Replies

1. 
   Wolfman | Sep 27, 2005 06:27pm | #1

   Mark,

   I built a stand for our new washer and dryer. I made it out of plywood and painted it white to match. Works great. I did not build any drawers, but knock yourself out. I measured the one they were selling and built mine to the same dimensions, I think I added an extra inch all the way around for washer vibration. Make sure to reinforce your box with glue blocks on the inside.

   Good luck,

   Bob

2. 
   Jamie_Buxton | Sep 27, 2005 09:31pm | #2

   How many gorillas does it take to lift a dryer up to put it on the rack?

1. 
   Michael | Sep 27, 2005 09:52pm | #3

   The dryer is the easy one, I can pick up most of them myself without a dolly / jack (fo course, I'm not a 'small guy' at 6'3 230lb).  However, washers....  I've assisted my brother who used to work for Sears appliance delivery and damn.... they sell a few models that are > 250-300 lbs of 'ballast' more or less.

   Like moving an engine block without handles.

   I've just build a set for mine and didn't have much issue lifting either one.

   Free beer and a co-worker or neighbor :)

   michael

1. 
   MarkRD | Sep 27, 2005 10:01pm | #4

   Yes that will be a challenge. The dryer, as you say, is light. The washer on the other hand will be "fun and interesting"Mark
   Visit my woodworking blog Dust Maker

2. 
   USANigel | Sep 29, 2005 04:02am | #11

   lifting the washer is easy! Had to do it by myself! cut a few 2x4 to 30" and then rock the washer to one side, slide under a 2x4, rock to the other side and slide a 2x4 under. rock forward and slide a 2x4 on top of the other 2x4. tilt back and do the front. Now its up 3" do it all again and its up 6". I was surprized how easy and solid it worked. Just make sure the last 2x4s are the side pair so you can slide off and on to the new platform. I added a small "bump" to make sure the machine would not "walk" off the platform.

3. 
   DonfromUtah | Sep 28, 2005 02:36am | #5

   I built a platform for our washer and dryer, put a plastic pan under the washer to catch leaks and ran a drain from the pan to the outside just in case it was a really serious leak.

4. 
   dukeone | Sep 28, 2005 05:20am | #6

   Mark: You know washers tend to ''walk'' with a unbalanced load, I wonder if the factory stand has some kind of dimples under the washers feet just in case. On the other hand don't know if the new front loaders do the same ''walk''. It would be a heck of a surprise to find it on its side on the floor. KDM

   Kenneth Duke Masters
   The Bill of Rights
   December 15 1791
   NRA Endowment Member
   LEAA Life Member
   CRPA Member
1. 
   Michael | Sep 28, 2005 06:59pm | #7

   The front loaders actually don't walk nearly as much as the top loads.  Also, that fancy new kenmore topload is supposed to enjoy some of the same physics of a front load (don't ask me details as I have no clue if it's true or not).

   Basically, before the spin cycle on a front load, the washer alternates rotation clockwise then counter 7-10 times and in essence does a great job of balancing the load before the 'spin' up.  I can tell you that my laundry comes out of the washer a LOT dryer than it used to and saves a great deal on dry time (sensor driving dryer).

   Mine has never so much as moved from the spot I placed it on.

   Perhaps corner blocking could prevent that walking and offer a degree of comfort and safety?

   Michael

1. 
   dukeone | Sep 28, 2005 07:10pm | #8

   Michael: Sounds good, a new washer is on my list of stuff to get, I like the idea of more efficient spin-out. Some of these washers use 220 volt, no? That would be an important issue as I don't have 220 in my ''laundry room''. I'm a retired electrician but can no longer crawl under the house.

    KDMKenneth Duke Masters
   The Bill of Rights
   December 15 1791
   NRA Endowment Member
   LEAA Life Member
   CRPA Member

1. 
   Michael | Sep 28, 2005 11:05pm | #9

   Some do, but I believe those are mostly the Euro models.  Mine is a GE that draws from 110... although I'm certain it's probably a decent amount of amps...

   In fact... let me find the link...

   Can't link to their site due to navigation engine.  Pulled up the manual though and it's a 120v 12A spec.

   They are MUCH more efficient now than they used to be though and I'm sure in a year or two mine will be 'old' compared to some of the newer models.

   I'm very pleased with it and as mentioned the stand raises it up to a very comfortable working height.

   Should be able to replace yours without having to do circuit work :)

   michael

5. 
   SawdustSteve | Sep 29, 2005 12:39am | #10

   'Overbuild' the stand... 2 x 8 on edge for height, 3/4" CDX plywood for the top, plenty of construction adgesive and screws for assembly. Throw in some corner blocks for good luck. Someone else suggested a pan under the washer. It's good insurance in case of an overflow. Use a large forstner bit to make some dimples for the feet to sit in so the washer or drier will not walk off the riser stand.. Paint it and you're in business. SawdustSteve