A washing machine is a necessary equipment in every home, but it is not always possible to find a suitable place for it. Usually the unit is installed in the bathroom, but if there is a shortage of space in the bathroom, the device can be placed in the kitchen or even in the hallway. The best solutions for small spaces are to integrate the washing machine under the countertop, under the sink or into the kitchen unit. Next, we will consider in which room it is better to install the machine, whether it is possible to build in full-sized equipment, and what needs to be taken into account when connecting the device to communications.
With the right approach, a washing machine can become a harmonious part of any interior.
Installing a washing machine under the countertop
Such a bulky appliance as a washing machine cannot always harmoniously complement a cozy kitchen interior. It is for such cases that they came up with built-in appliances, on the front panel of which there is a fastener for kitchen furniture doors. But what to do if you have already purchased a regular washing machine, but purchasing a built-in model is not yet part of your plans? In order not to violate the integrity of the kitchen design, the existing washing machine can be placed under the countertop, hiding its visible part behind the furniture facades, and if the washing machine organically matches the colors of the facades and the overall style of the kitchen, it can be placed under the countertop without hiding its front part.
Not every washing machine will easily fit into a niche or cabinet prepared for it in a kitchen unit. The height of the headset should exceed the height of the machine by several centimeters so that the equipment fits into it easily and can function normally. Also, a sewer drain and a water supply pipe must be connected to the installation site. The power outlet should be in an easily accessible place; the optimal height is 15–20 cm from the floor level.
Adviсe
There are several ways to reduce the disadvantages of placing a washing machine in the kitchen:
- if it interferes with the meal with its noise, then you can postpone the washing to night time. And it’s best to adjust its legs so that the equipment is installed perfectly level - so it will be practically silent;
- The noise is also affected by the floor covering on which the machine stands. It is worth giving preference to ceramic tiles - the quietest material. But if there is laminate on the floor, then there is a high probability that the neighbors will immediately know when your machine starts spinning the laundry;
- It is best to place the washing machine next to the dishwasher and sink, thus creating a “wet” corner. This makes it more convenient to supply water, and it will be easier to clean when everything is at hand. In a corner kitchen, for ergonomic reasons, the dishwasher is placed to the right of the sink, and the washing machine is placed to the left.
There are several ways to install appliances in the kitchen. They have no significant differences in characteristics, advantages or disadvantages.
Preparation stage. Tools and equipment
A built-in washing machine adds a cozy appearance to the kitchen and convenient use of appliances.
In order to install a washing machine under the kitchen countertop, you will need the following tools:
- Fastening elements;
- Pliers;
- Yardstick;
- Adjustable wrench;
- Building level;
- Photoplastic sealing tape;
- Screwdriver – voltage detector;
- Water hose;
- Water filter with mesh;
- Shut-off valve;
- Stationery knife.
Beautiful and durable tile countertop for the bathroom - how to make it yourself?
A washbasin built into the countertop looks much more interesting than one standing separately, without any decoration.
And it’s more convenient to use - cosmetic accessories or a razor can be placed nearby, rather than held in your hands.
Many users will be interested in a homemade countertop in a bathroom made of tiles - this will be discussed in detail below.
Procedure for installing an automatic washing machine under a countertop
- Bolts secure the tank during transportation; they can be found on the rear panel of the machine. After their dismantling, the hollow holes are closed with plastic plugs, which are included in the package.
- The drain hose and power cord are secured with staples.
- In some models, bars are placed between the tank and the body of the vehicle for transportation. To remove them, you need to tilt the car in front and pull them out.
It is advisable to save all transportation elements in case the car is transported in the future (repairs, moving, etc.).
Installing a washing machine under a countertop can be done in several ways:
- The machine is placed in a separate cabinet with a base part, cabinet strips, side walls and front doors.
- If the built-in model has places on the front for fastening elements of the kitchen set, it is installed between adjacent boxes of the set, and the furniture facade is attached to the body of the machine.
- The technical device is installed between two sections of the furniture elements, and the furniture facades are attached to the outside of the side parts of the boxes.
- The washing machine is placed between two sections of the kitchen unit and covered with a countertop, while its front part remains visible.
