How to Move a Washing Machine

If you’re planning on moving a washing machine, you’ll need to take the right precautions to avoid damage. These appliances are heavy, bulky, and contain delicate parts like the washing machine’s drum and drain lines, which must be secured before transport. Mishandling them can lead to leaks, electrical issues, or internal damage, making the moving process much more difficult than expected.

At Firehouse Movers, we understand how challenging it can be to move heavy and clunky appliances. Whether you’re moving a washer and dryer as a set or handling a single unit, having the proper steps in place ensures your appliances remain in top condition. A washing machine cannot be moved without proper preparation, and skipping steps can result in costly repairs or even render the appliance unusable.

This guide will walk you through how to safely move your washing machine, including tips for preparation, disconnection, and securing key components before transport. Follow these expert tips for moving a washing machine to make sure your appliance is ready for a smooth move.

Preparing to Move a Washing Machine: Disconnect and Drain

You can’t move a washing machine without disconnecting and draining it first! This can help to prevent leaks and damage during transport. Whether you’re handling a single unit or going through a full washer and dryer moving process, proper preparation for moving day goes a long way.

1. Clean the Machines: Run an empty cycle with hot water and detergent to flush out any soap residue from your washer. This helps prevent buildup from clogging the drain lines and ensures no leftover water sits inside the machine during transport. Once finished, leave the washing machine door open to allow moisture to evaporate. For dryers, wipe down the drum and clear out lint from the dryer vent hose.

2. Unplug the Machines: Before handling any connections, always unplug the washing machine and dryer from the wall. If you have an electric dryer, simply remove the plug. If you’re working with a gas dryer, shut off the gas valve before disconnecting the supply line to prevent leaks.

3. Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the water valves – typically behind the washing machine from the wall – and turn off the water supply by twisting them clockwise. This prevents any remaining water from leaking out once you start disconnecting the hoses.

4. Disconnect the Water Supply Hoses: Once your washer is fully drained, use pliers to loosen and disconnect the water supply hoses from the back of the appliance. These hoses can be tightly secured due to water pressure, so twisting them gently with pliers to disconnect is helpful. Place the hoses in a waterproof bag to prevent dripping during transport.

5. Drain the Washer Completely: How do you drain a washing machine for moving? First, carefully remove the drain hose from the wall and place a bucket underneath to catch any remaining water. Then, tilt the washing machine slightly forward to remove any hidden water pockets inside the drain lines. This ensures that no excess water spills out during the move.

6. Remove the Dryer Vent Hose: If you’re moving a dryer, detach the hose connecting the dryer to the vent system. Clean out any built-up lint to improve airflow and prevent blockages when reinstalling. If you have a steam dryer, make sure to disconnect the water supply as well.

Securing Loose Parts of Your Washing Machine

Once everything is disconnected, it’s important to secure all loose parts before washing machine moving begins. This prevents damage to the appliance and ensures that nothing shifts or gets lost in transit. 

1. Secure the Hoses and Power Cords: Gather the water supply hoses, drain hose, and power cords, and tape them securely to the back of the washing machine. This helps prevent tripping hazards and ensures they don’t get lost when you’re moving a washing machine.

2. Install the Transit Bolts: If your washer came with transit bolts or shipping bolts, now is the time to install the transit bolts. These stabilize the drum suspension and prevent the washing machine’s drum from shifting inside the machine, which can cause serious damage during transport. If you no longer have the original transit bolts, consult the manufacturer for recommendations on how to secure the drum.

3. Strap the Machine for Stability: Using moving straps or rope, strap the machine to prevent unnecessary movement. Keeping the washer stable helps prevent internal damage.

4. Keep the Washing Machine Upright: A washing machine cannot be moved on its side without risking damage to the drum suspension. Always keep the washing machine upright during transport to ensure it remains in working condition.

