How To Move A Washing Machine

Moving a washing machine is one of the trickiest tasks when moving home, yet it’s a challenge you can conquer with the right approach. Ensuring safety during the move requires proper planning, the right tools, and a bit of muscle—or professional help. Proper handling not only protects your appliance from costly damage but also prevents injuries along the way. Moving a washing machine with confidence is possible when you follow our expert tips.

Why Does Moving a Washing Machine Require Special Care?

Washing machines are among the heaviest and bulkiest household appliances, weighing anywhere from 65 to over 100 kilograms. The drum suspension mechanism inside is delicate and can be easily damaged by vibrations and sudden jolts. Moving a washing machine without proper precautions can result in costly repairs or even force you to replace the appliance. By taking a careful, methodical approach, you ensure that your washing machine remains in perfect working order throughout your move.

Choosing Your Approach: Professional Movers vs. DIY

Hiring Professional Movers in Ealing

Hiring a professional removal company can save you time, money, and potential headaches if you’re planning to move home in Ealing. Professionals come equipped with the right tools, including appliance dollies, transit bolts, and moving blankets, to ensure your washing machine is handled with the utmost care. They also bring valuable experience and safety know-how, reducing the risk of injury or damage to your appliance.

At Ealing Removal Team, we connect you with trusted local experts who offer transparent pricing and stellar service.

Moving It Yourself (DIY Approach)

For those who prefer a DIY approach to save money, moving a washing machine by yourself is possible—but never attempt it alone. The task requires at least one helper to safely lift and maneuver the heavy appliance. The DIY method demands thorough preparation, including reading your washing machine’s manual and gathering all the necessary equipment. Remember, while DIY might seem cost-effective, improper handling could lead to damage that outweighs any savings.

Essential Equipment and Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment at hand. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:

• Appliance Dolly: Essential for safely moving the washing machine.
• Transit Bolts (Shipping Bolts): Secure the drum in place to avoid internal damage.
• Moving Blankets or Bubble Wrap: Protect the exterior from scratches and dents.
• Ratchet Straps or Ropes: Keep the washing machine securely attached during transit.
• Slip Joint Pliers: Use these to disconnect water supply hoses safely.
• Packing Tape and Duct Tape: Secure cords and moving blankets.
• Gloves and Furniture Sliders/Cardboard: Protect your hands and floors from damage.
• Bucket: Catch any residual water when disconnecting hoses.

Having these tools on hand ensures that the move is efficient and minimizes any risk of damage.

Preparing Your Washing Machine for Transport

Proper preparation is key to a successful move. Follow these steps to get your washing machine ready:

• Empty and Clean the Appliance:
  Run a cleaning cycle with washing cleaner or a small amount of bleach, then leave the door open for at least 24 hours to let it dry completely. Make sure there are no clothes or debris inside.

• Disconnect Power and Water Supplies:
  Unplug the machine from the electrical outlet. Turn off the water supply by closing the valve and use slip joint pliers to disconnect the water hoses. Drain any water from the drain hose into a bucket.

• Secure Internal Components:
  Install the transit bolts according to your washing machine’s manual. This step is crucial as it secures the drum and prevents internal damage during movement.

• Protect the Exterior:
  Wrap the washing machine in moving blankets or bubble wrap. Secure the wrapping with packing tape or duct tape to protect it from scratches and dents while in transit.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move a Washing Machine by Yourself

If you decide to move your washing machine on your own, follow this step-by-step guide to ensure safety and efficiency:

• Plan Your Route:
  Measure doorways, hallways, and staircases to ensure the washing machine will fit through. Remove any obstacles along the planned path.

• Recruit Helpers:
  Make sure you have at least one strong helper to assist with the lifting and maneuvering of the appliance. Safety is paramount, so do not attempt this alone.

• Load the Washing Machine onto the Dolly:
  Tilt the machine carefully to slide the dolly underneath. Secure it tightly with ropes or ratchet straps to prevent any movement.

• Move Through Your Home:
  Navigate slowly and carefully, especially when going up or down stairs. Use additional floor protection like cardboard or furniture sliders to avoid scratching your floors.

• Loading into the Moving Vehicle:
  Use a loading ramp if available; if not, lift slowly and steadily with the help of your spotter. Once inside, secure the washing machine with ratchet straps to prevent shifting during transit.

• Unloading and Reinstallation:
  Upon reaching your new home, remove the transit bolts and carefully reconnect the power and water supplies. Run an empty cycle to ensure the washing machine is operating correctly.

How to Move a Washing Machine with Professional Movers

Hiring professionals is a smart move if you’re worried about the potential risks of a DIY job. Here’s why:

• Experience and Expertise:
  Professionals have the training and specialized equipment to move heavy appliances safely. They follow a systematic process to ensure that your washing machine is handled correctly throughout the move.

• Safety and Efficiency:
  With the right tools, professionals can navigate stairs, narrow doorways, and other challenges without damaging your appliance or property. Their expertise minimizes the risk of injury.

• Time and Peace of Mind:
  Letting experts handle the move frees up your time to focus on other aspects of moving home. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your appliance is in safe hands is invaluable.

Reconnect the Washing Machine

Reconnect your washing machine by reattaching the taps, plugging it in, and running a couple of rinse cycles with no clothes to check for leaks, proper drainage, and any potential damage from the move. If your drain hose connects under the sink, ensure there’s no gap that might let dirty water back in; if it connects to a standpipe, verify that the pipe is vertical and avoid inserting the hose too far. If you’re unsure, consider hiring a professional plumber.

Common Mistakes and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Machine Properly:
  Leaving water in the machine can cause leaks and damage during transport.

• Skipping Transit Bolt Installation:
  Moving the machine without these bolts may result in severe internal damage.

• Failing to Measure Doorways and Stairs:
  Not planning your route can lead to unexpected obstacles and complications.