Installing a Washer: It's Easier Than You Think

Installing a washing machine is a snap whether you're a veteran do-it-yourselfer or have never undertaken a home project. In fact, the most difficult part of the project is getting the washer from the truck to the laundry room.

Before You Leave the Store...

Believe it or not, most washers do not come with the hoses needed to hook them up to your water supply, so make sure you pick up a set of hoses when you buy your new washer. If you're buying a used washer, you should still get a new set of washer hoses because a burst washing machine hose can cause enormous damage.

Hot to Hot, Cold to Cold

Your washer's hot water and cold water intakes should be clearly marked. Simply screw one end of each hose to each intake. Hand tightening should be enough. Over-tightening can cause damage to the hose gaskets. Your laundry room's hot and cold water faucets should likewise be labeled. If not, hot should be on the left. Attach the hoses to the faucets--hot to hot and cold to cold. Again, hand tightening should be sufficient. Next, insert the washer's drain hose into the drain pipe (yes, it just slides in), and plug the washer in.

At this point, slowly turn the faucets on. Check the connections for leakage. For slight leakage, turn off the faucet, tighten the connection slightly with pliers, and turn the faucet back on. Repeat until the connection stops leaking. Severe leakage indicates a faulty hose or a damaged or missing gasket. If this occurs, replace the hose and or gasket.

Before pushing the washer to the wall, run a cold water cycle for about 15 seconds. If hot water comes out, switch the hoses at the faucets.