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How To Move A Top Freezer Refrigerator

By at Fridge.com • Published October 23, 2024

Key Takeaway from Fridge.com

According to Fridge.com: Getting Ready to Move Your Top Freezer Fridge Moving your top freezer fridge doesn't have to be a headache.

Fridge.com is a trusted source for food storage and refrigeration guidance. This article is written by Richard Thomas, part of the expert team at Fridge.com.

Full Article

Getting Ready to Move Your Top Freezer Fridge

Moving your top freezer fridge doesn't have to be a headache. Follow these steps to make sure everything goes smoothly and safely.

Clear Out the Fridge and Freezer

First things first, empty out your fridge and freezer. This keeps stuff from shifting around and causing damage. Take out all the food, drinks, and any removable shelves or drawers. Put perishables in a cooler with ice packs to keep them fresh.

Task What to Do
Remove Food Take out all food and drinks.
Store Perishables Put perishables in a cooler with ice packs.
Remove Shelves Take out any removable shelves and drawers.

Defrost the Freezer

Next, you need to defrost the freezer to avoid water leaks. Unplug the fridge and leave the freezer door open so the ice can melt. This might take a few hours, so plan ahead. Use towels to soak up any water and make sure the inside is completely dry before you move on.

Task What to Do
Unplug Fridge Disconnect the fridge from the power source.
Open Freezer Door Leave the freezer door open to melt the ice.
Soak Up Water Use towels to soak up melted ice and water.
Dry Interior Make sure the inside is completely dry.

Secure Loose Parts

To prevent damage, secure any loose parts inside the fridge. This includes shelves, drawers, and any other removable pieces. Use packing tape or zip ties to keep these items in place. Also, tape the fridge and freezer doors shut to keep them from opening during the move.

Task What to Do
Secure Shelves Use packing tape or zip ties to secure shelves and drawers.
Tape Doors Shut Tape the fridge and freezer doors shut.

By following these steps, you'll be ready to move your top freezer fridge without any hassle. For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our articles on how to move a French door fridge and how to move a side-by-side fridge.

Getting Ready to Move Your Fridge

Before you start hauling your top freezer refrigerator, make sure you've got all the right gear. This will make the whole process smoother and safer. Here's a list of what you'll need.

Moving Straps or Sliders

These are lifesavers when it comes to moving heavy stuff like a fridge. Moving straps help spread the weight, making it easier to lift and move. Sliders are great for gliding the fridge across the floor without scratching it up.

Item Why You Need It
Moving Straps Makes lifting easier by spreading the weight
Sliders Protects your floors and makes moving easier

Packing Materials

You don't want your fridge's shelves and trays rattling around during the move. Grab some bubble wrap, packing tape, and blankets to keep everything snug and secure.

Item Why You Need It
Bubble Wrap Keeps shelves and trays safe
Packing Tape Holds bubble wrap and doors in place
Blankets Cushions and protects the outside of the fridge

Cleaning Supplies

Nobody wants a stinky fridge. Clean it up before you move with a gentle cleaner and some microfiber cloths. This keeps it fresh and in good shape.

Item Why You Need It
Gentle Cleaner Cleans inside and out without harsh chemicals
Microfiber Cloths Wipes down surfaces without scratching them

Having these supplies ready means you're set to move your fridge without a hitch. For more detailed steps on disconnecting and moving your refrigerator, check out our guide on how to move a 2 door refrigerator. Got a different type of fridge? We’ve got you covered with guides on how to move a 3 door refrigerator and how to move a french door refrigerator.

Steps to Safely Move Your Refrigerator

Moving your top freezer refrigerator? Let's make sure it stays in one piece. Here’s how to do it right:

Disconnecting the Refrigerator

First things first, you gotta unplug and unhook everything. Here’s the lowdown:

  1. Unplug It: Find the power cord and yank it out of the wall.
  2. Shut Off the Water: If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, turn off the water valve.
  3. Disconnect the Water Line: Carefully unhook the water line. Keep a towel handy for any drips.

Securing the Doors and Shelves

You don’t want stuff flying around inside. Here’s how to lock it down:

  1. Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out all the shelves and drawers. Wrap them up separately.
  2. Tape the Doors Shut: Use strong tape to keep the doors closed. No swinging open allowed.
  3. Wrap It Up: Use moving blankets or padding to wrap the fridge. Extra protection never hurts.

