The Homeowner’s Appliance Guide for Moving

Your Pre-Move Appliance Checklist

Moving is a big deal. There's a lot to think about. Your appliances might be the last thing on your list, but if you skip a few key steps, they can quickly become your biggest headache. Whether you're leaving an old home or settling into your first place, we'll walk you through the essential steps to prepare your appliances for moving day.

A little preparation before moving day can help prevent appliance damage and installation problems. Here's what to check before packing up your refrigerator, washer, dryer, dishwasher, and stove.

Refrigerator

Before moving your refrigerator, take these steps to protect its components and prepare it for safe transportation.

• Defrost your freezer at least 24 hours before the move, following your model's instructions.
• Empty it completely and remove any shelves or drawers that could break.
• After defrosting, clean and dry the interior. Secure the doors for transportation according to the manufacturer's moving instructions.
• Keep the refrigerator upright during transportation whenever possible. Before plugging it in at your new home, follow the manufacturer's moving instructions for your model, especially if it was transported on its side.

Washer and Dryer

Properly disconnecting and securing your washer and dryer can help prevent damage during the move and problems during reinstallation.

• Turn off the washer's water supply valves and unplug it before disconnecting the water hoses. Drain the hoses into a bucket.
• Check your washer's manual for transportation requirements. Many front-load washers need model-specific shipping bolts to protect the drum during a move. Remove these bolts before use. See Whirlpool's moving instructions for an example.
• Unplug the dryer and disconnect the dryer-to-wall transition duct. For gas dryers, have a qualified professional disconnect the gas line. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when reconnecting the exhaust system.

Dishwasher

If you're bringing your dishwasher to your new home, make sure it's properly disconnected and prepared for transportation.

• Confirm whether the built-in dishwasher is staying with the home before planning to move it.
• If you are taking it, have qualified professionals handle the water, drain, and electrical disconnection and reinstallation.

Stove and Oven

Before moving your stove or oven, take these precautions to protect removable parts and ensure safe disconnection.

• Remove all grates, racks, and burner covers so they don't get damaged or lost.
• For gas ranges, always have a professional disconnect the gas line. Never do this yourself.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for disconnecting electric ranges. Have a qualified electrician handle hardwired appliances or any necessary electrical modifications.

Common Problems After a Move

Even when you do everything right, moving can be rough on appliances. Here are the most common issues we see after people settle into a new home, and what they usually mean.

Refrigerator Won't Cool

If your refrigerator isn't cooling properly after the move, start with a few basic checks before arranging an inspection.

• If the refrigerator isn't cooling right away, allow time to reach the proper temperature. Before storing perishables, use an appliance thermometer to confirm it's at 40°F (4.4°C) or below, as recommended by the USDA.
• If it still isn't cooling properly after the manufacturer's recommended period, check the temperature settings and door seals. If the problem continues, our appliance repair services can help identify the issue and determine the next steps.

Washer Is Shaking or Banging

Unusual shaking or banging may point to a setup problem that needs attention before regular use.

• Shaking or banging may result from an unlevel washer, an unbalanced load, or shipping bolts left in place. Check the washer's level and remove any shipping bolts before use, following the manufacturer's instructions. See Whirlpool's washer installation guidance.

Dishwasher Is Leaking

If your dishwasher leaks after the move, stop using it until the cause has been identified and corrected.

• A leak after a move may be caused by a loose water supply connection, a damaged door gasket, or another installation issue.
• Don't run it again until the leak is fixed. Water damage adds up fast.

Dryer Takes Forever to Dry

Longer drying times after a move may indicate a problem with the dryer's exhaust system.

• Long drying times may indicate a disconnected, kinked, or restricted exhaust duct. For a vented dryer, stop using it until the exhaust system is securely connected and clear.
• Check that the vent opening on the outside of your home is clear and not blocked.

Appliance Won't Turn On at All

If an appliance won't start after moving, begin by checking its power connection and electrical requirements.

• Check that the appliance is plugged in and its circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If the breaker trips repeatedly, stop using the appliance and have a qualified professional inspect the electrical issue.
• Ensure the appliance has a compatible power supply. Electric dryers and ranges typically need dedicated high-voltage circuits, while gas models may differ. Check the specifications and have a qualified electrician address incompatible wiring or outlets.

Know Which Appliances Come With Your New Home

Before settling into your new home, take inventory of the appliances included in the purchase so you know what to expect.

• Before move-in, find out which appliances are staying and which are going with the seller.
• Get the model numbers for everything that stays. You'll need them if something breaks.
• Check the model and serial numbers to help identify each appliance's age. Knowing its age and maintenance history can help you plan for future repairs or replacement.

Locate Appliance Shutoffs Before You Settle In

Knowing where your home's water shutoffs and circuit breakers are located can help you respond quickly when appliance problems arise.

• Find the water shutoffs behind your washer and under your sinks before you need them in an emergency.
• Know where your main water shutoff is, in case of a major leak.
• Find your circuit breaker and label the breakers if they aren't already.

Keep Your Appliances Running After the Move

Regular appliance maintenance can help prevent unexpected problems and keep your appliances working properly.

• Clean your dryer's lint filter before or after each load, and make sure the exhaust vent remains clear. Lint buildup and restricted airflow can increase fire risk, as the U.S. Fire Administration explains.
• Replace your refrigerator's water filter according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule.
• If your dishwasher has a removable filter, clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Clean behind your dryer regularly. Have the dryer vent system inspected and cleaned as needed, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Check that the transition duct behind the dryer isn't crushed or restricting airflow.