How to Move a Heavy Fridge

A refrigerator is a difficult appliance to move because of its weight and the recommendation to kept the appliance upright to prevent potential damage. A refrigerator not kept upright may have oil drain into the compressor, which can cause permanent damage to the unit. With the help of another person, you can safely move the appliance. However, some preparation should be done before you attempt to move the unit to prevent rattling of interior shelves and exterior damage.

Ice chest
Packing tape
Storage boxes
Dolly

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug and turn off the refrigerator at least two hours before you plan to move it. This gives the unit time to defrost. If an ice making unit is hooked up, shut off the water supply at least one day in advance.
- 2
  Remove all food, shelving and accessories from the refrigerator. If applicable, empty the ice bin. Place food in covered ice chests to prevent spoilage. Pack the shelving and accessories in boxes.
- 3
  Tape the doors security closed to prevent them from moving during transit.
- 4
  Raise the front of the unit to allow it to roll easier. If leveling legs are available, screw them in so the refrigerator does not scrape the floor as you are moving it.
- 5
  Pull the unit away from the wall. Keep pulling until you can access the back of the refrigerator.
- 6
  Tape the power cord against the unit.
- 7
  Lift the refrigerator onto a dolly. Keep it in an upright position on the dolly.
- 8
  Roll the dolly to the truck to the truck you are using to transport the appliance. Grasp the sides of the fridge and lift it up onto the truck, taking care to leave it in an upright position.

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