Tips to Move your Appliances Safely

So you're getting packed for the big move? Packing all the small non-electrical items seemed easy, but now you're ready for the appliances. You'll take some appliances with you, and leave some behind. Either way, you should know how to prepare your appliances for safety and protection during your move.

Prepare Appliances in Advance

Before moving or leaving an appliance behind, clean and dry it thoroughly. It's important that it remains dry to prevent mildew and unpleasant smells. Also, moisture can cause a problem if the appliance is being moved through extremely cold temperatures due to freezing. Remember: Unplug appliances before cleaning to prevent electric shock.

Washing Machine

To prepare your washing machine for the move, unhook and drain the hoses. Clean and dry the machine inside and out. Vacuum or dust away any cobwebs or dust build-up at the back of the washing machine or underneath. The metal connectors of the hoses can be wrapped in a towel and placed in the washer after it is clean and dry. If you have a manual for your washer, follow the instructions for securing the tub to prevent swaying during the move. If you don't have instructions, contact a professional repair man or appliance retailer to find out how to do this.

Clothes Dryer

To prepare your clothes dryer for moving, unplug it and clean the lent screen. For a gas dryer, contact someone qualified to disconnect it and turn off the gas line. Before connecting the dryer at your new home, make sure the electrical outlet provided is compatible with your dryer plug.

Stove and Oven

Clean both your stove top and oven thoroughly, giving it plenty of time to vent if using oven cleaner. Remove burners, burner plates and oven racks and store them in a safe place during the move. Don't forget to remove any baking pans if your range has a storage drawer. If you have a gas range, contact a technician for proper disconnection and reconnection.

Dishwasher

Clean and dry the dishwasher thoroughly. Then disconnect and drain the hoses. Keep the dishwasher door open for a few days before the move. Wrap the hoses with towels and put them inside the dishwasher.

Refrigerator

Getting your refrigerator ready for a move will take a little more work than other appliances. First, clear out everything. All perishables should be thrown away as these cannot travel with you anyhow. Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning. Remove drawers and shelves for a thorough cleaning. To keep the refrigerator fresh-smelling and mildew-free during the trip, check with your local hardware store for products meant for this task. Throw out ice and give time for any accumulated ice in the freezer to melt so you can dry it prior to moving. Pack all loose items separately after cleaning. Vacuum the compressor or condenser, and clean and dry the evaporator pan.

If your refrigerator has a built-in ice maker or water dispenser, unplug the hoses and allow time for the lines to dry out. For older models, you might need to bolt down the compressor or motor.

After arrival, allow your refrigerator to sit unplugged for 24 hours before operating. The oil needs time to settle so there is no damage to the compressor. You might need to contact a technician to reconnect your icemaker and water dispenser. Once operating again, allow the ice maker to run through several cycles before using the ice. The lines may become dirty or dusty during the move.

Microwave Ovens

A microwave oven can be packed in its own box if you still have the box. If not, you can pack it in a moving carton. Before packing, remove the tray and pack it separately along with any other loose items. Pad wrapping might be necessary if your microwave oven is large. When installing it at your new home, be sure the exhaust vent is not blocked.

Appliances are vulnerable when moved out of place, especially for long trips. Taking special care of your appliances before a move can help ensure that you'll be able to use them when you arrive.

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