How much space does a washing machine need round the sides?
I received the following query today -
Our old Hoover Electron (width 585 mm) has broken down terminally after many years’ service and we need to buy a new washing machine. The width of the space available is just 600 mm. I spoke to a local retailer who advised having a gap of at least ¼ inch on either side of any washing machine we buy.
This leaves an available width of at most 587 mm, which seems to rule out all the standard-size machines currently on the market. Do you agree with the advice I was given? In theory a machine 595 mm wide would fit but that only leaves 2.5 mm on either side. I’m thinking that this might be a problem when a machine ages and vibrates more. If you think 595mm is too wide, what about a width of 590 mm (there seem to be a few washing machines of this size available).
Ideally a gap all the way round would help air flow and give some leeway if the machine moves about on spin. However, the standard gap designed into fitted kitchens for an appliance is 600mm. Washing machine manufacturers are making plenty of washing machines at 600mm width and they must know they will only just fit. They clearly aren’t concerned.
The greatest source of vital air circulation is from underneath the washing machine so make sure the air circulation isn’t impeded by carpets, rugs etc. If there’s also a gap at the top of the washing machine that will also aid air circulation.
Built in washing machine also have no gap at all at the sides.
Most UK washing machines are between 60 – 65 cm with the next highest category being 55 – 60 cm. A few are now even over 65 cm – Compare washing machines by width (at Kelkoo)
Written By - Washerhelp on January 29th, 2008 with
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