Transporting a washing machine is a task that requires adequate preparation. This equipment is heavy, fragile and sensitive to mechanical damage. Improper transport can result in damage to internal components or even total destruction of the appliance. Find out proven ways to transport your washing machine safely and the most important rules to follow.
How to prepare a washing machine for transport?
For a smooth transport of your washing machine, proper preparation is key. Take note of the steps to follow before transporting your washing machine:
- Disconnect from power and water –unplug the washing machine from the socket and shut off the water supply before starting any work.
- Draining and drying – residual water can lead to flooding inside the washing machine and damage to components. Therefore, it is a good idea to run a short spin cycle and then unscrew the filter and drain the water.
- Secure the drum – most new washing machines come with special transport screws to lock the drum and prevent it from being damaged in transit. If you don’t have these, it’s worth looking for replacements or using other ways to stabilise the drum.
- Removeloose parts – remove any moving parts, such as the detergent drawer or filter cover, to avoid them falling out accidentally. It is best to protect them with stretch film so that they do not get scratched during transport.
How to transport a washing machine?
Depending on the means of transport available, a washing machine can be transported in several ways. However, each method requires basic safety precautions. Here are some tips on how you can transport your washing machine.
Upright transport
Many people wonder whether a washing machine can be transported on its side. Meanwhile, the safest way to transport a washing machine is upright. This is the recommended method as it reduces the risk of damage to the drum and shock absorbing components. How to transport a washing machine in the upright position? Remember to:
- place the washing machine stably in the vehicle,
- Secure the washing machine with the transport straps and angle and corner protection,
- placing additional protection, e.g. blankets or sponges, to prevent the washing machine from moving.
Can the washing machine be transported lying down?
Although it is not the recommended method, in some situations it may be necessary to transport the washing machine lying down. If this is the case, it is best to lay it on its back so that the drum does not put pressure on the delicate cushioning elements. The case is similar if you are wondering how to transport a top-loading washing machine. To minimise the risk of damage:
- make sure the drum is well protected,
- place the washing machine on a soft material (e.g. a blanket, bubble wrap or foam),
- avoid sudden movements and shocks during transport.
Moving the washing machine
A washing machine is a heavy piece of equipment, so moving it requires care and the use of appropriate tools. It is crucial to use transport straps to help distribute the weight evenly and reduce the risk of dropping the appliance. If the washing machine is being transported a short distance, it is worth using a transport trolley to make it easier to manoeuvre. It is also important to have the assistance of a second person. Washing machines are so heavy that it is best to carry them with two people, avoiding excessive strain on the back.
Find out also, How to transport a fridge and what to secure it with?
How to safely load and unload a washing machine?
Loading and unloading a washing machine are the moments when damage is most likely to occur. To prevent this, it is worth remembering never to grab the washing machine by protruding parts such as knobs or drum doors. If the appliance is transported by stairs, it is best to use belts and move it gradually. Once the washing machine is in the car, it is necessary to immobilise it with belts, straps or other restraints to prevent the equipment from moving during the journey.
What to keep in mind after transporting the washing machine?
You already know how to transport a washing machine safely. Transporting a washing machine requires adequate preparation and the observance of a few basic rules. The safest method is to transport the washing machine in an upright position, but if this is not possible, you can transport the washing machine lying down, remembering to secure it properly.
Careful handling and correct loading and unloading are also key. In turn, once you have arrived at your destination, it is a good idea to give your washing machine a moment’s rest before reconnecting it. Especially if it has been transported horizontally, it is a good idea to wait a few hours so that any fluids inside the appliance can drain into place.
Then loosen the transport screws and check that the drum moves freely. You also need to connect the drain and inlet hose according to the manufacturer’s instructions. To be sure, it is a good idea to run a test wash cycle without a load to satisfy yourself that the appliance is working properly. By following the above tips, you can avoid damage and ensure a long service life for your appliance.