Installation and Accessories :
How can you enhance your laundry experience? There are a number of accessories to consider that can make life a little easier. Installation is also an area that requires some thought, as many styles require professional installation.
Cords
Electric dryers (220v) require appropriate cords. either 4-wire or 3-wire, to allow for safe and effective operation. 4-wire is 2 hots, a neutral and a ground. 3-wire is 2 hots and a ground.
If your house was built before 1996, and you have not had any wiring done since then, you probably have 3-wire. Newer houses and mobile homes probably have 4-wire. CHECK TO SEE. If the plug is grey, it's 3-wire. If the plug is black, it's 4-wire.
Cords are available in 4' and 6' lengths. The cost for either is the same, $19.99 as of this writing.
Venting
Hookup kits are also available, which include both a cord and the items needed for proper venting: a 5' flexible METAL tube and a 90 degree elbow.
DO NOT use plastic or foil-covered plastic tubing. Plastic is designed to ventilate steamy shower air and stinky bathroom air using bathroom vent fans. Plastic is a fire hazard when hooked to a dryer and DOES NOT MEET FIRE CODE. Don't cheap out! Watch the videos I have posted on this site on dryer safety.
Installation
Installation is often performed at the time of delivery. Electric dryers require a 240-volt outlet. Gas dryers require a 120-volt, 3-pronged grounded outlet, as well as a gas hookup. Washers require a connection of drain and supply lines. Before your washer or dryer is delivered, consider the following suggestions:
- Measure the space where your machines will be installed, so you are sure that the doors will open fully and you'll have plenty of space to access with ease
- Measure the clearances of doorways, entryways and hallways for hassle-free installation
- If the dryer runs but there is no heat, check the 2 circuit breakers or fuses -- if only one is tripped, the dryer can still run with no heat
- Your dryer must be level front to back and side to side for Auto Dry sensors to work properly; refer to installation instructions for details on leveling
- Dryer doors are reversible, but washer doors are not; this is so you won't have leaks caused by improper reversal. Utilize longer fill hoses, drain hose extensions and venting extensions if you wish to modify the washer/dryer set-up in your laundry area
- If you have limited space, look for compact models or a stacked washer and dryer unit
Pedestal
Pedestals raise a dryer 10-15 inches off the floor, so that you don't have to bend over to take out your dried items. These are especially useful for people with health concerns and other issues that make it difficult to reach down. You may NOT use a pedestal under the washer and then stack a dryer on top. Well, you CAN, but you shouldn't.
Stacking Kit
These kits allow you to stack your washer and dryer for out-of-the-way convenience. Not all models are available to be stacked, so check to verify compatibility for specific types. All Kenmore branded dryers come with the appropriate stacking kit. Other brands are extra cost, anywhere from $15-35
