Moving Appliances Yourself: Fridge, Washer & Stove Tips

Preparing Each Appliance Before the Move

Fridges need 24 hours of prep. Unplug the fridge, empty and clean it, and let it defrost completely — a bag of ice in the cooler handles perishables. Tape the doors shut with painter's tape and secure loose shelves with stretch wrap. Disconnect the water line if you have an ice maker and drain it into a towel. A fridge weighs 200-300 lbs, so you'll need an appliance dolly and at least one helper.

Washers require disconnecting water supply hoses and the drain hose. Run an empty spin cycle first to flush remaining water. Insert transit bolts (the ones that came with the machine) to lock the drum in place — without them, the drum can swing and crack the housing during transport. If you've lost the bolts, replacement kits are available at Canadian Tire or online for around $15.

Stoves and Dryers: Disconnection Safety

Electric stoves: unplug from the 240V outlet and let the elements cool completely. Gas stoves require turning off the gas valve behind the unit and disconnecting the gas line — if you're not comfortable with gas, call Énergir or a certified technician. Never attempt a gas disconnection you're unsure about. Tape the stove door shut and remove burner grates and knobs, packing them separately.

Dryers are similar: electric dryers unplug like stoves (heavy 240V plug). Gas dryers require shutting off the gas valve. Clean the lint trap and the exhaust hose before moving to avoid fire hazards at the new place. All appliances should be strapped upright in the truck — never lay a fridge on its side, as the compressor oil can migrate into the cooling lines.

Reconnecting at Your New Montreal Home

Let your fridge stand upright for at least 4 hours after transport before plugging it in — this lets compressor oil settle back. For washers, reconnect hot and cold water lines, check for leaks by running a short cycle, and verify the drain hose is secure. In Montreal's older buildings, especially in the Plateau and Hochelaga, plumbing connections may vary from modern standards, so bring extra hose adapters.

For gas appliances, hire a certified gas fitter (plombier agréé) to reconnect gas lines at your new address. This typically costs $75-$150 and is non-negotiable for safety. Check with your landlord about whether appliances are included in the lease — in many Montreal apartments, the fridge and stove are provided by the landlord, saving you the hassle entirely.