5. Tape the Washer and Dryer Doors Shut: Secure the washing machine door and dryer door with strong packing tape to prevent them from swinging open during the move. This simple step helps protect the appliance from unnecessary stress and damage.

Wrapping and Loading to Get Ready to Move

Proper wrapping and loading techniques are essential when moving a washing machine. This is a good chance to move your washer while preventing scratches, dents, and internal damage. If not handled correctly, the appliance’s delicate components – such as the washing machine’s drum – can shift or break during transport. 

1. Wrap Your Washing Machine and Dryer Properly: Before loading, wrap your washing machine and dryer in moving blankets to protect them from scratches and dents. Secure the blankets using packing tape or moving straps to keep everything in place.

2. Use an Appliance Dolly for Safe Handling: Position an appliance dolly next to the washer and carefully slide the base under the machine. Make sure the dolly is centered for stability before you strap the machine securely to it. This step makes it much easier to tilt the moving equipment back without losing control.

3. Move the Washer and Dryer to the Truck: Once secured, slowly roll the washer toward the moving truck, keeping it stable on the dolly. For safety, have at least one person help guide the machine onto a dolly ramp or liftgate.

4. Loading it Correctly: When lifting the washing machine onto the dolly, always keep it upright. A washer should never be laid on its side or back, as this can cause damage to the washing machine’s drum.

5. Secure the Washing Machine in the Truck: Once inside, secure the washing machine in your moving vehicle with straps or rope to prevent shifting during transit. Make sure it is positioned against a wall or secured tightly to avoid unnecessary movement.

Setup and Reconnecting Your Appliance

Now that the moving process is complete, it’s time to set up and reconnect your appliances in their new space. Knowing how to move a washer and dryer properly includes setting them up for immediate use.

1. Unload and Position the Appliances: Carefully unload the washing machine from the dolly and move it into its designated space. Ensure the washer and dryer are level by adjusting their feet if necessary. A properly balanced machine prevents excessive vibrations and movement during use.

2. Reconnect the Water Supply: Attach the supply hoses from the washing machine to the appropriate hot and cold water valves. Use a wrench to tighten them securely, but avoid overtightening. Double-check the drain hose connection, ensuring it’s properly secured to prevent leaks.

3. Remove Transit Bolts and Secure the Washing Machine: If you installed transit bolts before the move, now is the time to remove them so the washing machine’s drum can move freely. Keeping these bolts in place during operation can cause severe damage to the washer.

4. Reconnect Power and Gas (If Applicable): Plug the washing machine into the power outlet. For gas dryers, carefully reconnect the gas line and check for leaks by applying a soapy water solution to the connection. If bubbles form, tighten the connection further or consult a professional.

5. Turn On the Water Supply and Run a Test Cycle: Slowly turn on the water supply and check for leaks around the hoses. Once everything is securely connected, run a test cycle with an empty washer to ensure it’s operating correctly. Listen for unusual noises, check for leaks, and confirm that the drum spins smoothly.

Washer Moving Help From the Professionals

Moving a washing machine can be complicated, especially when dealing with heavy appliances, tight spaces, and proper reconnection. Without the right preparation, you risk damaging the drum, scratching floors, or even causing leaks. That’s why trusting a professional moving company can make all the difference.

At Firehouse Movers, we specialize in Texas moving services that take the stress out of relocating large appliances like washers and dryers. Our experienced movers in Texas have the right tools, techniques, and expertise to secure, transport, and install your appliances safely. From careful wrapping and lifting to expert reconnection, we ensure your washer and dryer are moved without damage, giving you a peace of mind and saving you from potential costly repairs.

Instead of struggling with bulky appliances, let Firehouse Movers handle the job. Our full-service team takes care of everything so you can focus on settling in. Ready for a stress-free move? Contact us today at 972-412-6033 for expert services and let our movers in Texas handle the heavy lifting. Need more moving advice? Read our blog for more expert tips on how to move various objects or Texas living! When you need to move your home or business, we’re the ones to call!

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