moving it. In any case, don’t transport it flat/on its side. The reason for this is that the refrigerant can start to foam and enter the cooling system. If you then switch the fridge back on too soon, the compressor may no longer be able to pump the refrigerant around properly. In short: keep the fridge as upright as you can. Depending on the size of your fridge, you may sometimes need to tilt or lay it down. You can carry the fridge on its side for a short time, for example on stairs or when getting it into a shed, but make sure you stand it upright again immediately afterwards.
Are you moving the fridge to a different location and putting it in a van or other vehicle? Before you set off, check that the fridge is standing firmly and is properly secured with straps so it can’t slide around. Drive calmly, take corners slowly and brake gradually to avoid damaging the fridge.
How long a fridge needs to stay switched off after being moved depends on the model and how it was transported. That’s why it’s important to always consult the manual or the manufacturer’s website first. If you transported the fridge upright, you can often switch it back on after about 4 hours. If the fridge has been (partly) on its side, wait 12 to 24 hours before plugging it in. During this time, the oil and refrigerant can redistribute properly throughout the cooling system, so the fridge can start up safely. So never switch the fridge back on straight away; always check the specific instructions from the manufacturer for your particular type of fridge.
It’s important to be well prepared when you’re moving a fridge. Make sure you lift it with several people and use tools such as a sack truck, rope or straps, and protect the fridge with packing materials. Switch the fridge off in good time, allow it to defrost and clean it thoroughly. Remove the shelves and drawers, secure the doors firmly and raise the feet to prevent damage to the floor. Transport the fridge upright, secure it properly in your vehicle and drive carefully. After moving it, always check the manual to see how long you need to wait before switching the fridge back on.
