How to Hook Up a Dryer in a Mobile Home
Installing a dryer in a mobile home is much the same as installing one anyplace else. The real trick is making sure the mobile home has the infrastructure to safely install a dryer; something you can usually assume with a non-manufactured home. For your home and family's protection, make sure your mobile home is safe for your dryer and to install it appropriately.
Safety Check
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Check the owner's manual for your dryer to determine how much power it needs to draw. Confirm that your mobile home's electrical system is rated to handle that much power safely.
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Confirm that your mobile home is set up to accommodate gas for a gas dryer. If you haven't used that part of your gas system, call the gas company to check it for leaks before installing.
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Jump up and down on the floor where you plan to place your dryer. It's more than likely that you outweigh your dryer by 30 pounds or more. If the floor seems to give or sag dangerously, don't set up the dryer until you've seen to repairs or reinforcement of your floor.
Installation
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Install your ventilation duct into the wall output. In most models, this takes only a screwdriver.
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Move the dryer into your utility room (or wherever). If moving it is difficult, try setting it on an old blanket or piece of carpet and drag it from place to place.
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Turn off the power leading to the room where you want to install the dryer. Because of this step, it's usually better to install your dryer during daylight hours.
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Plug in your dryer's gas line, if applicable.
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Plug in your dryer's power cord.
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Turn the power to your utility room back on. Test the dryer.
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Slide the dryer into position.
References
- Mike Byers; General Contractor; Corvallis, Oregon
Tips
- Most mobile homes come with a specific place for a washer and dryer to go, wired appropriately and with a ventilator hole already cut. If yours does not, remodeling will be required to set up an area safely.
Warnings
- Dryers draw a lot of power, enough to kill you. Be sure the power is off before installing or uninstalling your dryer.
Writer Bio
Jason Brick has written professionally since 1994. His work has appeared in numerous venues including "Hand Held Crime" and "Black Belt Magazine." He has completed hundreds of technical and business articles, and came to full-time writing after a long career teaching martial arts. Brick received a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Oregon.
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