Moving a washing machine

[j2400]

It appears I'm going to be able to have my very own washing machine soon, which is exciting! (No where else on the Internet can I say this and not be laughed at!)

My hope, of course, is to get one that is the latest, greatest. Appliance quality being what it's become, of course, that means several decades ago.

However, I've started wondering about safe moving of a machine. This is something I don't think I've ever done, and I'm wondering what steps might be needed to protect the machine.

First question--should machines be moved standing up? I'm guessing "yes", although I've noticed that some suggest they can be moved (short distances, at least) on their backs (if water is drained). This would, if safe, would be ideal, since a washer could easily fit the back of my car. (Standing up, I need to arrange for help from someone with a van--should be doable, although it adds complexity, with getting multiple schedules to line up, etc. Still, I prefer being "safe" than "sorry.")

Secondly, what sort of "lock down" is necessary? I've heard of movers using some sort of blocks inside the machine being moved. Is this necessary for a shorter move? If so, can one improvise? (I think I read of using old towels to do the same job.)

 

[revvinkevin]

In my humble opinion.........

I believe it all depends on what the machine is and how far are moving it.

If it's a top loading machine and you have access to a truck or van (borrow or rent), it's best to keep it upright. If you can do that I don't see any need for "shipping blocks" to restrict the tub movement, unless perhaps you are moving this machine across the country, then it may be a good precaution "just in case".

If you only have access to an SUV or wagon, I would suggest laying it on it's side (or front) rather then the back. Mostly because all of the connections are on the back and would interfer with sliding the machine in/out AND they could possibly get damaged in the process too.

If it's a front loader, I would think the same (upright or on it's side) would apply, HOWEVER, if you have to lay it on it's side I think it would be more important to put something inside to restrict the drum/tub movement, to protect the suspension.

 

[ronhic]

I've previously...

...moved our former Hoover Electra Front Loader by taking the top off and using a selection of old pillows to cushion the sides when moving a short distance (say 20miles) when I couldn't find the transit bars....

 

[DADoES]

Don't transport a Whirly/Kenmore belt-drive machine laid on or leaned toward the left side or front. The tub falls toward the left, and the snubber can be dislodged or crack the edge of the (plastic) tub ring if it's jostled. Right side is OK.

 

[kenmoreguy64]

Further to the note about Whirpool/Kenmore belt drives, these machines shouldn't be laid-down on any side for a long period of time unless you've determined that the transmission is not going to leak oil (often they do, sometimes they don't). This may take 30 minutes or more to happen, but once it does a gearcase can be subject to loose as much as half the 15 ounces of oil. This would would be nearly impossible to get out of an SUV's carpet, not to mention it needing to be INSIDE the transmission not on your floor.