How to Move a Refrigerator with Straps: A Complete Guide

Moving a refrigerator can feel like a huge task, but with the right preparation and equipment, it doesn’t have to be so overwhelming. One of the best tools to make the job easier is a set of moving straps. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to safely and efficiently move your fridge with straps. Whether you’re relocating to a new home or just need to rearrange your kitchen, using the proper technique will save you time and reduce the risk of damage to your appliance.

Understanding the Basics of Moving a Refrigerator

Why Moving a Refrigerator is Challenging

Moving a refrigerator can be tough, especially because of its size and weight. Refrigerators are heavy, awkward, and have delicate internal components. If you’re not careful, you could damage the fridge, hurt yourself, or even cause damage to your home. That’s where moving straps come in—they are specially designed to help distribute the weight of the fridge more evenly, making the process much safer and easier. The key is using the straps correctly, so you don’t strain your muscles or risk damaging your fridge.

What are Moving Straps?

Moving straps are strong, adjustable straps designed to help you lift and carry heavy objects without putting too much strain on your body. They’re made from durable materials like nylon or polyester and usually come in a variety of designs, such as shoulder straps, forearm straps, or lifting straps. They help distribute the weight of the fridge more evenly across your body, allowing you to lift and maneuver the appliance with better control.

Types of Moving Straps

There are a few different types of moving straps, and understanding each one can help you choose the best fit for your task:

Shoulder Straps: These straps go over your shoulders and allow you to lift heavy objects like a refrigerator using your legs. They are great for lifting and carrying large items.
Forearm Straps: These straps are worn on your forearms, giving you extra strength to lift heavy objects while keeping your hands free.
Lifting Straps: These straps are designed to be wrapped around the object you’re moving and provide extra leverage to lift it with more ease.

For moving a refrigerator, the shoulder straps or lifting straps are the most commonly used, as they offer the most stability and control.

Preparing Your Refrigerator for Moving

Before you even think about using the straps, you need to prepare the refrigerator for the move. This will make the process much smoother and help avoid potential issues during the move.

Unplugging and Emptying the Fridge

The first step in preparing your fridge is to unplug it and allow it to defrost if necessary. This is especially important for refrigerators with freezers. Make sure to give the appliance plenty of time to fully defrost and dry out to avoid water leaks during the move.

Empty the Fridge: Remove all food and items from inside the fridge. This will reduce the weight of the fridge and prevent any damage to the contents.
Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out any removable shelves or drawers. These can easily get damaged during transport if not properly secured or removed.
Check the Doors: You might need to tape the doors shut to keep them from swinging open during the move. Use packing tape or a strong adhesive to secure the doors.

Protecting the Fridge

Once the fridge is emptied and unplugged, it’s time to protect it. Consider wrapping the appliance in moving blankets or bubble wrap. This will help safeguard against scratches, dents, or other damage during transport.

Wrap with Moving Blankets: Moving blankets are thick and soft, making them perfect for protecting your refrigerator from scratches.
Use Bubble Wrap: If you’re worried about more fragile parts, such as the glass shelves, bubble wrap can offer added protection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Moving a Refrigerator with Straps

Step 1: Position the Refrigerator for Easy Lifting

Start by carefully positioning the refrigerator for easier access. You don’t want to struggle with the fridge once you begin lifting it, so make sure it’s in a spot where you can easily place the straps around it.

Place on a Flat Surface: Make sure the fridge is resting on a flat surface. If the floor is uneven, consider placing a piece of plywood underneath it to create a stable base.
Position the Straps: When you’re ready to use the straps, place them under the fridge and prepare to adjust them so they can lift the appliance properly.

Step 2: Attach the Straps

With the fridge in position, it’s time to attach the moving straps. Whether you’re using shoulder straps or lifting straps, you want to make sure they’re positioned to give you maximum control.

For Shoulder Straps: Slide the shoulder straps underneath the fridge and adjust them so that they’re positioned at a comfortable height. The straps should be resting on your shoulders, and the fridge should be centered.
For Lifting Straps: If you’re using lifting straps, place them around the bottom corners of the fridge and make sure the strap is tight. The idea is to lift the fridge by using your legs and keeping your back straight.

Step 3: Lift the Fridge with Proper Technique

Now that the straps are in place, it’s time to lift the fridge. The most important thing to remember is to use your legs, not your back, to do the heavy lifting. This will prevent injury and make the task much easier.

