In small typical bathrooms, large appliances take up the lion's share of free space. At the same time, it can take up storage space, make it difficult to get to the shower, and cause many other problems. We have to come up with alternative options: for example, taking the device out into the hallway or into the kitchen. In this article we talk about an interesting solution for small apartments - placing a sink above the washing machine: what are the pros and cons, how to choose and what to consider during installation.
Beautiful and durable tile countertop for the bathroom - how to make it yourself?
A washbasin built into the countertop looks much more interesting than one standing separately, without any decoration.
And it’s more convenient to use - cosmetic accessories or a razor can be placed nearby, rather than held in your hands.
Many users will be interested in a homemade countertop in a bathroom made of tiles - this will be discussed in detail below.
Smoke exhaust systems
The boiler room smoke ventilation system is used to create a vacuum in the gas path of the boiler unit and remove flue gases from the boiler into the atmosphere. It consists of a smoke exhauster, a fan, chimneys and a chimney.
Instrumentation and safety automation (ICS) are designed to monitor the operation of the installation according to regime maps, regulate the boiler load and ensure safe operation of the equipment.
In all modern boiler units, the installation of instrumentation and control equipment is a mandatory requirement, in accordance with the norms and regulations for the operation of boiler installations.
Boiler equipment protection is triggered by activating sound and light alarms to alert operating personnel.
Instrumentation and automation protection parameters:
- separation of the torch in the boiler;
- high pressure of steam, gas, water;
- low vacuum in the boiler furnace;
- power outage;
- low water level in the boiler;
- low pressure of air, water and gas.
When the alarm is triggered, after a short time, if the operating personnel have not corrected the failure, the boiler is stopped by the instrumentation and control system, through forced shutdown of the gas supply to the furnace.
Types of countertops for the bathroom
Models for washing machines come in two main types.
Solid cast
Has various shapes and sizes. It has holes for a siphon and a tap (not always).
One-piece models look elegant and expensive, and eliminate leakage and the formation of mold and mildew.
They are mainly made of plastic, natural or artificial stone.
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With drop-in sink
Models with a hole for the sink. And this is a definite plus: the washbasin can be chosen in various shapes, sizes and heights.
These are cheaper and easier to install. But due to the presence of joints, they require careful care. Unlike solid-cast options, they are also made from budget materials: chipboard, MDF.
Some models come complete with a washbasin, but more often it needs to be selected separately
What types of built-in machines are there?
All built-in models can be divided into two categories:
- Fully built-in machines with pre-designed mounting options and installation in a cabinet or cabinet.
- Machines with the ability to be built in, including under a countertop or under a sink.
Typically, embedded devices are front-loading. There are some top-loading models that require the countertop to be folded down for each wash. It is clear that this option is not very practical.
The possibility of embedding imposes restrictions on the dimensions of such equipment. When choosing it, you should take into account the parameters of the cabinet, table or cabinet where the machine will be installed.
↑ Design of a combined sink with a washing machine
The project may provide two options for placing a washbasin with a washing machine.
The first option is a sink with a machine under a single countertop.
The second type of design is more compact. The sink is located directly above the washing machine. If the width of the sink and sink space barely reaches 100 cm, then this is the only solution.
A free-standing sink has a common way of connecting pipes. The drain from the washing machine is mounted according to the standard scheme in the elbow under the sink. The inlet hose with valve is installed using an adapter into the cold water pipe. This project is more suitable for a spacious bathroom.
If space is important to you, pay attention to the two-tier design of a washing machine and sink. Here you will have to work hard with connecting the waste system to the sink and washing machine, and masking the pipes. But the free centimeters will please you.
↑ Choosing a washing machine
Compact, narrow machines are optimal for combining with a cabinet. Miniature options up to 50-60 cm wide, in contrast to the standard 100 cm, will be the first assistants in saving space. Typical parameters of a compact washing machine are as follows:
- height - from 68 to 70;
- depth 43-45;
- loading - from 3 to 4 kg.
The height of this product, located directly under the sink, will allow you to comfortably use the sink.
A front-loading washer requires enough space to open the door.
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If you have children living in your home, you will probably need a more powerful washing machine. There is a way out. You can buy an ultra-thin machine with a depth of only 30-35 cm.
A height of 80 cm will create the need for a high location of the sink, which will bring discomfort to short apartment residents. In this case, it is optimal to consider placing the sink on the side next to the washing machine under one countertop.
