Washer Dryer Gap Bridge Shelf.

[allsas]

Washer Dryer Gap Bridged.

Replacement of a top load W/D set ignited a search for a solution to the retrieval of items that fall into the gap behind the units. The problem is exacerbated with front load models that do not have a raised control panel at the back of the W/D set. The problem existed with the top load W/D set but the problem is worse with the front sited controls of the front load set. A solution for both Top load and Front load set is needed because the gap seems to be as big as the Grand Canyon.

The problems were:
1. adapting a shelf to fit a gap that may change frequently
2. stay across the gap
3. allow the hoses and cords to reach outlets, faucets, and drains
4. prevent items from dropping off the shelf, into the gap
5. a shelf that can thread its way past switch plates, outlets and plumbing fixtures

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Picture 1: W/D set and utilities on wall. There was a line between the plumbing services, 240 V outlet, and the 120 outlets which determined the height of the shelf above the W/D.

The concern was how can I build something that will adjust to a gap which may change when the set moves or the width of the gap requirements change. A cleat on the bottom of the shelf would not be easy to change. The ability to adjust the mechanism seemed to be critical because of the possibility that the shelf could slide down the wall and dump the contents into the gap. A pair of eccentrics was selected to provide push against the back edge of thew/d set because they could be adjusted independently. The eccentrics are used to adjust the position of the shelf, keep it level, and touching the sweet spot between the utilities on the wall. The eccentrics were used because they were simpler than a french cleat attached to the lower edge of the upper shelf.

Clearance for the hoses and cords was achieved by offsetting the back edge of the lower shelf by 3 ½ inches. The offset allowed the supply hoses and drain hose to run under the top shelf and clearance for the 240 V pigtail. The same width was used for both shelves, allowing the lower shelf to extend 3 ½ inches beyond the vertical shelf supports. The upper shelf was flush with front edge of the shelf and the back edge of the upper shelf sets against the wall.
[ATTACH]22035[/ATTACH]
Picture 2 : Assembled shelf supports (fronts) and rails and unattached shelves:
The shelf supports on the ends were 8” (H) x 9“ (L) x 3/4” (W) melamine covered particle board. The center shelf support was 8” (H) x 5 ½ “ (L) x 3/4” (W) melamine covered shelf stock, rounded leading vertical edge. The shelves were 9” (W) x 47” (L) x 1/8” (T) melamine sheet. The 9“ width was influenced by the gap and the damaged corners of the originally 12” wide melamine sheet offcuts.
[ATTACH]22038[/ATTACH]
Picture 3: Shelves attached to rails and eccentrics attached through shelves to rails, bottom view. Two rails, upper and lower, were used to support the shelves. Screws were used only at the supports to attach the shelves and rails. The bottom rail serves two purposes, a backstop for the lower shelf and a place to fasten the eccentrics.
[ATTACH]22034[/ATTACH]
Picture 4: Shelves on W/D set, hole was drilled through the upper shelf for the washer's 120 V electrical plug.
[ATTACH]22033[/ATTACH]
Picture 5: Shelves on W/D showing access to faucets, upper shelf leading edge reinforcement with 2 “ strip of melamine and lower shelf rail as backstop.

The eccentrics appear to hold the shelf in place and so far have not exhibited a tendency to loosen and dump the shelf contents behind the W/D set. The eccentrics had a diameter of 3 1/2” x 1 1/2” (T) and would be useful for gaps of 3 ½ + 2 ¾ = 6 1/4”

This is might use the minimum of materials, I could have concealed fasteners, the shelf supports be more ornate reaching to the lower shelf's front edge, and the width match the W/D set's width.

This was a prototype built to bridge the w/d set gap, to accommodate utilities beneath the top shelf, implement adjustable eccentrics to hold and level the shelves. Measurements must be adjusted to conform to your site and materials. Melamine offcuts were used for the prototype because it eliminated finishing and most surfaces matched the W/D set. The shelf is needed for front load and top load sets w/d sets. It could be built for top load/ back control w/d sets when dropping something into the gap presents a retrieval problem. Most W/D sets will be installed with a gap behind them to allow for dryer vent tubing, hoses, pigtails, faucets, soap boxes, dryer sheets, a gap for truant and runaway socks.

The shelf has set and stayed in position after a month of use, The back of the shelf is against the wall. No adjustments have been required. I haven't pushed anything over the 1 x 2's that form the shelf backstop. The wild edge at the lower front of the shelf holds a towel across the set, in spite of the raised spine in the middle.


Copyright C 2013 Joel N. Gessele
All Rights Reserved

[joedw00]

Looks like a good solution to a big problem. We keep mechanical fingers handy for that reason, but this would be better. What is this
(Copyright C 2013 Joel N. Gessele All Rights Reserved)? Does that mean we can't copy it?

[Ed in Tampa]

After all the problems caused by front load washers I solved the problem by going back to top load.

Biggest problem was mold or fungi build up in the closed washer when it wasn't washing.

They now sell tabs you are to use regularily to kill them off. But I figure if they can live in between I don't want my clothes in there with them.
Thank you very much. But I will just go back to washer that dries by evaporation completely after it washes a few loads.

[heathicus]

Even with a top load washer, I think you're supposed to keep the lid open to prevent mildew.

[videobear]

A clever solution. Our approach was more extreme, a countertop over the whole area.

[fredsheldon]

I suspect a set of cabinets mounted just above the units would do the job as well.

[JPG]

I suspect a set of cabinets mounted just above the units would do the job as well.

Covering up the electrical outlets and plumbing center???:rolleyes:

[videobear]

In our case, yes. But the washer and dryer are on platforms that slide out easily, providing access behind.

[fredsheldon]

Covering up the electrical outlets and plumbing center???:rolleyes:

Ok ok, a small access cutout might be necessary.

[JPG]

Y'all are ignoring the original 'need'.

Lack of a back upward projection that previously prevented 'stuff' from falling into the 'grand canyon' behind the machines.

Wall mounted cabinets will not prevent 'the original problem'.