Built-in washing machines are not uncommon. The machine does not fit in the bathroom, and it is placed in the kitchen unit module. But there are times when there is no place for it in the kitchen. There are two options left: take it out into the corridor, building it into a special cabinet, or install it under the washbasin.
Despite the fact that installation is a more complex and expensive option, many people prefer it. It is better to “hide” the washing machine in the kitchen or hallway. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you need to know the main thing - the main dimensions of built-in washing machines. This will be discussed in our article.
What types of built-in machines are there?
All built-in models can be divided into two categories:
- Fully built-in machines with pre-designed mounting options and installation in a cabinet or cabinet.
- Machines with the ability to be built in, including under a countertop or under a sink.
Typically, embedded devices are front-loading. There are some top-loading models that require the countertop to be folded down for each wash. It is clear that this option is not very practical.
The possibility of embedding imposes restrictions on the dimensions of such equipment. When choosing it, you should take into account the parameters of the cabinet, table or cabinet where the machine will be installed.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of placing a washing machine under the countertop include:
- maximum efficient use of space;
- possibility to choose a model of any capacity. If the equipment is installed under the kitchen countertop, you don’t have to limit yourself to small-sized machines, the purchase of which is often required in small bathrooms;
- ease of connection of communications and the ability to hide hoses, maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the room;
- the ability to create any interior design (built-in appliances hidden behind the facades will not violate the overall concept).
However, the installation and operation of a built-in washing machine under a countertop has its own nuances that must be taken into account:
- difficulties in dismantling in the event of equipment breakdown or the need to repair the premises, in the case when the machine is not just pushed under the tabletop, but is covered with a plinth or facade;
- inconvenience when ventilating the drum. If the machine is located under the kitchen countertop, the open door of the unit may interfere with free movement;
- obvious difficulties when storing a basket for dirty laundry in the kitchen, as well as the dangerous proximity of detergents and products.
The last nuances can be easily dealt with if the kitchen has a free niche for storing detergents and a laundry basket.
If your washing machine is located in the kitchen, be careful when using detergents: small particles can settle on dishes and food
A washing machine built under the countertop is a beautiful, comfortable and functional element of your interior. Implementing such a solution is not at all difficult and anyone can do it. Do not neglect the advice of specialists, carefully calculate the sizes and you will definitely succeed!
Standard sizes of built-in washing machines
Standard height
fully built-in models range from 81 to 84 cm (most often 82 cm), since the ergonomically optimal tabletop height is 85 cm.
It is also necessary to take into account the thickness of the material from which the tabletop is made. So, chipboard can be quite thick, up to 4 cm, so for embedding it is better to choose a material with a smaller thickness - MDF, artificial stone, etc.
Low machines for full recessing are not available, since their installation would require a high podium or would create unused space on top.
Standard width
fully built-in washing machines also corresponds to the width of a regular kitchen cabinet or cabinet and is 60 cm. Models from the Hausdorf online store catalog are no exception. The exact value of their width is 59.5-59.6 cm.
Standard depth
built-in appliances are associated with the depth of the kitchen furniture, which is usually 60 cm. The buyer can choose a model with a depth of 54 to 59 cm.
It is impractical to install narrow washing machines with a depth of less than 50 cm in a kitchen unit due to the large unused space at the back. Dust will accumulate in it, and access for cleaning will be limited.
Conversely, deep machines with dimensions of more than 60 cm will not have room for hoses at the back or will have problems installing a decorative facade.
The most popular fully built-in model in our store, Neff W6440X0OE, has a height of 81.8 cm, a width of 59.6 cm and a depth of 57.4 cm.
The best machines for installation in a headset
The rating of models was determined based on the results of surveys of users of built-in washing machines without reference to manufacturers. The position on the list reflects the greater number of positive reviews received by this model. Brief description of the winners:
Whirlpool BI WMWG 71484E
- Model with steam treatment option at a price of 28-40 thousand rubles.
- Maximum load – 7 kg, energy efficiency – A+++, drying – A, spin – 1400 rpm, number of programs – 14.
