How To Move A Refrigerator: 11 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Home » How To Move A Refrigerator » How To Move A Refrigerator: 11 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Move a Fridge (For Cleaning or a Long-Distance Move) PDF download Download Article Plus, the right way to position your fridge in a truck to prevent damage Co-authored by Homer Flores and Raven Minyard, BA

Last Updated: December 18, 2024 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article
  • Moving a Fridge
    • |
  • Transporting a Fridge Long-Distance
    • |
  • Can you move a fridge by yourself?
    • |
  • FAQs
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Homer Flores and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Homer Flores is an Appliance Repair Specialist and Training Manager at PreFix, a home maintenance company out of Austin, Texas. With over 15 years of experience, Homer specializes in home improvement, remodeling, and construction. Homer’s dedication to the PreFix mission of providing hassle-free one-stop-shop service for home care, in addition to their completion of the Capital Factory and Techstars Accelerators, has contributed to their growth of service to over 50 zip codes throughout the greater Austin area. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 855,510 times.

If you’re moving to a new home, moving heavy appliances like refrigerators feels like one of the most challenging jobs. With a bit of planning and some help from a friend, however, moving a fridge can be done safely and securely. In this article, we’ll teach you the best way to move a refrigerator, whether you need to clean behind it or to transport it long distances. Plus, learn if it's possible to move a fridge by yourself and get answers to other common questions about moving a refrigerator.

How to Move a Fridge

  1. Measure the fridge if you plan to move it through doorways.
  2. Empty the fridge of any food and removable components like shelves.
  3. Unplug the fridge and let it defrost for 6-8 hours.
  4. Slide the fridge out with a helper, tape the doors shut, and cover it with a moving blanket.
  5. Load the fridge onto an appliance dolly and tighten the straps to secure it.
  6. Tilt the dolly 45 degrees to transport the refrigerator.

Steps

Section 1 of 4:

How to Move a Refrigerator

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Measure the fridge if you’re moving it through doorways. 1 Measure the fridge if you’re moving it through doorways. If you’re moving the refrigerator to a new home or a different room, make sure it will fit through any doorways and hallways before attempting to move it. Measure the height, width, and depth of the fridge with a tape measure, then do the same with any doorways or hallways.[1]
    • If the fridge is too big, consult your owner’s manual to see how to remove the doors.
    • While you’re at it, plan out the route you want to take. Make note of any stairs, sidewalk cracks, or curbs you’ll have to move the fridge across. See if you’ll need to remove any exterior doors to get the unit out of the house, as well.
    • If you’re only moving the unit away from the wall to clean behind it, this step is unnecessary.
  2. Step 2 Empty and clean the refrigerator. 2 Empty and clean the refrigerator. Before you try to move a fridge, make sure that both your refrigerator and freezer are free of food, condiments, ice cube trays, and anything else that might rattle around and shift weight. Take out all shelves and removable components, as well, then give the fridge a quick wipe down with a food-safe disinfectant to clean it.[2]
    • Transfer all non-perishable food items into a cooler or icebox. Finish or toss any perishable items if you’re in the middle of a big move.
    • Even if you’re just moving the fridge to clean behind it, taking everything out will make it easier and safer to move. It’ll probably be okay to place most items on the counter, as cleaning behind the fridge won’t take long.
    • If you’re moving the fridge to a new house, wrap the shelves and other removable components in towels for protection, then label and stack them carefully.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Unplug and defrost the fridge. 3 Unplug and defrost the fridge. Unplug the fridge from the wall and disconnect any water lines. If you’re moving the fridge to a new house, you’ll need to defrost it before going forward with the move. This usually takes 6-8 hours, so it’s usually best to start defrosting the night before the move. This allows the freezer to defrost overnight, then you can wipe the inside of the refrigerator in the morning.[3]
    • Remember to leave the fridge and freezer doors open while the fridge defrosts.
    • If you’re just moving the fridge to clean it or if you’re moving it to another spot in the kitchen, it isn’t necessary to defrost it.
    • Coil the power cord securely and tape it in a tight bundle to make sure that it stays in place while moving.
  4. Step 4 Slide the fridge out, tape the doors shut, and cover it. 4 Slide the fridge out, tape the doors shut, and cover it. With the help of another person, gently rock the fridge side-to-side to walk it forward. If you’re worried about damaging your floors, use furniture slider pads or a floor protector. Then, use stretch tape to keep the doors shut and cover the unit with a moving blanket. Secure it with tape or rope to protect both the fridge and the walls as you move it.[4]
  5. Step 5 Use a dolly to transport the fridge. 5 Use a dolly to transport the fridge. Place an appliance dolly at the center of one side of the unit and have your helper tilt it slightly so you can slip the dolly base underneath it. Tighten the dolly straps to secure the fridge. Then, slowly tilt the refrigerator back and ensure it is evenly balanced on the dolly. With your helper guiding you, carefully push the dolly toward your destination, keeping the dolly at no more than a 45 degree angle.[5]
    • If possible, use a refrigerator dolly, but any dolly with straps will do. Just make sure the base is big enough to seat the fridge securely.
    • Consider placing a towel or blanket between the dolly upright rails and the side of the refrigerator to help reduce the risk of scratching finished surfaces.
    • Minimize any tilting when lifting and positioning the refrigerator on the dolly. Maintain its upright position to ensure that refrigerant oil doesn’t seep into the heat exchanger tubes.
    • Appliance repair specialist Homer Flores says, “Most refrigerators have wheels. If a unit does not have wheels then a platform dolly will likely be required.”[6]
    6. Advertisement
Section 2 of 4:

