Do you want to know how to plumb a washer drain? You need to consider first the best location for the new washer near the water source and ensure the traditional washer is entirely disconnected before you begin. After that, level the washer until it fully functions using a spirit level. Tighten its nuts on the legs and reuse the old hose or switch to a new hose. Get the water supply hose connected but do not over-stretch it. Follow the guidelines of the manufacturer when you get the hose attached.
Next thing, ensure no leaks are there before you continue. Get the drain hose attached and the machine plugged into the electrical socket. When you use a standpipe or sink waste to get the device connected, connect it directly into the standpipe. There is so much more to consider, my friend; below are detailed steps and more tips on how you can plumb a washer drain. Without further ado, let’s start!
Steps To Plumb A Washer Drain
Your washer drain is only accessible when installed. So, follow the intended plumbing codes and do the installation yourself. Or, if you want, consult an expert plumber so that you will not get involved in this accident. So, here are the steps on how to plumb a washer drain:
Step #1. Searching for the drain pipe
Search for a drainpipe to connect the washer drain hose. If you want, use a shower, bathtub, sink drain, or toilet. Make sure the substitute drains are suitable for the washer.
Step #2. Cutting the end of the hacksaw
When you have the washer pipe already, cut the end using a hacksaw. Next, install a wye fitting or even just a sanitary tee. Get the fitting installed properly following the pipe’s orientation.
Step #3. Gluing the fitting
Next thing, glue the fitting to a pipe using plastic pipe cement. There will be an outlet to face the washer, which should be 2-inches long.
Step #4. Attaching the ABS pipe
Attach the ABS pipe that measures two inches long in the area where to install the washer. An outlet should be there from the 2-inch sanitary tee as it faces upward.
Step #5. Installing the pipe
Install the pipe 2-inches coming from an adjacent wall and also 36-inches from the ground. Attach the ABS trap to its connection with plastic pipe cement. Glue the next ten inches of pipe to the P-trap. Know how to install washer drain hose.
Step #6. Getting the drain tube of the washer
Get the drain tube of the washer to the vertical pipe or the standpipe. Use only the proper fitting to get the drain pipe connected with the washer hose.
Step #7. Installing the washer
Install the washer and ensure to get the water supply lines connected to the correct tap. A cold supply line is only needed if you have a new washer already.
Step #8. Depending on the washer manual
So, if the steps mentioned above are not ideal for you, it’s best to read the washer instruction manual and check for the installation tips. Then, learn how to do it, although it can be pretty confusing for a DIY beginner. Connect the drain hose next to the standpipe right below the sink. Make the standpipe lip thirty inches from the ground. Finish it up by installing a non-return valve or hooking the drain hose up and below the worktop.
Signs That Washer Drain Has Plumbing Issue
Below are some of the signs that the washer drain has a plumbing issue and that you have to do something about it.
Water drains out of the washer and spills onto the floor
The drain box is where hoses and lines are connected to the plumbing of your home. If there is water that backs it up, it is a sign there is a plumbing problem. Know that it is normal for the washer and kitchen devices to drain using the same pipe. Nonetheless, grease and food particles build up in this pipe and slow the water flow. Now, if it gets worse, it stops all in all as this does not just back up the washer but also the kitchen sink. Call professional help to drain the washer for you. It may be helpful to read about how to clean washer drain hoses.
The washer has the wrong temperature, or it does not fill up properly
This problem is often occurring in the inlet valves of the washer. These inlet valves get the two hoses to the machine that now controls the flow of cold and hot water. Mineral deposits build up in them that result in restrictions and stop the water flow. Cold and hot water hoses get the solenoid inlet valves connected. Electrical signals that open and close the cold and hot water flow are impeded if these components’ mineral deposits are built. Install a water softener that best reduces this issue. For one, hard water can contain minerals affecting appliances. This water softener saves you more on repairs.
The washer creates loud noises and feels like it wants to come out of the laundry room
Vibrating and loud sounds mean the pump is having an issue. The pump connected to the drain hose pushes the water inside and outside the washer. Socks and small clothing items catch between its drum, and they block the pump. So, check all keys, small objects, coins, and clothing pockets before putting articles in the washer. Small items may reach the pump and further damage the fins of the drain pump as they go after the filter.
Moreover, tiny objects may shatter the glass on the front-loading washer. It may reach through the drainpipe, causing a clog. Place some small clothing in mesh wash bags for them to stay inside the drum. You may also want to read about LG washer making loud noise when spinning.
It’s A Wrap!
Now you learn how to plumb a washer drain with the following methods mentioned. Follow them properly and benefit afterward. Also, know more about the significant issues that cause a problem in the washer drain and require you to plumb it. That way, you will best avoid them, and thus, the washer will have a longer and more warranted life! You may also want to read about the right way of plumbing washing machine drain.