This article provides a detailed breakdown of the installation process for the GE Appliances Pedestal/Riser Kit (model numbers GFP1528 and GFR0728) as outlined in the official instruction manual. The guide is intended for U.S. consumers, DIY enthusiasts, and IT professionals seeking to install or understand the installation of a pedestal or riser for their GE washer or dryer units. The instructions cover preparation, bracket installation, unit alignment, leveling, and warranty details, all sourced directly from the manufacturer’s documentation.
Introduction
The GE Pedestal/Riser Kit is designed to provide a stable and level base for washing machines and dryers, helping to reduce vibration and ensure proper alignment during operation. The installation process involves attaching brackets to both the pedestal/riser and the appliance, securing them together, and adjusting the unit for level placement. The kit is compatible with both 32-inch and 34-inch washer and dryer models, and the instructions provided in the manufacturer’s documentation are specific to the model type.
The following sections will walk through each step of the installation process in detail, including necessary tools, bracket orientation, leveling techniques, and post-installation considerations. Additionally, the warranty coverage and limitations are outlined to ensure users understand the scope of support available should the product fail.
Tools and Components
The installation of the GE Pedestal/Riser Kit requires a few basic tools and the inclusion of specific hardware from the kit. According to the manufacturer’s documentation, the following items are included in the kit:
- Pedestal or riser unit
- Front and rear brackets (two each)
- Screws and nuts for attaching the brackets to the appliance and pedestal/riser
Users will need to provide the following tools:
- A 9/16″ open-ended wrench for tightening lock nuts
- A protective surface for laying the appliance on its back during bracket installation
- A spirit level for ensuring the appliance is properly leveled
It is also important to note that shipping bolts must remain in place during installation to prevent shifting or damage to the unit during the setup process.
Preparing the Pedestal/Riser
Before attaching the pedestal or riser to the washer or dryer, the user must prepare the base unit by installing the necessary brackets. The installation process varies slightly depending on whether the appliance is a dryer, a 32-inch washer, or a 34-inch washer.
Installing Rear Pedestal/Riser Brackets
For dryers and 32-inch washers, the rear pedestal/riser brackets should be aligned on both sides of the unit. The brackets must be positioned as shown in the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that the tabs on the brackets are aligned for proper fit.
For 34-inch washers, the rear pedestal/riser brackets must be rotated 180 degrees from the configuration used for dryers. This adjustment is necessary to accommodate the larger width of the 34-inch model.
Installing Front Pedestal/Riser Brackets
Front brackets should be installed on both sides of the pedestal/riser. These brackets will later be connected to the corresponding brackets on the washer or dryer. The front brackets are critical for securing the unit and ensuring stability.
Preparing the Appliance
Before attaching the pedestal/riser to the appliance, the user must prepare the washer or dryer by installing the necessary brackets. This involves the following steps:
Laying the Appliance on Its Back
The washer or dryer must be carefully laid on its back on a protective surface to prevent damage to the exterior or internal components. Once in this position, the leveling legs should be adjusted to their minimum height setting to ensure they are ready for installation.
Installing Front and Rear Brackets on the Appliance
Front brackets are installed on the bottom of the appliance using the two holes closest to the front and the two outermost holes on the bracket. The bracket should not extend beyond the edge of the appliance to ensure a secure fit.
Rear brackets are installed using the top two holes on the bottom of the appliance. The tab on the bracket should face outward to align with the rear pedestal/riser brackets. This orientation is critical for proper alignment and stability.
Attaching the Pedestal/Riser to the Appliance
Once both the pedestal/riser and the appliance are properly bracketed, the next step is to attach the two units together. This process involves the following:
Hooking the Brackets
Lift the pedestal/riser and hook the front brackets of the pedestal to the front brackets of the washer or dryer. The brackets should align and connect without resistance. Once connected, the front and rear brackets on the appliance should be aligned with the corresponding brackets on the pedestal/riser.
