Moving Washer and Dryer to Other Side Of Wall

As a homeowner, it is common to place a washer and dryer within the bathroom or kitchen area. However, there may be instances where an individual desires to create a dedicated laundry room separate from the bathroom or kitchen. In such a scenario, one may wonder if it is feasible to relocate the washer and dryer to another room.

Meanwhile, the good news is it is possible. But moving a washer and the dryer to another side of the wall requires plumbing skills and time.

When you decide to move the location of your washing machine and dryer, it is crucial to ensure that the process is performing correctly. A critical aspect of this relocation is properly rerouting the draining pipes and connecting them in the new room. Consequently, removing a section of the drywall will be necessary to access the plumbing and make the required adjustments.

Once the plumbing has successfully transferred to the new location, it will be relevant to repair the drywall to restore the room’s integrity and appearance.

In the next section, we will explain the process of relocating the laundry room from one side of the wall to the other, so stay with us if you’re planning to move your washer and dryer soon.

Are there any negative consequences to relocating the washer and dryer to the opposite side of the wall?

Relocating a washer and dryer from one side of a wall to another is a relatively simple task that can accomplish with minimal effort. However, before beginning any renovation work, it is crucial to consult with local building and plumbing codes to ensure compliance.

In many areas, it may require enlisting a professional plumber’s services to reroute drain pipes and reconfigure the overall laundry space appropriately.

Additionally, it is crucial to thoroughly assess the location where the washer and dryer will relocate. Therefore, ensure a properly functioning drainage system to collect and dispose of excess water effectively. So, it is significant correctly plan and execute this process to avoid costly mistakes and potential code violations.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to take the necessary steps and consider all the required factors before relocating a washer and dryer.

How To Move Washer and Dryer to Other Side of Wall

When moving a dryer and washing machine, it is essential to properly adjust the plumbing and draining systems to ensure proper function. To make the process most manageable, you must gather all the necessary tools beforehand. Having all the required tools on hand has made the job more straightforward.

Here is a list of tools you will need:

• Circular saw and hacksaw to cut drywall
• Masonry saw blades for cutting brick or concrete walls
• Vent duct and PVC pipes for venting and plumbing purpose
• Plumbing hookups and Plumbing pipe caps for connecting the new water lines
• P-trap and 90-degree elbow: For plumbing hookups.
• 240-volt circuit box for the electrical connection.
• Adjustable wrench, pliers, Screwdriver, and Hose clamps
• Caulk and putty knife to seal the gap
• Wall paint and Sandpaper to touch up

Step 1: Transfer the appliances

When relocating laundry appliances, it is crucial to take proper precautions to ensure safety and prevent damage. The first step in this process is to turn off the electricity line and properly shut off the valve of the washer. Then, disconnect the dryer and washer from the electric outlet in a safe manner. Additionally, disconnect the dryer machine from its vent and the washing machine from the main water line.

If the connections had fastened with nuts and bolts, use a screwdriver or pliers to loosen the nuts, then unhook the appliances from their current links. Carefully pull out the wires of both machines, making sure to check for any residual electricity or voltage using a voltmeter before doing so.

For newer appliances, you need to unplug them and disconnect the washer from the waterline.

It is important to take the necessary safety precautions and be precise when disconnecting the appliances to avoid any damages or hazards.

Step 2: Mending the wall

Before installing the washing machine and dryer on the opposite side of the wall, it is crucial to address and repair any damages that may have occurred while removing the wires and hooks. It may include patching holes, smoothing out rough drywall surfaces, and addressing any other damage on the wall.

By repairing the wall properly, you can ensure a smooth and seamless installation process on the opposite side of the wall.

Step 3: Identify and approach the plumbing system on the other side of the wall

To properly relocate the washer and dryer, it is necessary to access the primary plumbing system on the opposite side of the wall. The first step in this process is locating the room where you want to move the appliances. Once in this room, consult the building diagram to determine the final location of the plumbing pipes on the wall.

Now it is time to cut a section of the wall in a rectangular shape, allowing easy access to the plumbing system. You will use a circular saw to remove the drywall from the designated access point.

Well, you should be precise and careful when cutting into the wall and removing the drywall to avoid any damage to the plumbing system or other building elements. Once the access point has been created, you can connect the washer and dryer to the plumbing system.

Step 4: Switch the washing machine drain and water line

When installing a washing machine in a new room, it is vital to redirect the drain and water lines properly. Most washing machines have hot and cold-water lines for water supply and a separate draining pipe.

By the way, it is necessary to flip these pipes. By carefully cutting the pipes at the point where they connect with the hookup section using a hacksaw.

