The Tool Barn


Installing a New Washing Machine

Time for a new washing machine?  Make sure that you select one that is appropriate for your needs.  A family of five likely needs a larger model than does a single person.  Washing machines come in many different configurations and an array of features.  Installing a new machine is fairly easy as most units do not require special wiring, unlike an electric dryer. Remember, these instruction are fairly generic, check the information that comes with your unit.

New washing machine
Items needed:
Adjustable (slipjoint) pliers
Pipe wrench (only if hoses will not come loose)
Safety Suggestions and Tips
Carefully level washing machine after installation
Get help bringing the unit into the house
Check for leaks
Level of difficulty


Time Required:
   2 hours

Steps

Get new machine in door
Get new machine in door

Step 1:

The first step is to shut off the water to the old unit and remove the hoses. There are normally shutoff valves directly behind the unit. Shut these off and then remove the hoses from the valves. First try to remove the hoses with your hand, if that fails go to adjustable pliers. If all else fails, use a pipe wrench but be careful! a pipe wrench exerts a tremendous amount of force and may damage the fittings.

Remove old hoses
Remove old hoses

Step 2:

Once the hoses are loose, remove the drain hose from the wall (these normally just slide in) and then remove the old washing machine. Before bringing the new machine in, clean up the floor under the old unit. Bring the new unit in and slide it into the approximate position you want.

Use included filters
Use included filters

Step 3:

Once the new washing machine is in the approximate position you want, hook the hoses up to the machine and the wall (use any washers or filters included). It is important to note here that NEW hoses should be used to minimize the chance of breakage. Most new machines come with new hoses and woven-steel reinforced models are available if you like. There are also flow-control devices available that will prevent your entire house from being flooded in the event of a break.

Attach drain hose
Attach drain hose

Step 4:

Hook the drain hose to the outlet on the back of the unit using the hardware provided.  Place the other end of the hose in the drain pipe.  Most often the drain pipe simply slides into drain pipe, but your configuration may be different.

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