My old washing machine crapped the bed
Hey guys,
I have an older whirpool stackable. Does anyone have experience replacing the unit with a new model? I can't figure out how it will be possible to hook the new one up when there is no access from the rear. I know that I have seen boats where others have done it by cutting out the panel in from of the washer, so I know it's possible, but not sure exactly how. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
We replaced ours with Bosch Axxis stackable 220 units, as have many others. They will fit through the forward hatch in the forward berth. Like the stove, some electrical is required. There are many threads on this. Others who did all of their own work can give you better info on removing the trim and panels for access. The reduced water usage, and incredible noise reduction are 2 of the best features. My wife says the drying time is less also.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
Our old Whirlpool is still in it's spot but we have the replacement waiting in our Salon. After a bunch of research I went with the Blomburg stackables. Price was much better than the Bosch and Mieli and it has an unsurpassed fire rating (we vent out and I wanted to keep that feature). It will probably be a few weeks until I can cover all the steps to swapping them out... starting with having the turn the boat at the dock so we can get them through the pilot house door and that means fixing battery and bow thruster issues... but I'll be following this and will update as we get in there and see what we find.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
Ok, thanks for the info. I think this is going to be another one of those fun, fun, fun tasks.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
Quote:
Originally Posted by
GalaxyGirl
Ok, thanks for the info. I think this is going to be another one of those fun, fun, fun tasks.
Oh but GG, there is access from the rear! Believe it or not, there is a tunnel that goes from under the dinette, along the starbord hull, and ending behind the washer/dryer. True... Pop ou t the access panel on the wall under the dinette table..go in on your back, sit up, lean left, then shinny down til you can stand up...yep, you can stand up. I replaced my thin twin with a Bosch Access stackable unit. I removed the facia panel in the hall, and cut it out largest to accommodate the front loaders. Had a custom door made by Baker Door in Washington State. To get the Bosch units in, you'll have to remove the Pilothouse door, and hand rails going down the steps.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
The fun never stops. Its always something.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
Ps GG, on yours, no electrical work is required if you use the Bosch units. My recollection is that the washer plugged into the dryer, and the dryer 220v plug fit the existing outlet. The Bosch dryer is available vented or unvented. I went with the ventless model. It has a rubber drain line that you run to the bathroom sum directly under the W/D. I cut the old units out with a sawzall.
2 Attachment(s)
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
Pic of the W/D area with cabinet facia removed, and pic in the tunnel looking forward. It was Barkerdoor.com that made the Sapele Mahogany door to fit the larger opening.
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
I had an issue with a plumbing leak behind mine, and had a similar dilemma. My son worked at Home Depot and told me that the stackable units are also separable. On closer inspection I noted that there was an open spot below the dryer and above the washer, through which the dryer hose goes and also through which one can reach the shutoff valves. You can access that hatch by removing the panel between the washer and dryer. From there you can also access the bolts that allow you to separate the dryer from the washer.
Hope this helps improve your outlook on the process.
Doug T
Beach Girl 53MY
Re: My old washing machine crapped the bed
GG on yours, the shut off valves are in the generator room, aft, starbord side. The thin twin can not be separated, both units have a common frame. As mentioned, the angled surface between washer and dryer can be removed for limited access to unplug it, and disconnect the water lines, it easier to go down the tunnel. I'm 225 lbs and could navigate easily in there..