Hidden or built-in models are covered from below with a false panel, which is made in the image and likeness of the base part of the set.
An automatic washing machine can be successfully installed under the kitchen countertop if you follow certain rules:
- In the box in which this technical device is placed, the back wall must be absent so that the device can fully function and free air circulation around the device is ensured.
- It is not recommended to install the washing machine on the base of a kitchen unit - it should stand on the floor.
- If for some reason the machine is installed on the base of furniture, this element must be very stable and durable.
Today, even the most cutting-edge and presentable equipment is usually hidden.
How to install a top loading washing machine
A car with a top hatch can easily be called a practical device. Its design is thought out to the smallest detail; it has a number of significant advantages over front-facing models. If there is a power outage, a breakdown of the system or motor, the laundry can be obtained without problems, and water does not end up on the floor, threatening financial costs associated with replacing the flooring or renovating the kitchen of the neighbor below.
The main disadvantage of a vertical machine is its high cost; it is difficult and sometimes impossible to install it into furniture. Most often it is placed separately, less often installed under a folding tabletop. The second method proceeds as follows:
- Determine a place for the device.
- A section of the countertop is sawed off over a specific area.
- Open edges are covered with plastic or metal strips;
- The cut piece is processed and connected to the main furniture fittings. The result is a lid that opens 180 degrees.
- Fix the unit.
- Sewer lines are being installed.
- Perform the first launch.
Connecting an automatic washing machine to utilities
- Sewage system . First of all, the washing machine needs to drain. The drain hose cannot always reach the desired place, therefore, to permanently connect the automatic washing machine to the sewer system, it is necessary to install an additional siphon. The drain hose is connected to the sewer system through a special rubber siphon, which does not allow moisture and unpleasant odors to pass through.
The maximum length of the drain hose indicated in the operating instructions is designed for the power of the pump installed in the machine, so it is not recommended to extend the hose yourself.
- Connection to water supply . The washing machine is connected to the water supply system through a special flexible hose included in the package. If the water supply malfunctions or the washing machine breaks down, the water will need to be turned off. In order not to deprive your entire home of fresh water, it is necessary to install an additional valve on the pipe leading to the washing machine. Tap water is not always ideal for the machine; over time, scale can form, which damages the heating element. To prevent this problem, it is recommended to install a water filter between the machine and the valve.
- Electrical connection . If you follow safety rules when working with electrical appliances, in particular with a washing machine, the equipment must be connected to the power supply from a distribution panel with a ground or neutral wire.
Choice of style and materials
with a washing machine and refrigerator in a small room makes you think and calculate the best arrangement. The design of such a room is carried out in two main styles:
- Minimalism, when the kitchen is decorated with one light color tone of furniture and walls. There should be pastel colors - beige, white or milky. A small pattern on the wallpaper in the same tone as the kitchen set would look good.
- Modern, warm natural colors with a small bright accent in the form of a kitchen apron using glossy surfaces and glass that visually expand the space. Eliminate additional decorative elements and bright accents - this will overload the room.
Kitchen interior in modern style with refrigerator.
Refuse the front door; it is not relevant for the kitchen and will add additional space in the room; it is better to make the doorway in the shape of an arch or install an accordion door.
Pay special attention to the choice of materials for finishing walls and floors. Wallpaper should be moisture resistant and easy to clean
It is better to choose vinyl ones with a smooth surface; they are optimal for the kitchen area. Lay moisture-resistant laminate or linoleum on the floor.
Small kitchen with appliances without an entrance door.
Installing a washing machine under the countertop
Such a bulky appliance as a washing machine cannot always harmoniously complement a cozy kitchen interior. It is for such cases that they came up with built-in appliances, on the front panel of which there is a fastener for kitchen furniture doors. But what to do if you have already purchased a regular washing machine, but purchasing a built-in model is not yet part of your plans? In order not to violate the integrity of the kitchen design, the existing washing machine can be placed under the countertop, hiding its visible part behind the furniture facades, and if the washing machine organically matches the colors of the facades and the overall style of the kitchen, it can be placed under the countertop without hiding its front part.
