The modern washing machine market offers the user more and more technologically advanced products to choose from. Many unpleasant surprises often occur after a purchase. For example, the inability to bring the model into the apartment or the need to extend the hoses. Therefore, it is not enough to delve into the functionality; it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of automatic washing machines. Dimensions will play a key role in determining the appropriate model.
What to consider when choosing a washing machine
There are a few important points to consider before purchasing:
- type of instalation. There are built-in machines and stand-alone machines, each option has its own advantages. The second one is more mobile, the washing mashine can be rearranged at any time. And the first one allows you to free up free space, because the equipment will be built into the finished set.
- Size. Full-size options are indispensable for a large family, and small ones will be an excellent option for owners of small apartments.
- Functional. Each brand tries to equip its models with the latest developments. The latest features allow you to win market share from your competitors. Thus, devices from Samsung allow you to run a bubble wash. Before the cycle starts, the generator creates bubbles in which the washing powder dissolves. The result is an airy foam that cleans the fabric at the microfiber level. This feature is called Eco Bubble, and its use can significantly improve the quality of washing.
- Number of revolutions. The quality of the spin directly depends on this indicator. The more revolutions, the drier the laundry will be.
Washer width
The width of the washing machine is an important indicator. Not every model can be placed in a small kitchen or built into a ready-made set. Therefore, this indicator should be given special attention by taking measurements in advance.
Front panels are usually no wider than 60 cm; there are narrow options with values in the region of 55-59 cm. This can be essential for placement in small areas: kitchen or bathroom. However, such options should not be placed in corridors. Opening the door can take up the entire space, blocking the path.
Built-in models are ideal for owners of small apartments, as you can build the machine into a ready-made cabinet.
In addition, they are much smaller in size than other models. Before installing the machine in the set, you should carefully check the dimensions of the product and the compartment. There should be free space behind for communications. The minimum permissible gap separating the walls of the furniture and the device is 2-4 cm.
Options with vertical drum loading are among the narrowest in width. This figure is usually no higher than 45 cm, so models are often used for placement in the bathroom.They can be easily placed in narrow spaces between plumbing and furniture.
Washing machine height
In most cases, the height of the products ranges from 80-85 cm. However, before purchasing, it is necessary to take into account that it can become higher due to anti-vibration stands. If built-in equipment is selected, its height should be slightly lower than the niche of the kitchen unit. If necessary, you can lower the product to create a gap, since the legs are adjustable.
Vertical options require a large free space above the lid. Therefore, you need to add another 45 cm to the standard height. Such models cannot be placed above a large shelf if it is installed low. The lid of the washing machine simply will not be able to open, and it will not be possible to load the laundry. If the prepared place has a large number of shelves or there is a cabinet above, then you should opt for front models.
Depth of washing equipment
When choosing, do not forget about the depth of the product. If this figure is quite high, the machine cannot be placed in the hallway or bathroom. In this case, buying full-size options is pointless, there simply won't be room for them. Especially if the bathroom is combined and the space in the hallway is quite cramped. In this case, it is better to opt for narrow models that will not take up extra space.
Sometimes the size of the kitchen or bathroom does not allow for full-size options. Then it is worth paying attention to compact or built-in models. They can be placed directly under the sink, without taking up free space. If the equipment is purchased for the home, then you can choose any model. The product can be placed in the boiler room or another technical room.
There is a wide selection of products with different depths on the washing machine market. There are the smallest devices with an indicator of 32 cm and large ones - 60 cm or more.
Washing machine placement options
The washing machine requires access not only to the power supply, but also to water supply and sewerage. Therefore, it is logical to place the equipment in close proximity to communications:
- in the corridor;
- in the kitchen;
- In bathroom.
Placement in the kitchen has several restrictions. Firstly, you should not place the washing machine in close proximity to the oven. It is necessary to maintain a distance of at least one compartment of the kitchen unit. Moreover, the compartment must be at least 60 cm wide; this condition can only be circumvented with thermal insulation. However, it is better not to place the equipment close to the oven.
