Winter Service Advisory

Please be advised that as of November 1st requests for service on delivery day on the following items are not recommended due to potential exposure to freezing temperatures during transportation. It is AE Worldwide’s experience, as well as manufacturers recommended procedures for cold weather service, that the following items have sufficient time to acclimate to room temperature. Our goal is to reduce property damage and damage to the transferee’s possessions. This recommendation will remain in effect until at least April 15th depending on the nation’s overall climate at the time. Any services performed outside these guidelines may limit our liability in the event of damage.

Washing Machine: Even when the pump is drained at origin, the washer will always maintain 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°F.

Gas & Electric Dryers: When subject 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°F.

Refrigerators – Icemaker: A refrigerator may be plugged in on delivery day. The icemaker, 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 icemaker 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/ LCD TVs, VCRs, 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 Mattress: It is virtually impossible to completely drain a waterbed 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.