Can you lay a stove on its back?

Are you trying to move from one apartment to another or trying to relocate your gas stove? But how to do that? Wondering if you can move your stove on its back?

Don’t worry in this detailed article we have tried to answer this question in the best possible way. No one likes to make a huge move just to find out they've caused a big problem when they get there; there are several little considerations when moving a modest stove.

Initially, the short answer to this question can be given as:

To help you understand more easily we have tried to visualize do’s & don’ts as below:

Below in this article we have provided in detailed reasons and logics why you shouldn't try to move your gas stove on its back. If you are interested into helpful insights then keep reading to find out more!

How to check if I can transport my stove on its back or not?

Well, as stated above, there is not a general thumb rule that you should never transport a stove on its back but it is the best approach. There are some key elements that can help you to analyze whether you can move your stove on its back.

Checking the Instruction Manual!

Your gas stove maker will almost definitely supply you with instructions on how to carry it safely. Regardless of how old your gas stove is, you should keep in mind that neglecting what your manufacturer suggests may result in a void warranty.

If you don't have the handbook, you can look it up online.

Inquire with the Manufacturer

If you still can’t find the manual online or the manual has not been described if you can move your stove on its back or not then you can always call the manufacturer and ask them the subject question by telling your stove’s model type and number.

What Do Companies say about moving the stove on its back?

If you can find out whether you can move your particular stove on its back or not then it is the best idea to move it to its sides.

Big companies like General Electric Appliances advise their customers:

 “When moving a range or wall oven, it can be placed on either side during transporting without doing any harm to the appliance. ‘Sides’ refers to the left or the right, not the rear”.

Now, this can be taken as a Golden rule. However, still, this is also not the best approach and as stated above has its own potential problems. Therefore, the considerations to minimize these problems should also be taken simultaneously.

What does a professional say about transporting a stove on its back?

Professionals or Plumbers often abstain people from transporting a stove on its back. Many of the gas lines linking to valves are installed on the back of the gas stove. Hence laying it on its back while transporting can damage these valves severely.

Consequently, if they get destroyed, the cost to repair them will get much higher than the cost to transport and you will regret moving them. But this is not the worst-case scenario. In the worst case, the unit of a stove may become utterly worthless which will result in buying a new one.

There are also some unseen hazards that can occur. This means that there could be some damage that could happen to your stove and cannot be observed at that time but will expose at the time of connecting the stove to the gas line which can be fatal.

Can I lay my stove on its Front?

No. You should avoid laying a stove on its front. Similar to laying on the back; laying a stove on its front is also extremely troublesome:

• The front of a gas stove is not a flat surface, so even if you use cargo straps to secure the appliance in your vehicle, it will still move and shift because it is not on a flat plane.
• This movement may cause harm to both the appliance and the vehicle in which it is being transported.
• Furthermore, shifting the entire weight of the gas stove to the front can badly harm the oven door or control panel.

Why a Stove should be transported on its sides?

You can only transport a stove on its side when this is the only choice for you. It is not the best approach but better than laying the stove on its.

• Transporting a stove on its back can causes scratches on your floor
• When you try to transport the stove on its back the risk of stove malfunctioning increases drastically.
• Grates, internal racks, oven doors, coils, broiler pans, burner covers, valve knobs, and other items fall out when moving a stove on its back. Some of these removable components (such as valve knobs) are difficult to reinstall and may be damaged as a result.
• The sensitive and fragile parts like the Hot Surface igniter (In modern gas oven burners, HSI is utilized to open the gas valve and ignite the gas) can break very easily while transporting your stove on its back.

Gas stoves are ideal for side transport because they include little to no machinery. However, there are some risks and cautions in this regard that should also be discussed here

Potential Issues Along With Remedies

Transporting your gas stove on its side is not without risk, even though it is the suggested method.

a) Scratching the Panel:

The most serious danger would be scratching the panels. This is easily remedied by placing a blanket, towel, or rubber pad beneath the stove.

b) Denting the Panel:

If you are not careful with what you place the stove on, the panels can be dented or bent. Make certain that it is laid flat and that the surface on which it is laid is even. The bed of a pickup truck is frequently grooved or ridged. This should not be too difficult, but the blanket or towel will surely come in handy.

