If you are planning to move during cold weather, remember that taking extra care will help prevent damage to your belongings, especially your electronics.

We always recommend properly packing and securing your items in preparation for moving day. But electronics, such as televisions, are especially sensitive to cold weather and taking proper precautions before, during, and after moving day will ensure they remain in good working order. Like most electronic devices, TVs operate best when kept at moderate indoor temperatures without exposure to extremely hot or cold weather.

Consider the following before moving a TV in cold weather:

1. Be sure to read the owner’s manual for specifications on proper operating temperatures, the amount of time to wait to turn it on after plugging in, as well as ideal storage temperatures. This is helpful in case you plan on storing your belongings in an offsite or self-storage unit as well. It may be a good idea to opt for a climate-controlled unit to reduce the possibility of moisture buildup due to humidity or rapidly changing temperatures (such as those we experience frequently in the Midwest).
2. Unplug your television and any other unnecessary electronics as early as the day before or at least several hours, so that its internal components can cool down before it is carried and transported outside.
3. To be on the safe side, plug in your television and wait several hours (or even overnight) to turn on your TV after it has been stored or transported in extreme weather.
4. LCD televisions may be damaged if used before allowing them to return to the proper operating temperature because the liquid crystal can freeze and may crack the screen or damage other components. The freezing point of each LCD TV depends on the crystal formulation used by the manufacturer – another reason to keep that owner’s manual handy.
5. Moisture caused by the condensation from the air can be a bigger danger to the older traditional tube televisions, which is another reason to give the device time to adjust to indoor temperatures and warm up and dry out before you use it at your destination.
6. Traditional tube televisions may operate in colder temperatures, but there may be viewing problems such as interference until they warm up.

When moving your TV and other electronics in cold weather, make sure you have a clear understanding of the proper operating temperatures. It is not the responsibility of the movers or any other professionals assisting you to know the specifications for your devices. Let any other family members and friends know too so that you are able to enjoy your television after all the unpacking is complete!

If we can help with any aspect of your next pack, move, load, or unload, don’t hesitate to call us at 816-389-8706 or just visit our estimate page!