Mistakes to Avoid when Buying a Small Space Washer Dryer
Adding a washer dryer set to a small space can be tricky. Be prepared with our expert tips.
Are you in the market for a small space washer dryer set?
Compact washers and dryers are 24’’ wide, which is the industry standard in Europe. We tend to love our cars, homes, and even appliances with extra-large capacity here in the US. As much as we might want to buy the biggest possible washer and dryer, it’s not always practical for all homes. Fortunately, you don’t need to compromise to enjoy all the latest and greatest features.
If you’re shopping for laundry to fit your small space, here are five common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Stacking an old Washer with a new Dryer (or vice-versa)
Stackable washers and dryers deliver tremendous benefits, including space savings. Stackable washers and dryers are sold in pairs. To safely mount the dryer on top of the washer, the appliances are fused with a stacking kit.
You might be thinking, what's the big deal? My washer is on the fritz, and my dryer is fine! I don't want to pay for two new appliances if I don't have to.
Stacking kits and meant to marry a specific model washer to a specific model dryer. If you try to stack an old appliance with a new appliance, you could encounter problems with the stacking kit. If you only want to replace one appliance, the stacking kit will not be compatible with the new machine, especially if you opt for a different brand.
2. Your washer and dryer exist in separate areas.
If your washer is across the room from your dryer, be careful when buying compact machines! Most dryers will be fine; however, some washers come equipped with a European plug and are incompatible with American outlets. Why do they do this? In most cases, buyers will install a compact washer and dryer side-by-side or stacked so the washer will plug into the dryer and the wall. Now don't panic yet - some brands don't have this problem. If your washer and dryer are in separate areas, it's important to tell your salesperson because this configuration will most certainly narrow down your choices.
3. Your small laundry space is equipped for a gas dryer.
If you currently have a gas dryer, your options will be limited. All stackable front-loading 24" dryers on the market are electric. To have the most options and selection, consider running a 220V plug to that space. If you are looking for more luxurious features and better fabric care, consider the Miele stackable front-loading washers and dryers, as their new collection runs on two 110V plugs. If you're on a tight budget, consider a 24" gas laundry center.
4. Not identifying the connections behind your washer and dryer, (including the vent)!
Small washers and dryers are notoriously tricky, and the requirements vary from brand to brand. To install your new washer and dryer, you might need to hire an electrician to get the appropriate outlets in place. Always check the install specs. When in doubt, take a picture of the plugs and hoses behind your existing washer and dryer and leave it to the experts at AJ Madison to help you!
Traditionally, electric washer-dryer sets call for a 1 x 110V plug, 1 x 220V plug, vent pipe, and a water connection. Most gas washer-dryer sets call for a 1x110V plug, gas line, vent pipe, and water connection. However, those rules are totally out the window for compact machines.
Until a few years ago, most dryers sold in the US vented outside, meaning they connected to a duct pipe through the wall. The last time you bought a dryer, it was probably vented. Ductless or ventless 24’’ washers and dryers are standard in Europe. Many of the brands that make small front loaders are European brands. It makes sense that most of the selection in the small space category is ventless. Although your current dryer might have a vent, that doesn’t mean that your new dryer needs to be.
5. Not measuring your laundry space and delivery path.
Walk into your home and take the most logical path a delivery person would need to take to deliver your new washer and dryer. Be mindful of any tight entryways, railings, corners, small elevators, or slanted ceilings. Make sure to take measurements of potential problem areas as you might need to account for them when selecting your new washer and dryer.
If your home has an existing washer and dryer, ensure the delivery team can safely remove the machines from your home. Before delivery, it’s a good idea to have your old appliances disconnected.
Next, measure the space where you will install your new washer and dryer. Measuring your existing washer and dryer is somewhat helpful but does not give you all the information you need. Measuring the height, width, and depth of the existing space is always better because it will give you more information on which new washers and dryers will fit.
