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Quick Answer
Yes, washers and dryers can be installed in enclosed cabinets as long as proper ventilation and clearances are provided. The main considerations are:
- Allowing enough space around the appliances for ventilation.
- Providing openings in the cabinetry for airflow.
- Using materials that won’t restrict airflow or retain heat.
- Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
With careful planning and cabinet design, an enclosed washer and dryer can be safe, functional and look great in a laundry room or closet. Proper ventilation is key to prevent overheating and reduce risk of fire or mechanical issues.
Ventilation Requirements
Proper ventilation is essential when enclosing a washer and dryer space. Heat and moisture buildup can damage appliances and cabinetry over time. Follow these key ventilation guidelines:
- Allow at least 1-3 inches of clearance on all sides of appliances for airflow. More clearance is better.
- Keep vent hoses as short and straight as possible.
- Use louvered doors or panels to allow airflow in and out.
- Install vent grilles low on the cabinet near the floor and high near the ceiling.
- Use moisture-resistant and heat-safe cabinet materials like metal or lumber.
- Avoid cabinet materials that can retain heat like solid wood or plastic.
Also check the manual of your specific washer and dryer models for any ventilation requirements. Most require at least 20-30 square inches of vent opening space.
Clearance Requirements
In addition to ventilation, providing adequate clearance around the appliances is vital:
- Front clearance should be at least 1 inch from cabinet doors for opening.
- Rear clearance should be at least 2-6 inches from wall for venting and electric/gas connections.
- Sides should have 1-3 inches minimum to allow some airflow.
- Top clearance should be at least 1-3 inches from any cabinetry or shelving.
- Consider removable toe kicks or custom platforms to allow for service access.
The actual clearances depend on your appliance models. Always check the installation manuals for the exact front, rear, side and top clearance needed. This ensures your appliances have enough room for ventilation, plumbing, gas and electrical connections.
Consider Stacked Units
For compact laundry spaces, consider stacked washer-dryer units. These have the dryer installed directly above the washer in a single frame. Stacked units take up less floor space and are designed for tight installs with:
- Built-in rear ventilation.
- Closer clearance tolerances.
- Shorter vent hoses.
- Side-by-side connections and controls.
Just check that stacked units will fit your cabinet dimensions as they are still quite bulky. Also factor in the added height required. Stacked units need around 80 inches ceiling clearance or more.
Use Moisture Protectors
To protect cabinetry from moisture damage, use these safeguards:
- Waterproof countertops like quartz or laminate.
- Seal exposed cabinet edges and surfaces.
- Install backsplashes along walls.
- Use moisture barrier underlayment like RedGard.
- Avoid absorbent materials like raw wood.
Also make sure to slope the floor slightly towards a drain or use moisture trays under the units. Controlling moisture and condensation is key for long-term durability.
Have Proper Electrical and Plumbing
When enclosing appliances, make sure to plan for:
- A 120V electrical outlet with proper amperage rating.
- Shutoff valves on the hot and cold supply lines.
- Drain pipe with air gap, p-trap and floor drain or standpipe.
- Gas line connection if applicable.
- enough slack on connection lines for removing/sliding appliances.
Consult local building codes for any requirements on utilities. Also check that drainage slopes properly down to 1/4 inch per foot. Getting the electrical, gas and plumbing right from the start prevents issues down the road.
Soundproofing
Because enclosed spaces amplify noise, soundproofing is recommended for a quieter laundry room:
- Use insulation like Roxul Safe’n’Sound.
- Install mass loaded vinyl for noise blocking.
- Seal air gaps around fixtures to avoid sound transmission.
- Hang laundry cabinets on sound dampening brackets.
- Use quieter washer and dryer models if possible.
With the right combination of sound absorbing and blocking materials, noise can be significantly reduced. Just be mindful of ventilation needs so soundproofing doesn’t cause heat buildup.