Once the pipe cutting is complete, installing a 90-degree elbow or sanitary tee with the hot and cold-water pipes is necessary. You can do it by using PVC cement to seal the connecting point, ensuring it is secure and properly sealed.

Additionally, a stab out should install on both water lines, and it is meaningful to ensure that the sanitary tee is facing upward and not downward.

Finally, cut the drain pipe, and another 90-degree elbow pipe should be mounted. It will ensure that the drain pipe is perfectly redirecting, allowing the washing machine to function effectively in its new location.

Now take the time to redirect the drain and water lines properly. Failure to do so can lead to leaks or other issues that can damage the machine or the surrounding area.

Step 5: Wadding up the gas and dryer vent line

In step 5, the focus shifts to the dryer and its vent. Just as in step 4, the exact process outlined has to follow to redirect the dryer vent.

It is crucial to properly redirect the gas line if the dryer is a gas dryer. However, please note that working with gas lines can be dangerous and should only be done by a professional. Suppose you need help with how to redirect the gas line properly. In that case, it is crucial to call in a professional and hand over the responsibility to them.

Attempting to work on the gas line without proper knowledge and training can lead to severe accidents and should be avoided at all costs.

Step 6: Installing the 240-V electric box professionally

Step 6 focuses on installing the necessary electrical components for the washing machine and dryer. If the appliances are older models, they may be hardwired and require a separate electric box for installation.

Be sure to carefully follow the color codes for the electric wire and hook up the necessary wires through the electric box. Once the electrical connections are ok, you can redo the drywall.

It is also essential to check for the presence of a ground wire connector in the room. If one is not present, it will be necessary to install a GFEC (ground fault electrical circuit) point.

This task may be difficult for those with professional experience and recommended to hire a professional electrician to handle this step of the installation process.

Step 7: Install the standpipe and repeat the drywall

Step 7 focuses on completing the installation by installing the necessary plumbing components and redoing the drywall. The first step is installing a P-trap, an important feature that blocks sewer gas from entering the room.

The P-trap can easily be installed and attached to the stab-out previously installed. Use a ring nut and washer to strengthen the bond to ensure a secure connection.

Once the P-trap has connected to the stab-out, connect the standpipe of the washing machine. Ensure securing the drainpipe with a cap before connecting to prevent water spillage.

The cap will prevent any water from flowing out when the machine is not in use. This is an important step that ensures that the installation is completed correctly and that the washing machine will function correctly.

Finally, once all the connections have been made and the P-trap has been installed, you can redo the drywall. It will give the room a neat and finished appearance and conceal the pipes and other components installed during the process.

Step 8: Install all devices to complete the relocation

The final step of the relocation process focuses on completing the installation by connecting the necessary plumbing and electrical components. Here the washing machine’s cold water and hot water lines need to hook up to the main water line.

It is necessary to ensure that the connections are secure and properly sealed to prevent leaks. The standpipe of the washing machine should then be connected to the drain hose, using hose clamps to secure the connections.

Once the plumbing connections have been made, it is vital to connect the dryer to the dryer vent safely. It is fundamental to ensure that the dryer vent is connected correctly to prevent any issues with its performance.

Finally, turn on the main waterline and plug the devices into the electric outlet. It will ensure that the washing machine and dryer are fully operational in their new location.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is relocating the washer and dryer very difficult?

Answer: Relocating a washing machine and dryer is not difficult, but it requires some plumbing knowledge and an understanding of the potential cost, ranging from $300 to $1600.

Is it possible to move the dryer and the washer by myself?

Answer: It is possible to move a dryer and washer yourself, but it is recommended to have professional help to ensure the safety of the appliances as they are heavy.

Is it necessary that the washers and dryers be on an exterior wall?

Answer: Installing a dryer and washing machine on an exterior wall is not necessary, but it is common to do so to improve ventilation. An alternative is to install a dryer and washing machine indoors and use a venting system.

Can a single person lift a washing machine?

Answer: Yes, one person can lift a washing machine. But it is generally recommended to have at least two people to safely move a washing machine due to its weight and size. It is also important to use proper technique and equipment to avoid injury.

Conclusion

While shifting the position of your washer and dryer to the other side of a wall may seem intimidating. Here it is important to remember that with the proper preparation and execution, it can be a manageable endeavor. The key to success is ensuring that the new location has the necessary plumbing and electrical infrastructure to support the appliances.

This includes connecting the cold and hot water lines to the washing machine and properly installing and configuring the dryer vent. Once these foundational elements are in place, moving the washer and dryer to the other side of the wall becomes a relatively simple process.