When you’re thinking about upgrading our old appliances, the excitement of a shiny new refrigerator or a sleek washer definitely overshadows the less glamorous task of getting rid of the old appliance. Unfortunately, appliance removal can often be more complex than most homeowners realize, especially if the appliances are located in hard-to-reach places like basements or attics. While it may seem like a manageable task to handle on your own, it can quickly turn into a costly mistake if you’re not careful.
At Get R Gone Junk Removal, we’ve seen firsthand the challenges of moving heavy, outdated appliances. From navigating tight staircases to ensuring proper disposal and recycling, the process requires more than just strength—it takes experience, the right equipment, and a commitment to recycling.
The Risks of DIY Appliance Removal: A Cautionary Tale
Recently we received a call from a client who had tried to remove a 40+ year-old freezer from their basement. They assumed it would be a straightforward task. They called up one of their friends, thinking that with the two of them, they could simply lift the appliance up the narrow basement stairs using nothing but strength. But as they soon discovered, it wasn’t that easy.
The freezer had been sitting in the basement for decades, and over the years, the moisture in the basement had caused the metal to rust on the bottom. The sheer weight of the freezer, combined with its awkward shape, sharp rusty bottom and the tight stairwell, made it extremely difficult to move by hand. After struggling for quite some time, they gave up. But the real damage was done by then. In their attempt to maneuver the freezer, they scratched their hardwood floors, dented the walls, and caused several hundred dollars’ worth of damage. What started as a DIY project to save money unfortunately had ended up costing them far more than they expected.
When they found our team at Get R Gone and booked a pickup, we assessed the situation and identified a strategy to get the freezer out of the basement. With the help of moving blankets and professional moving straps, we carefully lifted the freezer and maneuvered it out of the basement without further damage. In the end, the clients were relieved they called us, wishing they had done so from the start. It always saddens us when we hear of a client who did damage to their property trying to remove something themselves.
Why Professional Removal Matters
Stories like this are more common than you might think. Removing large appliances is not just about strength. It’s about knowing how to handle difficult situations without damaging your home or risking injury. Whether it’s a refrigerator stuck in the basement, a stove wedged in a tight kitchen corner, or a washer-dryer set located on an upper floor with a winding staircase, each removal requires a different approach, knowledge and experience.
At Get R Gone, we’ve handled removals from every type of situation. Here’s why we believe hiring a professional service like ours makes all the difference:
- The Right Equipment: In our work, no two removal jobs are exactly the same. That’s why we bring the appropriate tools for each unique situation. Dollies are great for flat surfaces, but shoulder dollies and straps—designed to distribute weight more evenly—are ideal for navigating stairs or tricky angles. Moving blankets protect walls and floors from scratches and act as a smooth surface for rotating heavy furniture. We always assess each job carefully to ensure we’re using the right combination of tools to get the job done safely and efficiently.
- Experience and Technique: Our team is trained to move heavy, awkward appliances with precision. We know how to angle a large appliance to get it through tight doorways or up narrow staircases without damaging walls or flooring. It’s not just about muscle; it’s about strategy. If you pay attention to the junk removal and moving industries, you will noticed that many of the best movers are not the most muscular men or women. This is because they have the experience and perfected their technique, allowing them to move any item with ease.
- Avoiding Injury: Large appliances are incredibly heavy and difficult to maneuver. Without proper lifting techniques, you risk serious injury. Moving heavy appliances and furniture up and down stairs also comes with a unique risk of crushing someone, this is why we always recommend hiring a professional. We prioritize safety, and we have the expertise to handle these dangerous tasks with the right posture and lifting strategies.
The Importance of Recycling and Responsible Disposal
Once the appliance is removed, the next important step is proper disposal. Appliances are made from a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and hazardous substances like refrigerants, that require responsible handling.
At Get R Gone, we take a “recycle and donate first” approach. Before any appliance is discarded, we determine whether it can be donated to local organizations for reuse. If the appliance is beyond repair or use, we ensure that it’s recycled properly, so that the recyclable materials can be reclaimed, and the hazardous components are handled responsibly.
By recycling old appliances, we help reduce the need for new raw materials, conserve energy, and minimize the harmful effects that improperly discarded items can have on the environment. The next time you consider tossing an old refrigerator or washing machine, remember that proper recycling is a key part of its lifecycle.
Have an appliance to remove? Give us a call!
Old appliances might seem like just another piece of junk to get rid of, but their removal requires careful planning and execution. Trying to handle the process yourself can lead to damage, injury, and unforeseen costs, as one of our recent clients found out. At Get R Gone Junk Removal in London and St. Thomas Ontario, we have the tools, training, and commitment to both you and the environment to ensure your appliances are removed safely and responsibly.
So the next time you’re ready to say goodbye to that old refrigerator or freezer, don’t go it alone. Give us a call, and we’ll make sure the job gets done right, from start to finish.
