Moving a washing machine to another house requires careful preparation and proper technique to ensure its safe transport and prevent damage. With the right approach, you can successfully relocate your appliance without professional help.
How to Move Your Washing Machine to Another House
Safely moving a washing machine involves several crucial steps, from disconnecting it properly to securing it for transport and loading it correctly.
1. Essential Preparations Before Moving
Before you even think about lifting, a thorough preparation is key to a smooth move.
Gathering Your Tools
Having the right equipment makes the job significantly easier and safer.
| Tool/Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Appliance Dolly | Essential for moving heavy appliances |
| Moving Straps | To secure the washing machine to the dolly |
| Moving Blankets | To protect the machine from scratches and dents |
| Adjustable Wrench | For disconnecting water hoses |
| Pliers | For hose clamps |
| Bucket/Towels | To catch residual water |
| Screwdriver | For shipping bolts (if applicable) |
| Duct/Packing Tape | To secure cords, hoses, and doors |
| Plastic Bags | To store small parts like screws or bolts |
Pre-Move Checklist
- Empty the Washer: Ensure the drum is completely empty of clothes or any other items.
- Clean the Interior and Exterior: A clean machine is easier and more pleasant to move. Wipe down the drum and exterior surfaces.
- Plan Your Route: Clear pathways, doorways, and staircases in both houses to prevent obstructions.
- Enlist Help: Washing machines are very heavy. Always have at least one other person assist you.
2. Disconnecting and Securing the Washing Machine
This is a critical phase where most potential damage can occur if not done correctly.
Disconnect Power and Water
- Unplug the Power Cord: Locate the power cord and carefully unplug it from the wall outlet.
- Turn Off Water Supply: Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves behind the washing machine and turn them clockwise until fully closed.
- Disconnect and Drain Hoses: Place a bucket and towels nearby to catch residual water. Using an adjustable wrench, carefully unscrew the hot and cold water inlet hoses from the back of the washer. Then, disconnect the drain hose from the standpipe or utility sink. Allow all hoses to drain completely. For a visual guide, you can refer to resources on how to disconnect and drain hoses safely.
Secure Hoses and Power Cord
After draining, coil the hoses neatly and secure them to the back of the machine with strong tape (like duct or packing tape). This prevents them from dragging or snagging during the move. Fasten the power cord by taping it down to the back of the appliance to keep it secure.
Install Shipping Bolts (Crucial for Front-Loaders)
If you have a front-loading washing machine, it's essential to install shipping bolts (also known as transit bolts or shipping rods) before moving. These bolts stabilize the drum and prevent it from moving excessively and damaging internal components during transport. Most manufacturers provide these bolts with the original purchase, or you can often order replacements. Refer to your washing machine's manual for specific instructions on how to install shipping bolts. If you have a top-loader, it generally won't require shipping bolts, but check your manual to be sure.
Prepare the Exterior
Close the lid or door and secure it with tape to prevent it from swinging open during the move. Then, cover your washing machine with blankets or padded moving covers to protect its exterior from scratches, dents, and dings.
3. Moving the Washing Machine
Now it's time to get the machine out of its current spot and onto the dolly.
- Pull Out the Washer: Carefully pull out the washer from its alcove or wall, ensuring all hoses and cords are free and won't snag.
- Load Onto a Dolly:
- Tilt the washing machine gently backward.
- Slide the appliance dolly underneath the machine, ensuring the base is fully supported.
- Carefully tilt the washing machine and dolly back so it rests securely.
- Use moving straps to firmly secure the washing machine to the dolly. This prevents it from shifting or falling during transit.
- Navigate with Care:
- Always push the dolly from the lower side when going up an incline and pull from the lower side when going down a decline.
- Communicate clearly with your moving partner, especially around corners, doorways, and stairs.
- When navigating stairs, always have one person below the machine, guiding and supporting, while the other maintains control from above.
4. Loading Into the Moving Truck
Getting the washing machine into the truck safely is the final heavy lifting step.
- Use a Ramp or Liftgate: If your moving truck has a ramp or liftgate, use it. This significantly reduces the risk of injury and damage.
- Position Correctly: Load your washing machine in the truck in an upright position. Never lay it on its side or back, especially if it's a front-loader, as this can damage the motor or internal components.
- Secure in the Truck: Place the washing machine against a sturdy wall of the truck, ideally near the cab, to minimize movement. Use additional moving straps or ropes to secure it firmly to the truck's anchor points. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of or against the washing machine. For more general advice, check out professional moving safety tips.
5. At the New House: Unloading and Setup
Upon arrival, reverse the loading process. Carefully unload the washing machine and use the dolly to move it to its new location. Before reconnecting, allow the machine to sit upright for several hours, especially if it was tilted significantly, to allow any internal fluids to settle. Remember to remove the shipping bolts before installation!
