Home Garden

How to Move a Built-In Refrigerator

A built-in refrigerator is heavy and awkward to move. Having the right tools, help and knowledge of the correct way to move the appliance makes all the difference. Other than the need to remove brackets from some built-in installations, moving the refrigerator out is not much different than moving out other types of refrigerators. However, the fridge's increased weight may require more labor and preparation to get it successfully out and into the moving truck. With the right techniques and preparation, the built-in refrigerator should arrive at your new home damage-free.

Things You'll Need

  • Wrench
  • Plywood or cardboard pieces
  • Screwdriver
  • Appliance dolly
  • Moving truck with ramp
  • Tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the water supply valve connected to the refrigerator.

    • 2

      Twist the water tubing connection loose by hand or with a wrench. Remove the tubing and connection.

    • 3

      Set plywood or cardboard in front of the feet. Place cardboard or plywood pieces along any flooring within the moving path.

    • 4

      Loosen and remove all screws installed in brackets along the sides. Remove the brackets. Place all brackets, screws and tubing in a container together so they are not lost during the move.

    • 5

      Position one person at each side. Grab each side underneath in the front. Hold the side with the other hand.

    • 6

      Pull the refrigerator forward on top of the plywood or cardboard.

    • 7

      Unplug the power cord.

    • 8

      Position the appliance dolly in front of the refrigerator. Slide the dolly platform under the front of the refrigerator.

    • 9

      Secure the straps around the refrigerator.

    • 10

      Pull the dolly back to lift the refrigerator onto it. Push the dolly along the cardboard or plywood. Roll the dolly into the moving truck.

    • 11

      Set the dolly down in the moving truck. Unlatch the straps. Pull the dolly back from the refrigerator.

    • 12

      Keep the refrigerator upright for moving. Tape the doors closed.