Whether you’re relocating across Winnipeg or just rearranging your laundry room, moving a washing machine requires proper technique. These heavy appliances are easy to damage during transport—and damage often isn’t visible until you try to use the machine.
Follow this guide to move your washer safely.
Before You Move: Essential Preparation
Gather Supplies
- Moving dolly or appliance dolly
- Moving straps or bungee cords
- Towels and bucket
- Pliers or adjustable wrench
- Transit bolts (for front-loaders)
- Tape for securing cords and hoses
- Blankets for protection
Recruit a Helper
Washing machines weigh 150-250+ pounds. Moving one alone risks:
- Personal injury
- Damage to machine
- Damage to floors and doorways
Always have at least two people.
Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Washer for Moving
Step 1: Run an Empty Spin Cycle
This removes most water from the drum and pump.
Step 2: Turn Off Water Supply
Close both hot and cold water taps behind the washer.
Step 3: Disconnect Power
Unplug the machine completely.
Step 4: Disconnect Water Inlet Hoses
Have towels and a bucket ready—water will drain from hoses.
- Disconnect from wall taps
- Disconnect from back of washer
- Let hoses drain completely
Step 5: Disconnect Drain Hose
Remove from standpipe or utility sink. Let any remaining water drain.
Step 6: Drain Residual Water
Even after a spin cycle, water remains in the pump:
- Find the drain filter access (front-loaders)
- Place towels and a pan underneath
- Open the filter slowly and drain water
- For top-loaders, tip the machine slightly to drain
Step 7: Secure Hoses and Cord
Tape the power cord and hoses to the machine so they don’t drag or catch.
Front-Load Washers: Transit Bolts Are Critical
Why Transit Bolts Matter
Front-load drums are suspended by springs and shock absorbers. During transport, the drum can swing and damage:
- The drum itself
- Suspension components
- The outer tub
- Internal connections
Transit bolts lock the drum in place.
Finding Your Transit Bolts
If you still have the original bolts:
- Check your documentation
- Usually 3-4 bolts
- May have plastic spacers attached
If you’ve lost them:
- Order replacements from the manufacturer
- Generic bolts are available at appliance parts stores
- In a pinch, some movers use moving blankets to cushion the drum
Installing Transit Bolts
- Locate the bolt holes on the back of the machine
- Remove the cover plugs (if installed)
- Insert bolts and tighten firmly
- Don’t overtighten—snug is sufficient
Don’t Forget to Remove Them
After moving, remove the transit bolts immediately. Running a washer with transit bolts installed causes severe damage—banging, vibration, and broken suspension components.
Moving the Washing Machine
Using an Appliance Dolly
- Slide the dolly under the front of the washer
- Tip the washer back onto the dolly
- Secure with straps
- Wheel carefully, avoiding bumps
Without a Dolly (Not Recommended)
If you must:
- Tip the washer and slide a blanket underneath
- Drag slowly on the blanket
- Use extreme caution on stairs—this is dangerous
Stairs
Moving washers on stairs is high-risk:
- Use proper appliance straps
- Take one step at a time
- Have one person above, one below
- Consider hiring professionals for this
In the Vehicle
- Secure upright if possible
- Strap firmly to prevent movement
- Protect with blankets
- Drive carefully—avoid hard braking
After the Move: Reinstallation
Step 1: Position the Washer
Leave space behind for hoses and ventilation (if applicable).
Step 2: Remove Transit Bolts (Front-Loaders)
Critical! Remove all transit bolts and store them for future moves.
Step 3: Level the Machine
Use a bubble level:
- Check front-to-back and side-to-side
- Adjust feet as needed
- All four feet must touch floor firmly
- Test for wobbling
Step 4: Connect Drain Hose
Insert into standpipe or utility sink:
- Ensure proper height (consult manual)
- Secure so it can’t pop out during drain
Step 5: Connect Inlet Hoses
- Hot to hot, cold to cold
- Hand-tighten, then 1/4 turn with pliers
- Use new washers if old ones are worn
Step 6: Turn On Water
Open taps slowly and check for leaks at all connections.
Step 7: Plug In Power
Connect to a properly grounded outlet.
Step 8: Test Run
Run an empty hot water cycle:
- Listen for unusual noises
- Watch for leaks
- Verify proper operation
- Check that it’s still level after the test
Winnipeg Winter Moving Tips
Moving your washer in Winnipeg winter requires extra care:
- Don’t leave in the cold – Components can crack
- Drain completely – Any water inside can freeze
- Warm it up – Let the washer reach room temperature before using
- Protect the exterior – Cold makes plastic brittle
When Moving Causes Problems
Common Post-Move Issues
- Excessive vibration – Not level, transit bolts not removed
- Won’t fill – Hoses kinked, taps not opened
- Leaking – Loose connections, hose damage during move
- Error codes – Sensors disturbed, components shifted
- Strange noises – Internal damage from transport
Call for Service If:
- Transit bolts were not used and machine was transported far
- Machine shakes severely even when level
- Leaks from locations other than connections
- Error codes won’t clear
- Noises indicate internal damage
Professional Moving Help
If moving your washer seems too risky, we can help:
- Proper disconnection and preparation
- Safe transport (or coordination with movers)
- Professional reinstallation and testing
- Diagnosis and repair if problems occur
Contact us today for washing machine moving and installation in Winnipeg. We make sure your washer arrives and operates safely.