↑ Sink
When designing a combined washing machine with a sink cabinet, a lily pad sink is usually chosen. This is a wall-hung model with a hidden drainage system. The main advantage of this product is the hanging mounting method, many options for placing the drain hole.
There are also limitations. For example, a non-standard siphon shape. It is better to choose such a product as a set. Horizontal drainage increases the likelihood of blockages.
A water lily sink must be at least 58 cm wide if the drain into the sewer is located directly behind it on the wall. If there is no drain in the wall, the minimum width is 50 cm.
A classic-shaped sink is optimal when the appliances and washbasin are arranged linearly.
An equal arrangement of the edges of the washing machine and sink will look more harmonious.
↑ Tabletop
A joint sink with a washing machine can be built into a cabinet, combined with a storage system, as shown in the photo below.
If you decide to use a countertop under the sink and washing machine, choose options made from waterproof materials.
Today you can order a cabinet equipped with a table made of wood, natural and artificial stone. Acrylic coating is also perfect for bathroom design.
There are cheaper models of laminated chipboard surfaces.
If you often use a bathtub, the best material for bath furniture will be acrylic or artificial stone.
Designers offer a stationary cabinet for a sink and a washing machine, matching the design to the decoration of the room - walls and floor. This is a design solution for a more spacious bathroom. The podium can be tiled to match the interior.
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A monolithic sink with a countertop looks very stylish. In terms of price, this is more of a premium option. They are usually made from an acrylic composite with granite or marble chips.
This is a strong, durable, moisture-resistant material. It should be taken into account that the acrylic tabletop is heavy. It should be installed by professionals.
Brick podium
To make such a stand for a washing machine, you need to lay two rows of bricks parallel to each other at a distance equal to the width of the device. On top of the bricks you need to lay a concrete or polycarbonate slab on the cement mortar. In front, several metal corners are sewn on to form a side.
The advantage of this design is that it is more spacious, which means it can be made with a drawer for linen or various small items. The box is made of laminated chipboard, it can be on wheels, then it will be very convenient to get what you need out of it. A similar stand can be installed in the toilet, but in this case it will be smaller and it will not be possible to make a drawer.
To make a podium in the toilet, you need:
- Cover the drain pipe with bricks. It is advisable to inspect it before this and, if it is old cast iron, replace it with a new plastic one.
- Build two high brick walls behind the toilet.
- Cover with a plate and sew on the corners.
To make the stand look more beautiful, you can cover it with ceramic or tiles.
Product made from MDF boards
MDF board is an excellent option for a bathroom countertop, since this material is practical, can withstand fairly heavy loads, and is durable.
An interesting option would be to cover the countertop with mosaics: such a solution will fit well into almost any interior.
Making such a design with your own hands is very simple. The first step is to prepare a template. To do this, a piece of the required size is cut out of a solid MDF sheet. After this, markings are made for the hole for the sink. You need to cut it out very carefully, and measure precisely: the diameter of the hole should correspond to the width of the bottom edge of the sink bowl.
It is also important to take care of fasteners that will securely hold the entire structure. These can be special fasteners or parts of MDF. Now you can cut in the sink itself, carefully sealing all seams with waterproof sealant.
Connecting the dryer to communications
Installing a dryer in a column also involves further connection to communications. The type of connection will depend on the type of dryer. Below we will look at all the options for connecting it.
Connection to ventilation
Everything is quite simple here. On one side of the case you will find a vent to which you need to connect the air duct. Fastening can be done using a special clamp. Usually this element is included in the kit. You need to know that you cannot bend the corrugation 90 degrees. Try to route the air duct with minimal kinks.
If the dryer will be connected in a room with a high temperature, then the flexible air duct cannot be routed through the top. In this case, you need to come up with another withdrawal option.
Connection to sewerage
If you purchased a condenser type dryer, then after each drying you need to remove the water tray. To make the work easier, you can connect it to the sewer. The connection in this case is no different from connecting a washing machine. You just need to lead the hose to the sewer.
Electrical connection
The last communication is considered to be the electrical network. To connect the dryer to the network with your own hands, you can remove a separate line from the distribution box. If necessary, if the dryer has low power, it can be connected to an outlet. To protect your equipment from overvoltage, you can connect an RCD.
As you can see, installing a dryer is a fairly simple process. Thanks to these instructions, you can save your money on calling a specialist.
