When you install a new washing machine, it’s important to connect the drain hose and supply lines correctly. This can help avoid a flood of water and dirty laundry when you run your washer. In addition, it can ensure that your washer’s water valves and drain pump function properly.
You can connect your washing machine’s drain hose to an existing pipe in your home or to a standpipe that is installed near the machine. Before connecting the hose to the drain pipe, check your local plumbing code to see if you need to make any changes.
If you do need to make changes, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Unpack your washer
Your new washing machine should come with a set of hoses and a drain hose. This is usually packed in a plastic bag inside the tub or coiled up against the back panel. It should also include the power cord and plug. You’ll want to free the hoses and drain hose from their packing materials, which may contain tape, tape aids, and other packaging.
Step 2: Find the drain hose
A new washing machine drain hose should be attached to the back of the machine, near the water inlet and drain pump. It might be coiled up against the back panel or have one end protruding from a retractable keeper. It should have a hose connector on the end, and it may also be equipped with a threaded, hot-water and cold-water inlet valve. You’ll need these valves to hook up the hoses and the drain pipe.
Step 3: Prepare a large bucket and the drain hose
With the new hose disconnected from the washer’s drain pipe, lower the hose into a bucket. You can use a shallower container, such as a 9-inch-by-13-inch baking dish, to keep the hose lower than the washer tub. This will allow you to lower it to the ground and let gravity drain the water out as you fill the bucket.
Step 4: Remove a clog in the drain hose
A clog in your washing machine’s drain hose can be caused by a buildup of debris or clothing in the hose. To clear a clog, loosen the hose clamp and inspect the inside of the hose for any debris or clothing. If necessary, you can disconnect the hose and clean it with plumber’s snake or another type of cleaning tool.
Step 5: Install a drain vent
If you have a large family or plan to do a lot of heavy laundry, it is a good idea to install a drain vent. This will prevent the creation of a vacuum in the drain hose, which can prevent it from flowing properly through the pipes.
You can install a washer vent using a simple, inexpensive method. Often, you’ll need only a few supplies and a couple of tools to accomplish this. For the most part, you’ll only need a hose connector, some Jubilee clips and some masonry screws to secure it to the wall. Alternatively, you can use an extension kit that includes the connector and all the clips you need to connect it to your washing machine’s hose and drain pipe.