Moving a washing machine requires more than just muscle – it demands meticulous planning and precision. From deep cleaning to securing transit bolts, each step is critical to ensure a smooth transition. In our comprehensive guide, we unveil the 7 lesser-known steps to move your washing machine safely and seamlessly.
Moving a washing machine isn’t as easy as tossing a pair of socks in the laundry – it’s much more complex than that. Washing machines aren’t just bulky, but they’re also quite awkward and heavy, weighing up to 220 lbs. Plus, inside that frame lie some delicate gears and components that require the utmost care when moving.
It’s best to hire professional movers, but if you decide to move it yourself here is your step-by-step guide to make the process safe and easy.
Preparation is key when moving something so awkward and heavy. It’s nearly impossible to move safely without the right assistance and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Moving a washer on your own is too dangerous due to the weight and dimensions of the appliance. This is where family and friends come in, to give you a helping hand. Ask at least 2-3 people.
Before you start moving your washing machine, it’s important to read the instruction manual to see if specific materials are necessary for transportation or if certain parts must be detached. If you don’t know where your manual is, you can always find it with a quick Google search (brand & model #).
Time for the deep clean!
Although this may be obvious, remove any clothes from the washer before beginning. First, clean out the drum. Run a short wash cycle with water only or use the preset clean cycle to clean the drum from any detergent residue.
After that’s done, leave the door of your washer open for 24 hours so the drum can dry thoroughly. If you’re pressed for time, use a clean dry towel to absorb excess water on the drum.
The third step is to manually drain the hoses of the water supply. Use the slip-joint pliers to disconnect the hot water supply hose from the water valve, then empty the hose into a bucket. Do the same with the cold water supply hose – disconnect it from the valve and put it into a bucket.
Alright, after you’ve successfully drained the hoses, it’s time to move on to removing them entirely, which is a crucial step in getting your washer ready to move.
Grab those pliers again and disconnect the water supply hoses from the washing machine with care. Then, pack them up in a plastic bag. Place this bag in a moving box and label it “WASHING MACHINE HOSES.”
To prevent yourself from turning into a human lightning rod, unplug the washer from its socket. Next up, cut off the water supply. To do this, find the local water valve, and give it a gentle, clockwise twist to shut off the flow of water to the machine. Remember, this isn’t the time for the ‘Hulk’ strength, make sure to twist with caution.
Gathering the right tools for the job is essential to your safety. Here is a short list of the supplies you’ll need:
Washer transit bolts are metal rods that are inserted into the appliance to lock the drum in place during the move. Your washing machine cannot be moved without its transit bolts installed because the vibrations on the road can easily damage the drum suspension. Consult the manual to learn how to install the bolts.
There should be two openings in the rear side of the washing machine, one for each bolt. Insert them carefully and then turn them slightly to lock them in place.
This is where your packing tape comes in. Tape it snugly across the back of the washing machine. The last thing you want is a rogue cable flying at your feet while carrying this monster.
Now that the preparations are complete, the time has come to actually move the washing machine. Here’s a pro tip: Place a slider on each front leg or if you don’t have any sliders on hand, a piece of soft cloth will do the trick. It’s like putting your washing machine on skates, gliding across your floors without a scratch.
The last thing you’d want to do is damage your washing machine while moving. To shield your washing machine from any mishaps, wrap the appliance with furniture blankets without leaving any areas open. Ordinary blankets can work but are not the most efficient. Make sure they are soft to protect the washer’s surface. Once you’ve wrapped the blankets around the washer, secure them with rope, tape, or straps.
There’s no way you’re carrying your washing machine by hand, so rent or buy an appliance dolly to move it safely and securely. An appliance dolly is by far the easiest and least intensive way to move a washing machine.
A furniture dolly can also work, but it’s harder to maneuver around corners and nearly impossible when coming into contact with stairs.
Once you have your appliance dolly, have your two helpers tilt the washer backward so you can slide the dolly underneath. Next, use the straps of the dolly to secure it as if it’s still on the ground. Then, tilt the moving equipment back until the washer is balanced on the wheels.
Tighten the straps to make sure the appliance is 100% secured, then wheel it out.
You’re almost there!
Keep the washing machine upright to lessen the risk of it falling over or getting damaged. Load the washer into the truck using a ramp. Once it’s inside, secure the washing machine to the side of the truck using rope or straps.
Test it out by trying to move the washing machine. If it budges even a little, secure it tighter.
Whew, that was difficult just writing it out! Remember, be safe at all times throughout this process and always proceed with care. We hope these steps gave you more confidence in moving a 200-pound washing machine because no one wants a busted washer or a personal trip to the ER.
And if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all of these steps, you can always call in professional movers to do the job for you.
Safe moving!
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