Installing a washing machine is a straight process, especially replacing an old machine with a new one. If you have the necessary plumbing already in place, setting up a new washing machine only involves connecting the appropriate drain and supply lines, ensuring the washer is levelled and plugged in. This comprehensive guide highlights the steps of connecting a washing machine to existing plumbing or a sink.
See also: How to move a washing machine?
How to install a washing machine?
Here are the steps you need to follow to replace your old washing machine with a new one.
Remove the old machine
Before you can start installing your new washing machine, it’s essential to properly remove your old unit. Follow these steps for successfully removing the machine:
- Check the drum to make sure that the machine is empty.
- Turn it off and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
- Gently pull the machine away from the wall to gain access to its water supply valves.
- Turn off both hot and cold-water valves that connect to the washing machine.
- Place a bucket or pan underneath the water supply hoses to catch remaining water. Carefully disconnect the supply lines. You might need a wrench, or pliers to loosen and remove the hoses.
- Remove the waste-water hose by pulling it out from its entry point in the floor or wall.
- If you have bought a set of both washer and dryer, make sure to unplug and remove the dryer too.
Prep the new machine
Before moving on to the subsequent installation steps, it’s crucial to measure and prepare your new washing machine. Here’s what you need to do:
- Ensure that you measure both your available space and doorways to confirm that the new washing machine you’ve chosen will fit into your home without any difficulties. Consider the dimensions of the door to ensure the washer can be fully opened once installed.
- For smaller laundry areas, think about opting for a laundry centre that combines both a washer and dryer in a single, compact unit.
- Ensure that the area where you’re installing the new washing machine has a level, clean, and sturdy floor. It should also have access to both cold and hot water connections, suitable drainage, and an available electrical outlet.
- Most washing machines come with carriage bolts attached to the back corners, which prevent the drum from moving during transportation. Remove all these carriage bolts. Your new unit might include a wrench for this task, or you can use your own adjustable wrench or pliers.
- Make sure to remove any other packaging materials from the washing machine.
Connect the water supply hoses
Your new washing machine comes equipped with essential components, including water supply hoses. These hoses are usually stored inside the drum of the machine. Here’s how to properly connect the water supply hoses:
- Begin by attaching the water supply hoses to the connections present on the washing machine’s back. While you can often screw them in by hand, you can use mole grips if needed. Be cautious not to overtighten the hoses.
- Make sure to connect each hose to the appropriate hot and cold-water supply valves. The hoses and connections might be labelled to indicate whether they are meant for hot or cold water.
- Screw the other ends of the water supply hoses into the corresponding cold and hot-water supply valves.
- In case any of the hoses are too short to reach their connections, refrain from attempting to stretch them. Doing so could lead to hose damage and leaks. Instead, consider purchasing longer replacement hoses to ensure a proper fit.
- Many connectors are equipped with rubber washers that create a tight seal, preventing water from leaking through the threading. Consequently, there’s no need for wrapping plumber’s tape around the threading of the machine’s valve spigots, or other connections.
Set up the drain hose
The drain hose is typically pre-attached to your washing machine and should be directed towards either a nearby sink or a standpipe. Here’s how to handle the drain hose:
- If you’re directing the drain hose into a sink, use a plastic hose guide to ensure the hose bends downward into the sink without any kinks. Your new washing machine might come with a hose guide, or you can purchase one separately to facilitate this setup.
- If the appropriate plumbing is in place, you should have a standpipe already installed next to or near the water supply valves. This standpipe could be installed within the wall and appear as a hole, or it could be visible on the wall’s surface as a tall pipe leading to a drain. Insert the end of the drain hose securely into the standpipe.
- In instances where the drain hose doesn’t reach the sink or standpipe, you can attach an extension hose to ensure adequate length.
- Turn on the water supply valves to verify that there are no leaks. If you notice any water dripping from the connections, tighten or adjust them. Remember that over-tightening a connection can potentially lead to leaks due to distortion of the connector’s rubber washer.
Level the washing machine
The last essential task in the process of installing your washing machine is ensuring that it is properly levelled to prevent any unwanted movement or noise during operation. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Place a level on the top surface of the washing machine to gauge its current level.
- Adjust the legs of the machine as needed to achieve proper levelling, ensuring that the unit is stable. Secure the locknuts against the frame once you’ve achieved the desired level.
- To thoroughly confirm that the washing machine is evenly levelled, use the level at different points: centrally on the top, along both left and right sides, and on the front and back. This comprehensive approach guarantees that your washing machine maintains a perfect level on all sides.
- With the unit properly levelled, plug it into an electrical outlet and commence your laundry washing tasks.
FAQs
Is installing a washing machine easy?
Installing a washing machine connection is quite simple, especially replacing an old machine with a new one.
How do I uninstall my old washing machine?
Start by checking the drum for any remaining items. Turn off and unplug the machine, disconnect water supply lines, and remove the wastewater hose. If you have a washer and dryer set, ensure you unplug and remove the dryer too.
Can I install my washing machine myself?
Yes, installing a washing machine is a straight process. However, if you face any complication, enlisting professional assistance can be a good idea.
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