Ventilation needed for front loading washer/dryer?
Question:It's time to replace my washer and dryer, and since we have such a tiny laundry room, I was thinking of getting the newer front loading machines, and building a (self supporting) counter top over them. The units would be enclosed on 5 sides, with only a few inches of clearance in the rear. Does anyone know if this would cause a problem with over heating ? Of course, the dryer would have it's exhast ventalation, but do the units themselves generate substantial enough heat as to require ventalation space around them? I can't seem to find this information from the pre-sale info I've found so far.
Thanks in advance.
Answers:
One would think it would be ok, I mean you see so many with small spaces having them not have much vent space.. I agree with the bathroom type vent fan... for the room itself will heat up for sure... my main reason for responding is . the front loaders are the best... we have been using one since they first came out... just had to replace the first one and I love it... would never go to a top loader again!! Be sure to use the right soap and not a lot.. it really cuts back on soap usage and water as well.
Install a ventilation fan in the ceiling of the laundry space. You and your machines will be happier for it. These are relatively inexpensive, and can be a simple DIY if you are familiar with wiring. A small bathroom fan will work.
Since the dryer works by heating the air and running a volume of air through the drum it might hot be the heat you need to worry about. Since the dryer is sending so much air outside you need a to make sure the dryer can get the makeup air it needs. The installation manual will give you all the info you need.
Think about your microwave oven, wall oven, fridge, computer - they ALL need and should have ventilation, as they all generate HEAT. Decide which unit you are going to purchase, then read the manufacturer's instructions with regard to the 'installation' and all your concerns should be addressed therein.
You should not have a problem if the 6th side is the front, where any heat from the motors in the washer and dryer, as well as any humidity can escape into your laundry room. As long as you observe the back and side clearance regions as described by the mfr, you should have no problems.
If the door to your laundry room is vented or has louvers, that will also let the air circulate.
Check with the manufacturer's website for the units you have chosen, and download the installation manual for those units.
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