Undeniably, portable washers and dryers or washer-dryer combos are perfect for apartments. The question, however, is, what voltage should you get? Is an apartment size washer and dryer 110 volt available, or should you get a 220 volt? (inspireclion.com)
Most apartment-size washers and dryers run on 110v outlets, also going by the rating 115v, 120v, and 125v. The reason is that such a small voltage translates to less energy consumption, which makes sense for apartment users.
That, however, doesn’t mean that all electric outlets are 110v or you cannot use a 220v laundry machine outlet. In the latter case, you need to convert your 110v outlet into 220v, and I’ll show you how to do it exactly.
But first, we’ll differentiate 110v and 220v outlets concerning washers and dryers for apartment use. Then, we will answer vital questions about plugging washers and dryers into 110v and 220v outlets.
In a rush? See below apartment size washers and dryers to use on a 110v outlet
Best Apartment Size Washer and Dryer 110 Volt from Amazon
- Pyle XPB20-2885 Portable Washer and Dryer: Best for Small Laundry in the Apartment
- Garatic Portable Compact Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine: Best for Frequent Apartment Movers
Are Washer and Dryers 110 Or 220 Volt?
Most washers and dryers require a 110-volt outlet. Note that 110v is also identified as 115v, 120v, or 125v. Such voltage is not just ideal for washer and dryer combos but also light fixtures and other non-heavy voltage users.
On the contrary, standalone washers and dryers run on 220-volt outlets. Also, note that 220v is also identified as 230v, 240v, or 250v. In addition, the standalone washers and dryers 220v are best for heavy-voltage users like refrigerators, dishwashers, freezers, electric stoves, and air conditioners.
So, you are more likely to find 220v outlets at home than 110v, and that’s where the aspect of conversion, which we’ll look at later, comes in.
But Why Is 110 Volt Best for Apartment Size Washer and Dryer?
Generally, the more the voltage, the more the electric consumption, which often translates to more power. But realistically, apartment owners are low-energy consumers. So, they don’t necessarily need a high-voltage appliance unless they are a large family.
For that reason, 110v washers and dryers fit the bill. These laundry machines save on energy bills, and more importantly, they come in compact, portable builds that make them apartment ready.
Overall, you wouldn’t need to do any specialized installation or plumbing work. That’s what you get from Pyle XPB20-2885 Portable Washer and Dryer.
The 7.7-pound apartment size washer and dryer 120v allows you to use it straight out of its box. Just plug it into a 120v socket, and it’s good to go.
Its top loading mechanism lets you quickly load small loads such as diaper clothes, lingerie, socks, and even jeans. Not only do you get to clean the clothes, but you also dry them.
So, it’s just perfect for apartments.
Its alternative is the Garatic Portable Mini Twin Tub Washing Machine. This apartment-size washing machine comes with a spin dryer (built-in dryer) to allow you to dry your damp clothes quickly.
You only need to firmly plug it into a 110v outlet, and it’s ready for usage. You can fit it in any tight space, including college rooms and dorms. It can even fit in your RV or camper van, which means you can move with it during your camping adventures. Thus, it’s a fantastic choice for frequent apartment movers and seasonal campers.
Can I Convert A 220-Volt Washer or Dryer to 110V?
Given the economics (low power usage) of 110v outlets, you may want to convert your standalone 220v washer or dryer into 110v.
Well, it’s possible to do so if you have an adapter or a 220v-110v converter. Once you plug the washer and dryer into the adapter, the adapter will convert the appliance’s voltage from 220v to 110v.
Let’s talk about the process in detail next.
How to Convert A 220 Volt Washer and Dryer to 110 Volt?
The standard voltage for dryers in the US is 120v/110v, while in Europe, it’s 240v/230v/220v. However, you may want to convert your high-voltage washer and dryer into a low-voltage option. Here’s how to go about it in that respect:
Step 1 – Identify the voltage and wattage rating on your appliance
Inspect your washer and dryer to find the label indicating its voltage. That’s if you are not sure about it. Also, identify its wattage rating as that’s instrumental in performing step 3.
If you cannot find the wattage, you’ll calculate it in step 2. You’ll, however, need to record its ampere value to use in the calculations.
Step 2 – Calculate the wattage
To find the wattage, multiply the amperes with the voltage rating. But if you already have the watts, you can skip this step.
Step 3 – Shop for a converter
Now, visit your local hardware and ask for a converter to convert the 220v appliance to 110v. While at it, insist on an appliance with a maximum watt rating that exceeds the wattage you calculated in step 2.
