Jul
26 2023

Putting your household appliances in storage: 7 most asked questions

Are you moving, relocating, or renovating your home and don't know how to store your household appliances? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we have answered 7 essential questions to make storing your household appliances a breeze. Discover the best storage solutions and learn how to protect your appliances from damage.

Why is proper appliance storage important?

Proper appliance storage is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps prolong the lifespan of your appliances. When stored correctly, appliances are protected from dust, moisture, and other factors that can cause rust, mold, or mechanical issues.

Secondly, storing your appliances properly ensures they are ready for use when you need them again.

It saves you from the hassle of repairing or replacing them due to damage incurred during storage. Lastly, organizing your appliances while storing them makes it easier to access them when needed, reducing stress, and saving time.

When it comes to proper appliance storage, there are a few key factors to consider.

Temperature and humidity control is essential to prevent damage caused by extreme conditions. Additionally, appliances should be protected from dust, dirt, and pests. Finally, proper handling and packing techniques are crucial to avoid scratches, dents, or other physical damage.

What are the common mistakes people make when storing household appliances?

While storing household appliances may seem straightforward, there are common mistakes that people often make. One of the most common mistakes is failing to clean appliances before storage. Leftover food or liquids inside appliances can attract pests and cause unpleasant odors. Cleaning appliances thoroughly and allowing them to dry completely before storage is essential.

Another mistake is not disconnecting appliances properly. For example, failing to remove the water supply hose from a washing machine can lead to leaks and water damage. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for disconnecting and preparing appliances for storage.

Improper packing is another common mistake. Appliances should be packed securely to prevent any movement or shifting during transportation or while in storage. Fragile parts should be adequately protected, and any detachable components should be stored separately and labeled for easy reassembly.

How to prepare your appliances for storage

Preparing your appliances for storage is a crucial step to ensure their safety and functionality when you need them again. Start by thoroughly cleaning each appliance. Remove any food residues, grease, or dirt from the surfaces and interiors. For refrigerators or freezers, defrost and thoroughly dry them before storage to prevent mold and odor buildup.

Next, disconnect any power cables, hoses, or other attachments. Wrap the cables neatly and secure them with tape or twist ties. For appliances with hoses, drain any remaining water and ensure they are completely dry to prevent mold or freezing.

For appliances with glass or fragile parts, use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect them. Secure the wrap with tape to prevent it from shifting during transportation or storage. If you have the original packaging or boxes for your appliances, use them for added protection. Label each box with the appliance name and any special handling instructions.

Best practices for packing and labeling appliances

Proper packing and labeling are essential for efficient appliance storage. Follow these best practices to ensure your appliances are protected and easy to identify when needed.

Start by choosing high-quality packing materials such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and packing tape. Avoid using low-quality boxes or materials that may not provide adequate protection.

When packing appliances, disassemble any removable parts and pack them separately. This includes shelves, trays, and other accessories. Use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect fragile parts and secure them with tape. Place the disassembled parts in a labeled bag or box, making sure to include a clear description of the appliance they belong to.

For larger appliances such as refrigerators or washing machines, it is recommended to use moving blankets or furniture pads to provide extra cushioning and protection. Wrap the entire appliance with the blanket and secure it with tape or straps.

Label each box or item with the name of the appliance and any special instructions for handling or assembly. This will make it easier to locate specific appliances when needed and ensure they are handled correctly during transportation.

Choosing the right storage unit for your appliances

Choosing the right storage unit for your appliances is essential to ensure their safety and longevity. Consider the following factors when selecting a storage unit:

1. Size: Make sure the storage unit is spacious enough to accommodate all your appliances comfortably. Measure the dimensions of your largest appliance and choose a unit that provides enough space for easy maneuverability.

2. Climate control: Opt for a storage unit with climate control features, especially if you live in an area with extreme temperature or humidity fluctuations. Climate-controlled units help protect your appliances from damage caused by moisture, heat, or cold.

3. Security: Make sure that the storage facility has adequate security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, secure access controls, and on-site staff during operating hours. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your appliances are safe and protected.

4. Accessibility: Consider how often you may need to access your appliances while in storage. Choose a storage unit that offers convenient access hours and allows you to easily retrieve your appliances whenever needed.

Tips for storing specific household appliances - refrigerators, washing machines, etc.

When it comes to storing large appliances, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind. Here are some tips for storing common household appliances:

Refrigerators and Freezers

1. Clean and defrost the appliance thoroughly before storage.

2. Leave the doors slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent mold or odors.

3. Place a box of baking soda inside to absorb any lingering odors.

4. Use moving blankets or furniture pads to wrap the appliance for added protection.

Washing Machines

1. Disconnect the water supply and drain any remaining water.

2. Clean the drum and detergent dispensers to prevent mold or mildew buildup.

3. Secure the drum with transport bolts or brackets provided by the manufacturer.

4. Wrap the entire machine in a moving blanket or furniture pad for protection.

Dishwashers

1. Clean the interior and remove any food residues or debris.

2. Disconnect the water supply and drain any remaining water.

3. Remove the racks and utensil holders, clean them, and pack them separately.

4. Secure the door with a bungee cord or tape to prevent it from opening during transportation.

Microwaves

1. Clean the interior and exterior of the microwave thoroughly.

2. Remove the glass turntable and pack it separately, securing it with bubble wrap.

3. Place a small bag of desiccant or silica gel inside the microwave to absorb moisture.

How to maintain your appliances while in storage

While appliances are in storage, it's important to periodically check on them and perform maintenance tasks to ensure their longevity. Follow these tips to maintain your appliances while in storage:

1. Check the storage unit regularly for any signs of pests, leaks, or mold.

2. Keep the storage unit clean and free from dust or debris that can damage appliances.

3. Open the storage unit occasionally to allow fresh air circulation.

4. If possible, run appliances for a short period to keep them in working condition.

5. Monitor the temperature and humidity levels in the storage unit and make necessary adjustments if required.

Frequently asked questions about appliance storage

1. Can I store my appliances in a regular storage unit without climate control?

While it is possible to store appliances in a regular storage unit without climate control, it is not recommended. Extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations can cause damage to your appliances, especially if stored for an extended period.

2. How long can I safely store my appliances?

Appliances can be safely stored for several months to a few years if proper precautions are taken.

3. Can I store appliances with their power cords attached?

It is generally recommended to disconnect power cords before storing appliances. This reduces the risk of any electrical issues and allows for better packing and organization.

4. Do I need to drain all the water from my appliances before storage?

Yes, this will prevent any leaks, mold, and damage caused by freezing temperatures.

5. Should I remove the batteries from small appliances before storage?

If your small appliances use batteries, it is a good idea to remove them before storage. Batteries can leak and cause damage to the appliance if left inside for an extended period.

Conclusion

Storing your household appliances properly is essential to protect them from damage and ensure their functionality when you need them again. By following the tips and guidelines in this blog, you can make the process of storing your appliances easy and stress-free. Remember to clean and prepare your appliances, pack them securely, choose the right storage unit, and perform regular maintenance checks while in storage.

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By: Lee Preston
Lee is the Director of Marketing and Promotion for EZstorit.com. When she is not working with our storage facilities partners, she is writing about topics that affect our daily lives.