If you are planning on moving residences, you might find that you need temporary storage of your belongings, including appliances. Instead of simply unplugging and moving them, there are a few things you need to do first for each major appliance. Here are some things to do in order to get appliances ready to be moved to a self-storage unit.

Oven and Stove

When you intend to store an oven and stove in a self-storage unit, you first need to make sure they are clean inside and out. Stovetops and the insides of ovens don't get cleaned as often as other appliances, so these will probably be the most time-consuming appliances to get ready for storage. It is a good idea to remove the racks from inside the oven, as it makes it easier to clean the racks and oven itself. You can store them in a box or put them back in the oven when it is time to move it to the storage facility.

The stovetop also needs to be cleaned by removing the metal grids over the burners. Also make sure you clean the knobs of the stove very well. Before you attempt to move a gas stove or oven, make sure the gas is turned off and that the gas lines are handled very carefully. Tape down the door of the oven so it doesn't fly open during transport.

Washer and Dryer

If you are going to store your washer and dryer, there are a few things you need to do before storing them. Start by unplugging both appliances and being sure they are disconnected from the water and gas lines. All water hoses need to be disconnected and placed in a box that is labeled where they go to. This is very important as they can easily be confused with hoses for other appliances. Before moving the washing machine, make sure the drum of the washer is secure. The lid of both the washer and dryer should be secured. Like the oven and stove, you also want these appliances cleaned before moving them. For the dryer, empty the lint trap and put in a new one. Wipe down the outside of these appliances, as well as the inside.

Refrigerator

It is important that you empty the refrigerator and unplug it about a day or so before the date you intend to move. This allows you not only to clean it out, but to thaw it completely and give it enough time to dry. After emptying it, unplug it and let the freezer start to defrost. While that is defrosting, remove the crisping drawers from the refrigerator and clean them thoroughly. Clean the inside of the refrigerator, being sure you don't forget about the door and other compartments. If the shelves are removable, you can pull them out to clean them.

Once the inside of the fridge is clean, replace the shelves and drawers, being sure they are secure. Clean the inside of the freezer once it has defrosted. Make sure you empty any ice bins in the freezer and remove ice trays. Also wipe down the outside of the refrigerator before you attempt to move it. If the refrigerator has an ice machine, you also need to disconnect the water line. When you store the refrigerator, make sure it is dry and standing upright. Keep the door ajar to help air it out while being stored.

Share