Getting Ready to Move Your Undercounter Fridge
Moving an undercounter fridge doesn't have to be a hassle. Let's break it down into simple steps, so you can get it done without breaking a sweat.
Size and Weight Check
First things first, you need to know how heavy and big your fridge is. This info will help you figure out what kind of moving gear you'll need and if you need an extra pair of hands.
| Model Type | Average Weight (lbs) | Dimensions (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Undercounter Fridge | 50 - 60 | 24 x 24 x 34 |
| Medium Undercounter Fridge | 60 - 80 | 24 x 24 x 36 |
| Large Undercounter Fridge | 80 - 100 | 24 x 24 x 38 |
Knowing the weight and size means you won't get stuck in doorways or on stairs. If you're curious about moving other types of fridges, check out our guide on moving a compact fridge.
Clean and Defrost
To avoid a mess and make sure your fridge works well in its new spot, you need to clean and defrost it.
- Empty It Out: Take all the food out and stash it in a cooler or another fridge.
- Unplug It: Turn off the power to start defrosting.
- Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out all the removable parts and set them aside.
- Defrost: Leave the door open to let the ice melt. Put towels around the base to catch any water.
- Clean Inside: Use a mild cleaner to wipe down the inside. Make sure everything is dry before you move it.
Following these steps will make sure your fridge is clean and ready to go. For more tips on defrosting, check out our article on moving a beer fridge.
With these tips, you'll be all set to move your undercounter fridge without any hiccups.
Get Your Gear Together
Before you even think about moving that undercounter fridge, make sure you've got everything you need. Trust me, it'll save you a world of trouble.
What You’ll Need
Having the right stuff makes moving your fridge a breeze. Here’s what you should grab:
- Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flathead. You’ll need these to take off panels or screws.
- Wrench: An adjustable one for disconnecting the water supply if your fridge has it.
- Dolly: A sturdy dolly to roll the fridge around.
- Measuring Tape: To make sure the fridge fits through doors and tight spaces.
- Moving Straps: These help you lift and carry the fridge without breaking your back.
- Blankets or Padding: To keep the fridge from getting scratched or dinged up.
| Tool | What It’s For |
|---|---|
| Screwdrivers | Removing panels, screws |
| Wrench | Disconnecting water supply |
| Dolly | Rolling the fridge |
| Measuring Tape | Checking doorways, spaces |
| Moving Straps | Lifting, carrying |
| Blankets/Padding | Protecting from damage |
Safety Gear
Don’t mess around with safety. Moving a heavy fridge can be risky, so gear up properly.
- Gloves: Keep your hands safe from sharp edges and give you a better grip.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Protect your feet in case you drop the fridge.
- Back Support Belt: Helps you avoid back injuries when lifting heavy stuff.
- Safety Glasses: Shield your eyes from any flying debris or dust.
| Safety Gear | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Gloves | Protect hands, better grip |
| Closed-Toe Shoes | Protect feet |
| Back Support Belt | Prevent back injuries |
| Safety Glasses | Protect eyes |
Once you’ve got all your tools and safety gear, you’re ready to move on to the next steps: emptying, securing, and disconnecting your refrigerator. Being prepared makes the whole moving process a lot smoother and safer.
Emptying and Securing the Contents
Before you even think about moving your undercounter fridge, you gotta empty it out and secure all the loose bits. Trust me, you don't want a yogurt explosion mid-move.
Clearing Out the Fridge
First things first, get all the food out. This is a must to avoid any mess or spoilage. Got perishables? Toss 'em in a cooler or another fridge for now.
- Clear Out the Food: Empty the fridge of all items, both perishable and non-perishable.
- Store Perishables: Use a cooler or another fridge to keep perishables safe.
- Toss the Junk: Perfect time to ditch expired or unwanted stuff.
Locking Down Shelves and Drawers
With the fridge empty, it's time to secure those shelves and drawers so they don't rattle around or break.
- Remove Shelves and Drawers: Take out any removable shelves and drawers.
- Wrap and Secure: Use bubble wrap or towels to wrap the shelves and drawers. Secure them with tape or rubber bands.
- Label: Label the wrapped shelves and drawers for easy reassembly later.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove all food items |
| 2 | Store perishables in a cooler |
| 3 | Dispose of unwanted items |
| 4 | Remove shelves and drawers |
| 5 | Wrap shelves and drawers |
| 6 | Label for reassembly |
For more detailed steps on securing your refrigerator for a move, you can refer to our guide on how to move a built-in refrigerator.
By following these steps, you'll ensure that your undercounter refrigerator is ready for the next stage of the move. For additional tips on moving different types of refrigerators, check out our articles on how to move a French door refrigerator and how to move a side-by-side refrigerator.
Disconnecting and Unplugging
Turning Off the Power
First things first, let's cut the juice. Find the power switch or circuit breaker for your undercounter fridge. Flip that switch to "off" or shut off the circuit breaker. This step is all about keeping things safe while you unplug and move the fridge.
Disconnecting Water Supply (if applicable)
Got a water line for an ice maker or water dispenser? Time to turn it off. Look for the water supply valve, usually hiding behind the fridge or in a nearby cabinet. Twist the valve clockwise to stop the water flow. Then, carefully detach the water line from the fridge. No one likes a surprise waterworks show.
Unplugging the Refrigerator
With the power off, it's time to unplug. Gently pull the fridge away from the wall to get to the power cord. Grab the plug (not the cord) and pull it straight out of the outlet. Tugging on the cord can mess things up, so avoid that.
