Washing machine and tumble drier problem to solve!

[bobnotthe builder]

For various reasons too boring to go into, our kitchen worktops were fitted 2 cm lower than standard. This means that our tumble drier and washing machine only fit under the counter top without their tops on.

This has worked fine for 8 years but we've just had our washing machine repaired and the guy who did it said we need to get a lid on for safety reasons. With the top off there is a gap of 15mm from the top of both alliances to the underside of the counter. I take it the safety aspect is due to the possibility of over heating causing a fire (a lid would contain it?) and to stop dust getting in, which could also build up and cause a fire. Would it be ok to get a flat board and cover the underside with a reflective foil sheet?

I can't find anything readymade on the internet (I suppose a flat steel lid would be best) -can anyone help? Thanks

 

[big-all]

the top will also help with the rigidity off the machine stopping it going out off shape especially on an unbalanced cycle

is there no way off lowering the machine by say removing the floor covering [laminate] under the machine
thats assuming the machine will squeeze under then drop down to give clearence

 

[bobnotthe builder]

Thanks for the reply. The machine is 85cm tall including the top and the space under the counter is 84cm, even when I go right down to the concrete floor.

The washing machine has kept its rigidity for the last eight years so I'm not too worried about that. Can you see anything wrong with me just getting a sheet of stainless steel cut (about £40 for the two machines) and putting that on top?

 

[big-all]

suspect as nothing has happened this far you'll be fine
work top will not catch fire it will smolder and pretty much go out soon after the heat source is removed
so if you have a smoke alarm and are always in earshot whilst its in operation i wouldn't worry

 

[bobnotthe builder]

Thanks for your advice big-all!

 

[planenut]

Sorry for the late comment, but what you have described, i.e. the stainless steel plate, is how the integrated machines are finished off, try to look at one, even online.

 

[feynman]

Another consideration is that a flood from a liquid spill on top of the worktop could find its way underneath and into the machine(s).

If your electrical system has an appropriate RCD, (30mA), you will be protected against shock.