How to Transport a Fridge in a Truck

PDF download Download Article
  1. Transport your fridge upright if possible and secure it with moving straps. Transport your fridge upright if possible and secure it with moving straps. To avoid damaging your fridge, transport it in an upright position if you have room. Laying a fridge down could potentially damage its ability to cool, as oil may move into the compressor or pipes and cause them to break.[7] If you must lay the fridge down, try to keep it at an angle or on its side rather than laying it completely flat on its back. Be sure to read your owner’s manual, however, as some manufacturers warn against transporting a fridge on its side.
    • If you’re loading the fridge onto a truck, use a moving ramp to make the process easier. Walk backward and pull the unit up the ramp, with your helper pushing from the opposite side. If possible, leave the fridge attached to the dolly, then strap it down with moving straps to secure it to the truck.
    • If you don’t have a moving ramp, get into the truck bed and have at least two people on the ground. Coordinate and lift simultaneously, pulling straight up with the handles of the dolly, while your helpers lift from the base and push it back into the bed.
Section 3 of 4:

Can you move a fridge by yourself?

PDF download Download Article
  1. It is unsafe to attempt to move a fridge alone. It is unsafe to attempt to move a fridge alone. Refrigerators are very heavy and should never be moved alone. Even if you’re just moving it away from the wall to clean it, have another person to help you. If you’re moving it a long distance, have someone to help you and use a dolly and moving straps to transport it safely.[8]
    2. Advertisement
Section 4 of 4:

Moving a Refrigerator FAQs

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 How do you move a fridge without a dolly? 1 How do you move a fridge without a dolly? The only time you should move a fridge without a dolly is if you’re just shifting it away from the wall to clean behind it. Otherwise, a dolly or hand truck is needed to give you proper control and leverage over the heavy appliance. Make sure you have a couple other people to help you move it, as well.[9]
  2. Step 2 Can you transport a fridge in a pickup truck? 2 Can you transport a fridge in a pickup truck? It’s technically possible to transport a refrigerator in a pickup truck, but it isn’t the ideal option. A taller truck that allows you to strap the fridge upright is a better choice to keep the fridge intact throughout the move.
    • If you don’t have a good way to transport the fridge yourself, consider hiring professional movers.
  3. Step 3 When should you turn off the fridge before moving houses? 3 When should you turn off the fridge before moving houses? It depends on how long the fridge will be unplugged. If you’re only moving a short distance and the fridge will be unplugged for less than an hour, there’s usually no need to turn it off. If it will be unplugged for several hours, turn it off at least 24 hours before the move so it has time to defrost and for the fluids to settle.[10]
    • Remember, turning off your fridge for an extended period of time can cause food to spoil, so store any food in a cooler or icebox beforehand.
  4. Step 4 How long does a fridge need to be off after the move? 4 How long does a fridge need to be off after the move? In general, it’s recommended to leave your refrigerator off for 2-4 hours after moving it, and 24 hours if it was transported on its side. This allows the refrigerant in the compressor to settle and prevent potential damage. Coolant can flow into the compressor when the fridge is moved and turning it back on immediately can lead to cooling issues or compressor failure.[11]
  5. Step 5 How do you move a fridge down a flight of stairs? 5 How do you move a fridge down a flight of stairs? To move a refrigerator down a flight of stairs, move it down one step at a time, with your helper easing it down onto each successive step. It would be ideal to have two people in front of the dolly and another at the back, holding the handles and letting it down slowly. Communicate loudly and don't go too fast.[12]
    6. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question Can you lay a refrigerator down to move it? wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Most refrigerators need to be transported upright and not on their sides. If the fridge has been transported on its back or side, it can cause the compressor oil to flow into the cooling tubes, which can stop the refrigerator from cooling down properly. However, some of the latest model refrigerators are able to tolerate being transported on their sides; you’ll need to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. If you’ve accidentally transported a fridge on its side or back, let it stand for as long as it was transported this way, or for 24 hours just to be safe, to allow enough time for the fluids to return to their right placement before you use the fridge again. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 10 Helpful 24
  • Question Why can’t you lay a refrigerator down? wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer You shouldn’t lay down a refrigerator because it causes the fluids to get mixed up, when the compressor oil flows into the cooling tubes. If this is not corrected, the refrigerator won’t cool properly. You can try to fix it by letting the refrigerator stand for 24 hours before connecting it to the power again but if this doesn’t help, call a refrigerator mechanic in to fix it for you. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 16 Helpful 4
  • Question Can you lay a fridge freezer down to move it? wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer It is always better to transport your refrigerator the right way up, to avoid causing the compressor oil to flow into the cooling tubes, which can prevent the mechanisms from cooling properly. However, always read the manual for your refrigerator because some of the more recent models may be suitable for laying sideways for transportation. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Read your refrigerator’s manual before moving for additional instructions and safety tips. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • If you are not very confident about moving your refrigerator yourself, consider hiring professional movers instead. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Never try moving a refrigerator by yourself, as it could cause serious injuries if it falls on you. Make sure that you have assistance from at least two people strong enough to move the refrigerator, especially if you need to move it up or down a flight of stairs. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Move Heavy Furniture by YourselfHow to Move Heavy Furniture Without Help Move a MattressHow to Move a Mattress: Simple Tips for Moving Without Professional Help Move a TreadmillHow to Move a Treadmill Without Hurting Yourself Pack a Moving TruckHow toPack a Moving Truck Move Your Washer and DryerHow toMove Your Washer and Dryer Use a DollyHow toUse a Dolly Move a Hot TubHow toMove a Hot Tub Move an Upright PianoHow to Move an Upright Piano: Transportation, Equipment & More Move Heavy Furniture UpstairsHow toMove Heavy Furniture Upstairs Move Heavy FurnitureThe Best Ways to Move Large or Heavy Furniture by Yourself Level Your RefrigeratorHow to Level a Refrigerator (With Leveling Feet or Rollers) MoveHow toMove Defrost an Upright FreezerHow toDefrost an Upright Freezer Clean a RefrigeratorDeep Cleaning a Fridge: How to Remove Odors, Mold, & Residue Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-move-a-refrigerator/
  2. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/how-to-move-refrigerator-8627573
  3. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/how-to-move-refrigerator-8627573
  4. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/how-to-move-refrigerator-8627573
  5. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/how-to-move-refrigerator-8627573
  6. ↑ Homer Flores. Appliance Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
  7. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-move-a-refrigerator/
  8. ↑ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/movers/how-to-move-a-refrigerator.html
  9. ↑ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/movers/how-to-move-a-refrigerator.html
More References (3)
  1. ↑ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/movers/how-to-move-a-refrigerator.html
  2. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-move-a-refrigerator/
  3. ↑ https://www.neighbor.com/storage-blog/how-to-move-a-refrigerator/

