Is it possible to put heavy things on the washing machine?
Once again I disagreed with my mother. This time the reason was the surface of the washing machine. Mom is categorically against putting anything more or less heavy on it. But I believe that the machine will hold up and nothing will happen to it. It’s good that a friend who repairs household appliances came to visit. He explained to us all the pros and cons of such an installation.
The content of the article
How the surface of washing machines is used
The kitchen and bathroom are the two main places where our compatriots install washing machines. Perhaps in large cottages someone provides special rooms for them, arranging a home laundry. We will not take such rare cases into account. We will talk about ordinary apartments, in which most of us save space, trying to use it rationally.
Service specialists had to see dryers and microwaves, dishwashers and multicookers, coolers and kettles...
Why are “towers” built?
This can be understood. At one time I myself thought about installing a microwave on it. But I regretted taking up space for the microwave. Therefore, when ordering a kitchen set, I added a special shelf for the microwave.
The reason and purpose of installing other equipment on the surface of the washing machine is the desire to save usable space, the desire to fit everything you need into small spaces.
There is another reason. It is associated with frequent vibration of washing machines when using the “spin” mode.
Reference. Washing machines vibrate due to improper installation.
Some washing machine owners hope to solve the vibration problem by “pressing down” the unit with another heavy device.
Why installing gravity on a washing machine is undesirable
Experts name several reasons, insisting that it is undesirable to install heavy objects on the washing machine.
Compliance with manufacturer's recommendations
Modern technology requires the right attitude. How exactly we should handle the selected devices is best known by their manufacturers.
Important! Detailed and specific operating instructions are included with each household appliance. Strict adherence to these rules is an important condition for high-quality, reliable and long-term operation of the device.
In the instructions for different models of washing machines, different manufacturing companies indicate that You cannot place heavy objects on the machine, and it is also not recommended to climb onto it.
It turns out that in the struggle to save space we are violating the rules for using washing machines. It’s better not to experiment and wait to see how it turns out, don’t you agree?
Negative effects of vibration
Well, what if you try anyway? Of course, the washing machine will not suffer mechanical damage from the weight of other appliances. She will endure them and continue to work. It will also continue to vibrate. And this may have a negative impact on other devices.
Important! Vibration may cause movement of loose devices.
Even if you install an electric kettle, which does not weigh that much, its unexpected “driving” is undesirable!
Besides, vibration reduces the service life of the magnetron of microwave ovens.
But many experts disagree with the opinion about the reverse negative effect of a microwave on a washing machine. They claim that manufacturers of microwave ovens have taken care of reliable protection of devices, which does not allow microwaves to escape outside the housing.
By the way, it is better to use other methods to reduce vibration. For example, level the floor before installation, use special anti-vibration mats or stands.
Other reasons
- The different sizes of appliances make it difficult to maintain the required distance from the wall to each appliance.
- Different lengths of wire for connection in some cases lead to the need to use extension cords. However, such a connection is not recommended.
- When installing a device that requires water on top, there is a possibility that liquid will get on the washing machine motor, which will lead to its failure.
In general, as always, my mother was right. You should not put heavy things on the washing machine!