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How to Move a Washer and Dryer

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How to Move a Washer and Dryer

Once considered a luxury item, washers, and dryers are now a staple of convenience in nearly every household. While many homeowners opt to leave these bulky, difficult-to-move appliances behind when relocating, purchasing new units after your move can be a costly expense. If you have recently purchased a brand new set, taking your washer and dryer with you to your new home may be imperative.

If you are planning to transport these heavy appliances in your upcoming move, this helpful guide will explain the process step-by-step.

Preparing Yourself

Moving big items takes preparation. Make sure you have the right help, moving supplies, and equipment before attempting a move. Here's what you’ll need:

Find Help

A competent team makes everything move more easily. Ask a family member, neighbor, or friend in advance. They should be fit enough to help steady heavy items. Remind them to wear good shoes and clothing for the weather.

If you can't find anyone, you can hire labor-only movers to do the job for you. 

Get Equipment

Heavy-duty hand-trucks or dollies are needed for a big project like this. You can rent or buy an appliance dolly from stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. Many moving truck rental companies like Budget or U-Haul will have appliance dollies and moving straps to rent.

Don’t forget other moving tools for this job:

  • 1-2 moving blankets (rent or buy)
  • pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers (to remove hoses and hardware)
  • gloves
  • packing tape
  • vacuum
  • all-purpose cleaner and rags

Take Measurements

It’s best to move with a plan in place. Take measurements of the washer and dryer, stairways, doorways, and halls. Chances are good that if your equipment got into the laundry area, they can get out - but you never know what was assembled in place.

You can always remove doors from frames, take feet off of washers and dryers, or remove panels or lids that stick out.

Preparing the Dryer

Clean the Dryer

Use a wet cloth to remove dirt and dust from the outside and inside of the unit. Empty out the lint trap and vacuum out leftover dust and hair.

Remove Dryer Attachments

First, if possible, turn off the breaker that powers the dryer before unplugging the unit. Remove the exhaust hose from the back. Loop the hose and store it inside the unit so it is easily accessible when you reconnect the dryer in your new home.

For an Electric Dryer 

Unplug the unit, wind up the cord and secure it with tape to the back of the dryer. This will keep the cord safely out of the way so it doesn't become caught on anything during the move or present a safety hazard.

For a Gas Dryer 

Make sure you turn off your gas connection before attempting to move the dryer. Remove the hose, loop it, and store it inside the unit. Make sure the area is well-ventilated in case of any gas leakage.

Preparing the Washer

  1. Turn off the water connection to your washer before attempting to move it.
  2. Turn on the warm water in the washer for about 30 seconds to release pressure from the hoses. Then drain all the water from the unit into a bucket.
  3. Disconnect the cold and hot water hoses from the rear of the washer, loop them, and store them inside of the unit.
  4. Turn off the breaker and Unplug the washer. Then disconnect the drain hose from the wall and secure both to the back of the unit with tape to keep them safely out of the way.

Clean the Washer

This is the perfect time to wipe down the inside of your washer and dryer. Use an all-purpose cleaner and sponge, rag, or paper towel to clean out the washer. Sometimes, hair and dirt buildup can occur near rubber gaskets (for front-load washers).

You can also use specially formulated "washer cleaners" that you run through like a load of laundry. Simply run a cycle (without any laundry) and leave the door open to dry for a day.

Bottom line: take the time to clean your laundry equipment. You'll be glad you did.

Moving the Washer and Dryer

  • With a friend, shimmy the washer or dryer away from the wall, and tip the appliance backward. Slide your appliance dolly underneath it. Secure the washer or dryer with included straps.
  • Place your foot behind the dolly's wheel and tip the dolly back as your helper supports the weight.
    To move the unit, carefully tilt the dolly backward and push forward. Maneuver the dolly throughout your home; be wary of doorways and corners.
  • To move the appliance down stairs, it is best to go bottom first. Slowly move the dolly downwards one step at a time, holding onto the handle from above.
  • Have your helper at the other end of the dolly to help support the weight.
  • To load the units onto the moving truck, walk the dolly up the truck's ramp if you have one. If not, enlist the aid of several strong friends to hoist the washer and dryer up onto the truck. Remember to bend your knees and to keep your back straight when lifting heavy items to prevent injury.

Reconnecting the Washer

Connect the hot and cold water hoses to the wall port and washer. The cold water valve will be marked "C" and the hot water valve marked "H" on both the wall and the unit.

Connect the drain hose to the port located on the lower back-side of the unit. Make sure the hose is pushed fully onto the fitting, and install the hose clamp to make it secure. Insert the opposite end of the hose into the wall port marked "drain" by simply feeding it into the receiver.
Plug the washer into the electrical outlet. Turn on both water valves at the wall service port and check for any leaks.

Reconnecting the Dryer

If you have a gas dryer, make sure the gas is turned off at the line near the dryer hookup before you begin. Turn off the circuit breaker that powers the dryer.
Attach the ductwork leading to the exhaust pipe to the dryer's exhaust port. Use a screwdriver to tighten the band securely. Attach the ductwork to the exhaust pipe as well, tightening it with the screwdriver.


Plug the electrical cord into the outlet. Turn the power back on, as well as the gas if you have a gas dryer. 

 

Myles Compton  Posted by Myles Compton on November 24, 2020

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