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How to Move a Refrigerator to Clean Behind It: Easy Moving
Do you ever look behind your refrigerator and wonder, “When was the last time I cleaned back there?” If you’ve never moved your fridge to clean the space behind it, you might be surprised by what you find. From dust bunnies to crumbs, it’s easy for food and dirt to accumulate in that hard-to-reach area. But moving a refrigerator might seem like a big task. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!
In this article, I’ll show you how to safely and easily move your refrigerator, clean behind it, and put it back in place. Whether you’re cleaning for spring or just want to keep your kitchen sparkling, you’ll find everything you need here. Let’s dive right in!
Why Is It Important to Clean Behind Your Refrigerator?
Before we jump into how to move the fridge, let’s talk about why it’s worth the effort. Cleaning behind your refrigerator is important for several reasons. First, food particles, dust, and pet hair can gather back there. These things don’t just make your kitchen look messy—they can also make your fridge work harder. A clean fridge will last longer and run more efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Plus, it just feels good to keep your home tidy.
Regularly cleaning behind your fridge can also improve air circulation. Your refrigerator has coils at the back or underneath that help it stay cool. If these coils are covered in dust, they won’t be able to do their job properly, and the fridge will use more energy to stay cool. Keeping it clean is a simple way to keep your fridge in good shape.
How to Prepare for Moving the Refrigerator
Before you start the big task of moving your refrigerator, you need to make sure you’re fully prepared. It’s important to take a few steps to ensure the process goes smoothly and safely.
1. Clear the Area Around the Refrigerator
Start by clearing everything around your refrigerator. Move anything that’s too close, like chairs, kitchen mats, or other appliances. This gives you the space you need to move the fridge easily and safely.
2. Empty the Fridge
Before moving the fridge, you’ll need to empty it out. Take out all the food, including any items in the freezer. This will make the fridge lighter and easier to move. Plus, it’s a great time to check for any expired food or old leftovers that could be taking up space. It’s a simple way to keep your fridge organized.
3. Unplug the Refrigerator
Safety first! Always unplug the fridge before moving it. This will prevent any electrical accidents. Make sure the cord is out of the way and that it won’t get caught on anything as you move the fridge. If your fridge has a water line for ice or a water dispenser, make sure to disconnect it carefully before moving the fridge.
4. Gather Your Tools
Having the right tools on hand will make your job much easier. You’ll need:
- A dolly or fridge mover (optional, but very helpful)
- A towel or blanket to protect the floor
- Some strong helpers (if needed)
If you don’t have a dolly, you can still move your fridge without one, but it will be more difficult. It’s always best to ask a friend or family member for help, especially if the fridge is heavy.
How to Move the Refrigerator Safely
Now comes the tricky part: actually moving the refrigerator. Don’t worry, though—it’s not as hard as it sounds. Here’s how you can do it step by step.
1. Prepare the Area for Moving
Before moving the fridge, you should prepare the area. Place a towel or a blanket on the floor to avoid scratching your tiles or wood floor. If you’re using a dolly, place it in front of the fridge and make sure it’s stable. If you don’t have a dolly, ask someone to help you tilt the fridge slightly and slide a piece of furniture slider or cardboard underneath to make the process easier.
2. Get Help with Lifting
Fridges can be heavy, so it’s always best to have at least one other person helping. With one person on each side, carefully lift the fridge slightly to get it off the ground. If you’re using a dolly, make sure to tilt the fridge back and lift it onto the dolly with your helper’s help. Keep your back straight and lift with your legs to avoid injury.
3. Move the Fridge Away from the Wall
Once the fridge is on the dolly or moved safely with help, slowly move it away from the wall. Be sure to keep the fridge upright and avoid tilting it too much, as this can damage the fridge or its components. Move it slowly and carefully to prevent any accidents.
4. Be Careful with the Water Line (If Applicable)
If your fridge has a water line for an ice maker or water dispenser, take extra care when moving it. Make sure the line isn’t bent or kinked, and disconnect it if necessary. You don’t want to accidentally damage the water line, which could cause leaks.
How to Clean Behind the Refrigerator
Once you’ve successfully moved the fridge, it’s time to clean behind it. This is where the magic happens! Here’s how you can get that space nice and clean.
