The Washer Machine

Let me tell you a nice story about our little washer machine. First things first, I must explain how washer machines work in Spain. It's one unit, but I can't really call it a washer/dryer because it's really a washer/centrifuging unit. So imagine the size of your washer machine in the US. Now imagine it is 2/3rds of its size and it is both your washer and your dryer. Now imagine that the normal place for your washing machine is under the kitchen counter. Welcome to Spain. You have just finished your first class: "Lavadora 1A".

So now let's talk about purchasing a washing machine. We purchased the "M6 1000ME" model and what was delivered to us a few days later was the "M6 1001", which looks slightly different. As that was confusing, we decided to discuss this for a bit with the customer service guys at the store. Apparently the store takes whatever model you order and they order it from the manufacturer, who has every right to replace the model with a more current one if they so desire. They so desired. While this is nice that they give you the most up-to-date model, it's quite confusing as the customer when nobody has called you to inform you of this in the first place and you are looking at a different machine already installed in your kitchen.

Oh wait...ours wasn't installed. Oh noooo. The installation guys, who spoke with the worst accent I've ever heard yet (imaginense un tipo re-madrileno que habla con la boca medio abierta) and are asking ME about the plumbing in the apartment. Greaaat. So basically they don't hook up the machine because we need an extra PVC elbow pipe where the drain hose meets the apartment pipe. So the next two days involve going back and forth to a plumbing store to find the right elbow. Now we want to make sure the guys come back to properly install the machine, since that is included in the price. Seems easy but screw them. They're responsible and need to make sure the machine works.

So my friend, the installation guy, comes back. This time he is nicer because we have talked to his boss. I also didn't let him leave until he answered all my questions. You gotta love a small kitchen; it's easy to corner people in. He basically explains to me that he is opening up the valves but no water goes into the machine. Great. Now we need to talk to a plumber and get the landlord to pay for it.

So today I knew that there was a plumber coming to one of the apartments in this complex and I made sure I was home during that general time. The concierge was going to ask him to drop by and help out with our washer machine project. 2 hours later, I realize this plumber never stopped by. I go and talk to Paco, the concierge and so far my best friend, and he is perplexed as to why the plumber hasn't come by at all. So he says, let me lock up and take a look at your washer machine. Well, wouldn't you know it. There was ANOTHER freaking valve above the counter that opens up the washer machine pipes. Paco found it and we tested it all out. YAYYYY I can wash clothes!!!!! I feel like such an ass but that emotion is quickly taken over by a feeling of pure bliss that I don't have to deal with this washer machine's installation anymore! Paco is my saviour!!