Having your own washer and dryer in an apartment can make doing laundry significantly more convenient. However, there are also downsides to consider before making the investment. This article examines the pros and cons to determine if it’s worth getting a washer and dryer for an apartment.
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The convenience factor
One of the biggest advantages of having your own washer and dryer in an apartment is the convenience it provides. Here are some of the conveniences:
- Do laundry on your schedule – No more having to coordinate with other tenants or being limited to certain laundry room hours. You can do laundry whenever it fits your schedule.
- Avoid shared machines – Shared washers and dryers can often be dirty or out of order. With your own set, you don’t have to worry about other people’s messes or breakdowns.
- No more hauling laundry – You avoid having to lug baskets of dirty clothes up and down to a communal laundry room.
- Multitask while laundering – You can be home doing other activities while running a load of laundry.
- Faster turnaround – With the machines just steps away, it’s easier to stay on top of laundry instead of letting it pile up.
For many busy individuals and families, the sheer convenience factor makes owning a washer and dryer in an apartment fully worthwhile.
Cost considerations
While the convenience is appealing, there are also cost factors to think about:
Purchase costs
If your apartment does not already have hookups, you will need to purchase both a washer and dryer. Key costs include:
- Washer – $300 to $800+ for a basic to mid-range model
- Dryer – $300 to $800+ for a basic to mid-range model
- Venting kit – $100 to $200 to properly vent the dryer outdoors
- Misc parts and supplies – $50 to $100 for hoses, cords, adapters, etc.
You may also need to pay additional costs for delivery and installation if you are unable to transport and install the machines yourself.
Increased utility costs
Running your own washer and dryer will increase your monthly electric and water bills versus using shared machines. The increase will depend on factors like:
- How often you do laundry
- Washer efficiency rating (standard vs. energy-efficient models)
- Washer capacity (smaller loads use less water)
- Electric dryer vs. gas dryer (gas is often less expensive to run)
On average most households see utility costs go up $10 to $30+ per month when running their own laundry at home versus shared machines. Be sure to budget accordingly.
Maintenance and repairs
As with any major appliance, washers and dryers can eventually break down and require repairs. Some costs to keep in mind include:
- Repair fees – $80 to $200+ per major repair
- Service fees – $100+ for a technician visit
- Replacement parts – $50 to $200+ for common parts like belts, pumps, etc.
Most washers and dryers last around 5-10 years, sometimes longer. But occasional maintenance and repairs should be budgeted for.
Cost mitigation tips
Here are some tips to help mitigate costs if you do opt to get an apartment washer and dryer:
- Buy used machines – Conditioned, used models are significantly cheaper.
- Search for sales and rebates – Retailers often discount floor models or offer seasonal sales.
- Use energy-efficient models – They use less electricity and water.
- Learn DIY repairs – Fix simple issues like belts yourself.
- Clean machines regularly – Extends the life of washers and dryers.
Installation and space considerations
Installing your own washer and dryer in an apartment takes planning. Key factors to consider include:
Required hookups
At minimum you will need:
- Electrical – A 120-volt outlet for an electric dryer or a gas line for a gas model.
- Water – Hot and cold water lines with shutoff valves.
- Drain – A drain line and receptacle for wastewater.
- Venting – A duct to vent hot air and lint outside when drying clothes.
Many apartments already have hookups from a previous tenant’s washer and dryer. If not, you will need permission from your landlord to add the proper connections.
Physical space requirements
You need sufficient space for:
- The washer and dryer units themselves. Standard sizes are 27″ wide by 31″ deep.
- Clearance around the units for ventilation and door opening. Most installers recommend at least 6″ clearance on all sides.
- Space in front of units around 3 feet for loading/unloading. Side-by-side installs need less space than stacking.
Measure carefully as tight quarters can make operating the machines difficult.
Is it permitted in your rental?
Before purchasing a washer and dryer, review your apartment rental agreement and check with your landlord. Most standard leases will have verbiage that covers adding major appliances. Typical limitations may include:
- Requiring permission from the landlord before installing
- Restricting washer/dryer types (e.g. no portable units)
- Limiting installations to certain units or floors
- Requiring use of licensed contractors
- Obligating removal at lease end
Violating the terms of your lease by adding unauthorized appliances can be grounds for fines or even eviction in some cases. Always get written approval from your landlord prior to purchasing units.
Alternatives to consider
In addition to installing your own washer and dryer, here are some other options that provide additional flexibility:
Portable units
Compact, portable washers and dryers can be easily moved and do not require special hookups. Key perks include:
- Low upfront cost – Units start around $300.
- Easy setup – Just plug into a standard outlet.
- Move with you – Take the units to your next home.
Downsides are smaller load sizes and no option for gas dryers, which are cheaper to run. Most landlords allow portable units with proper notification.
Laundry pick-up/delivery service
Some laundry companies will pick up dirty laundry from your door and return is washed, dried and folded. Benefits include:
- Outsources laundry completely
- No equipment to purchase
- Flexibility to use as needed
Drawbacks are the ongoing costs. Services typically start around $1 per pound with minimums and delivery fees.
If your apartment has shared laundry units in a common area, make the most of them by:
- Asking neighbors for slow times to avoid competing for machines
- Bringing folding tables to sort and fold there rather than hauling back and forth
- Using laundry pickup/delivery just for overflow if needed
This is the most budget-friendly option that still allows you to outsource the task when needed.
Conclusion
Here are some key takeaways on whether getting your own washer and dryer is worth it for an apartment:
- The convenience factor is substantial, allowing you to do laundry on your own schedule in the unit.
- Costs can add up between purchase prices, utility increases and potential maintenance.
- Installing machines requires proper hookups and adequate space in the floorplan.
- Always get written approval from the landlord before purchasing and installing.
- Alternatives like portable units or laundry services provide some benefits with less commitment.
Overall, owning your own washer and dryer can be a nice perk if you can swing the upfront costs. But also consider less expensive alternatives that still allow you to outsource laundry as needed.
Carefully weigh convenience versus costs and alternatives before deciding if owning your own washer and dryer is the right choice for your apartment and budget.