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I have a brand new low end Whirlpool washer/dryer -- electric dryer, top-load washer. This works out great because it's just me and they've done an outstanding job on some of my clothes already.
My only complaint is that they're too low. Too much bending down. I was contemplating purchasing a few wood boards to raise them about 4 inches off the floor when I move into my house. The house is a one story with no basement or crawlspace, just a big thick slab.
Any issues with this? Electrical, exhaust, or plumbing issues? Or structural? Or functionality?
Location: Sometimes Maryland, sometimes NoVA. Depends on the day of the week
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You should be fine. The connections will be in the back and connected with flexible hoses. The biggest thing to worry about it making it as level as possible to prevent the washer from getting off balance when it spins. Less of a concern with a top-load than with a front-load, but you should still aim for level.
We built this to get the front of the washer/dryer up to a usable height. Its very sturdy b/c we have the front-load. This is stronger than a deck 6 4x4 posts, 2x10 "joists" attached with lag bolts, and 3/4" plywood subflooring on top. It was overkill, but made mostly with scrap. Considering they want $200/each for the stands, it was a bargain.
At best, it really only needs to be able to hold a few hundred pounds. While that one is overkill, it will never be a problem, and since it was built out of scraps, the cost was lower.
I would think a frame out of 2x4's and some 3/4" plywood would be more than adequate to support the weight and load.
Aren't those models the kind that comes with an optional storage container that goes directly under both units? I've seen some that raise the washer/dryer to a better height with the added benefit of storage for detergents.
Location: Sometimes Maryland, sometimes NoVA. Depends on the day of the week
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Hey, I totally admitted it was overkill But, with a front loader, I wanted it to be very stable. Those front loaders run about some obscenly high RPM and are famous for walking and rocking. Many of these specifically say not to put them on the second floor b/c of that. Plus, I have to climb on them to reach those cabinets.
Quote:
Originally Posted by sailordave
Aren't those models the kind that comes with an optional storage container that goes directly under both units? I've seen some that raise the washer/dryer to a better height with the added benefit of storage for detergents.
Yup. Those "optional storage containers" run $100-$300 each. The ones for my washer are acutally $250 each. I don't need to pay $500 for a couple of drawers when $50 of lumber will solve the problem.
Now if only I could make the washer door open the other direction. I hate having to move clothes around it from washer to dryer (when I'm not using the line)
Location: Visitation between Wal-Mart & Home Depot
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Quote:
Originally Posted by rubytue
Hey, I totally admitted it was overkill But, with a front loader, I wanted it to be very stable. Those front loaders run about some obscenly high RPM and are famous for walking and rocking. Many of these specifically say not to put them on the second floor b/c of that. Plus, I have to climb on them to reach those cabinets.
Yup. Those "optional storage containers" run $100-$300 each. The ones for my washer are acutally $250 each. I don't need to pay $500 for a couple of drawers when $50 of lumber will solve the problem.
Now if only I could make the washer door open the other direction. I hate having to move clothes around it from washer to dryer (when I'm not using the line)
Nothing wrong with overkilling a home improvement project. That's why I like to DIY, I know it will be at least 50% overbuilt. (and its usually a lot more fun than swiping a card)
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6 4x4 posts, 2x10 "joists" attached with lag bolts, and 3/4" plywood subflooring on top. It was overkill, but made mostly with scrap. Considering they want $200/each for the stands, it was a bargain.
But, with a front loader, I wanted it to be very stable. Those front loaders run about some obscenly high RPM and are famous for walking and rocking. Many of these specifically say not to put them on the second floor b/c of that. Plus, I have to climb on them to reach those cabinets.