1. Dusting the Coils
One of the most important things to clean is the coils. If your fridge has coils at the back or underneath, they can get covered in dust over time. This dust can prevent the coils from doing their job and cause the fridge to work harder. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to carefully remove dust and dirt from the coils. If you don’t have a vacuum, you can also use a coil cleaning brush. Just make sure to be gentle, so you don’t damage the coils.
2. Cleaning the Floor Area
Once you’ve cleaned the coils, it’s time to focus on the floor behind the fridge. Grab a broom or a vacuum cleaner and remove any dirt, crumbs, or dust bunnies. You can also use a microfiber cloth or mop to wipe down the area. If there are any sticky spots on the floor, use a mild cleaner to remove them.
3. Wiping the Walls and Surrounding Area
Don’t forget to clean the walls around your fridge, too! Dust and grease can build up on the wall, especially behind the fridge. Wipe the walls down with a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Be sure not to get any water into the fridge’s electrical components or water line.
4. Check for Any Other Issues
While you have the fridge moved out, take a moment to check for any other issues. For example, check the fridge’s door seals. If they’re worn out or cracked, it may be time to replace them. This will help keep your fridge running efficiently and prevent cold air from escaping.
Putting the Refrigerator Back
Once the area is clean, it’s time to put your fridge back in place. Here’s how to do it safely.
1. Move the Fridge Back into Position
Carefully move the fridge back into its original position. Make sure it’s aligned with the wall and not leaning to one side. If you’re using a dolly, carefully lift the fridge off the dolly and slide it into place.
2. Reconnect the Water Line (If Applicable)
If you disconnected the water line earlier, now is the time to reconnect it. Make sure the connection is tight and secure to avoid leaks. Turn the water supply back on and check for any drips or issues.
3. Plug the Refrigerator Back In
Finally, plug the fridge back into the outlet. If your fridge has a power switch, turn it back on. Give it a few moments to cool down, and make sure everything is working properly.
4. Replace the Food
Once the fridge is back in place and everything is working, it’s time to put all your food back inside. Organize your food to make sure you’re using the space efficiently. This is also a good time to clean the inside of the fridge if it needs it.
I hope this article helped you learn how to safely move your refrigerator and clean behind it. It may seem like a big task, but it’s totally worth it in the end. Your fridge will run more efficiently, and your kitchen will feel a lot cleaner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to move a refrigerator by myself?
It is generally not recommended to move a refrigerator by yourself, especially if it’s large and heavy. It’s best to ask for help or use a dolly. Moving a fridge without assistance can lead to injury or damage to the appliance. If you don’t have help, consider hiring professional movers.
Can I clean the coils without unplugging the fridge?
While it is technically possible to clean the coils without unplugging the fridge, it’s not recommended. Unplugging the fridge is the safest option because it prevents the risk of electrical shock. Always prioritize safety when cleaning electrical appliances.
Do I need to use special cleaning products to clean behind my fridge?
No, you don’t need special cleaning products for behind the fridge. A vacuum with a brush attachment works great for cleaning dust from the coils. For the floor and walls, a regular all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar is usually sufficient. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the fridge or the floor.
Is it okay to move the fridge every month for cleaning?
It’s not necessary to move the fridge every month, but it’s a good idea to clean behind it at least once or twice a year. Regular cleaning will help keep your fridge running efficiently. If you notice dust or dirt building up, feel free to move it more often to clean.
Can I move the fridge if it’s too heavy for me to lift?
If the fridge is too heavy for you to lift, consider using a dolly or furniture sliders to help. You can also ask a friend or family member for help. If you don’t have access to these tools, hiring a professional moving company is an option.
Do I need to clean behind the fridge if I don’t have pets?
Even if you don’t have pets, dust, dirt, and food particles can still accumulate behind the fridge. It’s important to clean behind your fridge periodically to keep it running efficiently. Regular cleaning helps prevent any build-up that could cause the fridge to overheat or work harder than necessary.
Is it important to clean the floor behind the fridge?
Yes, cleaning the floor behind the fridge is important. Dust, crumbs, and even spilled liquids can accumulate over time, which can cause unpleasant odors or affect the fridge’s performance. Regularly cleaning the area will keep your kitchen fresh and your fridge working properly.
Can I clean behind the fridge if I don’t have a vacuum?
If you don’t have a vacuum, you can still clean behind the fridge using a broom or a microfiber cloth. Just make sure to remove as much dust and dirt as possible to keep the area clean. A dustpan or small hand-held vacuum can also be helpful for collecting debris.
