Relocating Washer And Dryer: A Guide For Painting Projects

Painting behind a washer and dryer can be a tricky task, and it is often best to move them out of the room before painting. However, moving these appliances can also be challenging, as they are large and heavy, and there is a risk of damage to the floor or the appliances themselves. Additionally, there are many things that can go wrong with valves, hoses, fittings, and gas lines. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary precautions and plan carefully before attempting to move a washer and dryer for painting a room.

Prepare the room and appliances

Preparing the room and appliances is a crucial step in the process of painting behind a washer and dryer. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Firstly, it is important to decide whether you will be moving the washer and dryer out of the room or painting behind them while they are still in place. If you choose to move them out, it is recommended to have professionals do this for you to avoid any damage to the appliances, flooring, or yourself. You can also opt to move them yourself by following the necessary precautions. If you decide to keep the appliances in place, the next step is to pull them out as much as possible to access the wall behind them.

Before moving your washer and dryer, it is essential to disconnect them properly. For the washer, avoid disconnecting valves, hoses, fittings, and other components to prevent potential leaks. Simply pull it out and be cautious not to disturb the hoses. For the dryer, unplug it and loosen the lint hose from the wall mount. If necessary, use a screwdriver to loosen the retaining ring. If your dryer uses a gas line, it is advisable to leave it intact and carefully pull the dryer away from the wall, taking advantage of the line's flexibility.

Once the appliances are disconnected and moved out, it is time to prepare the room for painting. Start by inspecting the floor for any damage and documenting it with photographs. This step is crucial in case any issues arise during the moving process. Next, gather your painting supplies, including a drop cloth, damp rags, a cleaner, a roller, a brush, and paint. It is also recommended to have a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, lint, or debris accumulated behind the appliances. Ensure you have easy access to all the necessary tools before proceeding, as it can be a nuisance to climb behind the appliances multiple times.

Now, you are ready to begin the painting process. Start by masking the baseboards and covering them with drop cloths to protect them from paint splatters. Then, cut in with a brush along the edges and roll the walls with your chosen paint color. If a second coat is needed, allow the first coat to dry for at least 30 to 60 minutes before applying another layer. After the walls are dry, carefully remove the tape from the baseboards and paint them if necessary. Finally, reconnect the washer and dryer hoses and electrical connections and push them back into their original positions.

By following these steps, you will effectively prepare the room and appliances for painting, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process. Remember to take the necessary precautions when handling appliances and always prioritize your safety.

Use furniture movers

Using furniture movers is a great way to move your washer and dryer with ease and safety. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Prepare the Washer and Dryer

Before using furniture movers, there are some important preparations to be made. Firstly, drain the washing machine by turning off the water supply valve and detaching the drain hose, allowing any remaining water to empty into a sink or bucket. It is recommended to let the washer dry for 24 to 48 hours before moving it. Additionally, ensure that you have the user manuals for both appliances handy, as they may contain specific instructions for moving them.

Wrap the Appliances

Wrap both the washer and dryer with furniture pads. This will protect the appliances from scratches or damage during the move.

Use an Appliance Dolly

An appliance dolly, also known as a furniture dolly, is essential for moving heavy appliances safely. Place the center of the washer on the dolly, keeping it upright, and secure it with straps. Make sure the washer is stable and properly secured before attempting to move it. Repeat this process with the dryer, placing it on the dolly and securing it with straps.

Transport the Appliances

With the washer and dryer securely strapped to the appliance dolly, you can now transport them to their new location. If you are moving them out of the room, ensure that you have at least one other person to help. One person can hold the dolly steady while the other pulls and pushes the appliance onto it. When navigating through doorways, take your time to avoid hitting walls or door frames.

Use Silicone or Felt Furniture Movers

If you are moving the washer and dryer a short distance, such as pulling them out to paint behind them, you can use silicone or felt furniture movers. Simply tip the washer back slightly and slide the movers under the feet. This will allow you to easily slide the appliances out without damaging the floor.

Remember, moving a washer and dryer is not a simple task, so it's important to take your time, follow safety precautions, and ask for help or hire professionals if needed.

