Whether you are storing a small dorm fridge, a side-by-side kitchen unit, or a giant chest freezer, similar methods are required to ensure they don't suffer any damage while in the self storage unit. These preparations begin before you even pack them up to bring them to the storage facility. The following tips can keep you on the right track.
Tip #1: Begin With a Thorough Cleaning
Cleaning is the main key for successful storage. A thoroughly cleaned unit won't develop foul odors or stains, and it also won't attract insects or rodents into the unit. Wipe out all surfaces with hot water, and then disinfect it with a diluted bleach solution. When cleaning, make sure that you get inside the rubber gaskets and seals around the doors – these areas can often hide sticky food residue or crumbs. Finally, vacuum the rear coils and the front vents below the door to remove dust and debris.
Tip #2: Stow the Racks
Most fridges and freezers come with a variety of racks, drawers, baskets and dividers. These also need thoroughly washed and disinfected before storage. Follow up cleaning with a complete drying, and then pack these separately in their own box. If your fridge or freezer uses removable pegs for arranging racks, remove these as well and place them in a labeled bag inside the box. Not only will this prevent the loss of these items, it also ensures the racks aren't banging around inside the unit and causing damage while it is being moved.
Tip #3: Keep It Upright
Refrigerators and freezers have a coolant that moves through the pipes to cool the unit. The coolant is kept inside the compressor unit via gravity. This means turning the fridge on its side can cause the coolant to run into the wrong area, such as into the condenser or the compressor. Use a furniture dolly and plenty of help to move the freezer, and also tie it down well during transport to ensure it remains upright. Once you move it back out of storage, let it sit for 24 hours just to make sure all the coolant has time to flow back into the compressor.
Tip #4: Provide Circulation
No one wants a musty smelling fridge or freezer, but long-term storage can cause this problem. The easiest way to avoid it is to remove the door prior to storage. If this isn't possible, you can carefully prop the doors open. The method of propping you choose should not put any pressure on the gaskets or seals around the doors, though, since this can cause them to become warped over time.
If you're looking for a place to store your freezer, visit Pearl Street Self Storage.
