How To Move A Refrigerator Out Of A Tight Space

A refrigerator is a large and heavy appliance that can be tricky to move, especially if you have to maneuver it out of a tight space. Whether you are moving to a new home, remodeling your kitchen, or replacing your old fridge, you need to know how to move a refrigerator out of a tight space safely and efficiently.

The basic steps to move a refrigerator out of a tight space are to empty and unplug the fridge, measure the fridge and the space, protect the floors and walls, tilt and slide the fridge out, and use a dolly or straps to transport it.

However, the exact procedure may vary depending on the type and model of your fridge, the layout of your kitchen, and the distance you need to move it.

You should always refer to your owner’s manual or contact your manufacturer for specific instructions and safety precautions.

How to Empty and Unplug Your Refrigerator

Before you start moving your refrigerator, you need to empty and unplug it to make it lighter and safer. Here are some tips on how to empty and unplug your refrigerator:

• Remove all the contents from the fridge and freezer compartments. Use coolers or insulated bags to store perishable items temporarily or give them away or discard them if you are moving long distances.
• Remove all the shelves, drawers, bins, and other removable parts from the fridge. Wrap them in towels or bubble wrap and label them for easy reassembly.
• Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet and secure it with tape or a zip tie to prevent it from dragging or getting in the way.
• Disconnect the water line if your fridge has an ice maker or water dispenser. Turn off the water supply valve and drain the excess water from the line. Use a wrench to loosen the nut that connects the line to the fridge and pull it out gently.

How to Measure Your Refrigerator and the Space

Before you attempt to move your refrigerator out of a tight space, you need to measure your fridge and the space to make sure it will fit through. Here are some tips on how to measure your refrigerator and the space:

• Measure the height, width, and depth of your fridge with a tape measure. Write down the dimensions or take a picture of them for reference.
• Measure the width and height of any doors, hallways, stairs, or other openings that you need to pass through with your fridge. Don’t forget to account for any door handles, hinges, moldings, or other obstructions that may reduce the clearance.
• Compare the dimensions of your fridge and the space and see if you have enough room to move your fridge out. If not, you may need to remove some doors or other obstacles or find an alternative route.

How to Protect Your Floors and Walls

Moving a refrigerator can cause damage to your floors and walls if you are not careful. You need to protect your floors and walls from scratches, dents, or scuffs when moving your fridge out of a tight space. Here are some tips on how to protect your floors and walls:

• Use floor protectors such as cardboard, plywood, carpet remnants, or furniture sliders to cover your floors where you will be moving your fridge. Tape them securely in place with duct tape or painter’s tape.
• Use wall protectors such as cardboard, blankets, bubble wrap, or foam padding to cover your walls where you will be moving your fridge. Tape them securely in place with duct tape or painter’s tape.
• Use corner guards such as cardboard, foam padding, or plastic bumpers to cover any sharp corners or edges that may scratch or dent your fridge. Tape them securely in place with duct tape or painter’s tape.

How to Tilt and Slide Your Fridge Out

The easiest way to move your refrigerator out of a tight space is to tilt and slide it out with the help of another person. Here are some tips on how to tilt and slide your fridge out:

• Open both doors of your fridge slightly and hold them in place with bungee cords or rope. This will prevent them from swinging open or closed while moving.
• Stand on opposite sides of your fridge with your partner and grab it by the bottom corners. Lift it slightly off the floor and tilt it back at an angle so that only one side is touching the floor.
• Slide your fridge slowly towards the opening while keeping it tilted at an angle. Be careful not to bump into any walls or obstacles along the way.
• Once you reach the opening, lower your fridge back onto its wheels or feet and roll it through. If necessary, tilt it again at an angle to fit through narrow spaces.

How to Use a Dolly or Straps to Transport Your Fridge

Once you have moved your refrigerator out of a tight space, you need to use a dolly or straps to transport it safely and easily. Here are some tips on how to use a dolly or straps to transport your fridge:

• Use a dolly that is large and sturdy enough to support the weight and size of your fridge. Make sure it has rubber wheels and straps to secure your fridge in place.
• Tilt your fridge back slightly and slide the dolly underneath it. Center your fridge on the dolly and strap it securely with the straps provided or with rope or bungee cords.
• Push or pull the dolly with your partner and steer it carefully to your destination. Use the brakes or wheel locks on the dolly to stop it when needed. Avoid going over bumps, curbs, or stairs with the dolly.
• Use straps that are long and strong enough to support the weight and size of your fridge. Make sure they have hooks or buckles to attach them to your vehicle or trailer.
• Tilt your fridge back slightly and slide one strap underneath it. Center the strap on the fridge and hook or buckle it to one side of your vehicle or trailer.
• Repeat with another strap on the opposite side of your fridge. Make sure the straps are tight and secure and that your fridge is balanced and stable.
• Drive or tow your vehicle or trailer slowly and carefully to your destination. Check the straps periodically and adjust them if needed.

Conclusion

Moving a refrigerator out of a tight space can be challenging, but not impossible. By following these steps, you can move your fridge safely and efficiently:

• Empty and unplug your fridge
• Measure your fridge and the space
• Protect your floors and walls
• Tilt and slide your fridge out
• Use a dolly or straps to transport your fridge