Fridges can be one of the most expensive and most important household appliances.
Therefore, the last thing you want to do when moving to a new property is to damage your fridge.
It goes without saying that your fridge should be empty before it is moved.
But what you might not know is that your fridge should also be turned off well before it is loaded onto a truck as part of a move – rather than in a last-minute panic.
Here is some key advice to follow before you prepare to move a fridge.
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.
It also lets oils and fluids within fridge settle so they don’t make their way through the compressor.
Leave the fridge door open after it is turned off to allow the unit to properly thaw out.
It is also worth taking the opportunity to give the fridge a good clean during this process.
If you have to empty the fridge anyway, you might as well ensure it is sparkling clean before installing it at your new property.
Just like you should unplug your fridge in advance before a move, it may not be best to plug it in straight away on its arrival to a new property.
Some manufacturers suggest that fridges be left to sit for at least two hours after a move to allow their compressor oil to settle.
If the fridge has been laying on its side as opposed to upright during the move, it should be left sitting upright for 24 hours before being plugged in.
Not having a working fridge for up to 24 hours before a move might not be particularly convenient.
Try to meal plan so as to have as few remaining items in your fridge as possible before a move.
You could ask a nearby family member or friend to temporarily store any remaining items, or buy some bags of ice and store your leftover items in an Esky.
Most fridges have shelves made of glass and you do not want these bouncing around inside your fridge during a move as they could break.
You can either remove the shelves and wrap them separately – which is generally considered best practice – or safely secure them within the fridge using some tape.
You don’t want your fridge accidently scratched up during a move.
Wrapping the fridge in old blankets can help protect the exterior of your fridge and prevent such damage.
Different manufacturers offer different recommendations for moving fridges.
Consult your manual and check for any specific recommendations for your fridge.
There may be additional steps you need to take before a move, including for fridges which have plumbed water and ice.
One of Australia’s leading moving companies, Fragile Removals can help safely move your fridge and other possessions to a new property.
We have teams in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Sydney and offer reliable and affordable services.
For a quote or to arrange your hassle-free move, call us today on 1800 500 584
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