Not every washing machine will easily fit into a niche or cabinet prepared for it in a kitchen unit. The height of the headset should exceed the height of the machine by several centimeters so that the equipment fits into it easily and can function normally. Also, a sewer drain and a water supply pipe must be connected to the installation site. The power outlet should be in an easily accessible place; the optimal height is 15–20 cm from the floor level.
Main stages of work
After approval of the project and installation of the kitchen unit, the installation of the device is carried out directly. Fully built-in appliances, as a rule, during the installation process provide for the presence of a furniture plinth at the bottom of the machine. For this purpose, there is a special recess on the body. The height is adjusted with special legs. The front door is attached to the machine body with special hinges. Connecting to communications is carried out in the same way as connecting classic devices.
The integration of a free-standing machine into a set begins with removing the top cover. Sometimes the top of the case is covered with a special plate, which is included in the kit. Next, all overall dimensions of the niche are checked and made sure that they correspond exactly to the dimensions of the built-in machine.
Washing machine hose connection diagram.
After this, the water supply and sewer drain are connected. When calculating water communications, it is advisable to take into account the length of the supply hoses, that is, there must be a certain reserve that will allow, if necessary, to pull the washing machine out of the unit without disconnecting the pipelines.
The pressure hose is connected to the water main using a tee, which is installed in a convenient place where there are threaded connections, for example, at the point where the mixer hose joins the cold water pipeline. A shut-off valve is installed between the outlet of the tee and the pressure hose of the machine. It is possible to install a tee directly into the main by welding it into a plastic water supply or using a fitting connection.
The drain hose can be connected in two ways. In the first case, a special drain siphon is required in the kitchen sink, which has an outlet for connecting a hose. In the second case, a tee is inserted into the sewer bed running in the kitchen, and a drain pipeline is connected to it
It is important to remember here that before entering the sewer, the drain hose must have an elbow-shaped bend 45-50 cm high
Layout of sockets when connecting a washing machine.
The electrical part includes the presence of a power outlet or residual current device in the apartment circuit. If this is not available, then it is possible to install a special socket in which an RCD is built-in
It is important to remember about grounding; if it is not provided for in the house design, then the presence of an RCD is mandatory, and grounding of an earthen allotment is strictly prohibited
After connecting the communications, the washing machine is pre-installed in the niche of the unit; during the installation process, the location of the hoses is monitored, while avoiding their kinks. Then a test run of the device is carried out and an inspection is carried out for leaks. After this, the machine is finally installed, maintaining the level. At the final stage, facade doors are hung, if they are provided for in the project.
Sometimes the order of work may change, this is due to some points and features of assembling the headset. For example, connection to pipelines can occur after installing the device in the suite, through adjacent cabinets. This is not a very good installation option.
Preparation stage. Tools and equipment
A built-in washing machine adds a cozy appearance to the kitchen and convenient use of appliances.
In order to install a washing machine under the kitchen countertop, you will need the following tools:
- Fastening elements;
- Pliers;
- Yardstick;
- Adjustable wrench;
- Building level;
- Photoplastic sealing tape;
- Screwdriver – voltage detector;
- Water hose;
- Water filter with mesh;
- Shut-off valve;
- Stationery knife.
Types of countertops for the bathroom
Models for washing machines come in two main types.
Solid cast
Has various shapes and sizes. It has holes for a siphon and a tap (not always).
One-piece models look elegant and expensive, and eliminate leakage and the formation of mold and mildew.
They are mainly made of plastic, natural or artificial stone.
The washbasin and countertop form a single whole without seams or joints Article on the topic: Can washing powder for hand washing be used in a machine?
With drop-in sink
Models with a hole for the sink. And this is a definite plus: the washbasin can be chosen in various shapes, sizes and heights.
These are cheaper and easier to install. But due to the presence of joints, they require careful care. Unlike solid-cast options, they are also made from budget materials: chipboard, MDF.
Some models come complete with a washbasin, but more often it needs to be selected separately
Procedure for installing an automatic washing machine under a countertop
- Bolts secure the tank during transportation; they can be found on the rear panel of the machine. After their dismantling, the hollow holes are closed with plastic plugs, which are included in the package.
- The drain hose and power cord are secured with staples.
