Stacked Washer and Dryer

If space is limited, a stacked washer and dryer can be a good choice (see Figure 9.13). A stacked washer and dryer can take up about the same floor space as a single washing machine [(approxi­mately 30 inches by 30 inches (762 mm by 762 mm)], yet provides the capacity for full loads of laundry. While stacked equipment saves floor space, the height of the equipment precludes locat­ing any accessible storage above it.

If a stacked washer and dryer are selected, be sure that all controls and door openings can be ac­cessed by the user. Check model specifications to make sure that stacking is an option. Careful planning of water connections, shut-offs, and dryer venting will be required.

Smaller-capacity stacked washers and dryers are available, with integrated controls. There are also combination laundry machines which are both washer and dryer in one unit. These smaller ma­chines are good choices for a mini-laundry area or a smaller household.

FIGURE 9.13 A stacked washer and dryer can save floor space, and be a good choice for a laundry area in a bathroom.

Courtesy of GE

 

Stacked Washer and Dryer

Other Laundry Equipment

A laundry area may include other equipment for clothes maintenance, including irons and steamers. Your client may also want a sewing machine in the laundry area. Be sure to provide adequate space to use and store these additional appliances, as well as for utility connections.

Utility Service

Utility service requirements for laundry equipment are specified by the manufacturer, and may be controlled by local building codes. Consult the product specifications and installation information for accurate information. Listed below are typical requirements.

• Washing Machine

• Hot and cold water supply

• Check distance from water supply to washer.

• Check that water pressure is adequate.

• Vented drain

• 120 volt, 15 or 20 ampere dedicated electrical circuit

• Some European style washers require a 240 volt circuit

• Electric Dryer

• 240 volt, 50 ampere dedicated electrical circuit

• Exterior ventilation for dryer exhaust outlet; distance from dryer to outside is dependent on number of elbows

• Cold water supply if dryer has steam feature

• Gas Dryer

• Natural or LP gas connection

• 120 volt, 15 or 20 ampere dedicated electrical circuit (may be able to share electrical circuit with the washer if a 30 ampere circuit is used)

• Exterior ventilation for dryer exhaust outlet; distance from dryer to outside is dependent on number of elbows

• Cold water supply if dryer has steam feature

Подпись: Dryer Venting Exterior ventilation of the dryer is important, even though there is sometimes consideration of venting dryers to the inside. The thought behind venting a dryer to the inside is that heat is retained, which is seen as an advantage in cold climates in the winter. however, the problems with this practice far outweigh the energy savings. The excess moisture can lead to serious condensation and mold problems in the home (see chapter 3, “environmental and Sustainability Considerations”). odors from laundry products can be a problem. Lint in the exhaust air presents maintenance problems. Gadgets are available to add to the dryer exhaust vent to filter lint. however, these filters require regular maintenance, and failure to do so clogs the exhaust vent, leading to a fire hazard. If venting is a problem, condensing dryers that do not require an outside vent are available. A condensing dryer may require a drain.

One or more additional electrical circuits and receptacles are recommended in the laundry area, to use additional clothes care equipment, such as irons, sewing machines, or clothes steamers. An electrical circuit for lighting is also needed. A sink in the laundry area is desirable, and water supply and drain are needed for this.

Manufacturers’ product specifications typically require vinyl, rubber, or other moisture- resistant flooring under laundry equipment. A level floor is important, particularly for front-loading washers which spin at high speeds. A floor drain near the washing machine is a desirable feature, to mini­mize the problems with water leaks. If this cannot be provided, the washer can be installed in a floor pan that would contain leaks and overflows.

Updated: October 11, 2015 — 3:41 am