If the fridge needs to come down a flight (or three) of stairs, it might be best to consider hiring a professional to help. Refrigerators can be incredibly heavy, and professional movers have the skills, equipment, and manpower to move them through tricky areas. But if the move won’t feature many dramatic or difficult obstacles, read on for instructions and advice on moving your fridge the safe and easy way.
Precautions and requirements
It’s important to note that we do not advise moving a fridge without the proper equipment. This means you need an appliance trolley with appropriate straps or fasteners, rope or tape, and a minimum of one other person to help with the fridge.
Some trolleys have special ‘stair climbing’ wheels that make it easier to gradually ascend or descend steps. If you have to go up or down steps, take extra care and consider bringing a third person along for safety.
Defrost the fridge and clean it out
Obviously, the first step before moving your fridge will be to ensure it no longer contains any food items. You should also thoroughly defrost the freezer section. Clean internal surfaces with water and baking soda. All water should be removed from the fridge, so that it doesn’t leak in transit. If your fridge has extra features such as an ice maker or water filter, make sure these are defrosted and turned off too.
Disconnect the fridge and prepare it for moving
When the fridge is unplugged, roll up the cord and tape it to the back of the unit. Then remove the doors to the fridge and freezer or shut them tightly using rope or bungee cords. Thick tape will also work, as long as it doesn’t damage the outer surface. Remove the internal drawers and shelves and wrap the exterior in moving blankets.
Make sure you have a clear path out of the house – ideally, you’ll want to be able to wheel the fridge straight out.
One thing to keep in mind during the move is to leave the fridge in place for 4 hours before turning it on again, to avoid any potential damage to the compressor.
Make sure the fridge is upright by using an appliance trolley or trailer
When you move the fridge away from the wall, try ‘walking’ it in small sliding motions. Once you’ve got it where you want it, it’s time to load it onto the trolley or trailer. When you load it onto the trolley, lift one side first, and have another person slide the trolley underneath.
Refrigerators should never be tipped past 45 degrees because of the lubricants inside the motors of most units. Take your time and communicate clearly – some misunderstandings are harmless, but others can result in a broken fridge or worse.