Are you wondering how to store a refrigerator in a self-storage unit? Then keep reading this post, as we will help you with that in 5 easy steps.
The first step is the get rid of any food and drinks inside the refrigerator before storage. Removing leftover foods prevents pests from being attracted to your refrigerator during storage.
Once you have your fridge cleaned out, the next step is to get rid of the ice, and you can do this by unplugging the refrigerator from the socket or source of power. When defrosting your refrigerator, make sure to leave some absorbent, such as a towel or paper towel, underneath and around the fridge to absorb all the melted ice.
To ensure proper defrosting, we recommend you open the doors of the refrigerator. Also, allow the refrigerator to defrost for at least three days before storing; this is because fridges are engineered to maintain their temperature for two days if the doors are closed; so, opening the doors for at least three days ensures it is completely dried out.
Defrosting your fridge is crucial because if it has some moisture content during storage, it will serve as a breeding ground for molds.
Once your refrigerator is completely defrosted, the next step is to clean it. Cleaning the fridge removes any excess food particles and moisture content, leaving your fridge squeaky clean.
Before cleaning, remove all the shelves inside the fridge, and then using a soft sponge and warm soapy water or baking soda, clean the inside and outside of the refrigerator. When done, the CDC recommends that you use 1 gallon of water and a tablespoon of liquid bleach to keep it sanitized.
Also, remember to dust off the coil magnets behind the fridge.
Now, the fridge is ready to be moved! However, when moving it, do not just move it anyhow; ensure to let the refrigerator stand upright when moving it to the self-storage unit. Laying it on the side can destroy the compressor; therefore, let it stand upright when moving it.
Now you get to go ahead and store it at the storage unit; however, when doing so, ensure to place the fridge upright (in the same position you use it at home), and also, open the doors to allow for air to circulate throughout the fridge.
