Preparing your refrigerator for the move

Why properly prepare your refrigerator?

A poorly prepared refrigerator can lead to damage, leaks, or appliance failures. Here are some reasons why proper preparation is crucial:

• Property safety: Protect your furniture and appliances to avoid damage during transport.
• Food preservation: Avoid food waste by planning the transfer of perishable items.
• Time savings: Adequate preparation reduces stress and surprises on moving day.

Steps to prepare your refrigerator

Here are the essential steps to prepare your refrigerator before a move.

Assess and empty the contents

Before moving, it is important to sort through the food. Here’s how to proceed:

• Consume or donate perishable items a few days before the move.
• Discard opened products or those that cannot be transported.
• Store non-perishable foods and beverages in secure containers.

Unplug the refrigerator

Unplug your refrigerator at least 24 hours before the move to allow for defrosting and to prevent water leaks:

• Remove the power cord from the outlet.
• Empty the water tray, if there is one.
• Clean the interior to avoid odors.

Protect your refrigerator

For safe transport, it is important to protect your refrigerator:

• Use blankets or protective covers to prevent scratches.
• Secure the doors with tape to prevent them from opening during transport.
• Use straps to keep the appliance stable in the moving truck.

Transport the refrigerator

Transporting the refrigerator requires special attention:

• Position it vertically to avoid damaging the compressor.
• Ensure it is securely fastened to prevent any movement during transport.
• Plan a route without obstacles to facilitate loading and unloading.

Reinstallation

Once you arrive at your destination, here’s how to reinstall your refrigerator:

• Let it rest for a few hours before plugging it in.
• Check that the appliance is level for optimal operation.
• Reconnect it to the power outlet and slowly restock it.