Temporary storage facilities are really handy in situations like when you can’t move into your new home right away and need a place to keep your belongings. While most temporary storage facilities are safe, there are some extra precautions you should take to keep your belongings safe. Here is what you need to know about storing a refrigerator in temporary storage.
Keep it off the floor!
If you have an enclosed indoor storage unit, then this isn’t as big of an issue. However, with the cheaper, drive-up style of temporary storage units, you will need to pay attention to the floor. The best ones will have floors which are slightly elevated off the ground. This extra inch or two helps create a barrier against moisture and protects should rain water flooding occur. If the floor of the storage unit is level with the outdoors, then moisture from the ground could transfer up to your belongings. For your refrigerator, this could mean rusted parts and damaged finish! A good trick is to put wooden pallets on the floor of the storage unit. Put your fridge (and other belongings) on top of the pallets instead of directly on the floor.
Keep the doors open
When your refrigerator is turned on, the coolness helps prevent mildew, mold and bacteria from growing. Once your refrigerator is off though, the dark, humid atmosphere is perfect for these nastiest to grow. Keep the door open to maximize air flow so your refrigerator doesn’t get a foul smell. Or, go the extra mile and remove the doors before you store it.
It must be completely dry
You must defrost your refrigerator and freezer completely before putting it in storage. After defrosting, keep the doors open for at least one day to ensure all the tiny droplets of moisture dry. Otherwise, you will create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria! Don’t forget that any water lines also must be drained and dried!
How to store a refrigerator safely in temporary storage?
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