The average refrigerator weighs between 100 to 400 pounds, though some large French door or commercial models can weigh over 450 pounds. The exact weight depends heavily on the type of fridge you have:
Yes, two people can easily lift and move an average fridge (which weighs between 200200200 to 400400400 lbs). However, because of the appliance's awkward bulk and shifting center of gravity, you should never attempt to "bear hug" it by hand.
One person should take the top of the appliance, grabbing the underneath edge. The second person should then lift the bottom of the appliance using the top edge, this will centre the weight and stop it from swinging about as you move.
Moving a fridge is moderately to highly difficult. Weighing between 200200200 to 400400400 pounds on average, the sheer weight and awkward bulkiness make it a two-person job that requires an appliance dolly and moving straps.
Yes, you can move a fridge in a pickup truck, but it must be transported entirely upright. Laying it on its side or back can cause the oil in the compressor to leak into the cooling tubes, permanently damaging the appliance.
It is advised to strap it standing upright to the side of a moving truck or other tall truck. If the refrigerator must be laid down, only do so on the left or right side. Once the product is uprighted after transporting it, make sure to wait at least 8 hours before restarting and operating it.
Yes, a refrigerator will still work after being laid down, but you cannot plug it in right away. Doing so can permanently damage the compressor.
Standard moving dollies are designed to hold around 100 pounds. Appliance dollies, on the other hand, can hold 600-800 pounds. Their reinforced frame also provides a convenient anchor for cargo straps. Some even have special wheels, designed to assist you when moving up and down stairs.
No, you should not turn your fridge on straight away. Moving it causes compressor oil and refrigerant to mix and shift. Turning it on immediately can force oil into the cooling lines, starving the compressor of lubrication and causing permanent damage.
Don'ts for moving your fridge and freezer
Tip: Schedule a helper to assist you with the move. The cumbersome size and heavy weight of the unit (between 200 and 400 pounds on average) make moving a refrigerator a two-person project. Measure the height, width and depth of the unit. Measure the width and height of nearby doors and openings.
To move a heavy fridge without scratching your floors, protect the floor with sliding pads or hardboard, secure the fridge doors, and lift or tip the front slightly to distribute the weight.
Transporting a fridge in a car is best done standing upright. If it must be laid on its side to fit, you must empty the condensation tray, protect the compressor's oil lines, tape the doors securely shut, and wait at least 24 hours before plugging it in.
Yes, one person can move a fridge using an appliance dolly (also called a refrigerator dolly), provided the fridge is manageable and you use the proper safety techniques. However, because fridges are heavy and awkward, having a second person is strongly recommended to prevent injury or property damage.
Yes, most modern freestanding refrigerators are equipped with rollers or wheels, typically located at all four corners, to make them easier to move for cleaning, installation, and repairs. These wheels are often hidden behind a front toe-kick grill and work alongside front leveling legs to keep the unit stable.
Moving a fridge safely requires four key steps: emptying and defrosting, securing loose parts, transporting it upright, and allowing the compressor oils to settle before plugging it back in. Rushing these steps can damage the cooling system or result in costly compressor failure.
Moving a fridge is moderately to highly difficult. Weighing between 200200200 to 400400400 pounds on average, the sheer weight and awkward bulkiness make it a two-person job that requires an appliance dolly and moving straps.
Why Two People? According to the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), lifting heavy objects like a fridge freezer (often weighing 50-100kg) requires teamwork to reduce the risk of injury. More on how to lift a fridge freezer safely later!
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.
Moving a heavy fridge requires a few key steps: empty the contents, disconnect power and water, and use an appliance dolly to keep the fridge upright to avoid damaging the compressor. Enlist at least one strong helper, as refrigerators often weigh over 300300300 lbs.
To move a refrigerator easily and protect your floors, use plastic appliance moving mats (or "appliance sliders") with pull straps, felt furniture sliders, or extendable appliance rollers. These distribute the immense weight, allowing you to glide the unit smoothly across tile, hardwood, or carpeted floors.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Moving a Fridge
Avoid these common fridge-moving mistakes: Moving alone: Attempting to move a fridge by yourself is dangerous and can lead to personal injury or damage to the appliance. Always have at least one helper.
Transporting a refrigerator laying down can damage its cooling system because compressor oil can leak into the cooling lines, preventing it from cooling properly and causing the compressor to fail. Additionally, laying it down can damage internal compressor mounts and potentially stress the frame.
The Amish generally use propane (gas) refrigerators, solar-powered appliances, or traditional iceboxes stocked with harvested pond ice. Because their Ordnung (community rules) forbid direct connection to the public electrical grid, they rely on alternative energy and low-tech cooling solutions to keep food fresh.
Use an appliance dolly with security straps to load and transport heavy fridges. You'll need at least two strong people to safely lift and guide the appliance. If moving into a tight space, consider renting a pickup truck or moving truck with a ramp to move the fridge forward at a 45-degree angle.