Measurements Guide for Stackable Washers Dryers

Purchasing a new stackable washer and dryer can be an exciting upgrade for your home. However, before making this investment, it is crucial to take accurate measurements of your space to ensure the appliances will fit. Properly measuring for stackable washers and dryers accounts for extra room needed for venting, door clearance, accessibility, and more.

Stackable washers and dryers come in a variety of configurations. Most commonly, a separate washer and dryer unit are stacked on top of each other. However, all-in-one combo units are also available. There are also differences between front-load and top-load machines to factor in. Taking the time to measure properly will lead to confidently purchasing the right stackable appliance setup for your home.

Height Measurement

One of the most important dimensions to measure is the height of your space compared to the height of stackable units you are considering. Here are key factors related to height:

• Standard stackable units range from 64-75 inches tall depending on model.
• Be sure to measure from floor to ceiling to ensure enough clearance.
• Account for needed overhead space for venting exhaust hoses if planning to stack a dryer on top.
• Check code requirements for distance between tops of units and ceiling.

It is important to note that stackable units are typically deeper than traditional side-by-side washers and dryers. Combine height, depth, width and door clearance measurements to get the full picture of fit and access.

Width Measurement

In addition to height, carefully measure the width of your space. Pay attention to:

• Standard widths ranging from 27-32 inches for most models.
• The wider the units, the more interior capacity.
• Ensure you have room to fully open washer and dryer doors without interference.
• If planning side-by-side installation, measure total width needed.

Stackable washers and dryers come in varying widths to accommodate different laundry spaces. Consider your room dimensions, doorway clearance, storage needs, and size of household when selecting appliance width.

Depth Measurement

The depth is another critical dimension that must be carefully measured, including:

• Standard depths range from 25-35 inches for most stackable units.
• Measure depth from wall to interior lip of machines allowing clearance.
• Factor in extra space needed for exhaust venting, hoses, and cords.
• Generally the larger the cubic feet capacity, the deeper the unit.

Pay special attention to corners, moldings, venting ducts, and anything protruding from walls that may interfere with a deeper stackable unit.

Door Opening Measurement

To access a stackable unit, measure for ample door opening clearance with these tips:

• Front load units require more lateral door clearance than top load.
• Opening and closing doors easily is key for laundry loading/unloading.
• Most units require a minimum of 15 inches clearance in front.
• Check door hinge side to ensure no interference with opening.

Having enough clearance to open the doors fully makes using the appliances much easier. This avoids collisions with walls, cabinets, or other obstacles while doing laundry.

Interior Capacity

When selecting the ideal stackable unit, compare interior cubic feet capacities:

• Typical range is between 4-5 cubic feet for stackable washers.
• Dryer capacity ranges from 7-8 cubic feet depending on whether gas or electric.
• All-in-one combo unit capacities are smaller than separate stacked pairs.
• Choose capacity sized appropriately for household needs.

Understand that separate stackable washer and dryers provide greater capacity over combo units. Factor in enough space for proper air circulation as well based on cubic feet ratings.

Installation Considerations

To ensure a smooth installation, keep these stackable unit specifics in mind:

• Proper leveling, bolting kits, and strapping help stabilize stacked pairs.
• Factor in electrical, gas line, and vent ducting hookups in planning.
• Special installation kits can make connecting units simpler.
• Improper installation can lead to vibration, excess noise, and other problems.

Having an installation checklist helps identify the necessary components like venting, hook ups, and stabilization accessories ahead of time. This allows for proper prep and setup of your new stackable laundry.

Planning Your Space

With measurements complete, envision planning your laundry space by:

• Creating drawings of room dimensions, doors, windows and more.
• Cut out cardboard templates representing appliances to test layout.
• Map pathways between rooms for transporting units during delivery.
• Consider functional work zones for folding, laundry totes, drying racks, etc.

Thoughtful space planning ensures your new stackable laundry not only fits, but works efficiently for your lifestyle and laundry workflow at home. Identify any potential spatial challenges early in this process.

Shopping Tips

Use these helpful shopping tips when ready to purchase:

• Bring exact room measurements to the showroom with you.
• Inquire about specialty venting hoses needed for stacking in advance.
• Verify all dimensions and specifications upon delivery.
• Read manufacturer guidelines thoroughly before installing.

Being prepared with measurements and installation considerations makes purchasing and setting up stackable units much smoother. Consult reputable brands offering delivery personnel qualified in stacked laundry installation as well.

FAQs

Review answers to these frequently asked measurement questions:

• Is a pedestal needed underneath stackables? Pedestals help raise units for ease of use but are not always essential. Choose what works best ergonomically for your household.
• What is the standard countertop height? Standard countertop height is 36 inches. Ensure your stackable units align nicely next to other counters and cabinets.
• How thick is the floor molding? Check floor molding thickness to ensure appliances will clear over them. Adjust leveling feet height accordingly.

Having these common measuring questions answered upfront simplifies the buying experience. Consult manufacturer sizing guides for your specific models as well.

Carefully measuring for stackable washers and dryers before purchasing is a key step in configuring your ideal laundry room. Consider all of the height, width, depth, and door clearance requirements to find the perfect fit. Factoring in room dimensions, installation specifications, and your lifestyle laundry needs leads to making the right stackable appliance investment.