Disconnect the dryer

Disconnecting the dryer is a crucial step in preparing your room for painting. It can be a delicate process, and it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid any damage or injury. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Firstly, it is essential to unplug the dryer from its power source. Most dryers use standard electrical outlets, so simply locate the power cord and unplug it. If your dryer is a gas dryer, the process is a bit different. Instead of unplugging it, you should focus on the gas line. Leave the gas line intact, as it is usually long and flexible enough to allow you to pull the dryer away from the wall without disconnecting it. This approach helps to avoid any potential gas leaks or issues.

The next step is to loosen the lint hose from the wall mount. This step may require some tools, such as a screwdriver, to loosen the retaining ring and detach the hose. Be cautious when handling the lint hose, as it can be a fire hazard if clogged with dryer lint. It is good practice to clean the lint hose regularly to reduce any fire risks.

Once the lint hose is detached, you can proceed to pull the dryer away from the wall. Dryers are generally lightweight and easy to move. However, it is always good to have an extra pair of hands to help, especially if your dryer is a larger model. Communicate with your helper to ensure you lift and move the dryer safely and smoothly.

After moving the dryer, it is essential to inspect the area behind it. Take this opportunity to vacuum and clean the space, removing any dust, lint, or lost items that may have accumulated. This step ensures that the area is ready for painting and helps maintain good hygiene and appliance function.

Finally, before beginning your painting project, it is advisable to cover the disconnected dryer and the surrounding area. Use drop cloths or tarps to protect the dryer and the floor. This precautionary step will help you avoid any accidental paint splatters or spills on the appliance, ensuring a neat and professional finish to your project.

Clean the walls

Before painting, it is important to clean the walls to remove any dust, debris, and grime. This will ensure that the paint adheres well to the walls and that the final paint job is smooth.

Firstly, protect your floors by covering them with tarps, old blankets, or drop cloths. This will catch any dust or debris that falls during the cleaning process.

Next, remove loose dust and debris from the walls. This can be done with a soft broom, a brush tied with a microfiber cloth around a long-handled sweeper, or a vacuum with brush attachments.

If your walls are only lightly soiled, you can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge. Microfiber cloths are particularly good for this as they won't leave any residue.

For kitchen walls or other surfaces that are exposed to oil or grime, use a solution of water and grease-cutting detergent. Apply this with a sponge, then rinse with clean water and wipe with a damp cloth.

For more heavily soiled walls, a stronger cleaning solution may be necessary. Trisodium phosphate (TSP) is often recommended for walls caked with grease or in high-soil areas like bathrooms. TSP requires a rinse afterward, but there are also alternative products that don't require a rinse, such as Dirtex powder solution.

For stubborn stains, a DIY cleaning paste can be made from baking soda and warm water. Apply this to the stain and scrub with a sponge. Alternatively, a solution of liquid dish soap, warm water, and vinegar can be effective, especially if left to sit on the stain for up to 10 minutes before blotting.

If there are marker, crayon, or pen/pencil marks on the walls, these can be removed with a spray-on oil stain-blocking primer or a magic eraser.

Once you have finished cleaning, make sure to rinse the walls with a damp sponge or cloth and allow them to dry thoroughly before painting.

Paint the room

Painting a room with a washer and dryer in it can be a tricky task. If possible, it is best to move the washer and dryer out of the room before painting. If they cannot be moved, use a small roller to reach behind them as much as possible.

Before painting, it is important to prepare the room. This includes pulling out the washer and dryer and cleaning the walls and floor behind them. It is also a good idea to inspect the washer fittings for any wear and leaks and to clean out the dryer vent hose, as this can become clogged with lint and pose a fire hazard. Once the room is clean and prepared, you can begin painting.

When painting, use a drop cloth to protect the floor and mask the baseboards. Cut in with a brush first, then roll the walls. If you need to do two coats, let the paint dry for 30 to 60 minutes before recoating. After the walls are dry, carefully remove the tape from the baseboards and paint them if needed.

Finally, reconnect the hoses and electrical and push the appliances back into place. Cover them with drop cloths and paint the rest of the room as needed. It is recommended to use a long, skinny roller to paint on either side of the washer and dryer and behind them as much as possible.

Frequently asked questions