Installing a sink above a washing machine - pros and cons of the solution
The position of the water lily above the washing machine creates many conveniences in cramped bathroom conditions. Considering the advantages of arranging household appliances one above the other, it is necessary to emphasize the disadvantages of such a tandem. Let's look at them.
pros
The advantages include the following:
- installing a sink above the washing machine saves space in the bathroom;
- moving the washing machine to the bathroom allows you to free up space in the kitchen for additional household appliances such as a dishwasher or freezer;
- The compact connection of the drain pipes of both devices into one unit allows you to reduce the length of sewer lines.
Minuses
Along with the above, some disadvantages of this arrangement should be noted:
- The height of the water lily is a fixed value, which is explained by the standard vertical size of washing machines. This may create some inconvenience for short residents;
- The horizontal part of the water lily drain slows down the removal of water into the siphon.
- a complex scheme for connecting a water lily to a sewer and water supply system.
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Tall cabinet
If the room is spacious enough, you can plan a large closet - with sliding doors (like in dressing rooms) or with traditional doors and drawers. The cabinet for the washing machine can be made in the form of a pencil case up to the ceiling. This option makes it possible to use almost a meter of additional space.
You can place an electric washer dryer above the washing machine. For convenient loading and unloading, it is recommended to buy a washing machine and dryer with a special pull-out shelf.
You can cover most of the bathroom, for example one wall. The created tall cabinet can accommodate:
- dryer,
- ironing board,
- basket for dirty laundry,
- vacuum cleaner,
- cleaners,
- spare towels.
Photo. Tall cabinet with traditional doors
Photo. Tall cabinet for washing and drying with a sliding door that does not interfere with the passage
Installation recommendations
It is better to entrust the installation of a bedside table - with or without a sink - to the experts. Also, specialists must connect the SMA. Typically, such services are provided by stores that sell similar furniture. But in principle, having minimal experience in such work, you can do everything yourself.
The procedure for assembling and installing a cabinet with space for a built-in sink:
- Assemble the cabinet, checking your steps with the instructions. Move it closer to the installation site.
- Connect the sink faucet to the water supply.
- Connect the siphon, which has a branch for the washing machine, to the sink and to the drainage system.
- Place the machine in a cabinet with a niche, pass the hoses - drain and fill - through specially provided holes.
- Connect the device to the sewerage system, electrical network and water supply.
- Start the test process.
The hoses must not be bent during installation - problems may arise when turning on the SMA.
Accommodation Tips
Long-term operation of the equipment is ensured by the correct location and connection of the device to communications. First, they determine the location of the washing machine, the hose connection system, and only then the options for installing the cabinet in the premises:
- bathroom;
- toilet;
- kitchen;
- hallway;
- separate laundry compartment.
For regular maintenance, free access to the areas where hoses are connected and equipment connected to communications is required. The washing machine vibrates during operation, so when installing, maintain free space: at least 10 cm to the back wall, 3–5 cm on the sides. The doors should not interfere with the ventilation of the washing machine to avoid the appearance of fungus in the drum, mold, and rust on the walls unit and furniture.
Any cabinet in which a washing device is installed requires periodic inspection and careful maintenance. A room with built-in appliances and thoughtful design elements looks modern and organic. The correct selection of furniture affects the appearance of the room, the convenience and comfort of the household.
Technical side of the issue
With a little design imagination, you can make a countertop suitable for any model of washing machine. But if you focus on convenience, it is better to stick to the basic conditions.
Machine loading method
Only front-loading washing equipment can be placed under a solid surface. When choosing a model with a top loading hatch, you will have to arrange a folding section that plays a purely decorative role.
- The functionality of a built-in washing machine under the countertop in the bathroom must include protection against leaks.
- Make sure the washing machine is installed correctly. Poorly secured equipment can vibrate strongly during operation, and this vibration will be transmitted to the countertop.
- Connecting the machine to the water supply and sewerage must be carried out by specialists, strictly according to the instructions.
Size Requirements
- Full-sized machines are available in sizes 90x60x60cm (height/width/depth)
- From an ergonomic point of view, the height of a comfortable tabletop for a person 160-180 cm tall is 82-92 cm. We subtract the required gap: the washing machine under the tabletop should be at least 1 cm lower. We subtract the thickness of the material itself (in the case of acrylic stone this will be 12 mm). We get the result: the height of the washing machine will be 69-89 cm.