In this regard we’d recommend you use a moving blanket which can save your floor from getting scratched:

WEN 272406 72-Inch by 40-Inch Heavy Duty Padded Moving Blankets, 6-Pack

• 100% Polyester
• Includes six 72-inch by 40-inch movers blankets
• Internal padding prevents damage to both your surfaces and your furniture
• Polyester double stitched material provides extra strength and flexibility during transport
• Perfect for moving furniture, appliances, and more
• Machine-washable polyester makes for easy clean up after long days on the job

What Should You Do If You Have to Transport a Stove on Its Back?

Now that if you are trying to save some cash and trying to move your stove by yourself then it is highly recommended not to do this. However, if you still want to give it a go and transport the stove on its back then the least you can do is follow the instructions stated below:

1. Remove the coil, rack, and any other pieces that could flip out if you hit a bump in the road.
2. Remove the oven doors with caution. Instead, lock the doors (if they have locks) or tape them shut.
3. To avoid complications with reinstallation, leave the knobs in place. If you're afraid about them falling off in transit, tape them down.
4. If you have a mover's plastic, wrap it around the burner to prevent burning. This is true whether you travel a stove on its back, sides, or even upright.

⚠️ Safety Caution:

It is still necessary to exercise extreme caution while moving a stove on its side. To avoid harming the painted finish of your stove, use a padded moving blanket. While a little scrape may not be seen when placed beside your home's cabinets, it will almost certainly leave exposed metal that will rust over time.

If you prefer to lay a gas or electric stove on its back, wrap any wires or hoses tightly and use a padded surface. This will keep you from damaging the necessary connections or the rear of your stove.

Here is the best wire strap you can find on Amazon:

Rhino Rack Tie Downs, Straps, & Tie Down Points

• PACK UP AND HEAD OUT WITH EASE - The Rhino-Rack Pioneer Ratchet & Anchor Tie Down Kit allows you to strap down your gear to the Pioneer Platform very quickly and easily with these ratchet straps with loop ends and black cleat anchor system.
• HIGH STRENGTH - The two 73" straps have a lashing capacity of 496 pounds (or 225 kilograms), this kit has a much higher load rating than most vehicle manufacturers roof load ratings, meaning you can rest easy knowing your gear is safe and secure.

HOW CAN I MOVE A STOVE WITHOUT HARD WORK?

A stove may typically weigh between 100 and 250 pounds. Moving a major appliance like a washer, dryer, or stove is always a two-person operation, whether you’re carrying it or using a dolly. Even better, having a third person on hand to assist is always preferable.

However, if you are a one person or a couple then moving the stove by yourself can be tiresome because shifting a stove for many couples is a new task, and how to do it. You'll need something under the appliance's legs to keep it from digging into the floor, especially on those soft vinyl floors. The easiest solution is large sheets of corrugated cardboard, which you can slide under the appliance by tipping it back. Plain cardboard, such as that used in cereal boxes, is insufficiently heavy.

Products to assist in Relocating a Stove:

You can use a product that can help you to move a stove without heavy lifting:

Forearm Forklift Glydeez Large Appliance Slider with Pull Strap | Plastic Appliance Glide with Handle | Move Appliances with One Hand | Protects Floors | Glides Easily, 48" x 29-7/8", Pack of 1

• IF YOU’RE BY YOURSELF: This heavy-duty, giant slider is very helpful for sliding heavy furniture, appliances, large boxes, ovens, dishwashers, stoves, washers, dryers, safes, HVAC units, toolboxes, etc. TIP: Use a handheld blower or broom to sweep the floor free from debris before using Glydeez.
• PROTECTS FLOORS: Protect hardwood or vinyl floors against scratches, gouges, tears or roller marks that can occur when sliding large appliances or furniture.

