HOW TO MOVE A FRIDGE FREEZER SAFELY

When looking at how to move a fridge freezer and all of the easiest ways to move a fridge freezer, you’ll find that the whole process will be tricky because of the size and weight of the appliance. It can be made even harder when you realise that any movement will also need to be done carefully to ensure all the internal components haven’t been damaged. The most important of these components is the internal compressor and refrigerant fluids that can be displaced if the fridge freezer is tilted past 45°.

To avoid any potential costly damage, making use of the right lifting equipment and correct manual handling techniques is imperative. Using trolleys, lifting straps or sliders will help to protect your appliance and reduce any physical strain on the movers. For a simple and safe solution, you could make use of the furniture movers available here at the Lifting Equipment Store®️. They are rated to handle heavy household items and provide smooth movement across a variety of surfaces, whether you are moving house or rearranging your kitchen.

Preparing to Move a Fridge

First things first, if you are moving just a fridge or a frost-resistant fridge freezer, you are able to unplug it, empty it out and get it moving. But if it is a fridge freezer combination, can you move a fridge freezer without defrosting? Technically, yes, you can, but it is not recommended so you should ensure that you let the freezer section defrost first. Ideally, this will be done over the course of 24 hours. This process can normally be completed by a defrosting routine built into the freezer and involves any of the ice still left inside melting. This makes it easier to move and prevents any leakages in transit.

The first step in preparing to move anything, especially something as bulky as a fridge/fridge freezer, is to make sure the planned movement walkway is free of any trip hazards or overhangs that could be damaged by or cause damage to the appliance. After the potential route is planned and cleared, you can unplug and empty out the fridge and consider removing the shelves, if possible, to prevent in-transit damage.

Once ready to get moving, tie a strap of some kind around the doors of the fridge freezer to prevent them from falling open and secure the plug and wires. This is the stage where you should be using a tool like a furniture mover to change the fridge's position, and it is important to remember that moves like this should be handled by two or more people. All these tips will ensure you have the easiest way to move a fridge.

Step-by-Step: How to Move a Fridge Freezer

1. Measure any doorways or tight passages that you will need to pass through to move the fridge freezer out of the way. Be sure to clear the path of any potential obstacles too

2. Defrost (if needed), then empty the fridge and make sure it is unplugged

3. Tie a strap around the doors and secure the plug

4. Tilt and roll slowly, ensuring it is kept in an upright position, then place and secure it on your movement tool

5. Avoid lying the fridge flat at any stage to make sure there is no damage caused by the leaky refrigeration and compressor fluid

6. With another person, slowly move the fridge freezer to the desired location

7. If tilted during transit, wait four to six hours before turning it back on

Safety Tips for Moving Heavy Appliances

Taking safety precautions and care before any manual handling operation is crucial; for example, turning at the wrong angle, even while carrying something light, can inflict serious damage to your back or neck. Without the right protections and planning, moving something as bulky as a fridge freezer can cause both physical and property damage.

How to move a fridge freezer safely? Moving bulky, heavy and large objects is best done with two people; one can be in charge of the movement system, while the other provides advice on how to move it, the best ways to manage tight turns and maintain the overall balance.

You should always consider the weight of an appliance like this and make sure that the movement equipment is rated for that load. Even if it is, it can be worth reducing the weight as much as possible by ensuring they are as empty as possible.

Planning a route is an often-overlooked aspect of this too, as you need to be prepared for any tight turns, changes in surfaces or potential hazards. Planning your route, properly securing your appliance and using the right tools for the job are the best safety tips for moving heavy appliances.

Why Choose Lifting Equipment Store for Appliance Moving Tools?

When it comes to deciding how to move a fridge freezer, your first thoughts should be of ease and safety. The Lifting Equipment Store®️ is a trusted UK supplier with years of industry experience and expert advice available on a wide range of lifting tools. All our equipment is of the highest quality and complies with all necessary safety standards and regulations.

Whether you are a homeowner looking to rearrange your kitchen layout, are in the process of moving into a new home or are working in an industrial setting, making use of one of the furniture movers provided by LES can save a lot of time and effort. Our extensive range of handling tools, from furniture movers and lifting straps to trolleys and dollies, ensures there’s a suitable solution for every task.

Customers also benefit from fast delivery across the UK, helping to keep projects on schedule without unnecessary delays. Backed by exceptional customer support, our team is always on-hand to assist with a commitment to product quality, customer service and safety.

FAQs

Can I plug my fridge in straight away after moving?

If it was moved in an upright position, then yes, if you make sure it is in the correct position, cleaned off and level, you can start making use of your fridge right away.

If, however, during transit it was laid down on its side or tilted more than 45°, you should wait at least four to six hours, ideally a full 24 hours, before starting it back up. This will allow the compressor oil and refrigerant to settle back into place, preventing any damage.

Can you lay a fridge on its side to move?

Yes, you can lay a fridge on its side to move, but it is not the ideal way of doing things. If possible, try to keep it in an upright position to avoid damaging the compressor or coolant lines. If you need to lay it down, lie it on the side opposite to the compressor lines and do your best to keep it in that position for as little time as possible.

Can you move a fridge freezer on its side?

Just like a standard fridge, a fridge freezer can be moved on its side, but it’s not recommended unless necessary. Transporting it upright is safest to protect the compressor and refrigerant system. When deciding how to move a fridge freezer, if it must be laid down, rest it on the side opposite the compressor pipes and keep it as stable as possible. Once moved, stand it upright and wait at least four to six hours, or ideally 24, before plugging it back in.