Most of us have had the experience of relocating, one way or the other – from purchasing or renting a new home, to having to renovate and furnish a summer house, or even executing moving to a new office. Well, when it comes to the last mentioned, you could use office moving assistance. That way, you’ll shorten your struggle and get back to work faster. Also, something as small as a damp washing machine could cost you hundreds of dollars, if not packed properly. And, if you happen to forget to notify your new utility provider of your move-in date, you might be spending your first nights keeping your hands warm with a little help from a candle. Moving is definitely a form of renaissance, but it shouldn’t keep you in the dark ages. In order to experience the true meaning of revival without any setbacks, simply follow our guide on what to look out for when moving utilities and appliances.
How to get good at moving utilities and appliances: Appliance crash course
Barbecue grill? Microwave? Refrigerator, washing machine, dryer, stove, oven, dishwasher, freezer! And it’s just the bulky stuff list. Don’t forget your smaller appliances. You could try and memorize it as a kiddie song, but it’s safer to make a list of every piece you’re planning on packing when relocating.Premeditation is the key
We’re not talking about simple electronic devices where you just need to dismount your TV and bubble wrap it. If your appliance is connected to a gas line or a plumbing system, you should consider hiring a professional to lend a helping hand, as it may prevent possible mishaps during your relocation. If you’re not entirely feeling confident about your deinstallation/installation skills, it’s probably wise to consider giving a plumber/electrician a call prior to your packing.Hiring a professional is highly recommended.
1,2 step
Like we already mentioned, having a professional do their work – from disconnecting and sealing gas supplies to disconnecting and securing water hoses – will spare you the trouble of making a wrong move and possibly hurting yourself and damaging your appliance. Here is our top picked advice on being on top of your appliance game.Washing machine & dishwasher
- Turning off the water and running the spin cycle will help you get rid of any excess liquid; do this a couple of days prior to your moving date
- Leave the door on your washing machine open for at least 48 hours in order to get any remaining water to evaporate, as it prevents any possible leakage during transportation
- Secure the drum – if not secured properly, it may end up damaged on your moving day. They usually come with pins or bolts, exclusively for this purpose.
Refrigerators and freezers
- Unplug your appliance and defrost it prior to your moving date
- Leave the doors open as a moisture precaution
- Remove all shelves and moving parts, pack in a separate box
- Consider putting a mildew absorber for transit
Stove, oven, microwave, barbecue
- Remove loose parts, such as racks before packing
- Get the inside of your appliance thoroughly cleaned
- Consider removing knobs if easily misplaced
- Tape the electrical cord to the back of your appliance, in order to avoid any damage during transit
- Be sure the dials are set to the OFF position
When preparing your appliances for moving, consider starting a few days prior to your actual move date
Avoid last-minute planning when moving your utilities
There isn’t a single task to be considered unchallenging when amidst moving utilities and appliances. Even if you decide on buying new appliances and get your old ones to rest a bit at your storage unit, you still have to be ahead of the game and think about the importance of keeping your storage unit clean. Allow moisture and you can say goodbye to your potential summer house appliances! You should always think a few steps ahead. Utilities are no different. Forget contacting your service providers, and you might be facing freezing nights or potential fines!Covering the basics
When it comes to utilities, being in sync is the priority. You have two homes to worry about, simultaneously. If you’re moving locally, you might find it a tad easier to transfer your utilities, as you might not opt for a new utility service provider. If that’s the case, your only responsibility is remembering to contact your providers on time (at least 2-3 weeks in advance!) about your disconnection plans, as well as suggesting your address change and the specific date. It’s always smart to have their team to come and disconnect everything a day after your move date, (as you probably need electricity and running water until the very end) and enable everything at your new address a day or two before you actually move in. (get your refrigerator running)Contacting your utility providers on time is crucial for a successful move.
To-do list
If your relocation is a long-distance one, you will need to find a time slot for exploration purposes. Finding new utility providers can be quite a quest; enquire with your new landlord, neighbors or a real estate agent to recommend some. Do this at least a month before moving out. Other things to take into consideration include:- making your utility service providers list and contacting them
- book appointments, have it in your schedule and try not to postpone
- fair and square – have inside in your balances and leave no overdue bills
- do a reading of your gas, water, and electricity when moving out
- do an energy audit for your new home