Larger appliances are more difficult to move than boxes. Fragile items found on equipment are subject to damage during transport. These appliances don’t just include refrigerators and washers. They also include dryers, ovens, and dishwashers. With proper preparation, you don’t just minimize the risk of leaks and scratches. You minimize electrical issues and expensive repair work, too.
A good move begins several days before moving day, particularly if there are appliances to defrost or disconnect. In case you’re using a professional moving company, like Schroeder Moving, ensure they’ve got requirements for the appliances they will handle before the moving crew arrives. This allows you time to do anything you must do ahead of time. Here is how you can prepare appliances for a safe move:
Clean and Empty Every Appliance `
Clear out or remove items from each appliance, such as food, dishes, laundry racks, trays, and other removable items. Remove all moisture and dirt so it can not cause any odors or get stuck on the way or during the journey. To allow time for proper defrosting, give refrigerators and freezers adequate time for defrosting. Also, place towels around the base of refrigerators and freezers. This will help to collect dripping water.
Allow all appliances to dry down after cleaning. Wet items from a refrigerator, washing machine, or dishwasher could create damage nearby items. Ensure you leave the doors open for a while.
Disconnect Utilities Safely
Those appliances which require electricity, water, gas, or ventilation should be given special care. Unplug any electrical appliance only after it’s off, and leave gas shut off only by a qualified professional. Disconnect hoses, caps, and protect all exposed hoses from water leaks.
Never pull on the power cord, hose, or gas line of an appliance. For hoses, cords, and small fittings, be sure to label them. With this, you can easily identify them when you set up again. Don’t just remove and store parts in identified bags. Keep the bags with the appropriate appliance, too.
Prepare for Arrival and Setup
On the day of your move, you might want to measure doorways, hallways, and elevators. This will not just make it easier to see tight corners. You will also see places where there is no enough clearance before a heavy appliance is moved. Ensure that there is a proper outlet, water connection, ventilation, and the requirements of the destination.
Before the arrival of your appliance, don’t just check for dents and cracks. Check for loose parts and water damage, too. Note anything unusual on the spot. Install according to manufacturers’ instructions. Not to mention, give appliances that need to be “settled” enough time before turning them on.
In conclusion, assembling pieces correctly has two functions. One is to protect your home around them. The other function is to secure the appliances. Using the correct handling and emptying, cleaning, disconnecting, securing, and moving for each appliance requirement can help to avoid unnecessary damage. Some preparations in advance can help make your move more manageable, smoother and safer.