It is necessary to maintain an interval of at least 30 cm. The best placement for the device is under the sink. If this arrangement of the device is not possible, then you can install it under the kitchen table. This will allow you not to take up the compartment in the headset and additional space. However, this placement method is only suitable for frontal options.
The space in the hallway is not a very good place to connect a washing machine. You will need to pull hoses to the water supply and sewerage. However, if the bathroom or kitchen space is already filled with furniture and appliances, this may be the only location option.
Experts recommend placing washing machines in the bathroom. This is the best location and does not require thermal insulation or extension of hoses. After all, all communications are nearby, and there are simply no heating devices. In standard-sized bathtubs, full-size options should be placed in the corner.Narrow and built-in machines should be placed under the sink. However, you will have to choose only from the front options.
Standard sizes of washing machines
The dimensions of washing machines are different, they can differ even from the same manufacturer, in the same model range. The dimensions are affected by both the type of loading and the method of arrangement. Full-size options exceed the rest in all respects. Built-in models are usually smaller than freestanding appliances. Front models can be of any variation: from narrow to built-in.
Devices with vertical loading are much less common. Typically, companies offer only free-standing options; you will have to look for built-in machines. However, they are much narrower than front-facing models. If we characterize the dimensions of the standard model, then its depth will be about 55 cm. Height will be approximately 84-85 cm, and width will be about 60 cm.
Front loading
Front loading products have a wide range of models. Typically, manufacturers specialize in producing devices with a hatch on the front wall. Similar models can be found from the most famous companies, such as LG, Bosch, Zanussi. They sell much better than machines with vertical loading; the latter are almost not represented on the market.
An important advantage of the model is the ability to use the top cover for work purposes. This point may be significant for owners of small apartments. However, one drawback is the inconvenience of loading things, since you will have to constantly bend over to load the laundry. Product sizes and capacities may vary, but the standard machine parameters are as follows:
- Width. Typically, models for home use rarely exceed 59-60 cm.However, there are products in smaller and larger sizes. For example, the compact model Electrolux EWC1350 has a width of 49.5 cm, and the Miele PW 6080 Vario LP RU is as much as 70 cm. The latter device is already classified as a professional washing machine.
- Height. As a rule, this parameter does not exceed 85 cm. This allows you to install the model near a table or other work surface. This height is the best option, as it significantly reduces the load on the body and hands of a person. A greater value is typical for professional devices. For example, the Miele PW 6080 Vario LP RU has a height of about 100 cm. Smaller figures are typical for compact products.
- Depth. This indicator is directly related to the volume of the loading drum. The more things you can load into the machine, the greater the depth of the product. They are divided into full-size and narrow.
The first option has a width and depth of about 60 cm. It has a standard load of laundry of 5-7 kg. Narrow products usually have a depth of 2 times less; they are convenient to place in small apartments. However, the volume of loaded laundry is not more than 4 kg.
Front-loading models are either built-in or free-standing. The first option is smaller in size, only 50 cm in width and 45 in depth. In addition, it is much lower than products that stand alone, its height fluctuates around 70 cm.
Top loading
Top-loading appliances are a winning option for several reasons. Firstly, they do not require extra space to open the door, since the hatch cover opens upward. Therefore, these models are convenient for placement in small apartments.Products with vertical loading can be easily placed in a small kitchen, bathroom or even hallway.
Secondly, such machines are very easy to use. Thanks to the hatch located in the top lid, you won't have to bend over when loading laundry. Therefore, the model is suitable for people suffering from diseases of the joints or spine. Or users living with elderly relatives who may find it difficult to constantly bend over.
Thirdly, machines with a vertical loading type have better protection against leakage. Therefore, they are more reliable than frontal ones. In addition, they provide the opportunity to add previously forgotten items to the rest of the laundry. Moreover, this does not require stopping the washing cycle. Another advantage of vertical loading devices is the noise level.