Or if not this then you can also use:

Harper Trucks Lightweight 400 lb Capacity Glass Filled Nylon Plastic Convertible Hand Truck and Dolly

• Converts in seconds from 2 wheel dolly to 4 wheel cart - 300 lb dolly and 400 lb cart capacity (Product images illustrates both uses, but only one cart is being sold)
• 8" wheels with solid rubber tread and 3" swivel casters
• Three position telescoping handle, built-in frame glides for easy moving up or

Home Remedy

Well, if it is too much expensive for you then there are some tips that can be helpful for you (but not helpful as the above-mentioned products):

Cardboard:

you can also use cardboard to move the stove and other heavy appliances. The cardboard can guard the floor and slide easily. Place a large piece of cardboard under the stove after tipping it up. If it uses gas, slide it out far enough to get to the gas valve.

Sliding Technique:

You can use a combination of sliding it and pivoting and rocking it on its 4 corners, so with yourself at 1 corner tilt the appliance towards you, hold that and lean it towards you until you can pivot it and exchange the weight from the corner you have to the next corner, using the same technique hold the new corner that's on the floor and pivot trying to get it an extra inch moved in any direction, now you're going to ‘walk’ the appliance by shifting it from corner to corner and trying to move it an inch or so every time you rock it .you'll soon see how to walk it. Weight moves from the front left corner to the front right, front right to back right.

Post Consideration In transporting a Stove

Whether you have transported the stove on its sides; in a minivan or with the help of a shifting company it is always the best idea to check the stove after getting it transported from one location to another. Hence, there are certain elements that should be inspected instantly after getting the stove transported:

• Valves,
• Front Side
• Downside
• Control Panel

When you arrive at your destination, even if you did not transport the gas stove on its back. It is always worth being doubly sure everything is in working order for an appliance like a gas stove.

💡 Point To Ponder:

In case you are moving a new stove make sure the stove is being shifted by the company itself. Because many times, the Company shall not be responsible for transportation or other costs other than those incurred within the provisions

Additional Considerations:

There are some additional considerations with regard to moving your gas stove:

• When you have a particularly large stove, it is a good idea to have one or two helpers. Because moving a stove can be challenging because the equipment is often hefty and some parts are prone to breaking.
• Clean the stove thoroughly. Getting a firm grip on a slick cooktop is challenging.
• Shut off the line and unplug the stove (for gas stove users). It is better to hire a professional to complete this task for you in advance if you are unsure how to complete it because it involves some technical knowledge. Reinstalling the stove at the new location might also require the services of professionals.
• All of the loose pieces, including the stove griddles, burner rings, and oven racks, should be taken out and packaged with care before being transported.
• Do not transport or move the appliance using the door or handle.
• Use a couple of strips of packing tape to seal the stove doors. Rubber bands or twist ties can be used to keep all cords in place. Apply protective padding to the entire unit by wrapping it in a moving blanket.
• Carefully transfer the stove to the moving van or trailer you intend to utilize for relocation using a dolly and a ramp. Use moving blankets or tie-downs as necessary to secure your stove and prevent it from shifting while being transported. Nobody wants a loose stove to start rattling or perhaps slide out onto the road. Before transferring the stove, provide a clear route to the vehicle so you can be sure of your destination (if you are not using shifting services)
• Put the oven racks and all of your pieces in bags and store them securely for subsequent installation.
• Move and transfer the item in its original packing (some people prefer moving tape). To execute the same method without creating a mess or using up any materials, wrap paracord or bungee cords around the burner.

For further guidance you can check out this video:

Conclusion

Since a stove requires a substantial investment, you should take precautions to safeguard it when transferring it. The safest technique to move a stove from one location to another without harming it is to move it on its side. Calling a shifting company for moving it from one apartment to another is necessary as per our recommendations. You should exercise caution and pay attention to the advice in this article.

No matter how careful you are, factors like poor driving and terrible roads could still contribute to a few shattered pieces.

However, if some pieces break off in transit and your stove malfunctions when you reassemble it at your new location, do not be alarmed. If a cooktop component breaks, the worst that might happen is that you might have to skip a few days of cooking your favorite meals! Fortunately, you can solve several common cooktop issues on your own.

External Sources:

1. GEAppliances. "Range and Wall Oven Moving Instructions". Products.GEAppliances.com.
2. Vgkg Z-7 A. 2014. Re: "Stove Oven Transportation Question". Houzz.com
3. Quora Thread. Re: "How do I easily move a refrigerator, stove or such heavy items by myself?". Quora.com.