How to Store a Refrigerator

Your refrigerator is not something you should try to move into self-storage on your own. Follow our refrigerator storage tips to get it ready for the move:

• Unplug and Defrost

​It takes time to get your refrigerator ready for storage. It's actually advisable to start the procedure a week or more in advance of the refrigerator relocation. First, disconnect the appliance and allow the freezer to thaw. To prevent any possible spills from melting food, take everything and food products out of the freezer and refrigerator. To prevent any drips, place a towel underneath the unit to protect your floors as well.

• Clean the Inside and Outside of the Unit

Since refrigerators are among the most used appliances in your house, it should come as no surprise that they require routine cleaning. Cleaning the refrigerator should be your first priority when deciding how to store it. After the freezer part has thawed, empty the interior of the appliance of any liquids or water that may have collected. Next, give the refrigerator's interior surfaces and all of the racks a quick cleaning.

• Remove Inner Compartments

​Take out the shelves and drawer compartments from your refrigerator before putting it into a moving truck and finally a self-storage facility. Keep these in sealed tubs or boxes. To protect the interior surface of your refrigerator in the event that you decide to move it while the drawers are still in place, it is advisable to tape the drawers closed.

• Move the Refrigerator Upright

​Moving your refrigerator on its side during a move is one of the most frequent ways to break the appliance. Your refrigerator's coils may sustain damage if it is not upright.

• Dry Thoroughly

After relocating your refrigerator to a storage unit, make sure it remains upright. Additionally, it's imperative that the refrigerator is totally dry. Remove the freezer and refrigerator doors to prevent the accumulation of moisture and mold over time.