- The most convenient depth of a wall table is 55-60 cm. Subtract 10 cm - the required distance from the back wall of the machine to the wall, we get 45-50 cm.
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Conclusion: the best built-in machines are narrow and ultra-narrow (35-45 cm) with a height of no more than 85 cm. They are produced under many well-known brands - Bosch, Beko, Zanussi, Siemens, Candy, Electrolux, Whirlpool. Some manufacturers (Bosch, Hansa) allow the top covers of some models to be removed during placement to reduce their height.
Where to put a washing machine in a small bathroom?
Spacious rooms leave room for imagination, but how can owners of “Khrushchevka” apartments, modest in size, install equipment?
New items in the furniture industry, miracles of technology, plumbing, finds, and inventions of folk craftsmen will help you find an original solution. Traditionally, the main massive element is placed along the room. There is still a narrow area at your disposal where you need to “squeeze” a washbasin, a cabinet with household chemicals, cosmetics, and a laundry basket. Where can you install even the most compact washing machine? Here are some options for a small bathroom.
Under the bathroom sink
The “washing machine plus sink” combination will help free up space. A special water lily sink is installed above the device. The drain pipes of the “tricky” washbasin are not in the center, but in the back wall. This leaves room for maneuvers during installation and operation of the machine, making it safe.
- the area of the sink should be larger than the body of the washing machine;
- the drainage system is located behind the equipment;
- the gap between the washbasin and the device is 2-3 cm;
- connection to the water supply is made by a special siphon with two pipes.
How to hide a washing machine under the sink?
If the washing machine does not harmonize with the interior of the bathroom, it can be hidden under the washbasin using the doors of a special cabinet, or covered with a curtain.
By building the machine under the countertop, you can increase the capacity of the washbasin and free up access.
Unusual placement of the washbasin
Are you the owner of a bathroom with a narrow drain? You can hang the sink above it. This will not affect ease of use, but will free up space. Such “non-classical” plumbing fixtures of an original form will help to rationally “beat” any interior.
Shower stall
Do you prefer showering to other procedures? Install a shower stall instead of a bathtub. Such a replacement will help rationally plan the space and give the room a modern look.
Combination of bathrooms
From two small “closets” you can make one spacious bathroom, in which there will definitely be a place for washing equipment. Such redevelopment requires permission from utility services. If the wall between the restrooms is load-bearing, be prepared to receive a refusal.
Between the bathroom and the toilet
A combined toilet allows you to place a washing machine between the plumbing. It is convenient, compact, practical.
How to close a washing machine?
Does the appearance of the equipment contradict the design solutions in the interior? How to hide the facade of the case and protect it from moisture? A cabinet (box, tall cabinet) or niche will help you.
Cabinet for washing machine
This solution kills two birds with one stone:
- the machine is hidden, protected by doors;
- additional shelves and compartments for storing detergents, household items, and dirty linen make housekeeping easier.
Niche for a washing machine
A new trend in modern renovation is a separate niche for a washing machine. It is easy to make it yourself from any material (foam block, tiles, drywall, chipboard). The main thing is to take into account the size of the unit when planning and performing work. Leave side gaps of at least 3 cm, take into account the distance and location of the holes for the output of communications. The upper free space can be equipped with shelves.
The small dimensions of apartments daily challenge modern housewives, but this is not a reason to refuse the benefits of civilization. We wish you bold experiments, compromises, and extraordinary solutions.
Source
Types of water lily shells
Although they are similar to each other, these shells have certain differences. The internal structure can be made from various types of sanitary ware. Some of them may initially have a countertop.
Form
In addition to the standard square shape, their models can be rectangular or semicircular in shape. In addition, there are also unusual, bizarre shapes. Some similar modifications may have a tabletop that is installed on the side.
Faucet hole
Some models have this hole, while others do not. The last option is designed for a very small bathroom, when the drain is located as close as possible to the wall.
Drain system in countertop sink
As we described below, the drain can direct water downward, which is better in that it minimizes the risk of a clog. Or it can point to the side, which is fraught with blockages, but it will save space under the sink and allow you to place a washing machine below.
Benefits of using a podium
A properly installed podium will bring a lot of benefits to the owner of the washing machine.
Firstly, equipment installed on a pedestal for a washing machine takes up significantly less space in a small apartment.
Secondly, you can make a box under the podium and place washing powder, conditioner, rags, soap and other items in it.
Thirdly, a properly manufactured design significantly reduces the vibration of the washing machine during spinning, which means washing will be much quieter.
