Before Installation: Requirements and Planning

Before Installation: Requirements and Planning

Read these installation instructions before you install the washer or move it to a new location. The manual gives this installation sequence:

1. Choosing the proper location 2. Unpacking and removing shipping material 3. Connecting the inlet hoses 4. Connecting the drain hose 5. Leveling the washer 6. Final installation check

What you need before starting

The manual lists these tools: - Pliers - Flat-blade screwdriver - Level

The washer must be moved or installed by two or more people. This is a safety requirement.

Location requirements

Choose a place that meets these conditions: - Leave enough space between the washer and the walls for installation. - Keep the washer in a place that is not exposed to freezing temperatures or outdoor weather. - Do not block the large opening on the bottom of the washer with carpeting or other materials. The washer needs this opening for proper airflow.

Floor requirements

The floor should be: - Clean, dry, and free of dust, dirt, water, and oil - Solid and rigid, so the leveling feet cannot slide easily - Level and firm enough to support the washer without flexing or bouncing

The manual says: - A concrete floor is best. - A wood floor is acceptable if it is built to FHA standards. - The floor under the washer must not slope more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) from front to back or side to side. - Do not install the washer on carpeting or soft tile surfaces. - Never install it on a platform or weakly supported structure.

If the floor has too much flex, reinforce it to make it more rigid. If the floor is not solid, it may cause severe vibration and noise.

If you use a drain pan, follow the instructions that come with the pan carefully. Also make sure the leveling feet are adjusted for firm and even contact with the pan. If the washer is not properly leveled with a drain pan, vibration and noise can increase during operation.

Clearance requirements

For water inlet hoses, the drain hose, and airflow, allow at least: - 1 inch (2.5 cm) at the sides - 4 inches (10 cm) behind the washer

Also allow for wall, door, or floor moldings, since they may require more space.

Power outlet requirements

The washer’s power outlet must meet these conditions: - Be within 60 inches (1.5 m) of either side of the washer - Be easy to reach after installation - Not be overloaded with more than one appliance - Be grounded according to current electrical wiring codes and regulations - Use a time-delay fuse or circuit breaker

The owner is responsible for having a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.

Important electrical safety points from the manual: - Use a grounded 3-prong outlet. - Do not remove the ground prong from the power cord. - Do not use an adapter or extension cord.

Grounding and service safety

The washer must be properly grounded to conform with all governing codes and ordinances. The manual warns that failure to do so can cause serious injury, fire, electric shock, or death.

The manual also notes that certain internal parts are intentionally not grounded and may present a risk of electric shock during servicing only. Service personnel should not contact the pump, valve, motor, or control board while the appliance is energized.

Before you begin moving the washer

Plan the installation area before you move the appliance into place. Make sure: - Two or more people are available to move or install it - The outlet and plug will still be accessible - The washer will have the required side and rear clearance - The floor is solid, level, and clean - The location is indoors and protected from freezing and outdoor weather

Following these requirements before installation helps reduce vibration, noise, and installation problems.