Want to add a laundry room in your basement? Here’s how.
Moving the washing machine to a corner in the basement of your Illinois or Missouri residence is only one aspect of doing laundry there. Consider ventilation for your damp clothing as well as waterproofing to prevent issues from basement dampness. Without adequate appliance ventilation, you run the danger of causing damage to your appliances or even starting a fire. Remember that carbon monoxide can accumulate to potentially harmful levels. We’ll walk you through the steps for venting your appliances in this post, along with some useful maintenance advice.
Follow the steps below.
The Steps
If you are a DIY home remodeler, check out the steps below to create a laundry room or section in your basement.
1. To install the dryer vent, drill a small hole through the house’s side wall using a tiny drill bit. Choose a location free from impediments and close to the home’s base.
2. Cut a 212-inch hole through the home siding and into the basement, using the tiny hole as a reference.
3. Apply caulk around the dryer vent’s connection to the building using a bead of caulk. The vent is then screwed in using a driver.
4. Use zip screws and a driver to attach the flexible metal dryer vent tubing to the dryer vent.
5. To attach the dryer vent tube to the dryer’s back, use an elbow fitting.
6. Use a hose clamp to join the dryer vent tube to the dryer’s rear.
7. Connect the dryer to a 240-volt outlet.
8. Next, cut a length of old galvanized pipe with a reciprocating saw to connect the washtub and water pump.
9. Swap out the pipe portion for a PVC Y-fitting, and use a rubber coupling to attach it to the previous galvanized pipe.
10. Make sure the water supply is shut off before cutting the existing hot and cold water lines with a copper pipe cutter.
11. Use copper pipe T-fittings in place of copper pipe connectors.
12. Next, attach the brand-new copper pipes to the T-fittings that run to the washer.
13. Use flux on each junction before using a torch to solder the connections.
14. Install a washing machine shutdown valve at the site where the washing machine is supplied.
15. Connect stainless steel hoses to the supply lines for the sink and faucet. They should be hand-tightened before being snagged with pliers.
16. Attach 1-inch PVC pipes from the washtub to the drain line and PVC Y-connection. Install a check valve to stop water from flowing back into the pump and a ball valve to regulate the flow.
17. Place the washer in position and attach the supply hoses made of stainless steel.
18. Make sure to turn the water pump down so that it only runs when water is being fed. If not, the cycle will be shortened, reducing the pump’s lifespan.
We understand that following these steps and creating a laundry area in your basement is not the easiest home improvement project to complete. That’s why we recommend working with a professional team of basement finishers or remodelers who know the ins and outs of basements as well as have the expertise and equipment to get it done right, the first time.
Other Installation Considerations
Here are some more factors to take into account as you organize your basement laundry room or build suitable ventilation for the appliances.
Your laundry room could sustain water damage from covert leaks. Avoid buying time. Small but persistent drips brought on by plumbing problems might accumulate and cause extensive harm. Think about switching to stainless steel or modern rubber hoses in place of plastic or rubber lines. Make sure to replace the lines’ metal washers as well if you replace the lines. To make space for supply lines at the back, move the washer away from the wall instead of flushing it. The supply pipes may kink if they are pressed up against the wall, which could result in a backup of water and leaks.
Some washing machines have direct drains that are equipped with filters. These parts collect dirt, dust, and debris. Make sure to periodically check the drain and empty the drain filter. Floods can occur when debris builds up and the drain becomes blocked. Keep an eye out for obstructions and trash in the sink. These are indicators of serious plumbing problems. Get a filter if the sink doesn’t already have one. Try using a drain snake or pouring a chemical drain opener in the interim. If neither of them functions, it might be time to call a plumber.
Conduct Routine Maintenance
To find out how frequently you should inspect your washer and dryer, consult the owner’s manual. By planning routine maintenance for your devices, you may stop problems before they become serious and start leaking. Take care of your washer. Ensure that it is as dry as you can. When it’s not in use, keep the lid open. Look for leaks in the hose that connects to the washer. Make sure that each washer connection is securely fastened. Install a p-trap to prevent overflows and dangerous gases.
Vents should always be cleaned and checked. Regular cleaning will stop lint accumulation and guarantee that your ducts quickly remove hot vapor. To keep track of the amount of lint in your ducts, use LintAlert. The device will flash red and beep if there is an obstruction to let you know about it. The dryer vent may be blocked if clothing or linen takes a long time to dry or if there is a burnt smell. Your clothing isn’t drying as quickly because airflow is restricted. If this keeps happening, the dryer might short cycle and stop. To allow moisture to escape through the vent, regularly remove the lint. Lint removal also aids in preventing unintentional fires.
Waterproofing Basement
Basement humidity can’t be reduced by venting alone. To manage moisture, you must install a dehumidifier in the basement. By pulling vapor out of the air, this device functions. In this manner, moisture won’t build up and result in issues like condensation, peeling wall paint, and mold development. Insulate the water supply pipes and ducts. In chilly conditions, water vapor tends to gather around them.
Adding a laundry room to your basement can make a world of difference in the convenience and efficiency of your home. With Valor Home Services’ basement finishing services, you can rest assured that your laundry room will be installed properly and to the highest standards. Not only will Valor Home Services help you design and build your laundry room, but they can provide you with a variety of other finishing services such as waterproofing, painting, and more. With Valor Home Services, you can be assured that you’ll get the laundry room of your dreams that will last for years to come.
