Washer Dryer Upstairs: Avoid Costly Mistakes & Regrets!

Washer Dryer Upstairs: Planning for Success (Not Disaster!)

Installing a "washer dryer upstairs" can be a huge convenience, saving you trips up and down stairs with heavy laundry baskets. However, it’s a decision that needs careful planning to avoid costly mistakes and regrets. This guide walks you through the key considerations.

1. Structural Integrity: Can Your Floor Handle It?

The weight of a washer and dryer, especially when full of water, is significant. Before even thinking about plumbing or electrical, ensure your floor can bear the load.

• Assess the Existing Floor Joists:

  • Age and Condition: Older homes may have weaker joists or those weakened by rot or insect damage.
  • Spacing: Standard joist spacing is 16 inches on center, but older homes might have wider spacing, requiring reinforcement.
  • Material: The type of wood used for the joists matters. Consult a structural engineer if you’re unsure about the strength.
• Consider a Structural Engineer: This is the most crucial step if you have any doubts. They can assess the floor’s load-bearing capacity and recommend necessary reinforcements.

• Reinforcement Options: If reinforcement is needed, common solutions include:

  • Adding sister joists (attaching new joists alongside the existing ones).
  • Installing bridging or blocking between joists.
  • Adding support posts in the basement or crawlspace.

2. Plumbing: Water Supply and Drainage

Getting water to the washer and safely draining it away is essential. This is often where many upstairs laundry projects run into issues.

• Water Supply Lines:

  • Existing Lines: Can you easily tap into existing cold and hot water lines? Consider the water pressure – will adding a washer reduce pressure elsewhere?
  • New Lines: Running new lines is often necessary. Copper or PEX are common choices. PEX is more flexible and often easier to install, but copper might be preferred for its longevity.
  • Water Hammer Arrestors: Absolutely essential! These devices absorb the shock of water suddenly stopping when the washer valves close, preventing pipes from banging and potentially bursting. Install them close to the washer’s water inlets.

• Drainage:

  • Drain Pipe Size: A standard 2-inch drain pipe is typically required. Check local plumbing codes for specific requirements.
  • Proper Venting: The drain needs to be properly vented to prevent sewer gases from entering your home and to allow for proper drainage. An air admittance valve (AAV) might be an option if connecting to an existing vent stack is difficult, but check with local codes. AAVs are not permitted everywhere.
  • Drainage Pump (if needed): If the drain line needs to run upwards significantly, you may require a laundry tub and a drain pump to force the water out.

• Leak Prevention:

  • Use High-Quality Hoses: Replace rubber washing machine hoses with stainless steel braided hoses. They are much less likely to burst.
  • Water Leak Detector: Consider installing a water leak detector with an automatic shut-off valve near the washer. This can prevent major water damage if a leak occurs.

3. Electrical: Powering Your Appliances

Washers and dryers require significant power. Make sure your electrical system can handle the additional load.

• Dedicated Circuits: Each appliance needs its own dedicated circuit. A washer typically needs a 120-volt, 15- or 20-amp circuit, while a dryer (especially electric) usually needs a 240-volt circuit with a higher amperage (typically 30 amps).
• Wiring and Breakers: Ensure the wiring is the correct gauge for the amperage and that the circuit breakers are appropriately sized. Overloaded circuits can lead to fires.
• Grounding: Proper grounding is crucial for safety.

4. Vibration and Noise: Reducing the Impact

Having a washing machine operating upstairs can create significant vibration and noise, which can be disruptive to people below.

• Anti-Vibration Pads: Place anti-vibration pads under the washer and dryer. These help absorb vibrations and reduce noise transmission.
• Leveling: Ensure both appliances are perfectly level. An unbalanced machine vibrates more.

• Soundproofing: Consider soundproofing measures:

  • Insulation: Add insulation to the walls and floor surrounding the laundry area.
  • Acoustic Underlayment: Use acoustic underlayment under the flooring.
  • Solid-Core Doors: Use solid-core doors to reduce noise escaping the laundry room.

5. Accessibility and Layout: Making it Functional

Consider the layout of your laundry area and how accessible it will be.

• Doorway Width: Ensure the doorway is wide enough to accommodate the washer and dryer.
• Clearance: Allow sufficient clearance around the appliances for loading and unloading laundry, as well as for maintenance and repairs.
• Ventilation: Ensure the laundry area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew.
• Convenience: Consider adding a countertop for folding laundry, storage for detergents and supplies, and good lighting.

6. Condensation Issues: Dealing with Moisture

Dryers vent a lot of moisture. Improper venting can lead to significant problems.

• Proper Venting is Key: Dryer vents MUST exhaust to the outside of the house. Never vent a dryer into an attic, crawlspace, or other enclosed area.
• Vent Material: Use rigid metal ductwork for the dryer vent. Flexible foil or plastic ductwork is a fire hazard.
• Vent Length: Keep the vent run as short and straight as possible. Each bend reduces the efficiency of the dryer. Consult the dryer’s manual for maximum vent length recommendations.
• Clean the Vent Regularly: Clean the dryer vent at least once a year (or more often, depending on usage) to remove lint buildup, which can cause a fire.

7. Cost Considerations: Budgeting for the Project

Installing a "washer dryer upstairs" involves significant costs beyond just the appliances.

• Professional Installation: Hiring qualified plumbers and electricians is essential for safety and code compliance.
• Materials: Plumbing, electrical, venting, and reinforcement materials can add up quickly.
• Permits: Check local building codes and obtain the necessary permits before starting any work.
• Unexpected Costs: Set aside a contingency fund for unexpected problems or delays.

Example Table of Potential Costs:

Item	Estimated Cost (USD)	Notes
Structural Engineer	$300 – $800	Varies depending on complexity of assessment.
Plumbing Installation	$500 – $1500	Includes running water lines and drain. Can be higher if significant rerouting is required.
Electrical Installation	$300 – $1000	Includes dedicated circuits. Higher if a new panel or significant wiring upgrades are needed.
Dryer Vent Installation	$200 – $500	Can be lower if an existing vent can be easily utilized.
Reinforcement Materials	$100 – $500	Depends on the extent of reinforcement needed.
Permits	$50 – $200	Varies by location.
TOTAL	$1450 – $4500+	This is a very rough estimate. Actual costs can vary significantly depending on the specifics of your home and location. Always get quotes.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what’s involved in getting a washer dryer upstairs. Do your homework, take your time, and enjoy the convenience!