I recently bought a mobile home that's partially renovated and a bit of a mystery as it's sold as-is. As a first-time homeowner, I'm keen on installing a washer and dryer, but I'm worried about potentially messing things up. I've got a photo showing the installation spot, which seems to lead down into the crawlspace. What should I do to prepare for the washer dryer setup? I'm particularly anxious about connecting the washer to the water supply and ensuring that I handle the hole and the nearby vent correctly for the lint.
3 Answers
It looks like there might have been a proper spot for a washer and dryer near the bathroom, since it's usually where the plumbing goes. Be cautious with that crawlspace; it should have a vapor barrier to keep moisture and pests out. It could be a good idea to crawl under and check if everything's intact. If you can’t find hose hookups or vent connections, it might help to get in touch with the previous owner to clarify what changes they've made.
I set up my laundry room a while back, and you'll need something like a washing machine outlet box for connections to hot and cold water. I recommend using Pex A plumbing for ease—it’s forgiving if you make mistakes, and you’ll just need a tool that's pretty simple to use. Don't forget about getting a drain and a vent for the dryer! A common hiccup is that newer washers can discharge water faster than older pipes can handle, which can lead to some troubles. If space allows, draining the washer into a utility sink might be a smart workaround.
Have you thought about an all-in-one washer/dryer combo? They save space since you won't have to deal with a vent. They use a condenser that catches the lint and drains it. If hooking up to your plumbing sounds daunting, it might be worth calling a plumber. You'll probably also want an electrician to set up the necessary power outlet.