Easy Tips for Moving Your Washing Machine

Moving any large appliance is no easy feat. Washing machines present special challenges because of their delicate inner components. We’ve created an easy-to-follow instruction guide to ensure safe and secure transportation of your machine. Here’s what we recommend:

Empty and Clean Your Machine

Before attempting to move your washing machine or hiring a furniture removalist in Perth, you’ll want to give it a good cleaning to prevent future odours. The easiest way to do this is to run an empty wash cycle. Many newer machines will have a self-cleaning cycle built in. If this is the case for you, simply set it and let it go! Otherwise, you’ll want to run your washer on the warmest cycle with a bit of bleach or white vinegar. Once the cycle is finished, leave the door open and give the machine 24 hours to dry. This will prevent any mildew growth.

Turn Off the Power and Water

Once the cleaning is done, you’ll want to disconnect the water supply as any Perth removalist would. Turn the water supply valves counter clockwise. Once this is complete, simply turn off the power to the machine at your fuse or breaker box, and safely unplug your washer.

Disconnect Hoses and Valves

The next step is to detach your washing machine from all connections. This step requires a bit of knowledge about your appliance and a few readily available tools; if you’re not feeling confident, call a local Perth removalist for their recommendations. You’ll want to disconnect the water hose first from the wall valve and then from the washer. Removing them in this order will prevent an accidental water spillage. With a bucket in place underneath to catch any water left in the hose, take a pliers and turn the hose fitting counter-clockwise to detach.

Moving Your Washer

Before physically moving your washing machine, a good Perth removalist will ALWAYS install transit bolts. To avoid damaging your machine, we strongly recommend them for Do-It-Yourself transportation as well. These bolts stabilize the drum, keeping it from bouncing around and getting damaged during the move. The installation process of these varies greatly between machines, so refer to your owner’s manual for specifics, and seek professional furniture removals around Perth if you have any doubt.

With the bolts safely installed, you are ready to move! Consider wrapping your machine to prevent scratches and scuffs before lifting. Removalists in Perth will generally use a thick, plastic wrap-like material. If you do not have this on-hand, a moving blanket or even bubble wrap will do. The next part involves lifting – do NOT attempt this alone! If you’re going the DIY transport route, work as a team with a partner when attempting to move any large appliance. This safety precaution will help prevent unnecessary injury. Walk the washer away from the wall. When you have sufficient room, tip the washer back and slide a moving trolley or hand cart underneath. Strap the washer to the machine for added security before wheeling to vehicle.

Loading Washer into Your Vehicle

At this point, we stress again the importance of using a team approach to moving your washer. Be sure that everyone helping is physically up to the task of furniture removal. Perth moving, whether locally or with a way to go, should always be safe. Manoeuver your washing machine up into your moving vehicle and keep it in an upright position. Secure it into position with ties or straps to prevent accidental rollover and limit the shakiness that can cause internal damage to the machine.

Following these simple steps will ensure your washer arrives safely at its final destination.