Before you buy, take some measurements to minimize complications during installation.
Outlets
There is no standard height for washer and dryer outlets. They typically are located just above the dryer, away from the floor in case of flooding or washing machine overflow. Washing machines feature a regular three-prong plug, while dryers may be equipped with any of several types. Dryer plugs have three or four prongs; some run parallel to each other, while others are angled. If the plug doesn't match the outlet, you need to swap out the outlet facing with the appropriate type.
Ventilation
Dryers are nearly always vented through the wall and to the outdoors, allowing damp, hot air to escape. If the laundry room is on a main floor, the vent could be located near a window or at any height along the floor or wall, close to the electrical outlet. If the laundry room is located in a basement, the vent likely is located near the ceiling. Measure the distance between the vent hole in the back of the dryer and the outside vent, and purchase a length of duct long enough to span the distance.
Water Hookups
Depending on the plumbing system, the washer connects to faucets along the supply lines or to a utility sink equipped with a hot and cold tap. There is no standard height for supply-line faucets, but either way, the valves are located near the washing machine electrical outlet -- close enough to run a short supply hose from the faucets to the valves on the back of the washer. A drain pipe is located near the faucets or sink at a level lower than the height of the washing machine.
Gas Hookup
Not all dryers run on electricity. Gas-powered dryers are common, although some models may require a regular three-prong electrical outlet to power the display and control panel. A gas line located at floor level near the outdoor dryer vent connects to the inlet valve on the back of the dryer. The line may be located at any height, as long as you have a gas line long enough to reach between the two points.
The Drip Cap
- Installing a new washer and dryer is fairly simple if all your hookups are in place.
- Locations for all of these features vary depending on the layout of the laundry room.
- If the laundry room is on a main floor, the vent could be located near a window or at any height along the floor or wall, close to the electrical outlet.
- Gas-powered dryers are common, although some models may require a regular three-prong electrical outlet to power the display and control panel.
- A gas line located at floor level near the outdoor dryer vent connects to the inlet valve on the back of the dryer.