How To Move A Washer And Dryer
Moving a washer and dryer can be tough. These are heavy and bulky machines. This guide will show you the steps to move them safely. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Turn off and unplug both machines. Disconnect water and gas lines safely.
- Secure washer drum with shipping bolts. Wrap appliances to prevent damage.
- Use an appliance dolly for lifting. Load onto the truck carefully, keeping them upright.
Preparing Your Washer and Dryer for the Move 
First, turn off and unplug both machines. Ensure all water supply lines are disconnected to avoid leaks during transit.
Disconnect Power and Water Supplies
Unplug the washer and dryer from the power outlets. This prevents electrical accidents during the move. Turn off the water supply to your washer next. There should be valves behind your machine.
Twist them clockwise to stop water flow.
Detach both hoses from the back of the washer using slip-joint pliers. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water in these hoses. Shut off any gas lines if your dryer uses gas, and cap it for safety.
Secure Washer Drum and Dryer Tub
Secure the washer drum using shipping bolts or foam core. This step prevents the drum from moving during transport. Without securing it, the drum could get damaged. Install the shipping bolts through holes at the back of your washer.
For dryers, ensure you secure the tub as well. Use packing materials to keep it stable inside its casing. Make sure everything is tight and won’t shift during transit. Doing this helps avoid damage and makes sure your appliances arrive in good shape.
Drain Washer and Attach Shipping Bolts
Turn off the water supply. Locate the drainage hose at the back of your washer. Place a bucket under it to catch any remaining water. Disconnect and drain the hose fully.
After draining, attach shipping bolts to stabilise the drum during transport. These bolts prevent damage by keeping the drum in place. Use a wrench or slip-joint pliers for this task.
Make sure all bolts are tight before moving on to other steps.
Protecting Your Appliances
Wrap your washer and dryer to keep them safe during the move. Secure all cords and hoses to avoid tripping hazards.
Wrap Appliances to Prevent Damage
Cover the washer and dryer with moving blankets. This prevents scratches. Secure the blankets with packing tape or plastic wrap. This ensures they stay in place during transport.
Use bubble wrap for extra protection on corners and edges. Bubble wrap provides cushioning against bumps. Handle your appliances carefully to avoid any damage.
Secure Cords and Hoses
Secure cords and hoses to keep them safe during the move. Unplug all power cords from the washer and dryer. Bundle each cord neatly with a twist tie or rubber band. Tape them to the back of the machines to stop them from dangling.
Detach water hoses from your washer carefully using pliers if needed. Drain any remaining water into a bucket or towel before rolling up each hose securely. Use tape to attach these hoses firmly to the washer’s back.
Do not forget to also secure the dryer’s vent hose by detaching it and taping it in place on the dryer’s rear side.
Moving Your Washer and Dryer
Use an appliance dolly to lift and move the washer and dryer. Be careful when loading them onto the truck to avoid damage.
Use an Appliance Dolly
An appliance dolly is essential for moving a washer and dryer. It has straps to secure the machines, ensuring they won’t fall off. Place the washer on the dolly first. Slide it under one side of the washer.
Tilt it carefully onto the dolly.
Next, use the straps to keep it in place tightly. Do not let cords or hoses dangle freely; secure them with tape or zip ties if needed. Be sure someone assists you while moving up or down stairs to avoid accidents.
Load onto Moving Truck Carefully
Use a ramp to safely roll the washer and dryer into the lorry. Keep each appliance upright. Place them against the walls of the lorry to prevent movement during transit.
Secure each unit with straps to keep them steady. Ensure cords and hoses are tucked away or wrapped to avoid tripping hazards.
Tips from Moving Other Large Appliances
Moving other large appliances follows some similar steps. Disconnect power and water supplies just like for a washer and dryer. Make sure to protect cords and hoses by securing or wrapping them tightly.
Use an appliance dolly to move heavy items, such as fridges or ovens. Always keep the appliance upright during transport. Load everything carefully onto your moving truck. Check out our detailed guide on How to Move a Fridge for more specific tips on handling these bulky items safely.
Setting Up at Your New Location
Reconnect the water and power to your washer and dryer at your new place.
Reconnect Water and Power
First, ensure the water is turned off at your new location. Attach the hoses to the back of the washer and connect them to the water supply. Tighten with slip-joint pliers, but don’t overdo it.
Open the valves slowly to check for leaks.
Plug in both appliances into their respective power outlets. If your dryer uses gas, reconnect and cap the gas line securely before turning on. Double-check all connections to avoid any hazards.
Test Appliances to Ensure Functionality
Reconnect the water and power supplies. Turn on the washer and dryer. Check if they start without any issues. Run a short cycle on both machines.
Listen for unusual sounds from the washer drum or dryer tub. Ensure there are no leaks in hoses or connections. Confirm that all settings work correctly before using them regularly.
Conclusion
Moving a washer and dryer can seem hard, but it doesn’t have to be. You’ve learned how to prepare, protect, and move your machines safely. These steps are easy to follow and will save you time and hassle.
Taking the right precautions can prevent damage and injury.