Follow these steps, and your fridge will be ready to move. For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our other guides like how to move a 2 door refrigerator and how to move a compact refrigerator.
Moving the Undercounter Refrigerator
Moving an undercounter refrigerator isn't rocket science, but it does need a bit of care and attention. Let's make sure you do it safely and without any hiccups.
Get Some Help
These things can be heavy and awkward to move. If you’re feeling like it’s too much to handle alone, grab a friend or family member. Two heads (and pairs of hands) are better than one. Plus, it’s a good way to avoid any back injuries or dropping the fridge on your foot.
Lift and Move Like a Pro
When it comes to lifting and moving your undercounter refrigerator, here are some tips to keep you and your fridge in one piece:
- Use Your Legs, Not Your Back: Bend those knees and let your leg muscles do the heavy lifting. Your back will thank you later.
- Keep It Upright: Always keep the fridge standing up. Laying it down can mess with the internal parts.
- Get a Good Grip: Make sure you’ve got a solid hold on the fridge. If it’s slippery, throw on some gloves.
- Take It Slow: No need to rush. Slow and steady wins the race and keeps your fridge (and you) safe.
- Clear the Path: Make sure there’s nothing in your way. The fewer obstacles, the better.
Use the Right Tools
Sometimes, a little extra help from some tools can make a big difference. Here’s what you might need:
- Furniture Dolly: This little guy can make moving the fridge a breeze. Just pop the fridge on it and strap it down so it doesn’t slide off.
- Moving Straps: These can help spread the weight around, making it easier to carry.
- Gliders: Stick these under the fridge’s feet to slide it across the floor without scratching anything up.
| Tool | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Furniture Dolly | Makes moving the fridge easier |
| Moving Straps | Spreads the weight for easier lifting |
| Gliders | Helps slide the fridge without damaging the floor |
If you’re curious about moving other types of fridges, check out our guides on how to move a built-in refrigerator and how to move a compact refrigerator.
By getting some help, lifting and moving safely, and using the right tools, you’ll have that undercounter refrigerator in its new spot in no time.
Moving Your Fridge Without a Hitch
Getting Your Fridge Ready
Moving your undercounter fridge? Let's make it a breeze. Here’s how to do it right:
- Grab a Dolly: Slide a dolly or hand truck under the fridge. This saves your back and keeps things steady.
- Strap It Down: Secure the fridge to the dolly with straps. This stops it from wobbling around.
- Buddy System: Get a friend to help. Two heads (and pairs of hands) are better than one.
- Lift Smart: Carefully lift the fridge onto the dolly, keeping it upright. Tilting too much can mess up the insides.
Locking It In the Vehicle
Now that the fridge is on the dolly, let’s get it snug in your vehicle. Proper securing is key to avoiding damage.
- Stand Tall: Keep the fridge upright. Laying it down can cause oil from the compressor to leak into the cooling lines, which is a big no-no.
- Tie It Tight: Use tie-down straps to lock the fridge in place. Hook the straps to the vehicle’s anchor points and tighten them up.
- Pad It Up: Wrap the fridge in blankets or padding to shield it from bumps and shakes.
- Stability Check: Before hitting the road, make sure the fridge is stable and not wobbly. This keeps it safe during the drive.
| Step | Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grab a Dolly | Save your back and keep things steady |
| 2 | Strap It Down | Stop it from wobbling around |
| 3 | Buddy System | Two heads (and pairs of hands) are better than one |
| 4 | Lift Smart | Avoid messing up the insides |
| 5 | Stand Tall | Prevent compressor oil from leaking into cooling lines |
| 6 | Tie It Tight | Lock the fridge in place |
| 7 | Pad It Up | Shield from bumps and shakes |
| 8 | Stability Check | Keep it safe during the drive |
Follow these steps, and your undercounter fridge will be safely moved to its new home. For more tips on moving other types of fridges, check out our guides on moving a 2-door fridge and moving a side-by-side fridge.
Setting Up Your Undercounter Fridge
So, you've moved your undercounter fridge to its new spot. Now, let's get it up and running again. Follow these steps to make sure everything's in place and working smoothly.
Getting the Fridge in Place
Measure the Space: Before you do anything, grab a tape measure and check the dimensions of the area where the fridge will go. Make sure there's enough room for the fridge to breathe—ventilation is key.
Level the Floor: A wobbly fridge is a no-go. Use a spirit level to check if the floor is even. If not, adjust it. This helps the fridge run better and keeps your drinks from spilling.
Slide It In: Gently slide the fridge into its new home. Leave a bit of space at the back and sides for airflow. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for how much space you need.
Hooking Up Power and Water
Plug It In: Find the nearest outlet and plug in the fridge. Make sure the plug is snug and the outlet works.
Flip the Switch: Turn on the power to the outlet. Check if the fridge lights up and any display indicators are working.
Connect the Water (if needed): If your fridge has a water dispenser or ice maker, hook up the water supply line. Tighten all connections to avoid any leaks.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the space |
| 2 | Level the floor |
| 3 | Slide the fridge in |
| 4 | Plug it in |
| 5 | Turn on the power |
| 6 | Connect the water (if needed) |
Setting up your undercounter fridge is all about getting it in the right spot and making sure it's connected properly. For more tips on moving different types of fridges, check out our articles on moving an apartment-size fridge or moving a drawer fridge.
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