- In some models, bars are placed between the tank and the body of the vehicle for transportation. To remove them, you need to tilt the car in front and pull them out.
Product made from MDF boards
MDF board is an excellent option for a bathroom countertop, since this material is practical, can withstand fairly heavy loads, and is durable.
An interesting option would be to cover the countertop with mosaics: such a solution will fit well into almost any interior.
Making such a design with your own hands is very simple. The first step is to prepare a template. To do this, a piece of the required size is cut out of a solid MDF sheet. After this, markings are made for the hole for the sink. You need to cut it out very carefully, and measure precisely: the diameter of the hole should correspond to the width of the bottom edge of the sink bowl.
It is also important to take care of fasteners that will securely hold the entire structure. These can be special fasteners or parts of MDF. Now you can cut in the sink itself, carefully sealing all seams with waterproof sealant.
Connecting an automatic washing machine to utilities
- Sewage system . First of all, the washing machine needs to drain. The drain hose cannot always reach the desired place, therefore, to permanently connect the automatic washing machine to the sewer system, it is necessary to install an additional siphon. The drain hose is connected to the sewer system through a special rubber siphon, which does not allow moisture and unpleasant odors to pass through.
The maximum length of the drain hose indicated in the operating instructions is designed for the power of the pump installed in the machine, so it is not recommended to extend the hose yourself.
- Connection to water supply . The washing machine is connected to the water supply system through a special flexible hose included in the package. If the water supply malfunctions or the washing machine breaks down, the water will need to be turned off. In order not to deprive your entire home of fresh water, it is necessary to install an additional valve on the pipe leading to the washing machine. Tap water is not always ideal for the machine; over time, scale can form, which damages the heating element. To prevent this problem, it is recommended to install a water filter between the machine and the valve.
- Electrical connection . If you follow safety rules when working with electrical appliances, in particular with a washing machine, the equipment must be connected to the power supply from a distribution panel with a ground or neutral wire.
If you still doubt that a washing machine in the kitchen is a convenient solution, we recommend watching the video below:
Installing an automatic washing machine under a countertop with your own hands is not difficult, especially if all systems for ensuring the normal operation of the electrical appliance are pre-provisioned at the installation site. For the machine to operate, it requires a perfectly flat surface on which it is installed. If there are slight unevenness on the kitchen floor, the adjustable legs of the washing machine will help correct the situation. Using a building level, placing the equipment in the optimal position for work will not be difficult.
Not a single modern housewife can imagine her life without a washing machine (hereinafter abbreviated as SM). But if the bathroom has a very small area, finding a place for it becomes a real problem. The main difficulty is related to the fact that the equipment must be connected to communications (water supply and sewerage). If the situation is such that it is impossible to install it in the bathroom, the only possible solution is installation in the kitchen. A washing machine built under the countertop in this case is the most successful location option from the point of view of both convenience and aesthetics.
First of all, we will consider machines with a front loading type, because... they are best suited for under-counter installation. But there is another type - with vertical loading. This option will require a folding countertop, but sometimes for a kitchen with a non-standard layout this can be the most successful solution. We will consider all the nuances regarding top-loading machines in a separate paragraph below.
Advantages
The most important advantage: the bathroom does not take up precious space, and it becomes freer. But besides this, there are several more advantages that you don’t immediately think about.
Safety
According to fire safety rules, electrical appliances should not be placed in rooms with high humidity, which is the bathroom. The kitchen is a different matter, here the humidity is much lower, and most often there is a window that provides active air circulation.
Work zone
Usually the washing machine is hidden behind the facade or simply covered with a countertop. In both cases, a new work surface appears, which will never be superfluous in the kitchen.
Communications
It is convenient to install the washing machine in the kitchen, since the main communications are already there: both water supply and sewerage - there is no need to install anything additional. You just have to clarify how to connect the electrical wiring, because the machine requires a dedicated line.
Wash anytime
You can do laundry in the kitchen at any time, regardless of whether anyone is taking a bath. On the other hand, noise during spinning and draining can interfere with an evening family meal or watching TV.
But, according to reviews, the same hood is louder than a washing machine. You can run the wash at night: this way the machine will not disturb anyone, and your energy bills will be lower.
