Moving a washing machine requires careful preparation to protect the appliance and ensure a smooth transition. Key steps involve securing internal components, managing connections, and using proper lifting techniques.
Essential Steps for Moving Your Washer
Preparing your washing machine properly before attempting to move it is crucial. This involves disconnecting it safely, draining any remaining water, and securing parts like the drum and cords that could be damaged during transit.
Preparation: Securing the Drum and Cord
One of the most critical steps is preventing the drum from moving excessively during transport. Excessive movement can damage internal components or even the machine's casing.
- Secure the Drum: To further prepare your washer for a move, wedge some foam or cardboard between the drum and the case of the machine to secure it during transit. This minimizes harmful vibrations and shifts while the machine is being moved or transported.
- Secure the Power Cord: Once you've disconnected the power, secure the power cord to the back of the machine. This prevents it from dragging, getting caught, or posing a tripping hazard.
Disconnecting and Draining
Before securing the drum and cord, you must safely disconnect the washing machine from its power and water sources.
- Disconnect Power: Turn off the machine, unplug the power cord from the wall outlet, and secure it as mentioned above.
- Disconnect Water Hoses: Turn off the water supply valves completely. Then, disconnect the hot and cold water hoses from the back of the machine.
- Drain Water: Place a bucket below the hose connections at the back of the machine to catch residual water as you disconnect the hoses. You may also need to drain the machine's internal pump filter, usually located near the bottom front, following your machine's manual for specific instructions.
Moving and Transporting
Moving the physical machine requires caution and often assistance.
- Use a Dolly: Washing machines are heavy. Use an appliance dolly with straps to tilt the machine and secure it for moving.
- Lift Properly: If you need to lift it (e.g., onto a dolly or into a vehicle), bend at your knees, not your back, and lift with assistance.
- Transport Upright: Ideally, transport the washing machine in an upright position. Laying it on its side or back could potentially cause damage, especially if not fully drained.
Quick Moving Checklist
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Disconnect Power | Unplug and secure cord | Secure the power cord to the back. |
| Disconnect Water | Turn off valves, detach hoses | Have a bucket ready for draining. |
| Drain Water | Drain hoses and internal filter | Consult your manual for filter draining. |
| Secure Drum | Wedge material between drum & case | Wedge some foam or cardboard between the drum and the case. |
| Use Equipment | Appliance dolly, straps | Makes moving much easier and safer. |
| Lift Safely | Bend knees, lift with help | Protect your back. |
| Transport | Keep upright if possible | Minimizes risk of internal damage from remaining water or components. |
Following these steps helps protect your washing machine from damage during the move.