It is much lower than that of devices with a hatch on the front panel. This is explained by engineering features; models with a top cover are characterized by a different drum mount. Due to the fixation on two bearings located on the side, a reduction in vibration levels is achieved.
However, the model has several significant drawbacks. The first is a small lineup. Manufacturers focus on the production of devices with a hatch located on the front wall. Therefore, machines with vertical loading are not widely represented on the market. The second is the need to keep the drum open due to ventilation. This prevents the top panel from being used as an additional work surface.
Products with a lid in the top panel differ mostly in height and overall dimensions rather than in depth. Unlike frontal options, the first indicator is in the region of 85-90 cm.Compact and built-in options usually have a height of about 70 cm. However, there are also washing machines with a value of 42 cm.
Vertical models are distinguished by a large depth, which exceeds the width. However, compact and low models often tend to look like a cube. Their width and depth range from 35 to 55 cm, there are models with dimensions of 37 × 35 cm. The standard model has the following ratio of parameters - 60 × 40 cm.
Full-size models can have a depth of 45 to 65 cm, and a width of 35 to 55 cm. For example, the Miele W 690 F WPM model has a second indicator of 46 cm, which is larger than the classic dimensions. Products with a lid located on top can be double. Combined models are two devices connected horizontally, their width is usually 75 cm.
Sizes of built-in appliances 
Built-in options have become very popular in the washing machine market. It is not surprising, since the ability to install equipment into a kitchen set allows you to free up extra space. In addition, installing a decorative panel on the door allows you to maintain the overall style. Special requirements are imposed on built-in appliances; you cannot install any equipment into a cabinet.
The vibrations created by conventional machines are much more powerful, they can damage the kitchen set. Another problem is access to the compartment for washing powder. Conventional options do not provide for the possibility of building in, so the compartment is often hidden by the countertop. In such situations, the height of the product plays a big role. If conventional options are often almost flush with the countertop, then built-in models are much lower. They easily fit into niches prepared by furniture manufacturers.
Their depth and width are also reduced, since the kitchen unit compartment should not be completely filled. After installing the equipment, there should be room for hoses and communications. Therefore, manufacturers keep the depth and width in the range of 53-60 cm, and the height in the region of 70-82 cm. For example, the Neff brand model has classic parameters for built-in appliances: 57.4 cm in depth, 59.6 cm in width, and 81.8 cm in height.
Narrow washing machines
Narrow options are most popular among owners of small apartments. The dimensions of such machines are slightly smaller than those of standard models. Moreover, the height and width can be the same as those of classic washing machines, but the depth is always reduced. Usually they can hold no more than 5 kg.
In general, narrow models usually include devices with a depth of 40 to 50 cm. Dimensions do not affect the functionality and quality of washing. For example, the narrow model Gorenje WS 62SY2B includes 16 different washing modes. Additionally, the user can use the save function, which will record the used programs in the device’s memory.
And the Gorenje WV62FZ12/S model already includes 18 modes and the ability to determine the temperature and wash duration automatically. The Electrolux EWC1350 appliances have such modest dimensions that they can be easily installed under the sink. The width of the model is 49.5 cm, depth and height – 51 and 67 cm.
Washing machine weight
Usually, when choosing a washing machine, users do not pay attention to weight. However, this indicator is of great importance; performance characteristics may depend on it. Thus, heavier appliances are more stable, which is influenced by the nature of the wash.
These models will be quieter because the weight will suppress the vibration caused by the torsion of the drum. In addition, heavy machines will not “jump” on the floor. These options usually include models over 70 kg. The quietest operation is distinguished by devices from two brands: Miele and LG.
Built-in and compact options weigh up to 50 kg. Manufacturers specifically make them lighter so that they do not damage the furniture after installation. Moreover, the balancing parts that suppress vibrations have the greatest mass. Mid-range models, weighing up to 70 kg, are usually classified as freestanding.
