Winter Moving Tip and Policies

Although many parts of the country have experienced their first winter storm, winter doesn't officially begin until December 21st.

It may not officially be winter, but there are several things to keep in mind if you choose to move during the winter months. Many of your appliances and other devices require special care and handling due to freezing temperatures and other conditions.

Due to the potential exposure to freezing temperatures during transportation, it is the policy of our service providers that certain items have sufficient time to acclimate to room temperature. Many manufacturers recommend this same acclimation period. The goal is to reduce property damage, and these policies normally remain in effect until late spring. After November 1st, it is not recommended that the following items be serviced or reconnected on the same day they are delivered to your new residence:

Washing Machines: Even when the pump is drained at origin, the washer will always retain some water in the mixer valve, pump housing and internal hose areas. Attempting to operate the machine while this water is frozen can result in damage to belts, pump impeller, hoses, and other components. Operating temperature should be above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Gas & Electric Dryers: When subjected to freezing temperatures, igniters and heating elements become brittle. Attempting to operate the dryer will cause a sudden temperature change and may damage internal parts. Operating temperature should be above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Refrigerators - Ice makers: A refrigerator may be plugged in on delivery day. The ice maker however, should not be connected to the water supply for at least 12-24 hours after delivery. Even when the system is serviced properly at origin, residual moisture in the solenoid valve, supply lines, and cold water reservoir may be frozen and will restrict normal operation. If the cold water reservoir was not drained at origin, it may be frozen solid and damaged. Hairline cracks in the water reservoir housing may go undetected on delivery day. It is prudent to let all components of the ice maker system reach operating temperature so a thorough system check can be completed after hooking up the water supply.

Home Video/Electronic Equipment: Condensation caused by extreme temperature changes can wreak havoc on the high tech circuitry of today's electronics. Plasma and LCD TVs, PCs, stereos, etc. must acclimate to room temperature for at least 24 hours prior to connecting the equipment to AC power.

Grandfather Clocks: Freezing temperatures cause the oil in the pivot points to gum up. Delicate metal components will contract and restrict operation of moving parts in the mechanism. Attempting to set up clocks on delivery day in cold weather will usually result in a second service call. The clock should be allowed to reach room temperature before setting the mechanism in beat.

Waterbed Mattresses: It is virtually impossible to completely drain a water mattress. Residual moisture will freeze inside the mattress during winter. Attempting to handle a vinyl mattress before it reaches room temperature can cause cracking or force ice chips through the material rendering the mattress unusable. The mattress should remain in its box at room temperature for at least 12-24 hours before handling or filling.

Thanks to our friends at AE Worldwide for sharing this list.

Here are some other things to keep in mind if you're planning a winter move:

• Be sure to keep an eye on the weather conditions, not just in the area where you currently live but in the area you are moving to.
  
• Keep in mind that winter storms may affect driving conditions, not only for you, but for the driver of your van and could result in delivery delays.
  
• If you are driving to your new location, be sure your vehicle has been serviced and properly prepared for winter driving.
  
• Even if there are no weather issues where you are, it doesn't mean your driver isn't experiencing issues with the weather while he is en route to you.
  
• If you plan to fly to your new residence, it is a good idea to stay abreast of flight delays or cancellations.
  
• Stay in contact with your Move Coordinator and advise them if you have any travel delays.
  

Moving during the winter does require some additional planning, but if you are aware of the possible issues and plan accordingly, it will decrease the chance of any real problems arising. Your A. Arnold Customer Service Representative can answer any other questions you may have about moving during the winter months. Call us at 800-626-5371.