Installing a washing machine’s one of the most simple Plumbing jobs there is anyone with some basic DIY Plumbing experience should be capable of installing one. Here’s a quick guide on how to install a new washing machine only attempt this job if you’re confident you can do it properly if you’re unsure use a professional.
This guide assumes the Plumbing for the Washing Machine (cold water pipe and waste pipe) are present.
First of all, always consult the manual that comes with the washing machine and read the installation instructions. This article is just a general guide on how to install a washing machine (for information purposes) always use the official installation instructions (when possible) over this guide.
- Unpack your washing machine removing all plastic and polystyrene if cutting the plastic with a knife be careful not to scratch your new machine.
- To secure the drum in transit washing machines are delivered with transportation bolts usually three or four (sometimes two) it’s very important these bolts are removed before you run the machine as damage could occur. Remove the transit bolts either by unscrewing with a spanner or pulling them out; this will vary from machine to machine. Some machines will have blanks to cover the holes, insert the blanks. Keep the transit bolts in-case you ever need to move your washing machine to another property.
- Get the machine into position don’t push it right in under the worktop yet.
- The cold water pipe is usually found in the drum along with the instructions, this pipe will have a straight fitting at one end, and a right angled fitting at the other end. Screw the right-angled fitting into the water inlet at the back of the washing machine make sure it’s tight you can use a pair of mole grips for extra tightness but be careful and don’t overtighten as you could break the fittings.
- Connect the straight end to the washing machine valve that’s connected to the cold water supply pipe running along the wall. Again make sure it’s adequately tightened and secure but don’t over tighten. Make sure the pipes not kinked.
- Next, insert the waste water pipe (usually grey) that runs from the back of the washing machine into the waste downpipe (typically white) attached to the wall. Washing machine wastes often feature a rigid u-bend that maintains the shape of the pipe stopping it kinking. Push the grey waste pipe into the waste downpipe until it’s close to the bend of the downpipe; this will ensure no water will come back up the pipe when the machine empties.
- Alternatively, you can attach the waste water pipe to your sink waste (if the location of the machine and the under sink plumbing allows).
- Turn on the cold water supply check both ends of the pipe for any leaks
- Plug-in the appliance and switch on the power
- Run a quick rinse program check there are no leaks anywhere and that the machine empties properly
- Push the machine into position make sure you don’t push the machine over the cold or waste pipes and that the pipes don’t kink
- Next check the washing machines level with a spirit level, adjust the feet to level the machine if nessecary
And that’s it! by following these steps and undertaking a proper installation your washing machine should give you years of service without any problems.
