How to Move a Fridge Upstairs Safely: Top 10 Tips + Video Tutorial

Struggling with how to move a fridge upstairs? At North Removals we know very well that moving a fridge upstairs can be a challenge! Correct tools along with team collaboration and these expert recommendations enable safe and efficient fridge relocation. The following step-by-step instructions will safeguard your fridge from getting damaged during the moving operation.
1. Gather the Right Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the materials for making the process easy and safe. You’ll need:
- Heavy duty moving blankets to prevent the fridge from scratches or dents.
- Packing tape.
- For heavy loads, a wheelbarrow.
- Additional help to make it easier.
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HOW TO MOVE A FRIDGE UPSTAIRS SAFELY: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
2. Empty the Fridge Completely
Take out all items from your fridge including shelves and drawers because this reduces weight and minimises object movement while you transport it. You must both unplug the refrigerator and perform a defrosting process. A towel placed on the floor will absorb water drops that occur during defrosting.
3. Secure the Doors and Cables
You can use packing tape to keep the fridge doors closed during the move so they don’t swing open and cause more damage. Also, tape the power cord to the back of the fridge to avoid tripping hazards or damage to the cable.
4. Wrap the Fridge for Protection
Protect the fridge in bumps and scratches during transport by wrapping around it in a padded blanket. Packing tape will hold the blanket in place and ensure full coverage; especially needed when moving around corners and edges.
5. Use a Sturdy Hand Truck
Moving the fridge upstairs will be much easier with a heavy duty hand truck/trolley. Place the hand under the fridge, tilt slightly, and slide it under. Balance and restrainer straps should be put on the fridge. Tell your moving partner to help stabilise it during the process.
6. Work as a Team
Take your time carrying your refrigerator up the stairs, step by step. One great tip: keep talking to your partner and both of you keep the refrigerator stable and under control.
7. Move Slowly and Communicate
Take your time carrying your refrigerator up the stairs, step by step. One great tip: keep talking to your partner and keep the refrigerator stable and under control.
8. How to Move a Fridge Upstairs Without a Trolley
If you don’t have access to a hand truck/trolley, don’t worry. Two people can lift and move the fridge manually:
Pick up the fridge together and communicate clearly to keep the fridge from tipping over. Walk the fridge up the stairs, one step at a time.
The process involves one person lifting from the base, the other holding the top of the fridge.
9. Take Breaks to Avoid Fatigue
Moving a refrigerator can be really hard work, so take breaks. Stay in control and prevent fatigue accidents. Everything revolves around safety at every step of the process.
10. Let the Fridge Rest After Moving
Take the blankets off the fridge once it’s up the stairs and in its new position. Do not connect it immediately. Wait two hours as this will allow the refrigerant gas inside to stabilise.
How to Move Different Types of Refrigerators Safely
Different refrigerators available in the market present diverse challenges during relocation due to their various dimensions and shapes. The precise understanding of your refrigerator requirements ensures you will not harm your appliance or property during relocation. This guide describes step-by-step procedures for moving top-freezer and French-door and side-by-side refrigerators and compact mini-fridges.
1. Top-Freezer Refrigerators
- The most common type of refrigerator is the top freezer, which are usually lighter and easier to move than other types.
- Depending on size and brand, their weight can be between 68 to 113 kg.
Tip for Moving a Top-Freezer Refrigerator
Secure the freezer door separately: Secure refrigerator and freezer doors with packing tape or straps so they don’t open during transport.
2. French-Door or Side-by-Side Refrigerators
- French-door and side-by-side refrigerators are heavier, bulkier and weigh between 113 to 181 kg. The larger they are, the harder it is to move them, especially in small places and up stairs.
Tips for Moving a French-Door or Side-by-Side Refrigerator
- Remove doors and drawers if possible: These refrigerators usually have removable doors and drawers. Remove them to significantly reduce the weight and the device will be much more manoeuvrable.
- Use extra straps for stability: Secure heavy duty straps to the hand truck/trolley or dolly unit. Make sure you strap the fridge tightly so it won’t shift during the move.
- Consider stair-climbing equipment: If there are stairs, a hand truck/trolley with stair-climbing wheels will help to make the move easier and safer.
- Work with a larger team: The weight and size of these refrigerators cannot be handled by one or even two persons.
- Plan your route carefully: Take measurements of doorways, hallways and staircases before you move to ensure the fridge will have room to fit through, without pulling apart such things as doors or railings.
3. Mini-Fridges
- Mini fridges are lightweight and compact, coming in at between 14 to 23 kg. They are much easier to move than standard refrigerators because their small size.
Tip for Moving a Mini-Fridge
A mini-fridge must always remain in an upright position like standard refrigerators since laying it flat could damage the cooling system.
Bonus Tip: Call the Pros
Do not risk your safety when handling large or heavy refrigerators, contact North Removals to receive expert and completely safe moving services without stress. Our team and their experience with proper tools will ensure your move becomes as easy as it should be.
As you see our guide shows you how to move a TV independently during self-moving house operations. If you decide to move by yourself check the rest of our useful guide as this one: How to move a TV by yourself.
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