Helpful Hints When Moving in the Winter Months

If you are planning a move this winter, we wanted to share some practical advice when scheduling third-party vendors during the move process. In cold weather conditions, we do not recommend scheduling third-party servicing on the day of delivery for items such as your wine refrigerator, washing machine or dryer, icemaker, electrical or computer equipment or grandfather clock. It is important to allow time for these items to adjust to room temperature before servicing. Refer to the items listed below for detail on maintenance during the first few days in your new home.

Dryers

Igniters and elements can become brittle. Attempting to operate the dryer will cause a sudden temperature change and may damage internal parts.

Electrical Equipment

All manufacturers warn that extreme temperature changes can cause condensation in electrical equipment. Therefore, it is best to wait 24 hours before servicing any of these items. This includes the servicing of televisions, computer and stereo systems.

Ice Makers

Although the system is serviced at the origin (draining of solenoid valve), residual moisture in the solenoid valve and supply lines may be frozen. The icemaker system should reach room temperature to ensure a complete and thorough system check after hooking up.

Grandfather Clocks

Extreme cold temperatures cause oil in pivot points to gum up. Small components will contract and restrict the operation of moving parts in the mechanism. The clock should be allowed to reach room temperature before setting the mechanism in beat.

Washing Machines

A third-party drains water from the pump at the origin, however, the washer will always maintain some water in the mixer valve, pump, and internal hoses. Attempting to operate while moisture is frozen can result in danger to internal components.

Waterbed Mattresses

Residual moisture will freeze inside the mattress during cold months. Attempting to handle a vinyl mattress before it reaches room temperature can cause cracking in the vinyl. The unit should remain in its box for at least 12 to 24 hours before handling.

Water Softener

Residual water in supply tanks will freeze during winter months. The units should be allowed to reach room temperature before installation.

About Atlas Transfer & Storage

If you are ever in need of moving and storage services, trust the experts at Atlas Transfer & Storage. We are a full-service Allied Van Lines agent based in San Diego California. Contact us for a free moving estimate.