Washing machine installation - would they lift it over a worktop?

Bengal

Does anyone know if people who deliver and install appliances like washing machines would be prepared to lift the appliance over a worktop to get it into the kitchen? The doorway isn't a problem, and ultimately it'll live on the floor and can be slid into place. It's just getting it past the protruding kitchen units (see diagram below - the red dotted line is the problematic narrow section which will require being lifted). I moved into this house not long ago and the units are all fixed and connected. I can't see how I can dismantle a section of unit without causing damage.

[ETA: I'm talking here about the regular chains like Argos, Currys, AO.com, JL - where I'd pay extra for them to install it.]

EssexExile

I doubt it. What if it needs repairs in the future, how will the repair man get it out to work on it?

neilmcl

Is there already a space for a washing machine and if so how did the old one come out?

I have something similar in my kitchen when I had a new set of worktops installed, the gap left by the installer is only around 50cm so too narrow for an appliance to pass. Fortunately the worktop on the end of one side is in a breakfast bar configuration so a washing machine can be slid underneath if I remove the worktop leg. I recently had a new fridge freezer from John Lewis, the delivery guys were more than happy to lift the FF over the worktop but a washing machine is a different kettle of fish and I doubt any delivery firm would entertain the idea given it's weight.

ashe

very unlikely they would lift it that high, they won't be insured for it if they injure themselves or drop it on your worktops. they might do it for cash on the side but it would be risking their jobs.

ic

Where in that diagram is the existing machine? What are the two ends of the worktop by the doorway? (I'm thinking if its just an end panel or leg, could that come out to allow it to fit through the gap?)

As per others I'd doubt they'd lift over the top, machines are heavy enough getting a few inches off the ground, never mind up to head height! However, delivery guys are usually fairly burly, and always appear to make light work of shifting machines I've nearly given myself a hernia pulling out from under the worktop! :rotfl:

Tom99

You would need two people to lifts it and I expect most are delivered by a single driver these days.

Bengal

neilmcl wrote: »

Is there already a space for a washing machine and if so how did the old one come out?

The current washing machine is already in place. It was there when I moved in - the seller left it as part of the sale (yes, I know...!)

EssexExile

Tom99 wrote: »

You would need two people to lifts it and I expect most are delivered by a single driver these days.

With most you'd need more than two!

I've just checked, men aren't supposed to lift more than 25Kg, so that's four men for my Meile!

ThemeOne

There's massive variation in what delivery people will do. Some are not even allowed to enter your property, so your washing machine would be dumped at your front door. This is usually called "doorstep" or "kerb" delivery.

I think there's no alternative to checking in detail with your chosen suppliers. And if you can get anyone to lift it over your worktop they will no doubt appreciate a tip.

unforeseen

EssexExile wrote: »

With most you'd need more than two!

I've just checked, men aren't supposed to lift more than 25Kg, so that's four men for my Meile!

I agree. A washing machine is definitely a 4 man lift to that height. Even then an 80kg lift to 1 metre and move would need a proper risk assessment.

Anyone willing to do it for a bit extra when they deliver is a bit of a cowboy and likely to damage themselves, the washing machine or your kitchen, or any combination of those 3

Bengal

ic wrote: »

Where in that diagram is the existing machine? What are the two ends of the worktop by the doorway? (I'm thinking if its just an end panel or leg, could that come out to allow it to fit through the gap?)

The existing washing machine is on the right. towards the top of the diagram.

Between that and the bottom right kitchen entry point, there's a tumble dryer then an under-worktop shelving unit, each separated by three solid wooden panels which presumably are also acting to hold up the worktop. Everything is connected though, that's what makes it a pain.

Maybe I could sacrifice the very end board (nearest the red line), that would let me get a thin washing machine in, one of the ones with not much depth.

On the other side is an 8ft high unit.