- Control is by mechanical buttons, there is an LED display.
- Leakage protection, foam suppression, automatic drum balancing.
Whirlpool BI WMWG 71484E
Hotpoint Ariston CAWD 1297
- Model with electronic control and drying function at a price of 36-45 thousand rubles with a load of 7/5 kg.
- Washing class - A, spin class - B (1200 rpm), energy consumption - B.
- Water consumption – 86 l, drum volume – 52 l, machine weight 65 kg, programs – 17 for washing and 3 drying.
- Protection against leaks - partial, delayed start - up to 9 hours, control of foaming and imbalance.
Hotpoint Ariston CAWD 1297
"Bosch WIW 24340"
Model from Germany at a price of 60-92 thousand rubles, high-quality and reliable with touch control.
- Energy efficiency class – A+++, washing/spin – A/B, number of programs – 14.
- There is a drum light with a capacity of 7 kg of dry laundry, additional loading during the cycle, and a signal for the end of machine operation.
- Delay timer for 24 hours, complete protection against leaks, foam suppression, imbalance elimination, button locking against child intervention.
- There is no drying.
Bosch WIW 24340
"Electrolux EWG 147540W"
- Price 41-51 thousand rubles, no drying.
- Energy efficiency – A++, number of programs – 14, display, sound notification of the end of the cycle.
- Stainless steel drum capacity – 7 kg of clothes, spin speed 1400 rpm, water consumption – 56 l.
- Delay start for up to 20 hours, complete protection against leaks and children's pranks.
Electrolux EWG 147540W
Siemens WI14W540OE
- Model without drying, IQ700 series, priced at 71-80 thousand.
- Drum for 8 kg of laundry, spin speed is 1400 rpm, touch control, number of programs – 15, power consumption class – A+++.
- Indication of the washing process, an acoustic signal for stopping the cycle, complete protection against water leaks, there is a backlight and an option for cleaning the drum, the volume of which is 53 liters, and reloading laundry.
- Control of foam formation, imbalance, protection against leaks, machine weight – 76 kg.
Siemens WI14W540OE
Candy CBWM 914DW
SMA costs 44-46 thousand, capacity – 9 kg.
- Number of programs – 15, spin speed adjustable, up to 1400 rpm.
- There is an option to determine the amount of laundry and the optimal washing mode, and reload items.
- Water consumption – 57 l/cycle, energy consumption classes A+++, washing – A.
- Delayed start of the machine for 24 hours, hinged hatch door on any side, control of imbalance, foaming and leakage, blocking against accidental key presses.
Candy CBWM 914DW
Weissgauff WMI 6128D
A machine for 8 kg of things at a price of 26 thousand.
- The number of programs is 16, there is an express mode for 15 minutes, switching is push-button.
- Energy efficiency – A++, washing/spin efficiency – A/B.
- Protection against water leaks - complete, additional loading possible during the cycle.
- Drum rotation speed – 1200 rpm.
Weissgauff WMI 6128D
"TVETTAD"
Built-in washing machine from Ikea, price - 50 thousand rubles, load - 8 kg.
- It regulates the amount of water consumption itself, is equipped with a “Steam” function for refreshing laundry, energy consumption class is A.
- Delayed start for 20 hours, minimization of foaming, automatic increase in rinses with an increased dose of powder.
- The kit includes hinges for hanging a decorative door.
- The weight of the machine is 69 kg, the warranty is issued by the manufacturer for 5 years.
[/colonizer_col]
"TVETTAD"
All built-in SMAs are full-size and are used in families of 4–5 people. The price range is from 26 to 92 thousand rubles.
Size of countertop washing machines
The machine can be placed under the countertop either with a decorative facade hanging, or with an open front part and a loading hatch. The width and height of such devices practically does not differ from the standard values: 60 and 85 cm. In any case, you need to remember about the free space to the side and back walls of the device: it should be at least 1 cm.
