Moving large household appliances, especially washing machines, presents unique logistical challenges. While keeping the unit upright is the safest method, constraints like vehicle size or narrow doorways sometimes make tilting necessary. It is technically possible to lay a washing machine down for transport, but this significantly increases the risk of internal mechanical damage. Therefore, tilting should be considered a last resort and requires strict, specialized preparation.
Why Laying Down Poses a Risk
The primary risk lies with the heavy, internal concrete counterweights used for balancing the drum during high-speed spin cycles. These blocks, which can weigh over 50 pounds, are mounted specifically to counteract rotational forces on a vertical axis. When the machine is laid flat, gravity acts on these weights from an unintended direction, placing immense strain on their mounting bolts and the drum casing.
This shift in gravitational stress can cause the bolts securing the weights to shear or weaken the surrounding shell, leading to structural failure when the machine is operated again. The suspension system, which includes large springs and hydraulic dampers, is designed to manage vertical oscillation. When the machine is horizontal, these components are pulled sideways, potentially stretching or misaligning them permanently.
Furthermore, the motor and gearbox assembly in some models may contain small amounts of oil or lubricant. These fluids are intended to remain in a specific reservoir while the machine is upright. Tilting the unit can cause these lubricants to leak out and contaminate the motor windings or other electrical components, leading to eventual failure. Front-load machines are generally more susceptible to this damage because their drums are mounted horizontally, making the counterweights and suspension systems more vulnerable to lateral forces.
Essential Preparation Before Moving
Before any movement or tilting occurs, all residual water must be completely drained from the appliance to prevent electrical damage and mildew growth. This involves draining the main hose and then accessing the pump filter, typically located at the bottom front of the machine, to manually release any remaining water collected in the sump. Using a shallow tray and towels to collect this water is advisable, as the amount of water can be substantial.
The most important step for protecting a front-load machine is installing the manufacturer-supplied transport bolts. These long, threaded rods are inserted through the back panel to physically lock the rotating drum and tub assembly in place, preventing it from swinging freely during transit. If these bolts have been misplaced, they must be ordered from the manufacturer to ensure a safe move.
For top-loading units, which typically do not use transport bolts, the inner tub must be secured using specialized packaging materials or rigid foam inserts placed between the tub and the outer casing. Alternatively, heavy-duty straps can be run over the top of the tub and anchored to the outer frame to restrict its movement. Failure to secure the drum or tub will allow it to violently strike the machine’s frame, causing internal fractures.
Once the drum is secured, all external connections, including the water inlet hoses, drain hose, and power cord, should be disconnected. These loose components must then be bundled and firmly secured to the back of the machine using strong tape or zip ties. This prevents them from snagging on obstacles or causing a trip hazard during the physical maneuver.
Orientation and Post-Move Setup
The safest method of transport is always to keep the washing machine upright, secured with straps to prevent tipping. If tilting is unavoidable for maneuvering through tight spaces or loading into a vehicle, the machine should never be laid on its front or back. Laying it on the front risks crushing the control panel and door assembly, while laying it on the back places the unit’s weight directly onto the motor and hose connections.
If the machine must be laid down, it should be placed on one of its side panels, which are structurally designed to bear weight. The machine should be lifted and moved carefully, avoiding jarring movements or dropping, which can still loosen components despite the transport bolts being installed. The maximum safe tilt angle should not exceed 45 degrees from the vertical.
Immediately upon reaching the destination, the washing machine must be returned to a completely upright position before any other setup steps are taken. The transport bolts must be removed from the back panel; operating the machine with these bolts in place will cause catastrophic damage to the drum and motor mounts. These bolts should be safely stored, as they will be required for any future moves.
After the bolts are removed, allow the machine to remain upright and undisturbed for several hours (ideally three to five) before connecting the water and power. This “settling time” allows any internal fluids, such as lubricants that may have leaked or shifted during the tilt, to return to their proper reservoirs. It also allows the suspension system to fully re-engage its resting state.