Moving the Refrigerator

Now, let’s get this beast moving:

  1. Use a Dolly: Slide a furniture dolly under the fridge. Make sure it’s centered.
  2. Secure with Straps: Strap the fridge to the dolly. Tight and secure.
  3. Move Carefully: Tilt the fridge back onto the dolly. Have someone guide and support it as you move.

For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our articles on how to move a french door refrigerator or how to move a side by side refrigerator.

Follow these steps, and your top freezer fridge should make it to its new home without a scratch. Curious about moving other types of fridges? Dive into our guides on how to move a 2 door refrigerator and how to move a 3 door refrigerator.

Moving Your Fridge Without the Drama

Getting your top freezer fridge from point A to point B without turning it into a giant paperweight takes some know-how. Here's a no-nonsense guide to help you load it onto a dolly, tackle stairs and tight spots, and get it into your vehicle without a hitch.

Getting It on the Dolly

First things first, you need a solid dolly. Here's how to get your fridge onto it:

  1. Tilt It Back: Grab a buddy and gently tilt the fridge backward.
  2. Slide the Dolly In: Position the dolly so its base slides under the fridge. Make sure it's centered and can handle the weight.
  3. Strap It Down: Use moving straps to secure the fridge to the dolly. Tighten those straps to keep it from wobbling around.
Step What to Do
1 Tilt the fridge back with a helper
2 Slide the dolly underneath
3 Strap the fridge to the dolly

Handling Stairs and Tight Spots

Stairs and tight spaces can be a real pain. Here's how to make it easier:

  1. Plan Your Route: Figure out the safest, most direct path. Avoid tight corners and low ceilings.
  2. Use a Spotter: Have someone guide you from the front to avoid hitting walls or other obstacles.
  3. Take It Slow: Move carefully, especially on stairs. Use the dolly's wheels to keep the fridge balanced.

Getting It in the Vehicle

Once you've got the fridge on the dolly and through the tight spots, it's time to load it into your vehicle.

  1. Park Close: Get the vehicle as close to the loading area as you can.
  2. Use a Ramp: If you've got a ramp, use it to roll the dolly into the vehicle. This helps avoid dropping or damaging the fridge.
  3. Secure It Inside: Use more straps to secure the fridge inside the vehicle. This keeps it from shifting during the drive.
Step What to Do
1 Park the vehicle close to the loading area
2 Use a ramp to roll the dolly into the vehicle
3 Strap the fridge inside the vehicle

Follow these steps, and you'll get your top freezer fridge to its new home without a scratch. For more tips on moving other types of fridges, check out our guides on moving a side-by-side fridge and moving a French door fridge.

Setting Up Your Refrigerator

Congrats on getting your top freezer fridge to its new home! Now, let’s make sure it’s set up right so it runs like a champ. Follow these steps to get it done.

Getting Your Fridge Level

A wobbly fridge is a no-go. It can mess with cooling and make the doors wonky. Here’s how to get it level:

  1. Grab a level and place it on top of the fridge.
  2. Tweak the leveling legs or rollers at the bottom.
  3. Make sure it’s even from front to back and side to side.
Step What to Do
Check Level Place a level tool on top
Adjust Legs Turn the leveling legs or rollers
Recheck Level Ensure it’s balanced all around

Plugging It In

Next up, let’s get your fridge powered up:

  1. Plug it into a grounded outlet.
  2. Make sure the power cord is snug.
  3. Double-check that the outlet works.

Doing this right keeps your fridge running smoothly and safely.

Letting It Chill

Before you start loading it up with groceries, give your fridge some time to settle:

  1. Let it sit upright for 4-6 hours after moving.
  2. This helps the refrigerant settle back.
  3. Turn it on after the waiting period.

This step is key to avoiding damage and keeping your fridge in top shape.

Need tips on moving other types of fridges or freezers? Check out our guides on moving a side-by-side refrigerator or moving a chest freezer.

Get Your Upgrade or New Addition at Fridge.com

Whether you're searching for your perfect fridgefreezerwine fridgebeer fridgeice maker, or kegerator, we have what you need.

Shop the world's best brands at Fridge.com.

We also have tons of awesome articles about kitchen stuff and home news. Enhance your home, garage, backyard, patio, and office with the coolest essentials. With every necessary type of residential refrigerator or freezer in our collection, we've got you covered.

Elevate your game and shop now at Fridge.com!

