Washer and Dryer Installation

Jen
by Jen
Our washer and Dryer is currently in our basement. We want to put it upstairs in a closet. The closet is right over where all of the hookups are currently. Is there a way to hook everything up to the same vent/drains by going through the floor?
  5 answers
  • Hamtil Construction LLC Hamtil Construction LLC on May 01, 2013
    It is possible to extend the same plumbing drain, yes. How you tie in and run the line up may not be aesthetically pleasing if you bring it through the floor outside the wall, though. You will need to run a new plumbing vent line unfortunately. In your case, it might be possible to go straight up through the ceiling into the attic above (if you have one), and then connect to a nearby vent going through the roof, or run it out of the roof by itself. The plumbing vent line can also tie into another vent if there is one common to the same wall, but it needs to tie in above "flood level" (above the vanity height). Usually we run the supplies and drain lines inside the walls and install a "laundry space saver" for the hookups. Keep in mind that you typically need a floor drain in a laundry closet, or a safety pan (typically 2nd floors). Also, the dryer vent will need to be addressed. Occasionally, the space requirements might demand a close to the wall vent or a vent box like this: http://www.lowes.com/pd_319847-85334-VTL0027_0_ If you are using a gas dryer, you will also need to provide makeup air into the closet through a louvered door or open vents through the wall. Gas combustion appliances always require makeup air, and when closed in a closet or laundry room whose volume is less than 50 cubic feet/1000 BTU/hr. input rating, then the code applies. Biggest thing to check... make sure the appliances will fit through the doorway! :) Cheers.
  • H.O. Electric H.O. Electric on May 02, 2013
    Yes, it is possible. However, you might have to go through te closet and up to attic for venting
  • Jen Jen on May 04, 2013
    Wow thank you so much for responding. What exactly is the "Laundry Space Saver"? And is there any "other" way you could suggest doing it? The closet is right next to the bathroom and the kitchen is directly behind it. I really appreciate your help.
  • Hamtil Construction LLC Hamtil Construction LLC on May 05, 2013
    Hi @Jen - If there is already plumbing available inside a common wall, then it might make the plumbing venting much easier. The trick is identifying where the existing plumbing stack and vent is located and tying into it. Might save you from having to run a vent up into the attic. A laundry space saver is a plastic washer rough in box that mounts inside a stud wall and incorporates the water connections and drain into one handy location. I searched online for a link. See the second photo down from the top: http://www.schlatter.org/Nneck%20House/roughin%20pg%201.htm You might want to consider getting a plumber to look at the situation. That way, you can ensure your supply lines are properly sized as well. You might also consider installing fiberglass or mineral wool sound insulation in the wall prior to closing it up as well. At least, on the kitchen side.
  • Jen Jen on May 08, 2013
    That is great. Thank you so much for all of your help!