Your trusty kitchen appliances do so much for you, especially the dishwasher. This hard worker is heavy as well, and when relocated, needs to be approached with care. Whether you are relocating far away or moving within Chicago, it doesn’t really matter – the dishwasher needs to be prepared and protected to get into the moving truck. Whether your professional moving team is helping you or not, checking some guidelines can help. Do you need help with unplugging and detaching the dishwasher from the kitchen area? Here are some tips on how to move the dishwashing machine safely.
Turn Off, Disconnect, Detach
When you are shutting off the dishwashing machine, it’s crucial not only to turn it off electrically, but the water supply needs to be shut off as well. The dishwasher is successfully turned off if the water valve is on the “off” switch, too.
After turning the appliance off completely, you can start disconnecting it. The draining pipe and the water supply pipe are probably located under the kitchen sink and you should disconnect them, too. With water pipes, take extra caution and place a bucket under them not to make a mess.
When you disconnect the machinery, you can start detaching the dishwasher from the kitchen area. See how it’s connected to the kitchen counter and attached to the other elements. Unscrew what needs to be unscrewed and check all the sides not to accidentally rip anything while pulling it out, which also has to be done slowly. When reattaching the appliance in your new home, you will have to repeat the process so make sure you document it – whether it’s by taking notes or photos.
Clean and Dry the Dishwasher
Before wrapping and packing the dishwasher, it’s important to clean and dry it thoroughly. Leftover water inside the appliance or its pipes can cause leaks during the move, while residual food particles can lead to unpleasant odors.
Run a final cleaning cycle without dishes, using a dishwasher-safe cleaning solution or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. After the cycle, leave the door open for several hours to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate. Wipe down the interior, filters, and door seals with a clean cloth to ensure the appliance is completely dry.
Protect Carefully
After pulling the dishwasher out, it’s crucial to wrap it so it doesn’t get nicks, scratches, or other, more serious damage during transport. Tape the door close, just in case, and then wrap it in either plastic wrap or a moving blanket. Secure everything with either tape or rope so the protecting materials stay in place.
For added protection, consider placing corner guards on the edges of the dishwasher. These guards help prevent damage to both the appliance and surrounding walls during transit. If the dishwasher has any detachable parts, such as racks or trays, remove them and pack them separately in a sturdy box. Label these boxes clearly for easy reassembly once you arrive at your new home.
Prepare the Moving Truck
When preparing to load the dishwasher into the moving truck, plan the placement carefully. Heavy appliances like dishwashers should be placed upright near the front of the truck, close to the cab. This positioning helps distribute the weight evenly and minimizes movement during transit.
Use straps or bungee cords to secure the dishwasher in place and prevent it from shifting. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of the dishwasher, as this could damage the appliance. Ensure that the appliance is well-padded with moving blankets or cushions to absorb shocks and protect it from bumps during the move.
Load into Moving Truck
The dishwasher is a heavy kitchen appliance, and your professional movers can do it for you, which would be the best decision. If you have no choice but to DIY it, make sure you have enough manpower for this heavy item. A moving dolly would be the best solution since it will protect the appliance, and everybody will stay safe.
When using a dolly, tilt the dishwasher slightly and secure it onto the platform with straps or rope. Move it slowly and carefully, especially when navigating stairs or uneven surfaces. If you’re loading the dishwasher into a vehicle yourself, enlist the help of at least one or two other people to ensure a safe and smooth process. Avoid dragging the appliance directly on the ground, as this could damage both the dishwasher and your floors.
Reinstalling the Dishwasher in Your New Home
Once you arrive at your new home, the process of reinstalling the dishwasher will mirror the disconnection steps. Carefully unpack the appliance and remove all protective wrapping. Position the dishwasher in its designated spot, reconnect the water supply and drain pipes, and secure the unit to the counter as needed.
Test the appliance by running a short cycle to ensure it’s working correctly and that there are no leaks. If you encounter any issues during reinstallation, consult the user manual or consider reaching out to a professional technician for assistance.
Need Professional Help?
If you are not confident about handling your grill (e.g., it’s too big and too difficult to disassemble and manage), you can always rely on the Chicago packing company you hired to help you handle it. Professional teams will easily disassemble, pack, and transport your grilling device.
Professional movers and packers can save you time, effort, and potential damage when moving heavy appliances like dishwashers. They have the tools and expertise to handle the disconnection, packing, and transportation safely and efficiently. While this service comes at an additional cost, the peace of mind and reduced risk of damage often make it a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
Moving a dishwasher requires careful preparation, packing, and transportation to ensure it arrives at your new home in excellent condition. By cleaning and drying the appliance, disassembling it carefully, and wrapping it securely, you can minimize the risk of damage. Using proper tools, such as a moving dolly, and enlisting professional movers if needed, further simplifies the process. With these tips in hand, you’ll be able to relocate your dishwasher safely and start using it in your new home without hassle. Good luck with your move!
