Moving bulky household appliances often becomes a real problem, especially if the apartment has a mechanically sensitive floor. Linoleum, being a popular flooring, is easily scratched by sharp corners and dented by heavy equipment. Many owners are faced with an unpleasant situation when, after general cleaning or repairs, deep grooves or tears remain on the floor.
There are several proven methods that allow you to move the unit from its place without using brute physical force. Coating safety depends not only on the weight of the device, but also on the correct distribution of the load. In this article, we will look at the professional techniques that movers and installers use.
Analysis of the condition of the flooring and legs
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to carefully assess the current situation. Carefully inspect linoleum for existing damage that may get worse when moving. Pay special attention to the seams and joints of the sheets, since it is in these places that the risk of rupture is maximum.
Next you should turn your attention to the supports of the refrigerator itself. Modern models are often equipped with adjustable legs, which may have sharp plastic or metal tips. If they are screwed in too tightly, the center of gravity shifts and the pressure on one point increases many times over.
⚠️ Attention: If the linoleum is more than 10 years old, it may be dry and brittle. Moving a heavy load over such a coating without additional protection is almost guaranteed to lead to cracks.
Check the condition rollersif they are provided for by the design of your model. Hardened grease or trapped dust turns the wheels into an abrasive tool that wears away the protective layer of the floor. In some cases, it is advisable to temporarily dismantle the wheels or, conversely, unscrew the support legs so that the weight rests completely on them.
Preparation of equipment and protective materials
The success of the operation is 90% dependent on proper preparation. You do not need complex industrial equipment, but the set of available tools must be selected wisely. The main task is to create a sliding layer between the heavy sole of the unit and the floor surface.
Dense textile materials are ideal for protecting the coating. Old carpet runners, thick wool blankets or special felt pads work better than slippery plastic film that can tear on sharp edges.
Assemble the following set of tools that will allow you to do the job efficiently:
- 🛠️ Screwdriver or a wrench to adjust the height of the support legs.
- 🧶 Thick fabric, burlap or a piece of linoleum for placing under the load.
- 🧼 Soap solution or dishwashing detergent to reduce friction (use with caution).
- 🧤 Work gloves with a rubberized surface for a secure grip.
If you use cardboard, choose the most rigid boxes from household appliances. Corrugated cardboard must be dry, as wet material will instantly lose strength and turn into mush, no longer protecting the floor.
Methods of moving using sliding
The most common method is the "carpet" method. The bottom line is that dense material is placed under one side of the refrigerator, after which the unit is tilted and placed on it. Then the movement occurs not along the floor, but along the fabric.
The algorithm of actions for this method is as follows:
- Free up space in front of the refrigerator.
- Put the prepared fabric or carpet under the front legs.
- Gently pull the device towards you, rearranging the “track” as you move.
There is also a method of using polishing wheels or special plastic disks that are placed under the legs. However, this method requires caution, as the plastic may slip too quickly and get out of control.
It is important not to use excessive force. If the refrigerator does not move, then the resistance is too great, and you need to add lubricant (soap solution) or reconsider the lining material.
Use of specialized carts and platforms
For heavy two-chamber models or Side-by-Side units, manual movement can be dangerous for the back. In such cases, professionals use furniture trolleys or platforms on wheels. These devices allow you to lift the load above the floor level, completely eliminating friction.
| Device type | Load capacity | Type of wheels | Risk for the floor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Platform with 4 wheels | up to 300 kg | Rubber/Polyurethane | Minimum |
| Two-wheeled trolley | up to 150 kg | Pneumatic | Low (spot) |
| Set of rollers (4 pcs) | up to 400 kg | Plastic with rubber | Average (requires skill) |
When using the cart, it is important to maintain balance. A sharp jerk can cause the equipment to fall, which will cause irreparable damage not only to the floor, but also to the refrigerator compressor. The internal tubes of the cooling system are extremely sensitive to shock and vibration.
☑️ Readiness to use the cart
If you are using a set of four separate rollers, you need to place them along one, slightly lifting the corner of the body. This method requires the presence of two people: one lifts, the second lays and guides.
Features of working with different types of linoleum
Not all floor coverings are equally resistant to stress. Natural linoleum (marmoleum) is more elastic, but is susceptible to point pressure. Synthetic PVC-based options may be tougher, but are prone to the formation of permanent creases.
Glossy linoleum is easier to clean after moving, but on matte surfaces, friction marks may remain forever. If you have commercial high-density linoleum installed, the risks are minimal, but the household option requires maximum delicacy.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use vegetable oil or technical fluids for lubrication. They can enter into a chemical reaction with the components of linoleum, changing its color or structure forever.
During the cold season, linoleum becomes harder and more fragile. If the room temperature is below +18°C, it is recommended to pre-heat the floor (for example, with warm air from a hairdryer at a safe distance) to increase its elasticity before starting work.
Common mistakes and precautions
One of the main mistakes is trying to move the refrigerator without emptying it of its contents. Even if the shelves are empty, heavy bottles or food may remain in the doors. This creates an uneven load and increases the risk of tipping over.
It is also dangerous to pull the unit by doors or decorative handles. These elements are not designed to support the weight of the body itself and can come off at the most inopportune moment, leaving you without support.
What to do if the linoleum is torn?
If damage occurs, do not try to seal it with tape on top. Carefully lift the edges, apply special linoleum glue or use cold welding. For large tears, you will need to install a patch from the remaining coating.
Be sure to lock the refrigerator doors before moving. Use masking tape or special tape. Ordinary stationery tape can leave sticky marks or damage the varnish coating of the doors.
Final installation and checking the levelness
After the refrigerator is placed in a new place, it is important to correctly level it. A skewed body leads to improper operation of the self-closing door system and increased compressor noise.
Use a building level, applying it to the top panel. Make adjustments by unscrewing or tightening the front support legs. The rear legs are usually fixed.
Let the refrigerator sit before turning it on. If it has been tilted too much during transportation, the oil in the compressor will take time (2 to 4 hours) to return to the crankcase. This rule is especially important to observe in winter.
Is it possible to move the refrigerator on linoleum without disconnecting from the network?
It is strictly not recommended. The power cord may get caught on something, causing the device to jerk or short circuit. In addition, wet cleaning before moving requires mandatory de-energization.
How to lubricate the legs if there is no special spray?
As a last resort, you can use a concentrated soap solution. Apply it to a rag and wipe the area of the floor in front of the legs. After completing the work, the floor must be thoroughly washed with clean water to avoid stickiness.
Is linoleum dangerous to health if damaged?
Modern certified linoleum is safe. However, severe damage and subsequent heating (eg from a compressor running behind) may release minor amounts of volatiles. The integrity of the coating is also important from a hygienic point of view, since dust accumulates in the gaps.
Do you need to remove the baseboards before moving?
Usually this is not necessary if you do not plan to move the refrigerator close to the wall further than the width of the baseboard allows. If the gap is minimal, it is better to use a thin lining so as not to damage the plinth itself with the corner of the case.