Thread Number: 77656
/ Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Best option for getting new washer & dryer down 26" basement stairway |
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Post# 1016669 , Reply# 1   12/3/2018 at 11:41 (1,968 days old) by ozzie908 (Lincoln UK)   |   | |
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Post# 1016673 , Reply# 2   12/3/2018 at 12:09 (1,968 days old) by lowefficiency (Iowa)   |   | |
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Even though there is nothing directly above it in the stairway portion, I would bet that that doubled (tripled?) beam is structural, otherwise it wouldn't be there... So between that and the foundation wall, I think you are probably stuck with that 26" maximum width. I'm sure a structural engineer could figure out a way around it, such as sistering a new beam on the opposite side, but you would be adding a LOT of $$$ to your costs.
For disassembling/reassembling, I think that's something I personally would try with older appliances, but not new ones. I would want to know how it came apart, and be able to verify via measurements that the separate pieces would fit, before purchasing and disassembling, as there are no guarantees that the footprint will be reduced without a considerable amount of work. Some machines also lose a significant amount of structural strength when partially disassembled, which makes transport more difficult without taking it apart even further. It could be a big project, but it also could be 100% worth it in the long run. Since you're stuck between a rock and a hard place, I'll offer two bits of wildcard advice for you to ponder: 1) If you're worried about the ability of the smaller machines to keep up with your family, consider purchasing more than just two machines. For example, one washer and two dryers is a good combo, likewise 2+2 would give you a ton of flexibility if you had the space/funds for it. 2) Although new would be nice, consider the costs of repairing both of your current machines as well, possibly as supplemental or backup machines for a new pair. For example, you could repair your current dryer to use alongside a smaller new washer & dryer, or have both machines repaired for more capacity when you need it. |
Post# 1016674 , Reply# 3   12/3/2018 at 12:16 (1,968 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)   |   | |
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there's most likely a reason that set was selected, as it FIT!....
if you find a FL set that will fit, note, it will hold just the same if not more than a TL, despite its smaller size....but granted theres not a big selection in smaller if you can find a used set, either exact to what you have, or an older style, that might fit your current situation.... although some machines are around 26 to 27" wide, many are only 25" deep... keep an eye on the matching dryer when selecting, some have an extended rear, or you may have to remove the door handle... here are a few examples that may fit your situation....check and local CL and used appliance places for some of these.... that's cute that you think 4 people generate a lot of laundry....I had 10 kids |
Post# 1016707 , Reply# 4   12/3/2018 at 18:25 (1,967 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)   |   | |
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Consider fixing-rebuilding your current dryer, When the current GE washer totally gives up and cannot be fixed for a reasonable amount [ and it will, these are not highly durable long lived washers ]
Then if you must get a new washer you can get any current Speed Queen top loader [ they are just 25 1/2" wide ] or any 24" Front Load machine you want, there no great ones available in the US [ at a reasonable cost ] Any 24" FL machine you find will wash as large a load as the current GE and do a better job at it while using much less water.
John L. |
Post# 1016934 , Reply# 5   12/5/2018 at 13:54 (1,966 days old) by npkelley (Nashville)   |   | |
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Thanks to all for the helpful suggestions! |
Post# 1017024 , Reply# 6   12/6/2018 at 02:05 (1,965 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)   |   | |
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What's wrong with your dryer? My GE gas dryer is now 20 years old (looks like yours but with a few extra buttons). I've put a new rear bearing and front bulkhead along with a new belt and that's it. Pretty simple. Is it gas or electric? BTW, I know there are several used appliance stores in Nashville and surrounding areas, some that deliver and offer warranty. Heck, I got my "new" Frigidaire dryer with the controls on the front from Nashville Craigslist for $20 because it wouldn't light. Fixed it myself for another $20. There are videos on youtube on how to work on GE dryers, as well as repairclinic.com |