Step 4 – Power switch off
Once you have your converter, turn off the power supply to your laundry room. You can flip the circuit breaker off.
Step 5 – Plug the converter
Remove the washer-dryer from the electric outlet and plug it into the converter. After that, plug the converter (with the appliance plug) into the electric outlet/wall socket.
Step 6 – Restore power
Lastly, turn on the power supply to your laundry room to power up the washer and dryer.
Are Stackable Washer and Dryers 110 Or 220 Volt?
Stackable washers and dryers are mostly 220 volts, unlike portable washers and dryers. For that reason, you mostly need an expert electrician to help you install them.
However, a few stackable options allow you to plug them into a 110-volt outlet. Thus, you should ask an expert technician if you need some clarification.
Can I Plug A 110 Volt Apartment Washer Dryer Combo into A 220 Volt Socket?
Ordinarily, it’s not advisable to plug a 110v washer and dryer into a 220v wall socket. The heat will be too much for the appliance, and it will most likely overheat and burn.
The only exception is using a protective device that can absorb the extra voltage. I’m talking about these two options:
- Circuit breaker
The wall socket, in this case, should be protected with a circuit breaker to cut off the electric current overload and protect your washer and dryer.
The other important note is that the washer and dryer should be the only appliance on the circuit to avoid a current overload. So, you’ll need the help of an expert electrician here to ensure you do the installation correctly.
- GFI Installation
The Ground Fault interrupter (GFI) is another safety feature worth installing. This electric outlet offers your ample appliance protection following the National Electrical Code (NEC).
GFI instantly interrupts the current supply to the appliance once it detects a fault in the circuit grounding. In the end, that protects your washer and dryer from burning.
Can I Plug A 220v Washer and Dryer into A 110 Volt Outlet?
Though you can plug a 220v washer and dryer into a 110v socket, it’s not advisable. Reason? The appliance might run for a little while before it burns out.
That’s why it is advisable to get a 220v-110v converter I mentioned earlier and use it to turn your 220v appliance into 110v. So, to protect your washer and dryer, only use it on a 110v socket if you have a converter.
People Also Ask
1. How Many Volts Is an Apartment Size Dryer?
Ordinarily, an apartment-size dryer is 110volt or 120volt. Such a dryer is designed to work in a 110v or 120v socket, which are similar.
If your dryer is rated 220v or higher, you’ll need to get a converter and use it between the dryer and the electric outlet to protect the former from burning out.
2. Do Any Dryers Run On 110 Volt?
Yes, some standalone dryers and most apartment-size washer-dryer combos run on 110v or 120v. However, most standalone dryers (non-portable ones) run on 220 – 240volt.
3. What Voltage Is a Stackable Washer and Dryer?
A majority of stackable washers and dryers generally run on 220v outlets. These are heavy-voltage consumers, just like standalone washers and dryers. There are, however, some stackable options that work with 110v sockets.
4. Can I Plug My Washer into A Regular Outlet?
In the United States, regular electric outlets are 110 – 120v, making them ideal for portable washers, washer-dryer combos, light fixtures, and other low-voltage appliances.
However, if your washer is rated 220v or higher, you’ll need to convert it by using an adapter or voltage converter before you can plug it into a regular outlet.
5. Can I Plug My Dryer into A Regular Outlet?
Most compact and portable electric and gas dryers work well with 120v outlets. Standard standalone electric dryers, however, require 220-240 volts.
For that reason, it’s unsafe to plug them into regular electric outlets. You could easily damage the appliance.
6. Do Washers Need 110 or 220 Volts?
Washing machines may be heavy appliances, but they comfortably run on 120v outlets. That’s unlike standard dryers, which need 220-240 volts. But to be safe, ensure you match your washer with your socket voltage to protect it.
7. Can I Plug My Washer into an Extension Cord?
The problem with employing extension cords is that they significantly reduce the voltage supply to your washer. In most cases, your washing machine won’t start or may repeatedly stop, which can be frustrating, given that you’ll end up with wet clothes. To avoid frustration, avoid using extension cords.
Concluding Remarks On Apartment Size Washer and Dryer 110 Volt
Now you know why 110v is ideal for apartment-size washers and dryers and the options to go for. So, consider a 110v washer and dryer for your apartment for the economics it promises. You’ll save on electricity bills and have a space-saving design perfect for an apartment.
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