Fourthly, if the height of the tray is selected correctly, it will be possible to load or unload laundry from the washing machine without bending over or putting a strain on your back.
After the preparatory work, we move on to lining the cabinet itself
Doors and walls are made according to your measurements. The walls are secured to the corners of the table top, to the floor and to the wall, using dowels. To install doors you will need special awnings.
The cladding can be done with mosaic tiles. To do this, treat all external surfaces with moisture-resistant glue. Then we move on to gluing the tiles themselves. The seams that formed at the joints must be masked using materials special for this.
Then the sink is installed and secured. To do this, fill the space between the countertop and the sink itself with sealant. After some time, it dries and forms a strong mount, because the washing machine is located under the countertop in the bathroom.
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When installing and finishing the cabinet, you can use a visual effect that will add space to the bathroom - place a large mirror along its entire width.
If you choose a sink and countertop for a washing machine made of specialized acrylic, then additional tiling work will not be needed. This type of material is a little expensive, but it will save time.
It is not at all necessary to use tiles for cladding, for example, plastic cladding panels. Choose surfaces that are practical to use and moisture resistant.
When a design requires a specific color, then the product can be painted with the desired paint. And don’t forget to prime and sand its surface at the very beginning.
If you choose a wooden countertop model, then you need to very accurately calculate everything based on measurements. Be very careful when cutting the hole, otherwise the product will be damaged. You can cut it using a jigsaw or even a stationery knife. Choose only products made from wood that is resistant to moisture, since the bathroom will be damp almost all the time. Be sure to treat the hole with special glue.
After the glue has dried, apply a primer and firmly attach the product. In the area where the sink is installed, treat the spaces with silicone sealant.
Mosaic tiles or decorative plaster are perfect for exterior decoration. This plaster is very convenient to paint later in any color you need.
When installing a countertop with a sink and under a washing machine, you should remember some of the disadvantages of this design, so as not to encounter unexpected surprises later.
The siphon does not have a standard shape and is usually not included with the sink. Therefore, you will need to look for it for some time to install or replace it.
The drain itself is designed in such a way that it is more susceptible to blockages. Stagnation of water occurs due to the fact that water flows horizontally and to the side. In ordinary drains, water flows immediately vertically and downwards.
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There is a huge selection of sinks in shape and appearance that are perfect for such designs.
When the decision to install a sink above the washing machine is made, it is important to properly design the drainage system. It is unacceptable to place the drain directly above the machine, because it conducts current and there may be a risk of electrocution.
The shape of the sink can be a standard square, or have unusual shapes, such as a rectangle or semicircular shape.
When carrying out the installation procedure, there are some important points to consider
- When there is a sewer outlet pipe on the wall behind the washing machine, then the tabletop must be made with a width of at least 58 cm. In the case where there is no pipe, the width can start from 50 cm.
- The sink bowl itself with the countertop must extend a few centimeters beyond the washing machine to prevent water from getting on its surface.
- Make sure that all wires are insulated and carefully read the washing machine installation manual.
- Check that all holes are sealed and that the connection and installation are correct. Only after this can you see if everything works and you can start using the new piece of furniture.
- The countertop in the bathroom is an incredibly convenient item. It is very easy to care for since it is made in one piece. In addition, they are made of durable and time-resistant materials, for example, natural or artificial stone, metal, ceramics, glass or acrylic.
With such a varied selection, it won't be difficult to add some flair to your bathroom. Therefore, you can easily choose exactly the option that is ideal for a certain style of room. In addition, you can choose the model that will become the highlight of the bathroom.
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Materials and tools for making a podium
Before you start building the structure, you need to choose what to make the podium from and assemble the tool.
It should be remembered that the structure must be stable and very strong to support the weight of the washing machine. Depending on the load and dimensions, it can reach 60-80 kg, in addition, do not forget about vibration during operation.
That is why the base of the podium is constructed from durable materials such as brick, foam block, concrete slabs, polycarbonate, wood blocks, metal corners, etc.
For finishing, ceramic or tiles, plasterboard sheets, PVC, and waterproof chipboard are usually used.
In addition to the material, it is necessary to prepare the tool for the job. To make a podium you will need:
- roulette,
- level,
- pencil,
- screwdriver or drill,
- set of slotted and Phillips screwdrivers,
- metal hacksaw,
- corner grinding machine,
- Master OK.