If you plan to close the car with a door, it is advisable to choose narrow models (up to 55 cm deep), because freestanding ones are usually made with a protruding hatch and control panel.
If the front of the machine with the hatch is not covered by anything, you can install a machine with a standard depth of 59-60 cm with a tray for detergents that slides forward under the countertop.
Built-in undercounter washing machines AEG
Built-in undercounter washing machines Asko
Built-in undercounter washing machines Bosch
Electrolux built-in undercounter washing machines
Our store offers countertop devices with a depth of 40 to 45 cm with a load of up to 7 kg of laundry. For example, the AEG L574270SL model, with a depth of 45 cm and standard height and width, can hold up to 6.5 kg of laundry and has 16 automatic operating modes.
An unusual solution in this case would be a machine from the famous Italian company Smeg in the style of the 50s - Smeg LBB14PB-2. Its design already includes a decorative door, but the height is slightly higher than the standard one and is 89 cm. The store catalogs present models in different colors: pink, blue, cream. Holds 7 kg of laundry and is equipped with 15 automatic washing programs.
Installation features
Theoretically, the washing machine can be installed anywhere in the bathroom or kitchen. However, the optimal solution would be to place the unit near the water supply and sewage system. It is recommended to install equipment no further than 1.5 m from communications. At a greater distance, the machine will work harder when collecting and draining water, which can lead to breakdowns over time. If you still have to place the equipment far from the pipes, it is better to purchase longer communication hoses - it is strictly not recommended to extend the ones included in the kit.
If the washing machine will be located next to the oven, it is worth installing a special heat-insulating screen between the appliances
Before purchasing and installing a washing machine, you should also consider the following recommendations:
- When taking measurements, leave a few centimeters in reserve. It is imperative to leave a gap between the machine, the countertop and the side walls;
- Calculate the depth also with a margin - remember the need to place the hoses. In addition, free space is required for normal air circulation;
- Do not allow the depth of the machine to match the width of the countertop. Built-in appliances must be completely closed at the top. Otherwise, water or debris from the surface of the countertop will fall onto the unit, which can lead to dire consequences;
- Provide the machine with perfect stability. Tighten the adjustable legs, taking measurements using a building level;
- provide space for free opening/closing of the door if the machine is hidden by the facade (at least 70 cm);
- Make sure the detergent tray is easily accessible. It should extend at least 10 cm.
The washing machine should only be placed on a hard, stable surface. If you plan to install the unit in a cabinet not intended for built-in appliances, you must first remove the bottom of it.
When connecting the unit to a water supply (cold water), the inlet hose is installed at an angle of no more than 35º when the water source is located on the left (the location is assessed from the rear wall) and no more than 45º when located on the right. A tee or fitting is installed on the central water supply pipe. A kitchen faucet is connected to one outlet, a shut-off valve is attached to the second (it is recommended to turn it off after each wash so that the machine is not under water pressure), then a filling pipe is connected (complete with a fastening coupling).
To connect the machine to the sewer, you can install a siphon with a special outlet, lead the drain pipe into the sink (undesirable) or insert a hose into the sewer pipe through a tee.
Otherwise, the same principles apply for appliances built under the countertop as for installing free-standing units:
- fixing the drain hose at a height of no less than 60 cm and no more than 90 cm from the floor;
- the location of the inlet hose is strictly at an angle (cannot be lowered perpendicularly);
- grounding the device;
- removing the transport bolts and replacing them with plugs.
You also need to make sure that there are no bulky pipes behind the washing machine.
An ideal option for a small bathroom - a machine built under one countertop with a sink
Dependence of height on machine type
The height and depth of the washing machine can be determined by the type of load. There are 2 types of it:
- vertical - the hatch for linen is located on top of the device and is an opaque cover;
- frontal, or horizontal - the hatch for loading laundry is located on the front panel of the machine and is a transparent door.
Often full-size vertical and horizontal devices do not differ in height. They are installed free-standing, and therefore standard sizes of 85-90 cm provide the greatest comfort for the user.
Differences between the heights of these 2 types appear in compact and mini models. The lowest options are found in top-loading types, due to their design features.
