A washer and dryer are small enough to load on a dolly and heavy enough to hurt a back or a stair rail. The prep takes under an hour per machine, and it prevents water on the floor and a rattle inside the cabinet. The vent and the gas line are the two parts to treat with care.
Prepare the washer
Turn off the water supply, disconnect both hoses and let them drain into a bucket. Run an empty spin cycle to clear the pump, then wipe the drum and leave the door open to dry.
Insert the manufacturer's shipping bolts or a transit kit to lock the drum, and tape the door shut. If you no longer have the kit, ask the manufacturer for one or consult the manual.
- Shut off the hot and cold water valves.
- Disconnect both hoses and drain them into a bucket.
- Run an empty cycle to clear the pump and the drum.
- Install the drum lock or transit bolts.
- Bundle the hoses and cords inside the drum.
Prepare the dryer
Unplug the dryer and detach the vent hose. Clean the lint trap and the duct, since lint in the vent is a fire hazard.
A gas dryer needs the gas line capped by a qualified person before moving; do not disconnect it yourself. Tape the door shut and wrap the cord around the back.
Move them upright
Both machines travel upright on an appliance dolly, strapped to it. Avoid tipping washers, since water left in the pump can leak onto other items.
Measure the doorways and stairs before moving day. Machines that fit by an inch or two need a plan for removing the door or the trim.
Install at the new home
Set the machines on a level floor and adjust the feet. Remove the shipping bolts and connect the hoses with fresh washers, if the old ones look worn.
Reconnect the dryer vent with a tight, short run, and ask a qualified person to restore a gas line. Run a test cycle with no clothes before the first load.
Related guides
O'Brien's household appliance moving covers the move, and how to move a refrigerator has the defrost steps for the kitchen. The what movers will not move list covers detergents and bleach that stay behind.