You know what happens a lot? People unplug their freezer and just push it into a corner. Later, when they try to use it again, it smells, it’s rusty, or worse, it doesn’t even start. That’s why knowing how to store a freezer the right way is so important.
Here’s the brief: To store a freezer, you have to clean it out, dry it, leave the door a little open, and keep it somewhere dry. Do this and you’ll stop mould, smells, and damage.
Stick around, and we’ll walk you through the simple steps, little tricks, and mistakes to avoid so your freezer works just like before.
A freezer is not just a box. It has sensitive parts like the compressor, coils, and door seals. If you don’t store it the right way, it can:
So, taking time to store it correctly saves money and keeps it ready for future use.
It’s actually simple once you know the order. Let us walk you through each storage step so your freezer stays safe and ready to use.
Always start by removing all food. Spoiled food can attract pests and cause strong odours.
| Freezer Size | Average Defrost Time | Water Collected (approx.) |
| Small (100L) | 2–4 hours | 1–2 litres |
| Medium (200L) | 6–8 hours | 3–5 litres |
| Large (400L) | 12–24 hours | 6–10 litres |
A clean freezer will not smell later. Cleaning also prevents mould.
Pro Tip: Avoid strong chemicals. They leave smells that can stay inside for months.
Loose parts can break when moving.
Protecting the freezer prevents scratches, dust, and moisture damage.
Where you keep your freezer matters a lot.
Data on Freezer Storage Conditions:
| Factor | Safe Range | Risk if Ignored |
| Temperature | 10°C to 30°C | Compressor damage, poor restart |
| Humidity | Below 60% | Mould and rust |
| Sunlight | None (shade only) | Seal damage, exterior fading |
Always keep your freezer standing straight.
This is the most important step for preventing mould.
Don’t just forget it.
| Do you want to give this storage hassle to someone professional?
At Easy Way Removals, we collect your freezer, wrap it safely, and store it in a clean and dry unit until you need it again. No stress, no damage, just safe storage. Give us a call and we’ll take care of everything. |
Besides, when moving your freezer to storage, it helps to know how to transport a fridge freezer safely to avoid damage.
Yes, you can put or store a freezer in a garage, but it’s not always the best spot. Garages get too hot in summer and too cold in winter, which can hurt the freezer. If you must keep it there, place it near an inner wall, not by windows or damp corners. Leave some space around it so air moves freely. In winter, a small heater or dehumidifier helps protect it.
You can leave a freezer unplugged for years if you prepare it right. Just make sure it’s clean, dry, and slightly open. To keep the compressor healthy, plug it in and run it for about an hour every six to twelve months. Before using it again, check the seals to be sure it closes tightly and works properly.
So, coming to this point, you now know how to store a freezer. Storing a freezer doesn’t have to be tricky. Clean it, dry it, keep the door open, and place it somewhere safe. Follow these steps, and it will stay fresh and ready to use. If you want extra help, call a professional and relax while they take care of everything.
Besides, if you have electronics nearby, check our guide on how to pack electronics for moving so everything stays safe.
No, it’s better not to use airtight plastic. Plastic traps moisture inside, and that can cause mould. A cloth or moving blanket is safer because it protects the freezer and still lets it breathe.
It’s not a good idea to keep a freezer outside because of rain, humidity, and temperature changes. If you must, make sure it is under a roof, raised off the ground, and well covered with a breathable material.
It’s best to avoid placing heavy boxes on top of your freezer. Extra weight can damage the lid or door seal. Keep the top clear so the freezer stays in good shape and ready to use later.
You don’t need to keep it plugged in all the time. But it’s a good idea to run it empty for an hour every few months. This keeps the compressor in good condition and helps the freezer start easily later.
Try not to tilt the freezer because the compressor oil can shift inside. If you have no choice and must move it sideways, let it sit upright for at least 24 hours before plugging it back in.
That depends on the size of your freezer. A small chest freezer may fit in a 25 sq ft unit, while a tall upright freezer might need 35 to 50 sq ft. Always measure before booking so you have enough space to move around it.
Before plugging it in, check the seals, power cord, and interior for any signs of mould, rust, or damage. If everything looks fine and smells fresh, plug it in and let it run empty for a few hours before adding food.
You can, but it’s not the best idea. Outside weather changes a lot, and cold, heat, or rain can damage the freezer. If you must, keep it under a roof, off the ground, and away from damp or sunny spots.
First, unplug it and empty all food. Clean it well and dry every part. Keep the door slightly open and place it in a dry, cool spot so it stays fresh and safe until you need it again.
