Moving large appliances, like a washer and dryer, can be hard. Their weight and size make it tricky. You also need to take special care to avoid damage.
Moving these appliances to a new home or just within your current space can be tricky. Doing it correctly can save you stress, protect your machines, and help prevent injury. In this guide, we will show you how to move a washer and dryer safely. This will keep these important appliances in great shape.
Why Moving a Washer and Dryer Requires Special Care
Washers and dryers are heavy, sensitive appliances that demand careful handling. Improperly moving a washer and dryer can lead to costly damage or even personal injury. Also, washers have water lines, and dryers often use electrical or gas connections. Following this steps helps avoid leaks, electrical hazards, and other risks.
By using the right tools and techniques, you can safely move your washer and dryer. This helps reduce damage and keeps these appliances working well. This guide will show you the best way to move a washer and dryer, so you can avoid common mistakes and ensure a smooth relocation.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies
To move a washer and dryer safely, having the right equipment is key. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Appliance Dolly: A dolly designed for heavy items will help with moving large appliances.
- Moving Straps: These make lifting and stabilizing the washer and dryer easier.
- Furniture Blankets: Protect your washer and dryer from scratches or dings during the move.
- Adjustable Wrench or Pliers: Useful for disconnecting hoses and gas lines.
- Packing Tape: Keeps hoses and cords secure during transport.
- Ziplock Bags: Handy for storing screws, bolts, and small parts.
- Bucket or Towel: Essential for catching any excess water from the washer.
Step 2: Properly Disconnect the Washer and Dryer
Before moving your appliances, disconnect them carefully from their water, gas, and power sources.
For the Washer:
- Shut Down the Water Source: Find the valves situated behind the washing machine and switch them off.
- Unplug the Washer: Disconnect it from the electrical outlet.
- Disconnect the Hoses: Use your wrench or pliers to remove the water hoses. Keep a bucket nearby to catch any leftover water.
- Drain the Washer: If there’s a drain hose, let any remaining water flow into a bucket.
For the Dryer:
- Turn Off the Gas (If Applicable): For gas dryers, shut off the gas supply first.
- Unplug the Dryer: Remove it from the electrical outlet.
- Disconnect the Vent Hose: Detach the vent hose for safe transport.
Step 3: Prepare the Washer for the Move
Washers have internal components like the drum that must be secured during a move. Here’s how to prepare:
- Secure the Drum: Use washer bolts if provided with your machine. These keep the drum from moving and getting damaged during transport.
- Wrap the Washer: Cover it with furniture blankets to protect it from scratches, then secure the blankets with moving straps.
- Tape Cords and Hoses: Fasten hoses and electrical cords to the back of the washer to avoid trip hazards and damage.
Step 4: Prepare the Dryer for the Move
Proper preparation for your dryer is also essential.
- Secure the Drum (If Needed): If your dryer has a drum lock, use it to stabilize the drum during the move.
- Wrap the Dryer: Use furniture blankets to protect it and secure them with packing tape or moving straps.
- Tape Cords and Vent Hose: Attach the vent hose and cords to the back to prevent damage.
Step 5: Securely Relocate the Washer and Dryer
With your appliances now secured, it’s the moment to transport them.
- Use an Appliance Dolly: Position the dolly beneath each appliance and secure with moving straps.
- Lift Carefully: Use your legs to lift, not your back. If possible, have help from a friend or professional movers for safety.
- Move slowly and steadily. Take your time, especially on stairs or in tight spaces. This helps avoid tilting and damaging your appliances or home.
Step 6: Reinstalling the Washer and Dryer at Your New Location
Once you’ve arrived at the new location, it’s time to reinstall your washer and dryer:
- Position the Appliances: Place them in designated spots with enough room for ventilation.
- Reconnect the Washer: Connect the water hoses and activate the supply. Plug it into an outlet.
- Reestablish Dryer Connection: In case you own a gas dryer, reattach the gas pipeline and activate the supply.
- Test the Appliances: Run a test cycle on both to ensure everything is working properly.
Conclusion: Move Your Washer and Dryer with Ease
Moving large appliances must not be overwhelming. To safely move your washer and dryer, gather the right supplies. Follow these simple steps and take your time. A little preparation goes a long way, so you can enjoy a stress-free move and keep your appliances in top shape.
