450: Running washing machine underway

[exitstrategy]

We use ours underway in mild to moderate conditions.

[gspeak]

We don't have a problem using our Aldi Au$100 twin tub while sailing on our L380. Sorry ... couldn't help myself !!!!

[Fuss]

Originally Posted by anthonyp0808

The users manual says "RECOMMENDATION - The washing machine shall not work while you are sailing".

Seems a bit impractical on an ocean crossing!

Is there any good reason for this?

Do others use the washing machine underway? Any precautions?

My Lagoon has the Siemens IQ300 7KG washer-dryer installed.

Firstly, washing machines with the motor connected to the drum supports and not the frame are the best type to buy for use on a sailing boat. That way the belt is only turning the drum and not providing support to the drum.
Technicians from washing machine companies who are not sailors can't help you much.
The rules of using your washing machine while sailing are as follows....
Do not load to full capacity, I would say 1 third capacity.
Do not wash heavy waterlogged items such as towels while underway.
Do not leave items in the machine ready for the next wash while underway.
Do not use the machine in heavy seas.
Do not buy a machine that does not have a 20 min fast program.

[waterman46]

Lots of replies here but my $.02 worth: It may depend somewhat on the orientation of the machine. We have used our Haier front loading machine, fully loaded including some big towels, underway in moderate conditions, sailing heeled up to perhaps 10 degrees or so. It is oriented so that the spinning cage is aligned with its axis fore and aft. But of course you won't heel at all in your cat, so I see no reason to worry about it at all. Probably should listen for trouble the first time just in case.

[JstaRebel]

Originally Posted by tuskie

No heeling? Mon dieu! You do realise that this is the Lagoon catamaran part of the forum?

You're right.. No heeling. I would imagine that the manual says not to run the washing machine in case the cat turtles.. That would just make a mess of everything..

[tuskie]

Originally Posted by JstaRebel

You're right.. No heeling. I would imagine that the manual says not to run the washing machine in case the cat turtles.. That would just make a mess of everything..

Quite right! We capsize as regularly as we do the laundry. Just ask any monohuller.