How to Move a Washing Machine

Have you ever had to move a washing machine on your own? It’s nearly impossible! After all, it’s heavy and bulky, and, if you don’t do it properly, you risk damaging the appliance and, most importantly, injuring yourself.

So, for anyone out there who needs to perform this tedious task and wants to do it without hiring professionals – grab a couple of friends and get ready! In this post, we will teach you how to move a washing machine easily!

This post is for all of you who:

Before moving the appliance

Before you take on the task of moving a washing machine, you need some preparation. As convenient as it would be, you can’t just grab your washer and haul it out of the house – you’ll need planning, some tools and, most importantly, a couple of helping hands. So, here is what to do before you move a washing machine!

Ready to move on? Great! In the next part, we will cover…

How to prepare the washing machine for the move

Gathering all your equipment and preparing yourself won’t be enough, as you’ll need to get the washing machine ready, as well. Naturally, you can’t just yank it out of the wall and throw it in the van. You need to provide some care to protect the washer, the moving van, and yourself. So, here is how to proceed!

Clean the washing machine

First, empty your washer of any clothes. Then, give it a quick clean by running the shortest normal cycle without any detergent, or the Clean cycle, if your appliance has it. Leave the door open and let it dry out completely for at least 24 hours.

Drain the washing machine

You’ll need to remove any remaining water from the washer before you move it anywhere. Here is how to drain a washing machine:

1. Turn off the power.
   Shut off the washing machine by unplugging its power cord from the wall socket. Twist it up, wrap it in a plastic bag and seal it with packing tape, then attach it to the washer with some more tape.
2. Lay a towel down.
   Put down an old towel to catch any spills and protect your floor.
3. Shut off the water supply.
   Locate the water supply valve and turn it clockwise to shut it off. This will make sure no more water can get into the washer.
4. Disconnect the water supply hoses.
   Using the adjustable spanner or the slip joint pliers, disconnect the water supply hoses from the top. You may have one or two, depending on where the water is heated – outside or inside of the machine. Keep the hoses upright to avoid any spills. Take care not to lose the rubber washers of the supply hose connections.
5. Empty the hoses and put them away.
   Grab a bucket and empty the tubes into it. Then, disconnect them from the machine, put them in a plastic bag, seal it with packing tape, and put them somewhere safe, or inside the washer drum. If you do put them inside the machine, wrap them in old towels or blankets first.
6. Empty and secure the drain hose.
   Disconnect the drain hose from where it leads to the waste pipe, then empty it into the bucket. Leave it attached to the washing machine and secure it to the back of the washer with packing tape.

Protect the floor

A great way to move the washing machine without damaging the floor will be to tilt the appliance back and slide a piece of cardboard as far back as possible. Rock the washing machine forward until the rear legs sit on the cardboard. Not only you’ll avoid scratching the floor, but it will also make it easier for you to pull the machine forward.

Install the transit bolts

Usually, the shipping bolts will go in the back of the machine to secure the drum and keep it immobile. However, the method varies from one washer to the next, so check the manual for exact instructions.

How to move a washing machine

Now then! You’ve got your equipment ready, and you’ve drained and secured your appliance. It’s time to learn just how to move a washing machine without professional help!

How to move a washing machine by yourself

It is not recommended to move a washing machine yourself. The average washing machine weighs around 60-90 kg, so moving it alone can not be easy. To lift it, you’ll need at least two people.

Always try and seek help from family members or friends. If that’s not an option, use the services of professional movers. This way will be much safer as you’ll protect not only the washing machine from damage but yourself from injuries.

After the move

And you’re all done! Your washing machine is now on its way to your new home. All that’s left is to install it. Head on over to our helpful blog post on the matter and learn how to Install a washing machine.

Ensure that you install your appliance correctly. Water hoses and pipes should be secured and tightened snugly, otherwise, you risk to have a leaking appliance and might require an emergency washing machine service.

Before you use the washer, make sure to remove the transit bolts! Don’t forget to level the washing machine so it doesn’t move or shake.

Not sure if you can handle moving a washing machine?

If moving a washing machine proves to be too difficult, or you’re just not sure you can do it by yourself, then you can always rely on the experts! With years of experience in the field, the professionals can move any piece of heavy furniture you require! Are you moving out and into a new home? No worries! Fantastic Services can help with that too!

Our home removals service is perfect for anyone who is looking to relocate, be it first-time or experienced movers. All you need to get started is to fill out our simple online booking form! So, what are you waiting for?

***

Did you find this article helpful? Did you manage to move your washing machine safely? Tell us down in the comments!

Image source: Shutterstock / New Africa