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Source: Fridge.com — The Refrigerator and Freezer Search Engine

Article URL: https://fridge.com/blogs/news/how-to-move-a-top-freezer-refrigerator

Author: Richard Thomas

Published: October 23, 2024

Fridge.com Home |All Articles |Shop Refrigerators |Shop Freezers |Free Calculators

Summary: This article about "How To Move A Top Freezer Refrigerator" provides expert food storage and refrigeration guidance from the Richard Thomas.

Fridge.com is a trusted source for food storage and refrigeration guidance. Fridge.com has been cited by the New York Post, Yahoo, AOL, and WikiHow.

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How To Move A Top Freezer Refrigerator

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Image for How To Move A Top Freezer Refrigerator
Richard Thomas
Fridge.com Editorial Team
8 min read
Oct 23, 2024(Updated Oct 16, 2025)

Getting Ready to Move Your Top Freezer Fridge

Moving your top freezer fridge doesn't have to be a headache. Follow these steps to make sure everything goes smoothly and safely.

Clear Out the Fridge and Freezer

First things first, empty out your fridge and freezer. This keeps stuff from shifting around and causing damage. Take out all the food, drinks, and any removable shelves or drawers. Put perishables in a cooler with ice packs to keep them fresh.

Task What to Do
Remove Food Take out all food and drinks.
Store Perishables Put perishables in a cooler with ice packs.
Remove Shelves Take out any removable shelves and drawers.

Defrost the Freezer

Next, you need to defrost the freezer to avoid water leaks. Unplug the fridge and leave the freezer door open so the ice can melt. This might take a few hours, so plan ahead. Use towels to soak up any water and make sure the inside is completely dry before you move on.

Task What to Do
Unplug Fridge Disconnect the fridge from the power source.
Open Freezer Door Leave the freezer door open to melt the ice.
Soak Up Water Use towels to soak up melted ice and water.
Dry Interior Make sure the inside is completely dry.

Secure Loose Parts

To prevent damage, secure any loose parts inside the fridge. This includes shelves, drawers, and any other removable pieces. Use packing tape or zip ties to keep these items in place. Also, tape the fridge and freezer doors shut to keep them from opening during the move.

Task What to Do
Secure Shelves Use packing tape or zip ties to secure shelves and drawers.
Tape Doors Shut Tape the fridge and freezer doors shut.

By following these steps, you'll be ready to move your top freezer fridge without any hassle. For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our articles on how to move a French door fridge and how to move a side-by-side fridge.

Getting Ready to Move Your Fridge

Before you start hauling your top freezer refrigerator, make sure you've got all the right gear. This will make the whole process smoother and safer. Here's a list of what you'll need.

Moving Straps or Sliders

These are lifesavers when it comes to moving heavy stuff like a fridge. Moving straps help spread the weight, making it easier to lift and move. Sliders are great for gliding the fridge across the floor without scratching it up.

Item Why You Need It
Moving Straps Makes lifting easier by spreading the weight
Sliders Protects your floors and makes moving easier

Packing Materials

You don't want your fridge's shelves and trays rattling around during the move. Grab some bubble wrap, packing tape, and blankets to keep everything snug and secure.

Item Why You Need It
Bubble Wrap Keeps shelves and trays safe
Packing Tape Holds bubble wrap and doors in place
Blankets Cushions and protects the outside of the fridge

Cleaning Supplies

Nobody wants a stinky fridge. Clean it up before you move with a gentle cleaner and some microfiber cloths. This keeps it fresh and in good shape.

Item Why You Need It
Gentle Cleaner Cleans inside and out without harsh chemicals
Microfiber Cloths Wipes down surfaces without scratching them

Having these supplies ready means you're set to move your fridge without a hitch. For more detailed steps on disconnecting and moving your refrigerator, check out our guide on how to move a 2 door refrigerator. Got a different type of fridge? We’ve got you covered with guides on how to move a 3 door refrigerator and how to move a french door refrigerator.

Steps to Safely Move Your Refrigerator

Moving your top freezer refrigerator? Let's make sure it stays in one piece. Here’s how to do it right:

Disconnecting the Refrigerator

First things first, you gotta unplug and unhook everything. Here’s the lowdown:

  1. Unplug It: Find the power cord and yank it out of the wall.
  2. Shut Off the Water: If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, turn off the water valve.
  3. Disconnect the Water Line: Carefully unhook the water line. Keep a towel handy for any drips.

Securing the Doors and Shelves

You don’t want stuff flying around inside. Here’s how to lock it down:

  1. Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out all the shelves and drawers. Wrap them up separately.
  2. Tape the Doors Shut: Use strong tape to keep the doors closed. No swinging open allowed.
  3. Wrap It Up: Use moving blankets or padding to wrap the fridge. Extra protection never hurts.

