Measure Twice, Wash Once: Ultimate Guide to Checking if Your Washer Will Pass Through the Door
What To Know
- While not as critical as the width and height, it’s helpful to measure the depth of your door frame to ensure there’s enough space for the washing machine to clear any obstacles, such as studs or walls.
- The height of the washing machine should be at least 4 inches shorter than the height of your door frame to allow for the machine to be lifted in and out of the space.
- The depth of the washing machine should be at least 6 inches less than the depth of your door frame to ensure it can be moved through the doorway without hitting any obstacles.
When embarking on the daunting task of replacing your trusty washing machine, one crucial factor that often goes overlooked is whether it will fit through your door. This seemingly simple question can turn into a major headache if not addressed properly. To help you navigate this potential pitfall, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about measuring your door and washing machine to ensure a seamless installation.
Measuring Your Door
1. Width: Measure the width of your door frame from the inside edge of one jamb to the inside edge of the other.
2. Height: Measure the height of your door frame from the top of the threshold to the bottom of the top jamb.
3. Depth: While not as critical as the width and height, it’s helpful to measure the depth of your door frame to ensure there’s enough space for the washing machine to clear any obstacles, such as studs or walls.
Measuring Your Washing Machine
1. Width: Measure the width of the washing machine from the widest point, including any handles or knobs.
2. Height: Measure the height of the washing machine from the bottom of the base to the top of the lid or control panel.
3. Depth: Measure the depth of the washing machine from the front to the back, including any hoses or cords.
Comparing Measurements
Once you have measurements for both your door and washing machine, it’s time to compare them.
1. Width: The width of the washing machine should be at least 2 inches narrower than the width of your door frame to allow for clearance.
2. Height: The height of the washing machine should be at least 4 inches shorter than the height of your door frame to allow for the machine to be lifted in and out of the space.
3. Depth: The depth of the washing machine should be at least 6 inches less than the depth of your door frame to ensure it can be moved through the doorway without hitting any obstacles.
Additional Considerations
1. Door Swing: Consider the direction in which your door swings. If it swings inward, you’ll need to add an additional 2 inches to the width measurement of your washing machine.
2. Stairs or Thresholds: If you have stairs or a threshold leading to your laundry room, measure the height and width of those obstacles to ensure the washing machine can clear them.
3. Professional Measurement: If you’re not confident in your measuring abilities, it’s best to consult a professional appliance installer for accurate measurements.
Removing a Door if Necessary
In rare cases, you may need to remove a door to fit the washing machine through. Here are the steps to do so:
1. Remove Hinges: Remove the pins or screws that hold the hinges in place, and then carefully lift the door off its hinges.
2. Remove Doorstop: Remove the doorstop or any other obstacles that may prevent the door from being removed.
3. Lift Door: Carefully lift the door and move it out of the way.
Reinstalling a Door
Once you’ve successfully moved the washing machine through the door, it’s time to reinstall the door.
1. Insert Hinges: Insert the hinges into the door frame and secure them with pins or screws.
2. Hang Door: Carefully hang the door on the hinges and align it properly.
3. Install Doorstop: Reinstall the doorstop or any other obstacles that were removed.
Wrapping Up
By following these comprehensive guidelines, you can ensure that your new washing machine will fit through your door without any unexpected surprises. Remember to measure both your door and washing machine accurately, consider additional factors such as door swing and obstacles, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if necessary. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy a seamless washing machine installation experience.
FAQ
1. What if my washing machine is slightly wider than my door frame?
If the width difference is less than 1 inch, you may be able to squeeze the washing machine through with some effort. However, if the difference is greater than 1 inch, you may need to remove the door or consult a professional installer.
2. Can I remove the washing machine door to make it fit?
Yes, it is possible to remove the washing machine door to reduce its width. However, this is not recommended for all models, so it’s important to consult your appliance manual or a professional installer before attempting this.
3. What should I do if my washing machine is too tall for my door?
If the height difference is less than 2 inches, you may be able to tilt the washing machine slightly to fit it through. However, if the difference is greater than 2 inches, you may need to remove a door or consult a professional installer.
4. How can I protect my door and washing machine during installation?
Use moving blankets or cardboard to protect your door and washing machine from scratches or damage during installation.
5. What if I have stairs or a threshold leading to my laundry room?
Measure the height and width of the stairs or threshold to ensure the washing machine can clear them. You may need to use a ramp or dolly to assist in moving the washing machine over these obstacles.
