Can you Use a Washing Machine Pan with a Pedestal? (Answered)

As a homeowner, and a washing machine owner for that matter, there are two essential accessories for your washer that you never want to do away with.

A drain pan and a pedestal are two very important accessories that most washing machine owners use for both their washers and their dryers.

But sometimes, it gets very tricky when you think about using both accessories at the same time.

That is why the question ”can you use a washing machine pan with a pedestal?” is a question that always comes up among new homeowners especially.

Can you use a washing machine pan with a pedestal or not?

Yes, it is possible to use a washing machine drain pan together with a pedestal. Drain pans and pedestals come in standard sizes and you should get a drain pan whose dimensions are suitable to hold the pedestal of your washer, even if that means getting a customized drain pan that may have a removable front.

In this article, we are going in-depth about everything you need to know and consider to be able to use a washing machine pan with a pedestal.

Are drain pans required for washing machines?

Many home inspectors require that a washing machine have a drain pan in order to avoid any flooding that could occur if the washing machine hose were to spring a leak.

A washing machine drain pan is a plastic or metallic pan that is placed under washing machines to prevent flooding when a washer leaks.

In fact, in something jurisdictions, it is a requirement to have a drain pan if your washer is situated on the upper floor because of the progressive damage a leaking washer could cause to your home.

Drain pans for washing machines are designed to catch any water that may leak from the washer, and they also help protect your floor from any potential water damage.

So having a drain pan will be for your own good.

You never want your wooden floor or carpet to get damaged by a leaking washer.

Or for the ceiling below your storey to get spoiled by water.

There are a few instances where you may get away with not having a drain pan.

For instance, if your washer is located in a place where a leaking washer wouldn’t lead to damage.

Like at a part of your basement where water from a leaking washer will be easily and safely channeled into a floor drain.

What washing machine pan size do I need for my pedestal?

The size of your washing machine pan for your pedestal will depend on the washing machine model you have.

We have provided below the size range of washing machine drain pans for different washing machine brands.

There should be a clearance of 1nches to 2.5inches between the sides of the pan and the sides of the washer.

BRAND	WIDTH (IN)	LENGTH (IN)	HEIGHT (IN)
Maytag	29-32	29-36	1-2.5
LG	29-32	30-36	1-2.5
Samsung	29-32	29-36	1-2.5
Kenmore	22-32	26-36	1-2.5
GE	27-30	27-36	1-2.5
Whirlpool	24-30	26-36	1-2.5

Do all washing machines come with a drain pan?

No, not all washing machines come with a drain pan. In fact, most washing machines do not come with a drain pan.

If your washing machine did not come with a drain pan, you can easily purchase one at your local hardware store or online.

Can you use a washing machine without a drain pan?

Actually yes, but we do not recommend using a washing machine without a drain pan.

If your washing machine did not come with a drain pan, we highly recommend that you purchase one.

This will help prevent your floor, ceilings, and carpets from water damage.

What washing machine drain pan type can I use with a pedestal?

Most times, you need a customized and special drain pan to be able to use your pedestal.

This is because most drain pans have a height that will prevent you from opening your pedestal when they are used together.

So it’s either you place your pedestal within the pan and have no access to the pedestal drawer, or get a customized drain pan.

There are companies in the market that have customized pans made of steel that work perfectly.

And they can get you even more customized ones to suit your peculiar situation.

Are washing machine pedestals necessary?

Washing machine pedestals are not a necessity. You can use a washing machine without a pedestal.

However, many people prefer to use a pedestal because it raises the washing machine to a more comfortable height and also provides extra storage space.

Do all washing machines come with a pedestal?

No, not all washing machines come with a pedestal. In fact, most washing machines do not come with a pedestal.

If your washing machine did not come with a pedestal, you can easily purchase one at your local hardware store or online.

If you do not want to use a pedestal, you can use a washer pan.

This will help protect your floor from water damage in case your washer leaks.

What are the benefits of using a washing machine pedestal?

There are several benefits of using a washing machine pedestal that may entice you to get one and they include;

1. A washing machine pedestal helps to raise the washer so that it is at a comfortable height for use. This is especially beneficial for people who have back pain as it reduces the strain on their back.
2. It also helps to create more storage space as you can store things like laundry detergent, fabric softener, and other items underneath the pedestal.
3. Another benefit is that it helps to protect your floor from water damage as any water that leaks from the washing machine will be caught by the pedestal and not the floor.

Can you use a washing machine without a pedestal?

Yes, you can use a washing machine without a pedestal.

Many people however prefer to use a pedestal because it raises the washing machine to a level that they feel comfortable about.

So it depends on your preference.

Are washing machine pedestals universal?

Generally, each type of washing machine has a pedestal it can work with. So not all washers may be able to use the same pedestal.

Because different washers vary in the dimensions and properties such as weight and color.

However, there are some pedestals that may be universal as they may be designed such that they can be used by many types of washing machines.

Some manufacturers like LG, Samsung, whirlpool, and others have a list of pedestals that can be used with their washers.

Can I put my washer on a wood platform?

We do not recommend putting your washer on a wood platform.

This is because if your washer leaks, the water can damage the wood and cause mold to grow.

It is better to use a washer pan or a washing machine pedestal.

Conclusion

As we have answered and explained, you can use a washing machine drain pan with a pedestal by using a customized drain pan that allows you to open the drawer of your pedestal.

So you no longer need to worry about whether you can use a drain pan and pedestal together.

You can absolutely do that.

Leave a comment below if you have any further questions.