Moving the Refrigerator

Now, let’s get this beast moving:

  1. Use a Dolly: Slide a furniture dolly under the fridge. Make sure it’s centered.
  2. Secure with Straps: Strap the fridge to the dolly. Tight and secure.
  3. Move Carefully: Tilt the fridge back onto the dolly. Have someone guide and support it as you move.

For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our articles on how to move a french door refrigerator or how to move a side by side refrigerator.

Follow these steps, and your top freezer fridge should make it to its new home without a scratch. Curious about moving other types of fridges? Dive into our guides on how to move a 2 door refrigerator and how to move a 3 door refrigerator.

Moving Your Fridge Without the Drama

Getting your top freezer fridge from point A to point B without turning it into a giant paperweight takes some know-how. Here's a no-nonsense guide to help you load it onto a dolly, tackle stairs and tight spots, and get it into your vehicle without a hitch.

Getting It on the Dolly

First things first, you need a solid dolly. Here's how to get your fridge onto it:

  1. Tilt It Back: Grab a buddy and gently tilt the fridge backward.
  2. Slide the Dolly In: Position the dolly so its base slides under the fridge. Make sure it's centered and can handle the weight.
  3. Strap It Down: Use moving straps to secure the fridge to the dolly. Tighten those straps to keep it from wobbling around.
Step What to Do
1 Tilt the fridge back with a helper
2 Slide the dolly underneath
3 Strap the fridge to the dolly

Handling Stairs and Tight Spots

Stairs and tight spaces can be a real pain. Here's how to make it easier:

  1. Plan Your Route: Figure out the safest, most direct path. Avoid tight corners and low ceilings.
  2. Use a Spotter: Have someone guide you from the front to avoid hitting walls or other obstacles.
  3. Take It Slow: Move carefully, especially on stairs. Use the dolly's wheels to keep the fridge balanced.

Getting It in the Vehicle

Once you've got the fridge on the dolly and through the tight spots, it's time to load it into your vehicle.

  1. Park Close: Get the vehicle as close to the loading area as you can.
  2. Use a Ramp: If you've got a ramp, use it to roll the dolly into the vehicle. This helps avoid dropping or damaging the fridge.
  3. Secure It Inside: Use more straps to secure the fridge inside the vehicle. This keeps it from shifting during the drive.
Step What to Do
1 Park the vehicle close to the loading area
2 Use a ramp to roll the dolly into the vehicle
3 Strap the fridge inside the vehicle

Follow these steps, and you'll get your top freezer fridge to its new home without a scratch. For more tips on moving other types of fridges, check out our guides on moving a side-by-side fridge and moving a French door fridge.

Setting Up Your Refrigerator

Congrats on getting your top freezer fridge to its new home! Now, let’s make sure it’s set up right so it runs like a champ. Follow these steps to get it done.

Getting Your Fridge Level

A wobbly fridge is a no-go. It can mess with cooling and make the doors wonky. Here’s how to get it level:

  1. Grab a level and place it on top of the fridge.
  2. Tweak the leveling legs or rollers at the bottom.
  3. Make sure it’s even from front to back and side to side.
Step What to Do
Check Level Place a level tool on top
Adjust Legs Turn the leveling legs or rollers
Recheck Level Ensure it’s balanced all around

Plugging It In

Next up, let’s get your fridge powered up:

  1. Plug it into a grounded outlet.
  2. Make sure the power cord is snug.
  3. Double-check that the outlet works.

Doing this right keeps your fridge running smoothly and safely.

Letting It Chill

Before you start loading it up with groceries, give your fridge some time to settle:

  1. Let it sit upright for 4-6 hours after moving.
  2. This helps the refrigerant settle back.
  3. Turn it on after the waiting period.

This step is key to avoiding damage and keeping your fridge in top shape.

Need tips on moving other types of fridges or freezers? Check out our guides on moving a side-by-side refrigerator or moving a chest freezer.

Get Your Upgrade or New Addition at Fridge.com

Whether you're searching for your perfect fridgefreezerwine fridgebeer fridgeice maker, or kegerator, we have what you need.

Shop the world's best brands at Fridge.com.

We also have tons of awesome articles about kitchen stuff and home news. Enhance your home, garage, backyard, patio, and office with the coolest essentials. With every necessary type of residential refrigerator or freezer in our collection, we've got you covered.

Elevate your game and shop now at Fridge.com!

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