As with the purchase of any large appliance, homeowners have the opportunity to save big on energy when replacing old washers and dryers with efficient new models. If you are handy with improvement projects, you may even be able to install the units on your own. Here are some tips on the entire process, from shopping to washer and dryer installation.
Deciding on the Right Washer and Dryer
The choice you make for a new washer and dryer set should be based on the number of loads your family runs on a daily or weekly basis. Front-loading machines handle the biggest loads, so these washers should be considered for families with high volumes of laundry. Older top-loading washing machines with central agitators are no longer a smart decision for homeowners because of the amount of energy they waste and how much noise they make.
Compared to the standard 23 gallons of water per load used in an older model, an ENERGY STAR washer uses just 15 gallons of water. Beyond the amount of water you save, an ENERGY STAR washer and dryer will save you a great deal of electricity — they use 20 percent less than older machines. Dryers equipped with moisture sensors provide even more efficient performance by ending cycles when the clothes are dry.
ENERGY STAR washers are also gentle on clothes, unlike the old systems with agitators that pull at clothes and rub fabrics together. Though efficient models have a higher upfront cost, you can calculate how the savings will pay back the investment over the life of the machines. To help on your early payments, Marietta Power and Georgia Power customers have access to rebates up to $50 when installing a washing machine with the ENERGY STAR label.
Washer and Dryer Installation Tips
Installing a new washer and dryer may be a tough job for many homeowners. Besides the considerable weight of these machines, it is essential to establish secure connections for all dryer vents and washer hoses. Instruction manuals will detail the installation for your particular model, but here are general guidelines to follow:
- Check outlet for four-prong cords: Most new dryers have plugs with four prongs, which may be incompatible with the outlets in your home. Have an electrician change the cord so you can use your home’s outlets, or change the outlet itself.
- Leave space between machine and wall: Washers and dryers should be about four inches from the wall to avoid disrupting the flow through air tubes and water hoses.
- Choose the right washer hoses: Rubber tubes offer more flexibility than braided hoses to connect to the water supply, but braided hoses are much more durable. With the proper spacing and lack of crimping in the hoses, they should last a long time.
- Always install on a level floor: Uneven basement or garage floors will disturb washing machines, which will be obvious when the machine begins shaking. Take care to install your new washer on a level floor to maximize the machine’s life span and get the most out of its performance.
Reliable’s expert plumbing team is here to help when you need washer and dryer installation or advice on buying a new model. Whether you want to save energy or upgrade your washer’s performance, Reliable will get it done.
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