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How 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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