About This Article

Homer Flores Co-authored by: Homer Flores Appliance Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Homer Flores and by wikiHow staff writer, Raven Minyard, BA. Homer Flores is an Appliance Repair Specialist and Training Manager at PreFix, a home maintenance company out of Austin, Texas. With over 15 years of experience, Homer specializes in home improvement, remodeling, and construction. Homer’s dedication to the PreFix mission of providing hassle-free one-stop-shop service for home care, in addition to their completion of the Capital Factory and Techstars Accelerators, has contributed to their growth of service to over 50 zip codes throughout the greater Austin area. This article has been viewed 855,510 times. 1 votes - 100% Co-authors: 24 Updated: December 18, 2024 Views: 855,510 Categories: Refrigerators and Freezers Article SummaryX

To move a refrigerator, start by removing all of the food and shelving from inside, then unplug it from the wall socket. Next, fasten the refrigerator and freezer doors shut with strong rope or bungee cord. Pull the refrigerator away from the wall, slide a dolly underneath it, and secure the fridge to the dolly. Tilt the fridge back gently towards you and push the dolly forward to move the fridge! To learn about defrosting your freezer before moving your fridge, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish Italian Portuguese Russian German French Dutch Arabic Vietnamese Thai Chinese Czech Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 855,510 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Jade Lee

    Jade Lee

    Jan 22, 2017

    "Knowing that the fridge should be moved in an upright position to prevent oil and fluid to flow out from the..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Homer Flores Co-authored by: Homer Flores Appliance Repair Specialist Co-authors: 24 Updated: December 18, 2024 Views: 855,510 100% of readers found this article helpful. 1 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote 100% of people told us that this article helped them. Jade Lee

Jade Lee

Jan 22, 2017

"Knowing that the fridge should be moved in an upright position to prevent oil and fluid to flow out from the..." more Paul McGrail

Paul McGrail

Jul 7, 2017

"We had to move my grandson into the dorm at college. Many years ago, I remember reading about certain precautions..." more Rated this article: Brett Cameron

Brett Cameron

May 31, 2017

"Picking up a used fridge from a neighbor in two days, and had no idea how to perform such a simple task until I..." more Rated this article: Jermaine Bush

Jermaine Bush

Jun 19, 2018

"You need to turn the water line to the refrigerator off and not be afraid to ask for help moving something so big;..." more S. R.

S. R.

Jun 1, 2017

"In my relocation planning, when you know you have to ensure that all your goods are safe to use after relocation." Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Mattress Should I Buy QuizWhat Kind of Mattress Should I Buy QuizTake QuizAre You a Big Spoon or a Little Spoon QuizAre You a Big Spoon or a Little Spoon QuizTake QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Move Heavy Furniture by YourselfHow to Move Heavy Furniture Without HelpMove a MattressHow to Move a Mattress: Simple Tips for Moving Without Professional HelpMove a TreadmillHow to Move a Treadmill Without Hurting YourselfPack a Moving TruckHow toPack a Moving Truck

