How To Move A Water Rower

Moving any exercise equipment requires planning, but learning how to move a Water Rower presents unique challenges. A WaterRower’s unique water tank and monorail design require special consideration during relocation.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process. We will cover everything from preparation and draining the tank to navigating stairs and reassembly.

Moving your WaterRower safely involves three main phases: preparation, the moving process itself, and setup in the new location. Rushing any of these steps can lead to damage to the machine, your home, or cause personal injury. The following sections break down each phase into manageable tasks.

Essential Preparation Before The Move

Proper preparation is the most critical step. Taking time here makes the physical move much safer and easier.

Gather Your Tools And Supplies

You will need a few basic items. Having them ready before you start prevents mid-process interruptions.

Adjustable wrench or the specific hex keys provided with your WaterRower.
Large towels or absorbent cloths.
A small siphon pump or length of clear tubing (for draining).
A clean bucket.
Moving blankets or thick padding.
Zip ties or velcro straps.
Packaging tape.
A dolly or hand truck with stair-climbing capability is highly recommended.

Drain The Water Tank Completely

This is the most important preparatory step. A full tank adds significant weight and sloshing water can make the rower unstable.

Place the rower on a level surface near a drain or where you can safely dispose of water.
Locate the drain plug at the bottom end of the water tank. It is usually a black plastic screw.
Place your bucket underneath the plug. Have towels ready.
Unscrew the drain plug slowly. Water will begin to flow out. Allow the tank to drain completely into the bucket, emptying it as needed.
For a faster drain or to get the last bit of water, you can carefully tip the rower or use a small siphon pump inserted through the fill hole.
Once empty, securely replace the drain plug. Wipe any drips from the tank.

Secure The Moving Parts

The monorail and seat are designed to move smoothly, but they must be fixed for transport.

Slide the seat to the center of the monorail. This balances the weight.
Use zip ties or velcro straps to secure the seat to the monorail, preventing it from rolling. Do not overtighten, but ensure it is snug.
If your model has a handle, you can retract it to the cage or secure it with a strap.
Fold down the footrests if possible, or ensure they are in a neutral position.

Disassembly For Easier Transport

While you can move a WaterRower fully assembled, partial disassembly is often safer, especially for stairs or tight spaces. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions.

Separating The Rail From The Tank

This is the most common disassembly step. It creates two more manageable pieces.

Locate the connection points where the monorail attaches to the water tank frame. There are typically two or three bolts on each side.
Using the appropriate hex key or wrench, loosen and remove these bolts. Place them in a sealed bag and tape it to the rail piece.
With the bolts removed, you can carefully lift the monorail (with the seat and footrests) away from the tank and main frame. Have a helper for this step.
Pad the monorail with moving blankets to protect the finish.

Handling The Water Tank And Frame

The tank and wooden frame are now a single, heavy unit. The tank is empty, but the frame itself has considerable weight.

Wrap the entire tank and frame in moving blankets. Secure the blankets with tape.
Pay special attention to padding the corners of the wooden frame to prevent dings and scratches.
If moving the unit upright, ensure the tank is stable and will not tip.

The Physical Moving Process

This is where your preparation pays off. Move slowly and deliberately, prioritizing safety over speed.

Lifting And Carrying Techniques

Use proper lifting form to protect your back. Bend at the knees, not the waist, and keep the load close to your body.

For the tank/frame unit, two people are almost always necessary. Designate one person to guide and communicate.
Lift together on a count of three. Keep movements slow and coordinated.
If using a dolly, carefully tilt the tank unit onto the dolly and strap it securely. The weight should be balanced over the wheels.
The monorail piece is long and awkward. Carry it vertically if possible, with one person at each end, minding doorways and ceilings.

Navigating Stairs And Doorways

Stairs present the biggest challenge. A stair-climbing dolly is invaluable here.

For the tank unit on a dolly: Tip the dolly back to balance on its large wheels. The person at the bottom controls the descent, walking backward down the stairs, while the person at the top guides and supports the weight.
Without a dolly, two people must carry the tank unit down stairs. The person at the bottom will bear more weight and should be the stronger individual. Move one step at a time.
For the monorail, carry it parallel to the stairs, not perpendicular, to navigate turns more easily.
Always check doorways and hallways for clearance before you start moving. Measure if you are unsure.

