Transporting a washing machine that you just bought in a store is much easier than a used one, because the manufacturer made sure that it was protected from shock and other mechanical damage.
In addition, a good half of dealers offers delivery, and sometimes installation, is completely free, especially when it comes to buying equipment of the mid-price or premium segment. It is also worth noting that if the seller will transport the washing machine, then all the problems that arise along the way fall on his shoulders, and you only need to specify the address and convenient time. In any case, when buying new equipment of such a plan, it is better not to be stingy and pay for delivery. This will save you a lot of trouble.
Transportation problems
But serious difficulties arise for those who decide to transport the washing machine on their own. There are many reasons for this, and the most common is moving. By that time, the packaging must have already rotted somewhere in the country, and the transportation bolts were lost in the bowels of the pantry. In addition, many have to use when moving not specialized vehicles designed to transport goods of this class, but one that is more affordable, as well as cheaper.
In this regard, many are asking quite logical questions: “Is it possible to transport the washing machine lying on its side, standing, and be that as it may?” The domestic consumer either does not read the operating instructions or loses it completely immediately and permanently, so this problem is more than relevant.
So, let's try to figure out how to transport the washing machine, what steps need to be taken and what should be avoided during transportation of such equipment. When compiling the article, the recommendations of machine manufacturers, as well as the sad experience of the owners, reflected in the thematic forums, were taken into account.
Training
Many people ask: “Is it possible to transport the washing machine as is?”. That is, they unscrewed the hose, disconnected from the outlet - and forward. Experts unanimously answer that no, only after preparation. A washing machine is a stationary appliance with specific mechanisms and housing elements that are designed to work in one position. The same goes for transportation.
The first step is to drain the remaining water from the tank, and they will certainly be there if you washed a day or two ago. To do this, it is enough to tilt the machine a little back so that the discharge pipe is below the level of the pallet. After that, it is advisable to leave the hatch open for several hours, which will allow residual moisture to evaporate.
Hoses, wires, hatches, trays
If the water supply hose is disconnected, it is best to detach it and transport it separately. Otherwise, securely with adhesive tape behind the machine along with the network cable. As a rule, premium equipment is equipped with special grooves and holders for hose and wires, so there should be no problems. Additionally, you can wrap everything that dangles in a soft cloth or packaging film with pimples.
The hatch for linen along with the tray should also be securely fixed with the same tape, preferably in two or three layers. In extreme cases, you can transport the washing machine while lying down. Then the door with the tray will definitely not open, but not every equipment is designed for such a violation of transportation instructions.
Drum fixing
One of the main rules for transporting washing machines is the reliable fixation of the drum. Many neglect this, and as a result, a semi-dead technique with a screeching, if at all working drum comes to a new place of residence.
The best option is to fix the transportation bolts from the delivery. For this, special holes are provided in the rear of the machine, where it is necessary to screw them. But as mentioned above, not everyone has such bolts, so you have to use improvised tools.
Here, as a panacea, there is one proven option. To fix the drum, it is necessary to unscrew the back panel and, if necessary, several more so that there is full access to the inside of the machine. Then the void between the body and the drum must be filled with some soft or pliable material. Foam, polystyrene will do, and regular rags will do. The main thing is that the cylinder does not move and is securely fixed.
Packaging
If the factory packaging with polystyrene foam is preserved, it’s good, but if not, then improvised means can be used. Experts recommend covering the machine with stretch film or corrugated cardboard, and then rewinding all this with adhesive tape in several layers.
If neither the first nor the second is at hand, then you can simply cover the equipment with a blanket and fix it with a rope around the perimeter. The latter is better not to regret, because the fabric will slip during movement along the body.
Transportation rules
If you summarize all the operating instructions for washing machines, but you can designate a small set of rules that will help you bring the equipment to a safe and sound place. Their observance will avoid a lot of problems and breakdowns on the road.
- Transport equipment strictly upright.
- Securely fasten the drum with shipping bolts.
- Completely free the machine from water.
- Use only soft packaging for the unit.
- Securely fasten the machine in the back of the vehicle.
- Avoid sudden braking and cornering.
The rules seem to be simple and obvious, but for some reason many stubbornly ignore them, relying on our notorious Russian chance.
It is also worth noting that transporting the washing machine on its side is highly not recommended. If the drum makes at least a few serious leaps in this position, then you can wave your hand at the counterweights - normal washing will no longer be. Will have to put up with the screech of the cylinder during operation and the "travel" of the machine in the kitchen or bathroom. Well, or give a lot of money to repair the counterweights. In addition, in this position, residual moisture can reach the electronic control unit.
As for the situation “on the back”, far from all the equipment can be transported in this way. Simple budget models are not designed for such transportation, while devices from the mid-price and premium segments adequately survive this situation.