Before you unplug your kitchen appliances and lug them out to storage or a moving van, keep reading to learn the pros of leaving them behind. The benefits of leaving them in your old space may surprise you:
1. Large Appliances Require Extra Care
Stoves, dishwashers and refrigerators may seem strong enough to withstand the typical bumps and bruises that come with moving. However, these appliances rely on complex electronics that can easily be damaged if you don’t exercise extreme care. These extra steps and precautions can be a hassle when you have to move in a hurry.
If you decide to bring your appliances with you, here are some steps that you need to take when moving large appliances:
- To properly move your dishwasher, you’ll need to disconnect and drain all the hoses. The dishwasher will need to dry fully before you move it. Otherwise, you may find mold or mildew buildup once you get to your new home.
- To pack your gas stove, you need to hire a certified technician to disconnect it from the gas line and seal any openings; if done improperly, this could lead to a house fire. Electric stoves don’t require specialized technicians.
- To ship your refrigerator or freezer, remove any loose parts, such as drawers or shelves, and pack them separately. They must also completely dry out before your move to prevent mold and mildew.
Once your appliances arrive at your new home, let them sit without being plugged in for 24 to 48 hours. That way, the temperature will stabilize before you connect them to electricity. Make sure you pack snacks and prepare for eating out for meals during this time.
2. Large Appliances Cost More to Ship
Moving already comes with a lot of expenses like packing supplies and hiring a moving crew—moving your large appliances brings that cost up. They take up a lot of space in the moving truck, and their weight makes loading and unloading difficult and stressful. Moving companies determine your bill based on weight and volume. The large appliances take up a huge portion of your moving budget that could be better used elsewhere.
Compare the cost and time of unhooking, loading, shipping and re-installing your appliances to the cost of new units. You may find it easier and cheaper just to buy new appliances.
3. Your Appliances May Score a Better Home Sale
There is no obligation or expectation to leave your appliances behind when you move. However, most first-time homebuyers tend to look for fully loaded homes that require minimal maintenance or purchases upfront. When potential buyers view your home and see the latest and greatest appliances in amazing condition, they’re more likely to make your property a priority over a similar home priced lower.
You can also use your mint-condition stoves and refrigerators as a bargaining chip when you create your listing. Your realtor can help assess your home’s value based on the condition of the appliances, and with a little negotiation, you can earn a little more on the sale of your home.
Enjoy a Simpler Move Without Your Appliances
Although you may feel some attachment to your larger appliances, you could be better off leaving a few of them behind during your move. Without a heavy stove or dishwasher to load and unload, you can save time and money on transportation while moving.
Another way to make your move hassle-free is to contact the moving experts at Wheaton World Wide Moving. We’re here to help at every step of the moving process. Contact Wheaton today!
