how to move fridge without scratching floor

Moving a large appliance such as a refrigerator without scratching the floor requires preparation and care. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you accomplish this task safely and effectively.

Prepare the Fridge for Moving

Before you move your fridge, it’s important to make sure it’s ready to be transported. Follow these steps:

1. Empty the Fridge: Remove all the contents from the fridge and freezer to make it lighter and to prevent items inside from shifting and causing damage during the move.
2. Defrost the Freezer: If your refrigerator has a freezer, defrost it in advance to prevent water leakage.
3. Secure Loose Parts: Remove or secure any loose shelves or drawers inside the refrigerator to prevent them from moving.
4. Unplug the Fridge: Disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Coil the power cord and tape it to the side of the appliance to prevent tripping.
5. Clean and Dry: Make sure the fridge is completely dry to avoid any water damage to your floor during the move.

Gather Necessary Equipment

You’ll need the right tools to move the fridge without causing damage. Gather the following items:

1. Appliance Dolly: A dolly or hand truck designed for moving appliances will make the move easier and safer.
2. Sliders/Gliders: These go under the fridge and help it slide across the floor without scratching it.
3. Moving Blankets or Towels: These can protect the appliance and the floor during the move.
4. Tape or Rope: You’ll need something to secure the fridge to the dolly.
5. Measuring Tape: Measure doorways and hallways to ensure the fridge will fit through.
6. Helpers: You should not attempt to move the fridge alone. Get at least one or two friends to assist you.

Protect the Floor

Your floor’s safety is paramount. Follow these precautions to protect it:

1. Use Sliders: Place sliders or gliders made of soft material under the corners of the fridge. If you don’t have sliders, use pieces of carpet or thick cardboard.
2. Secure the Fridge: Once the fridge is ready to move, gently tilt it back and slide the sliders under the front corners. If using a dolly, wrap the fridge in moving blankets, secure it to the dolly with straps, and then lift it using the dolly’s leverage.

Move the Fridge

Now it’s time to move the fridge. Keep these tips in mind during the move:

1. Clear the Path: Ensure the path from the refrigerator to its new location is clear of obstacles.
2. Move Slowly: Take your time and move the fridge slowly to minimize the risk of damage and maintain control.
3. Guidance and Communication: The helpers should guide the person maneuvering the dolly, watching for potential hazards and directing movements.
4. Avoid Dragging: Never drag the fridge on its sliders — always push it. Dragging can still cause scratches or damage to the floor.
5. Use the Dolly: Tilt the fridge back onto the dolly and wheel it to the new location with caution, especially when navigating thresholds and turns.

Installing the Fridge in the New Location

Once you’ve successfully moved the fridge to its new location, follow these steps to set it up:

1. Position the Fridge: Make sure the fridge is exactly where you want it before removing the sliders or dolly.
2. Remove Equipment: Carefully tilt the fridge to remove sliders or carefully lower it from the dolly and remove the moving blankets.
3. Reconnect: Reconnect the power and reattach any parts you removed or secured for the move.
4. Restock: Once the fridge has reached its operating temperature, restock it with food.

Remember, safety is key when moving heavy appliances. If at any point you feel that the task is too than you can handle, consider hiring professional movers who have the expertise and equipment to move heavy items without causing damage to your premises.