Bend Your Knees: Start by bending your knees and using the strength of your legs to lift the fridge.
Keep the Fridge Close to Your Body: As you lift, make sure the fridge is as close to your body as possible. This will give you better control and prevent unnecessary strain.
Lift Slowly: Take your time and lift the fridge slowly. Avoid jerking or quick movements that could lead to injury or damage.

Step 4: Moving the Fridge to Its New Location

Once the fridge is lifted, the next step is to move it to its new location. This can be tricky, as you need to navigate through doors, hallways, and possibly stairs.

Move in Small Steps: Take small steps as you move the fridge. It’s easier to maintain control if you take your time and move slowly.
Use a Ramp or Dolly for Extra Help: If you’re moving the fridge up or down stairs, consider using a dolly or a moving ramp. These tools can make the process easier and safer.
Communicate with Your Helper: If you have a second person assisting with the move, make sure to communicate throughout the process. This will help prevent accidents and make the move more efficient.

Step 5: Secure the Fridge in Its New Spot

Once the fridge is in its new location, it’s time to make sure it’s securely placed and level.

Check the Level: Use a level tool to ensure the fridge is standing upright and perfectly level. This is important for the fridge to function correctly.
Plug It Back In: Finally, plug the fridge back into the power source. Don’t forget to reconnect the water line if it’s a refrigerator with an ice maker or water dispenser.

Tips and Safety Precautions for Moving a Refrigerator with Straps

Safety First

Moving a refrigerator is no small task, and it’s important to always keep safety in mind. Here are some essential tips to ensure you avoid accidents:

Get Help: Don’t attempt to move a heavy fridge alone. Always have at least one person helping you.
Wear Protective Gear: Wearing gloves, sturdy shoes, and a back brace can provide additional protection when moving a large appliance.
Know Your Limits: If at any point you feel uncomfortable or strained, take a break and re-evaluate the situation. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Tools You’ll Need

In addition to moving straps, here are some other tools that can make your fridge-moving experience easier:

Moving Dolly: This can be a lifesaver if you’re navigating long hallways or stairs.
Furniture Sliders: If you need to move the fridge across a hard floor, these sliders can help you avoid scratching the surface.
Packing Tape: Use packing tape to secure the fridge doors and prevent them from opening during the move.

I hope this guide helps you feel confident and prepared to move your refrigerator with straps. Moving large appliances doesn’t have to be a stressful experience, especially if you use the right equipment and follow the proper techniques. Just take it slow, stay safe, and remember that moving straps are your best friend for the job!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe to move a refrigerator with straps?

Yes, using moving straps is a safe and effective way to move a refrigerator, as long as you use the straps correctly and have help from another person. Always make sure the straps are positioned properly to avoid injury or damage to the fridge.

Can I move a refrigerator by myself?

While it’s possible to move a fridge by yourself, it’s highly recommended to have at least one other person assist you. A refrigerator is large and heavy, and attempting to move it alone could lead to injury or damage to the appliance.

Do I need special straps for moving a refrigerator?

While you can use any strong moving straps, it’s ideal to use shoulder straps or lifting straps specifically designed for heavy objects like refrigerators. These straps help distribute the weight evenly and make the task easier.

Is it okay to tip the refrigerator while moving it?

It’s best to avoid tipping the refrigerator as much as possible. Tipping the fridge could cause damage to the internal components or leak fluids. If you must tip it, do so carefully and keep it as upright as possible.

Can I move a refrigerator without removing the shelves?

It’s recommended to remove the shelves from your fridge before moving it. The shelves are usually made of glass or plastic and can easily get damaged during the move. Removing them will reduce the risk of breakage.

Is it necessary to defrost the fridge before moving it?

Yes, it’s important to defrost the fridge before moving it, especially if it has a freezer compartment. Defrosting will prevent water from leaking out during the move and protect both the appliance and your floors from potential water damage.

Do I need to secure the fridge doors during the move?

Yes, securing the doors with packing tape or strong adhesive is a good idea. This prevents the doors from swinging open and causing damage during the move.

Can I use a dolly to help move the fridge?

Yes, using a dolly is a great idea, especially if you need to move the fridge across a flat surface or up and down stairs. It can help reduce the strain on your body and make the process much easier.