Moving a washing machine is more complicated than you would think. Unlike most appliances or furniture pieces that are simply big and bulky, a washing machine also requires extensive preparation before it can be moved to a new location.
There are two ways you can move a washing machine from Point A to Point B. You can do it yourself…or you can hire a man and van service to do the job for you.
Moving Your Washing Machine With A Man and Van
Often, the best course of action for such a task is to hire a moving company or a man and van service to help you out. They will have the training and experience to help you transport your washing machine safely and securely. Additionally, you will find that you may not have enough physical ability to move such large items and attempting to do so may only result in physical injury.
Moreover, moving such a bulky household appliance will require some equipment that may be too costly for you to purchase for single use. A man and van or a moving company, though, will have the necessary tools needed.
Lastly, can your washing machine really fit in your car? Unless you have a spare van, it would be difficult to transport your washing machine yourself. Here we discuss some tips on how to find the best movers.
I Would Rather Move The Washing Machine Myself!
If you would instead carry out the job yourself, you will have to note that moving a washing machine without the help of someone experienced will be challenging. So, if you are convinced that moving your washer is the way to go, here are some DIY washing machine removal tips you may find useful.
Things You Must Remember Before Moving Your Washing Machine
Before you begin moving your washing machine, here are a few things you must keep in mind:
Do Not Attempt To Move A Washing Machine By Yourself
You may move a washing machine without the help of professional moving services, yes. However, it would be impossible to do it by yourself. Make sure to have a couple of friends over to help you with the job.
Do try to ask a friend who has the physical capability to help you carry a washing machine. You don’t want to add physical injuries to your list of problems, do you? A professional moving or transportation service would be the best way to go.
Transit Bolts Are Vital To The Success Of This Job
A transit bolt is a metal rod inserted into designated slots within your washing machine to keep the washer drum stable and immobilised in transit. Otherwise, your washer’s drum suspension mechanisms will get damaged due to the vibration and sudden jerking motion it may encounter.
Remember that moving your washing machine without transit bolts may lead to costly, or worse, irreparable damage.
Reach out to your washing machine manufacturer or local home appliance store if you cannot find the shipping bolts that came with your washing machine.
Make Sure To Consult Your Washer’s User Manual
Often, user manuals include recommendations for transportation from the manufacturers, so be sure to check out if yours has one.
If you cannot find the physical copy of your user manual, do a quick Google search for an online copy. All you need is the exact brand and model of the washing machine you are using. However, if you do not find a manual online, you can contact your manufacturer or the store where you purchased your washer from.
Step-By-Step Guide On Moving Washers
Before we begin, know that you will need the following items:
- Slip joint pliers
- Furniture blankets/moving blanket
- Packing tape or duct tape
- A small bucket
- Rope or carrying strap
- Bleach or Washer cleaner (optional)
- Appliance dolly
Here’s a quick how-to on moving washing machines:
Part 1: Preparing The Machine
1.Empty your washing machine of loose items and stray clothing.
2. Rid your drum and drainpipe of detergent residue by running one clean cycle on your washing machine. Use bleach or washer cleaner if necessary.
3. Leave your washing machine lid open to let the inside dry.
4. Cut off the power and water supplies to your washing machine. To cut off the power supply, unplug your washing machine. Meanwhile, to cut off the water supply, you will have to turn the water supply valve behind the machine.
5. Disconnect the water supply hose from the valve with the help of your slip-joint pliers. Have a bucket ready to catch any excess water.
6. Again, use your pliers to detach the same hose from the washing machine. Put this hose up into a plastic bag before packing it into a cardboard box.
7. Disconnect the drain hose from the wastewater canal and drain any remaining water into your bucket. Keep the drain hose attached to your washing machine.
Part 2: Securing The Washing Machine
Once your washing machine is ready, you may start securing the machine.
1. Secure the transit bolts onto the washing machine’s rear side to make sure the drum is secured. If you are unsure about how to do this, consult your washing machine’s user manual.
2. Roll up your washing machine cord and secure it onto the machine with tape. If possible, do the same with the drain hose to get it out of the way during transport.
3. Wrap the machine with moving blankets and tape. This will protect the surface of your washing machine from any dent and scratches that it may acquire while it is being loaded or transported.
Part 3: Loading and Unloading The Washing Machine Into The Moving Van
1. Together with your helpers, load the washing machine onto the appliance dolly. To do this, tip the washing machine slightly backward and slide dolly under it. Secure the washing machine onto the dolly with rope, a carrying strap, or a bungee cord.
2. Manoeuvre the dolly through your house by titling it a bit backward. Pass straight through doorways to avoid scratches and dents to your washer, appliances, walls, and doorways.
3. To descend some stairs, carefully lower the dolly step by step. To climb some stairs, pull the dolly behind you one step at a time. Always make sure a spotter stands beneath it at all times.
4. To load your washing machine into your vehicle, navigate your dolly through a ramp. You may also lift the dolly with your helpers. Always lift with your legs to prevent any injuries.
5. Unload and place the washing machine near the cab of the moving vehicle. Make sure it stays upright. You may strap down the machine to keep it in place.
6. Once you have arrived at your destination, follow the same steps for loading the washing machine onto the dolly and navigating it out the truck and through the house.
7. Make sure the necessary hoses are attached securely onto your washing machine to ensure that nothing spills or leaks when you start using it.
8. Remove the transit bolts before using the washing machine.
Be reminded that if at any point you feel like you are not capable of moving your washing machine yourself, you may call a professional mover or man and van instead! Are you looking to spruce up your new laundry room and make it more useful? Check out this guide!
