How To Move Kitchen Appliances Safely

Moving kitchen appliances can be challenging, but they are a part of a typical home relocations in Wandsworth.

These heavy and often delicate items require extra care to prevent damage and ensure a smooth transition. In this guide, we’ll share step-by-step instructions for safely disconnecting, packing, and moving your kitchen appliances like a pro.

According to recent surveys, kitchen appliances account for 30% of moving damages due to improper handling. Avoiding such mishaps is possible with careful preparation and the right techniques.

Preparing to Move Kitchen Appliances

Plan Ahead

Moving kitchen appliances isn’t a last-minute task. Start preparing weeks in advance:

• Meal Planning: Use up perishables to avoid food waste. Apps like OLIO can help you share unused food with neighbors.
• Cleaning: Clean all appliances thoroughly to avoid mess and odors during the move. For freezers and washing machines, ensure there’s no leftover water that could leak during transit.

Gather Tools and Helpers

• Essential tools: dollies, moving blankets, packing tape, bungee cords, and sturdy boxes.
• Ask a friend or hire a professional. Heavy appliances like fridges and ovens should never be moved solo.

How to Move an Oven

Ovens are heavy and prone to damage, especially if mounted to a wall. Follow these steps for a safe move:

1. Disconnect Safely:
   • For electric ovens, switch off the power and unplug.
   • For gas ovens, turn off the main gas valve and consult the manual if unsure.
2. Remove Detachable Parts:
   • Take out shelves, trays, and burners, and wrap them in towels or bubble wrap. Label their box for easy setup later.
3. Protect and Transport:
   • Wrap the oven in a moving blanket and secure the doors with durable tape.
   • Use a dolly to lift and move the oven. Always have a helper to keep it steady.

How to Move a Fridge-Freezer

Fridge-freezers may look sturdy but are delicate internally. Mishandling can cause damage to cooling mechanisms.

1. Empty and Defrost:
   • Use up food in the weeks before your move.
   • Defrost the freezer 6-8 hours before moving and soak up melting water with towels.
2. Secure Loose Parts:
   • Wrap shelves and drawers in bubble wrap and label them.
3. Transport Upright:
   • Never lay a fridge on its back. Secure the doors with bungee cords and use a dolly to move it.
4. Let it Settle:
   • After the move, let the fridge stand for 24 hours before plugging it in. This allows the cooling liquid to settle.

How to Move a Washing Machine

Moving a washing machine requires extra care to avoid leaks or internal damage.

1. Disconnect and Drain:
   • Turn off water valves and unplug the machine.
   • Disconnect hoses, drain water into a bucket, and tape hoses to the machine.
2. Secure the Drum:
   • If you have the original “shipping bolts,” reattach them to keep the drum steady.
3. Lift with Care:
   • Use a dolly and keep the machine upright during transport to prevent internal damage.

How to Move a Dishwasher

Dishwashers can be bulky and are often built into kitchens. Here’s how to move them safely:

1. Empty and Clean:
   • Remove dishes, run a cleaning cycle, and dry the interior.
2. Disconnect Water and Power:
   • Shut off water valves and unplug the dishwasher. Remove hoses carefully to avoid water spills.
3. Pack and Protect:
   • Wrap the dishwasher in blankets and secure hoses with tape.

How to Move Smaller Kitchen Appliances

Small appliances like microwaves, kettles, and toasters are easier to handle but still need proper packing.

1. Clean and Dry:
   • Remove any crumbs, liquids, or residue to keep boxes clean.
2. Pack with Care:
   • Use original packaging if available. If not, wrap items in bubble wrap and pack them snugly to avoid movement during transit.
3. Stack Smartly:
   • When loading boxes, place lighter items on top of heavier ones to prevent crushing.

Eco-Friendly Disposal Options

If you’re leaving appliances behind, consider these eco-friendly options:

• Recycle or Donate: Many charities and recycling centers accept working appliances.
• Sell Online: Websites like Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace are great for finding new owners.
• Freecycle: Offer appliances for free to those in need.

Avoid dumping appliances, as improper disposal is harmful to the environment and illegal in many areas.

Safety and Damage Prevention Tips

• Protect Your Floors: Use blankets or towels under heavy appliances to prevent scratches.
• Avoid Injuries: Always lift with your legs, not your back, and wear sturdy gloves for a better grip.
• Secure During Transit: Tie down appliances in the moving van to prevent shifting.

Post-Move Checklist

1. Inspect Appliances:
   • Check for damage or leaks after installation.
2. Reconnect Utilities:
   • If unsure, hire a professional plumber or electrician.
3. Test Functionality:
   • Run a test cycle on dishwashers and washing machines to ensure they work correctly.

Conclusion

Moving kitchen appliances can be one of the most challenging aspects of a house move, but with the right preparation, tools, and techniques, it doesn’t have to be stressful. By following this guide, you can ensure your appliances are moved safely and ready to use in your new home. If in doubt, consider hiring professional movers to handle the heavy lifting for you.

Remember, proper planning saves time, prevents damage, and reduces the stress of moving day. Happy moving!