Front loading washing machines
The sizes of front-loading washing machines vary greatly. It depends on the type of model:
- full-size - with standard dimensions of 85-90 cm in height, 60 in width and 60 in depth;
- built-in - with a distance from the floor to the top point of 85 cm, 60 in depth and 60 in width;
- compact - washing machines are smaller in size than standard ones - about 70 cm, they are also less deep and narrower - 40-50 cm each.
Side-loading machines are typically very stable, keeping vibration and noise to a minimum. They are also often equipped with a laundry drying function. The sizes of automatic washing machines with this option usually differ significantly. Such samples also have greater mass.
The widths of front-loading washing machines range from 60 to 85 cm, but for home use it is quite problematic to find a unit over 70 cm. Wide products are produced for laundries.
Top loading washing machines
The dimensions of top-loading washing machines make it possible to install appliances in small bathrooms and kitchens. They differ noticeably in width from samples with horizontal loading of things - for these it often does not exceed 40 cm. At the same time, their depth indicators are the greatest - equal to 60 cm.
All height standards for washing units
To make it easier to navigate the dimensions of household appliances, it is worth considering a table with standard sizes for different types of washing machines:
| Type of washing machine | Dimensions in cm | ||
| Height | Width | Depth | |
| Full size front | 85-90 | 60-85 | 60 |
| Vertical | 85 | 40-45 | 60 |
| Compact | 68-70 | 60 | 42-45 |
| Mini | 36-70 | 47-60 | 32-35 |
| Built-in | 80-85 | 60 | 54-60 |
Products of standard sizes are most often found in household appliance stores; they are convenient to use for most people. If you need built-in models, you should pay attention to machines with non-standard dimensions.
Advice from users and repair technicians
When buying an expensive item, such as a built-in washing machine, they also listen to the opinions of people with experience in using such equipment and repairing it. The first piece of advice that is often followed by citizens is to take SMAs produced under the name of well-known brands. Other recommendations:
- the volume of items washed per cycle for a family of up to three people is <5 kg, and when there are more children, a 7–8 kg machine will be optimal;
- a model for installation in furniture is determined by price and functions needed for a family household - the variety of built-in AMS on the market allows you to choose a truly useful device;
- The dimensions of the countertop, cabinet, cabinet must be measured before going to the store to buy a car to avoid misunderstandings.
All built-in models of washing machines have a set of many programs to wash clothes with a sufficient degree of cleanliness, regardless of the fabric from which they are made. There are different ways to hide large equipment in an apartment, the best of which is to build it into kitchen furniture.
Proven ways to disguise a washer
Common locations for built-in machines are the kitchen, bathroom, hallway. It should be remembered that the device will need to be connected to electricity, water supply and sewerage.
To minimize the cost of connecting to communications, the installation location is usually chosen close to existing electrical outlets, shut-off and drain valves. Ways to disguise a clothes washing machine depend on local conditions, here are possible layouts in the kitchen interior:
- Install under the countertop. The washing machine is placed in one row with a sink, gas or electric oven, or kitchen cabinet. The top plate can not be applied to the entire length, but only over the machine and the washing area, where it is convenient to place household chemicals: washing powder, gels, cleaning products. Another option is to place the washing machine under the bar counter.
- Hide the headset behind the doors. This could be a cabinet or a cabinet, but we must not forget that the machines have a lot of weight; they are mounted only on the floor, and not on the bottom of the furniture. The gap between the walls of the housing and the elements of the kitchen unit is 5–10 cm. The decorative door can be attached directly to the machine. The corner of the room is a convenient place to install a washing machine, dryer, or top-loading washing machine in a column.
- Mount under the sink. To do this, the SMA must be compact. The front part remains open or is closed with a decorative door. A similar option is appropriate in the bathroom.
In the hallway, if its space allows, the machine is also placed in a closet or cabinet. Often they use an open installation of the device in the gap between the pieces of furniture, placing doors on the façade of the SMA to match the furniture.