Manufacturers are constantly improving the internal structure of devices. This is done to minimize possible movement of the machine during the wash cycle. Thus, Samsung and LG have equipped their models with a new balancing system. It is based on changing the speed of rotation, which eliminates vibration.
Washing machine drum loading capacity
Despite the popular belief that full-size models have more capacity, it is not always true. The volume of loaded laundry for a standard-sized machine can be equal to narrow models. Of course, if the product is only 40 cm deep, it will not be able to hold more than 5 kg. However, full-size models may have a drum designed for only a small amount of laundry.
Fortunately, manufacturers are working to remove such restrictions, and some firms have already achieved success. The Samsung brand managed to achieve a combination of small dimensions and good capacity. The new range has a narrow width of up to 45 cm and a loading capacity of 8 kg. With other brands, similar capacity can only be found in full-size models.
The approximate ratio is as follows (indicated by W×D×H):
- 5 kg – 60×40×80;
- 6 kg – 60×45×80;
- 7 kg – 60×60×85;
- 8 kg – 70×60×90.
However, options that allow you to load a large volume of laundry are necessary only for families of 4-5 people. For others, it is more advisable to choose less spacious models.
Installation and Placement Tips
Experts have prepared several installation recommendations. Compliance with them will allow you to avoid mistakes and shortcomings during installation of the machine. First, you need to make sure that the selected model fits the prepared cabinet or area. It is necessary to take measurements of the selected location and compare them with the characteristics of the proposed model.
Moreover, you cannot buy models that exactly correspond to the obtained indicators. Sufficient space must be provided for hoses and other communications. It is best to increase it by at least 2 cm on each side, except the back. In this case, the space should be even larger; for built-in models, you need to add another 5 cm. And for full-size ones, the interval between the device and the back wall should be at least 3-4 cm.
Secondly, you need to measure the doorways, because the device will be brought into the room through them. Problems with delivering the washing machine to the prepared place appear quite often. They occur especially often with full-size models. Sometimes it helps to unpack the product, freeing it from films, polystyrene foam and other safety material.
However, removing the box does not always solve the problem. Sometimes the dimensions of the washing mashine are so large that it is impossible to carry it. In this case, there are two options to solve the problem. The first is to dismantle the door jambs, increasing the doorway. The second involves removing the door.In front models, it is located on the front part and can greatly interfere when carrying it over the threshold.
After delivering the machine to its destination, you need to remove all shipping parts. This is necessary to exclude the possibility of damaging the device during the test run. After removing all the bolts, you need to take care of the correct connection to the water supply. The hose is placed at an angle of no more than 45 degrees if the water supply point is located to the right of the rear wall of the device. Or at an angle of no more than 32 degrees if it is located on the left.
If the hose is not long enough, then it must be extended or replaced with another one. You should not organize the drain directly into the sink - this is unhygienic. Especially when it comes to the kitchen sink. When taking measurements, do not forget about the floor surface. It must be level, otherwise the installed equipment may vibrate strongly. And before connecting to electricity, you need to make sure that the outlet is grounded.
Conclusion
When choosing a washing machine, it is important to consider its location. This is the first thing you need to start from. Owners of large apartments or private houses can choose freely, focusing only on the budget and desired functions.
However, owners of "Khrushchev" apartments should think about buying narrow or built-in options. Moreover, small dimensions will not affect the volume of loaded laundry. The market offers narrow models from Samsung with a capacity of 8 kg.
Moreover, it is better to choose a bathroom for placement. In this case, all hygiene standards will be observed, and you will not need to extend the hoses for connection. Usually, a standard machine with parameters of 60 × 55 × 85 cm can be placed even in a small bathroom.
However, it is important to consider the presence of upper shelves or free space around the device. If there is a cabinet on top of the prepared space, then it is worth purchasing front-facing models.
However, care must be taken to ensure that there is enough free space in front of the front part. Otherwise, the hatch will not be able to open; this situation may arise when placed in corridors and other narrow spaces. Then it is better to choose vertical options in which the door is on top.