Dimensions of built-in washing machines
There are several ways to install SM under the countertop of a kitchen unit. The choice of a specific installation option will also depend on the dimensions of the equipment itself.
Built-in with special fasteners for facades
The cabinet doors are hung on metal hinges on the front of the machine. This allows the SM to fit perfectly into the interior and make its use more comfortable.
This option is already pre-set in dimensions that are ideal for integration into a standard kitchen cabinet.
- Width for installation – 60 cm;
- Installation depth: 55 – 60 cm.
- The standard height varies between 82-83 cm. The height-adjustable legs of the kitchen set allow you to ideally adjust the equipment to the dimensions of the furniture.
With equipment made specifically for embedding, as a rule, there are the fewest problems in terms of installation and selection of dimensions. But there is one significant drawback - high cost.
Embedding a stationary washing machine with a door under the countertop
Stationary washing machines have their own height standard - 85 cm. But this option can also be installed under the countertop in an open position and hidden behind the door. Many manufacturers, adapting to customer requests, make the top cover removable. This allows you to reduce the height of the equipment by the very necessary 2-3 cm.
Full-size SM have a standard depth of 55-60 cm and a width of 58-60 cm. It is worth keeping in mind that this option, with a standard kitchen cabinet depth of 60 cm, will extend somewhat beyond the facade. This means that you won’t be able to hide a full-size washing machine behind the door. But narrow models with a depth of up to 45 cm and even up to 35 cm can fit perfectly with all the hoses and taking into account the protruding hatch.
For an analysis of important points, watch the video:
Installation of open CM (without door)
As already stated above, the dimensions of full-size cars, mainly the depth, do not allow them to fit behind the facades. But what if a large family still needs a spacious washing machine? It is for this case that this embedding method is suitable.
This option is also the simplest. But several important points still need to be taken into account at the kitchen planning stage:
- prepare a niche the width of CM in advance;
- Correctly calculate the height of the countertop set above the floor so that the washing machine fits perfectly in height.
Despite the fact that the interior with an open washing machine does not look so complete, this arrangement also has its advantages:
- no problem with choice. The stationary SM market is the largest. There will be no difficulties with the selection of dimensions, brand, or design;
- the cost of such machines starts from 9 thousand rubles.
Installation from the end of the headset or in the island
A non-standard way of arranging the CM, which first of all will require a complete match between the depth of the lower cabinets and the width of the machine. As a rule, this standard value in both cases is 60 cm.
In this way, you can arrange even very narrow SM models with a depth of up to 35-40 cm, if you select a kitchen module that matches the dimensions of the built-in.
Flaws
Everything has both advantages and disadvantages. And the washing machine in the kitchen is no exception. But basically, the disadvantages are not related to the machine itself, but to its “extras”.
Storing dirty laundry
Dirty laundry has an odor, and if you store it in the kitchen, it will also absorb kitchen odors. And this means that it will have to be carried to the kitchen either from the bathroom or from another room. Some people find this very inconvenient - although in fact, there is nothing critical about it.
Storing powder in the kitchen
With powder the situation is more complicated:
- it can be scattered, which is undesirable in the room where food is prepared;
- it gives off a smell that is harmful to breathe.
There are several ways out of this situation:
- store washing powder in another room;
- switch to liquid laundry detergents;
- Store the powder in a container with a good tight lid.
ADVICE. It is most convenient to store the powder in the kitchen either next to the machine or under the sink.
Open door
After washing, the machine door should be opened and the drum ventilated to prevent mold from growing in the appliance. This can interfere with passage, especially if the machine is built-in - after all, you need to open not only the machine door, but also the cabinet door.
Difficulty of change
Once the machine is already installed, it is difficult to move it somewhere else, since pipes and electrical wires are laid. But this applies not only to the kitchen, but also to other rooms.
Spoils the appearance
This does not apply to all washing machines, but only those not hidden behind the facade. Dirty laundry stored inside looks especially unsightly.
ADVICE. To make the machine look neater, you should match it to the kitchen facades, or decorate it with vinyl stickers of the same color.
If both options are not suitable, then the machine is hidden behind a beautiful matching curtain. This is especially true for kitchens in the style of Provence, Country and others.
