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Refrigerator Delivery

Fri Nov 21 2025

  • Appliance Installation Help Center

What Do I Need to Do Before My New Refrigerator Is Delivered and Installed?

Q: I ordered a new refrigerator from Beacon. What should I do before delivery and installation so everything goes smoothly?

A: A little preparation makes refrigerator delivery day much easier. You’ll want to confirm measurements, clear a safe delivery path, prepare the water line if your refrigerator has ice and water, and plan for a cool-down period after installation.

1. Double-Check Your Measurements

Before delivery day, confirm:

  • Width, height, and depth of the refrigerator opening
  • That doors can open fully without hitting walls, islands, or cabinets
  • Doorways, hallways, and tight turns are wide enough for delivery

If anything has changed since your purchase, let Beacon know ahead of time to avoid delays.

2. Clear a Safe Path from the Door to the Kitchen

On delivery day, the refrigerator will be moved using a dolly. To keep everything safe:

  • Pick up rugs, cords, and clutter that could cause trips
  • Move furniture or décor that may be in the way
  • Secure pets in another room so doors can stay open safely

3. Empty and Unplug the Old Refrigerator

Before your installation window:

  • Remove all food from the refrigerator and freezer
  • Store perishables in a cooler if needed
  • Unplug the old unit so it can begin to defrost

If Beacon is hauling away your old refrigerator, it should be fully emptied before our team arrives.

4. Check the Water Line and Shutoff Valve

If your new refrigerator has an ice maker or water dispenser:

  • Locate the water shutoff valve (often behind the fridge or under the sink)
  • Make sure it can turn off and on smoothly
  • Let us know ahead of time if the valve is stiff, leaking, or damaged

If a new water line or valve is needed, options can be discussed before installation day.

5. Expect a Cool-Down Period After Installation

After installation, your new refrigerator needs time to reach proper temperatures:

  • Allow several hours for the fresh food section to cool
  • Give the freezer time to stabilize and begin making ice
  • Follow manufacturer guidance before fully loading the unit

6. How Beacon Handles Refrigerator Delivery and Setup

On delivery day, our friendly technicians in yellow polos will:

  • Protect floors where needed
  • Carefully move the old refrigerator out and the new one in
  • Level the refrigerator and connect the water line (when applicable)
  • Perform basic operational checks and answer questions

More Appliance Installation Help

For additional planning tips, visit the Appliance Installation Help Center or read:

Local Help

If you’d like help confirming measurements, water connections, or what to expect on delivery day, Beacon is here to help.

Beacon Services & Appliances
(352) 726-7530 • www.BeaconSaves.com

Content Update & Editorial Review
Reviewed and updated January 16, 2026 by Chris.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to unplug my old refrigerator before delivery?

Yes. Unplugging the old refrigerator allows it to begin defrosting and makes removal safer on delivery day.

What if my refrigerator has an ice maker?

Locate the water shutoff valve ahead of time and make sure it operates properly. Let Beacon know if there are any issues.

How long before I can load food into my new refrigerator?

Most refrigerators need several hours to cool. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines before fully loading food.

Should I measure doorways as well as the opening?

Yes. Doorways, hallways, and tight turns are just as important as the refrigerator opening itself.

Will Beacon haul away my old refrigerator?

If haul-away service is included, the old refrigerator should be empty and unplugged before our team arrives.

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