Securing the Connection
Once the brackets are aligned, the user should loosely fasten the screws connecting the brackets. It is important to ensure that the bracket from the appliance is positioned to the inside of the pedestal/riser bracket. This positioning prevents misalignment and ensures the unit remains stable during operation.
Leveling the Washer or Dryer
After the pedestal/riser is attached to the appliance, the unit must be leveled to prevent vibration and ensure proper operation. The following steps should be followed:
Installing the Legs
Locate the four legs provided in the parts package and install them to their minimum height. These legs are essential for adjusting the height and level of the unit.
Standing the Unit Upright
Carefully stand the washer or dryer upright on the pedestal/riser. Ensure that all screws in all brackets are securely tightened to prevent movement or shifting during use.
Using a Spirit Level
To check the level of the appliance, place a spirit level on the top surface of the unit. Check both side-to-side and front-to-back directions to ensure the unit is evenly balanced. If the unit is not level, adjustments to the legs can be made using a 9/16″ open-ended wrench.
Adjusting the Legs
Use the 9/16″ wrench to adjust the legs in and out as needed. Once the unit is level, tighten the lock nuts against the bottom of the pedestal/riser. It is important to ensure that the locking nuts are fully tightened to minimize vibration and prevent movement during operation.
Finalizing the Installation
Once the unit is leveled and secured, the installation is nearly complete. However, there are a few additional steps to ensure the appliance is fully functional:
Snug the Feet of the Appliance
For both washers and dryers, the feet should be snug against the top of the pedestal/riser to further reduce vibration and ensure a stable base.
Remove Shipping Bolts
For washing machines only, it is necessary to remove the four shipping bolts located on the back side of the unit. These bolts are used to secure the unit during shipping and must be removed before the appliance is used.
Refer to Installation Instructions
After attaching the pedestal/riser and leveling the unit, the user should refer to the washer or dryer’s installation instructions for additional setup steps. These may include connecting to water and electrical sources, as well as final adjustments for optimal performance.
Warranty Coverage and Limitations
The GE Pedestal/Riser Kit is covered under a limited warranty that provides certain protections to the original purchaser and any succeeding owners. The warranty is valid for a period of one year from the date of the original purchase and is administered by GE Appliances or an authorized Customer Care® technician.
Covered Repairs
During the warranty period, any part of the pedestal/riser that fails due to a defect in materials or workmanship will be replaced free of charge. Additionally, all labor and related service required to replace the defective part will be provided at no cost to the user.
Exclusions and Limitations
The warranty does not cover the following:
- Service trips to the user’s home to teach how to use the product
- Damage caused by improper installation, delivery, or maintenance
- Failure due to abuse, misuse, or use outside the intended purpose
- Products that are not defective or broken
- Damage caused by accidents, fire, floods, or acts of God
- Incidental or consequential damage
- Defects caused by operation in freezing temperatures
- Damage caused after delivery
- Products that are inaccessible for required service
The warranty also excludes the cost of shipping or service calls in Alaska for products located in areas where service by an authorized technician is not available.
Implied Warranties
Implied warranties, including the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited to one year or the shortest period allowed by law. In some states and provinces, the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages may not be allowed, and users should consult their local consumer affairs office or attorney general for additional information.
Conclusion
The GE Pedestal/Riser Kit (GFP1528/GFR0728) is a critical component for ensuring the stability, level placement, and proper operation of GE washers and dryers. The installation process involves careful preparation, precise bracket alignment, and thorough leveling to prevent vibration and ensure safe use. Users must follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely to ensure a secure and functional installation.
The warranty provides one year of coverage for defects in materials or workmanship, but users must be aware of the limitations and exclusions, including damage caused by misuse, improper installation, or environmental factors. The warranty is administered through authorized service centers or factory service representatives, and users should retain proof of purchase and have the serial and model numbers ready when requesting service.
By following the detailed steps provided in the official installation instructions, users can confidently install the pedestal/riser and enjoy a stable, vibration-free operation of their GE washer or dryer.