If you're moving a fridge or freezer into your new home, it's best to turn it off 24 hours before. This gives the fridge's evaporator time to defrost, which reduces the risk of any damage during the move. It also lets the oils and fluids inside settle and stops them moving through the compressor.
If you do lay the fridge down, the bed is 6ft with the tailgate down, and the tailgate can hold 500lbs. So if you strap it in upright or lay it down, you'll be fine. I would probably lay mine down and set it upright for 24 hours before plugging it in.
“How do you get a refrigerator out of a tight space?” Take two coat hangers and make short sturdy hooks. Seat them under the front of the fridge, on a secure crossmember, and pull the fridge straight out. It might take two people.
Slowly tilt the fridge back, making sure that both the top and bottom of the fridge are evenly positioned on the dolly. Remember, a fridge should not be tipped back more than 45 degrees. Walk the dolly with care to your first step.
No. Refrigerators are heavy and should never be moved alone. You'll need another person as well as a dolly and straps to move and transport it safely. If you are simply moving it away from the wall or to another room, it's still recommended to have assistance.
Ideally, it is recommended not to move a fridge lying down. Transporting a refrigerator in an upright position is the safest method as it helps prevent potential damage to the internal components. However, if it becomes absolutely necessary to move a fridge horizontally, ensure it is laid on its back.
Appliance Dolly
This is the best option when moving refrigerators, washers, and stoves. If you're moving into a home where you need to bring in new appliances, this dolly will help you move them with ease. This way you can feel comfortable moving them on your own and not risk dropping them.
Important Things to Know
It is recommended that your refrigerator be turned off for about 24 hours before moving it.
Many Refrigerators have wheels or rollers that allow the appliance to be pushed into place easily as well as pulled out for cleaning or moving. While some Refrigerators have front legs that can be adjusted down to keep the Refrigerator from moving forward, some do not.
If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.
Keep the fridge upright during transport. If you must lay it down, only do so on its side, and never on the front or back. Secure it well in the moving vehicle to prevent any shifts during the drive. Once at your new place, don't rush to plug it in.
15-Foot Truck
The included loading ramp makes it a lot easier to load other items like a mattress, washer and dryer, fridge, dressers, and a three-seat sofa. As for the Mom's Attic, the truck's additional space allows you to safely load boxes with fragile items like picture frames and vases for a gentle ride.
Once your fridge has been safely moved into the desired position, it needs time to settle. As aforementioned, you should leave the appliance to stand unplugged, in an upright position, for at least 4 hours to allow its compressor oil to settle. Once 4 hours have passed, you can plug your appliance in.
Plugging in and turning on the fridge immediately can cause the compressor to run dry, leading to damage. Waiting gives the oil enough time to settle, ensuring proper lubrication and protecting the compressor from damage. Additionally, waiting allows the compressor to settle into its correct position.
Only completely empty your refrigerator and freezer if you'll be away from home for over a month at a time. Once it's empty, wipe down the inside with a rag and cleaning solution. Turn off the temperature controls and unplug the fridge after everything is dry.
Essential Waiting Period for Optimal Performance
Many people wonder how long to leave fridge after moving. It's important to plan ahead and consult your user manual for specific guidance. After moving a fridge, it's best to let it stand upright and stand unplugged for at least four hours before turning it on.
Shoulder Straps: When no dolly is available, you can use shoulder dolly moving straps to move heavy items. Gloves: Moving can be tough on the hands.
Because of the design of the drain, compact models should be kept upright at all times to prevent drain water from running back into the appliance unless it is new out of the box. If it does have to travel on its side, turn it off a day in advance and allow it time to drain.
The best way to move your fridge away from the wall – and the safest way – is to grasp it on both sides of the door and gently scoot it forward, rocking it slightly from side to side and going slowly, step by step. Most people intimidated by the size of their fridge will find this works very well!
It is always best to keep a fridge or freezer upright when moving, but you can transport a fridge on its side too. Just remember that before it is plugged in and switched on, it should be left upright for a minimum of 3 hours.
It is generally recommended that a fridge be turned off 24 hours before it is moved. If this timeframe is not possible, ensure you turn off your fridge a minimum of four hours before your move. This allows the fridge's evaporator time to defrost, reducing the risk of damage during a move.
If it is transported upright, wait at least two to three hours before plugging it in. If transported on its side, turn it upright and let it stand for at least four hours.