Moving a washer and transporting it on its side? If you’re thinking about moving your washing machine laying down there are some things to consider before doing so.
Can I Transport A Washing Machine On Its Side?
What is the best way to move a washing machine?
You should always keep a washer upright when moving it. Transporting a washing machine horizontally will allow some of the internal parts of the washer to rub against each other. If this happens the tub moving around on its side may damage the support pads and create issues with the wash tub suspension area. If possible, whether new or used, always move a washing machine in the upright position.
Moving a washing machine on its side
If you have no choice and have to move the washer on its side, moving a top load washer VS a front load washer on its side can be done in almost the same way. A top load washer should have the agitator removed if possible. Both washers should have any remaining water in tub emptied before moving. Also installing any shipping bolts, clamps, or spacers that were shipped with the unit when new should be installed on the washing machine to prevent damaging the washer.
What are washing machine transit bolts?
What to do before moving a washing machine?
Before moving a washing machine, be sure the washer is unplugged and the water is turned off and disconnected from the washer. Remove any remaining water from the washer using a wet/dry shop vac. It is best to try and shim the wash tub or install washing machine transit bolts before laying it on its side for transport to avoid damaging internal components of the washer. Once the washer is ready to be moved, you will need a moving blanket or similar to protect against damaging the washer.
How to move a washing machine?
What is the best way to move a washing machine?
It is very important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any movement of your washing machine. Failure to move the washer properly may cause major damage and result in repairs needed. Use 2 people when moving the washer. Move your washing machine using a hand truck designed for appliances. Try to use a ramp when possible as it is safer for you, the washer, and the flooring you are moving on.
How to transport a washing machine by yourself?
Can I move a washing machine in my car?
You should always keep a washing machine upright when transporting it. A washing machine moved with a car is next to impossible as it cannot be kept upright. Laying the washer on its side can cause major damage to the drum and components and is not recommended. However, if the shipping bolts or shims are installed in the washer, it could be transported on its side but with extreme caution.
Example of why a washer would be need to be moved on its side…
Question: I have a small SUV and a washing machine will not stand upright in the back. Can lay a used washing machine on its side when using my SUV for moving? The washer won’t fit into the allocated space. Can I lay it down on its side? If laid down sideways can the wash tub or any other parts of the washer be damaged? I presume that there will be remaining water in the drain of a washing machine when I pack it for moving. What is the volume of water remaining? What should I do to stop a washer from leaking while moving it? I am trying to avoid the water leaking out the bottom of the machine when I lay it on its side.
Answer: The internal washer tub is attached with springs. If transporting the washer on its side, install washing machine transit bolts or add wooden shims in between the tub and the outer cabinet to prevent the tub from breaking the springs or damaging any support pads. Use a piece of wood on the side of the washer that is facing downward to prevent the tub from bouncing around and damaging any internal parts including springs falling off or springs breaking. There may be some residue water left in the drain hose, drain pump and possibly in the wash tub. Try to empty the water from the washing machine before moving it. Use a shop vac to suck any water out so it does not leak during transport. Once the washer is emptied of water, add a dry rag in the drain hose to avoid any extra water from coming out. Use a blanket or similar to wrap the washer to avoid any damage to the control panel or outside cabinet.
Need help with moving a washing machine on its side either a top load or front load washer? Let us know what model number of washing machine you are moving and someone can assist you with the best way to move it safely.
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