Safety Tips
To safely enclose your laundry, keep these safety guidelines in mind:
- Install a smoke detector and fire extinguisher in laundry room.
- Use metal vent hoses to reduce fire risk.
- Keep the area free of clutter that can combust.
- Have appliances installed and serviced by professionals.
- Shut off water supply if leaving home for extended periods.
Routine maintenance and dryer vent cleaning will also help prevent fires. Avoid storing any combustibles like chemicals near the enclosed laundry space as well.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance will keep your enclosed laundry setup running safely and efficiently:
- Clean lint trap before every dryer load.
- Use drip pans to catch water leaks.
- Inspect hoses and pipes for cracks.
- Clear vent ducts of lint buildup.
- Wipe moisture and mildew from surfaces.
- Clean out wet vacuum breakers.
Preventative maintenance helps avoid costly repairs and safety hazards over time. Be sure to have professionals handle any electrical, gas or major appliance servicing needs.
Best Practices Summary
Here’s a quick summary of the best practices for enclosing a washer and dryer:
- Allow minimum 1-3″ clearance on all sides of appliances.
- Install louvers and vents for proper airflow.
- Use moisture resistant cabinet materials.
- Slope floor to drain and use moisture barriers.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for utilities.
- Soundproof to reduce noise.
- Provide fire safety and ventilation.
- Conduct routine maintenance and cleaning.
By carefully following these recommendations, an enclosed laundry setup can operate safely, efficiently and look great. Just be sure to prioritize proper ventilation, clearances and moisture protection when designing the space.
Costs of Enclosing Laundry
The costs to enclose a laundry room will depend on the size of the space, materials used, and complexity of the project. Here are some average costs:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cabinets | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Countertops | $500 – $2,000 |
| New flooring | $500 – $1,500 |
| Plumbing | $200 – $500 |
| Electrical work | $200 – $500 |
| Ventilation | $150 – $300 |
| Permits | $100 – $500 |
| Soundproofing | $150 – $500 |
| Doors | $300 – $1000 |
| Total | $3,200 – $12,300 |
Additional costs may include:
- Removing existing walls or fixtures.
- Extending electrical, gas or water lines.
- Drywall, trim and painting.
- Laundry sink, storage and organizers.
- Lighting and laundry room accessories.
- Hiring an architect or contractor.
Complex projects or hiring a designer and contractor will increase costs. But a basic DIY enclosure is quite affordable, especially if reusing existing finishes and utilities.
Alternatives to Enclosing Laundry
If enclosing your laundry appliances isn’t practical, consider these alternative solutions:
Freestanding Closet
A closet installed around the washer and dryer creates an enclosure but allows removal if needed. Use louvered doors for ventilation. Install soundproofing panels on walls to reduce noise.
Curtains
Sound dampening and heat resistant curtains can provide a cost-effective way to visually hide laundry appliances. Use a track or rod system that allows full access to the machines.
Accordion Doors
Accordion style folding doors can neatly hide laundry when closed. Get moisture-resistant ones and leave space at top and bottom for airflow. Drawbacks are less noise reduction and accessibility.
Room Divider
Room dividers like screens or shelves can separate a laundry area rather than fully enclosing it. This improves aesthetics while still allowing ventilation and access.
Noise Reduction
If noise is the main concern, install sound dampening pads under appliances. Use soundproof insulating materials on adjacent walls. Also ensure vibration absorbing feet or stands are used.
Conclusion
Enclosing a washer and dryer requires careful planning and design considerations, especially regarding ventilation, clearances and noise reduction. But with ample space for airflow, moisture protection, and the right materials, an enclosed laundry setup can be achieved. Follow manufacturer guidelines, allow adequate access, and incorporate safety features. With proper precautions, enclosing laundry appliances can work well functionally while also providing a cleaner look. Just be sure ventilation and clearances take priority in the design. Careful planning allows you to reap the benefits of an enclosed washer and dryer that operates safely and efficiently.