Featured Articles

What Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like QuizWhat Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like QuizThe Best Hairstyles for Guys with Big ForeheadsThe Best Hairstyles for Guys with Big Foreheads22 Best Ideas for Scary (and Funny) Pranks22 Best Ideas for Scary (and Funny) Pranks Text Yourself: Fake Text Messages, Reminders, and MoreHow to Text Yourself: Fake Text Messages, Reminders, and MoreAccurate Omegaverse Quiz: 100% GuaranteeAccurate Omegaverse Quiz: 100% GuaranteeThe Hardest & Most Difficult Riddles for AdultsThe Hardest & Most Difficult Riddles for Adults

Trending Articles

How Much Do I Mog QuizHow Much Do I Mog QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizWho Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizWho Is Secretly Crushing On Me Right Now QuizAccurate IQ Checker Quiz: How Smart Am I?Accurate IQ Checker Quiz: How Smart Am I?How Weird Am I QuizHow Weird Am I QuizMental Illness TestMental Illness Test

Featured Articles

Be More Spontaneous and Enjoy Life to the FullestHow to Be More Spontaneous and Enjoy Life to the FullestImprove Your PersonalityHow toImprove Your PersonalitySigns You Were Meant For Greatness (Quiz)Signs You Were Meant For Greatness (Quiz)210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-Blowing210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-Blowing Meet Gay People Without a Dating AppHow to Meet Gay People Without a Dating AppCute, Thoughtful & Romantic Messages to Wish Her a Good Day at WorkCute, Thoughtful & Romantic Messages to Wish Her a Good Day at Work

Featured Articles

What Movie Should I Stream QuizWhat Movie Should I Stream QuizWhat Does the Term "Femboy" Mean?What Does the Term "Femboy" Mean?40+ Fun & Exciting Group Game Ideas to Play with 20+ People40+ Fun & Exciting Group Game Ideas to Play with 20+ People11 Things to Do If You’re Connected to Wi-Fi But Have No Internet11 Things to Do If You’re Connected to Wi-Fi But Have No InternetThe Ultimate List of Funny Nicknames for Your CoworkersThe Ultimate List of Funny Nicknames for Your CoworkersWhich Five Nights at Freddy's Character Am I QuizWhich Five Nights at Freddy's Character Am I Quiz

Watch Articles

Marinate Chicken: 4 Recipes and a Step-By-Step GuideHow to Marinate Chicken: 4 Recipes and a Step-By-Step GuideClean Shower TileHow toClean Shower TileDo Oblique CrunchesHow toDo Oblique CrunchesSimple Ways to Riffle Shuffle and Bridge Playing CardsSimple Ways to Riffle Shuffle and Bridge Playing CardsMake Black CoffeeHow toMake Black CoffeePlant a Seed in a PotHow toPlant a Seed in a Pot

Trending Articles

Can We Guess How Tall You Are QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizWhat Type of Person Do I Attract QuizWhat Type of Person Do I Attract QuizWill I Ever Find Love QuizWill I Ever Find Love QuizDo I Attract the Male Gaze or the Female Gaze QuizDo I Attract the Male Gaze or the Female Gaze QuizThe World's Hardest Riddles (for Kids & Adults)The World's Hardest Riddles (for Kids & Adults)Signs Your Ex Will Eventually Come BackSigns Your Ex Will Eventually Come Back

Quizzes & Games

Grammar TestGrammar TestTake QuizWould I Survive a Horror Movie QuizWould I Survive a Horror Movie QuizTake QuizWhat Do I Want in a Weight Loss Program QuizWhat Do I Want in a Weight Loss Program QuizTake QuizHow Tall Will I Be QuizHow Tall Will I Be QuizTake QuizAm I Annoying QuizAm I Annoying QuizTake QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Home and Garden
  • Home Appliances
  • Kitchen Appliances
  • Refrigerators and Freezers
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Let's do this! X --523

Tag » How To Move A Refrigerator