Loading Into A Vehicle

If you are moving the rower in a truck or van, ensure it is packed securely to prevent shifting during transit.

Place the padded tank unit flat on its side on the vehicle floor. Avoid standing it upright unless it is wedged immovably.
Place the monorail piece alongside it, also padded and secured.
Use straps or bungee cords to tie both pieces to anchor points in the vehicle. They should not be able to slide or bounce.
Do not place other heavy items on top of the rower components.

Reassembly And Setup In Your New Space

Once at your destination, the process is essentially the reverse of disassembly. Take your time to ensure everything is correctly aligned and tightened.

Reattaching The Monorail

Bring the tank unit and monorail to the desired location in your room. Ensure you have enough space around the rower for full motion.
Position the monorail onto the tank frame, aligning the bolt holes carefully.
Insert the bolts by hand first to ensure proper threading. Then, using your tools, tighten them securely and evenly. Do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads in the wood.
Remove the zip ties or straps securing the seat.

Refilling The Water Tank

Refill the tank with clean, fresh water. You can use a garden hose or containers. Avoid using distilled water, as the minerals in tap water help with the proper resistance feel.

Ensure the drain plug is tight. Remove the cap from the fill hole at the top of the tank.
Add water until the level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the tank or as specified in your manual. The typical level is about 16-18 liters, but check your model.
Replace the fill cap securely. Gently rock the rower side-to-side to remove any large air bubbles.
Check for leaks around the drain and fill ports. Tighten if necessary.

Final Safety Check And Calibration

Before your first row, perform a quick check to ensure everything is safe and functional.

Slide the seat the full length of the monorail. It should move smoothly without catching.
Check that the footrests are secure and adjust them to your setting.
Pull the handle to spin the flywheel. Listen for a consistent “whoosh” without grinding or scraping noises.
If your monitor was detached, reinstall it according to the manual. Test that it powers on.
Take a few gentle strokes to ensure the resistance feels correct and the machine operates quietly.

FAQ: Common Questions About Moving A Water Rower

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about relocating your WaterRower.

Can You Move A Water Rower Without Draining It?

It is strongly discouraged. A full water tank adds over 40 pounds of unstable weight, making the rower top-heavy and difficult to control. The sloshing water can also stress the tank seals and frame. Always drain it completely.

How Heavy Is A Water Rower Without Water?

The weight varies by model and wood type. A standard Ash WaterRower has a frame weight of approximately 65 pounds (30 kg), and the monorail adds another 25 pounds (11 kg). So, the total dry weight is roughly 90 pounds (41 kg), split between two main components.

Is It Safe To Lay A Water Rower On Its Side?

Yes, it is generally safe to transport the water tank unit on its side, especially when properly padded. Ensure the fill and drain caps are secure. Avoid placing excessive weight on top of it. The monorail should also be padded and laid flat.

Do I Need Professional Movers For My WaterRower?

For local moves or simple room-to-room moves, you can likely handle it yourself with a helper. For long-distance or full-house moves, informing professional movers about the need to drain and partially disassemble the machine is wise. You may prefer to handle this prep work yourself to ensure it’s done correctly.

How Do I Protect The Wood Finish During A Move?

Moving blankets are your best friend. Wrap all wooden parts thoroughly and secure the blankets with tape. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the wood, as it can trap moisture. For extra protection on corners, use foam padding or corner guards.

Final Tips For A Successful Move

To summarize, the key to moving your WaterRower is methodical preparation. Draining the tank and securing the moving parts are non-negotiable steps. Disassembly, while requiring a bit more time, often simplifies the entire process, especially in challenging environments like apartment buildings with stairs and elevators.

Always enlist the help of at least one other person. The awkward shape and weight distribution make it a two-person job for nearly everyone. Communicate clearly with your helper during lifts and while navigating obstacles.

Finally, do not rush the reassembly. A correctly assembled and filled WaterRower will provide years of reliable service. Taking an extra few minutes to ensure bolts are tight and the tank is properly filled is a small investment for the long-term health of your machine. With this guide, you have a clear plan for how to move a water rower safely and efficiently, from your old space to your new one.