Installing a new washing machine is not a complicated process and can be done by two people with basic tools and attention to detail. If you are replacing an old washing machine you most likely have all of the connections and hook ups you need. Make the installation of your new washing machine even easier with the help of this step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Gather materials and tools
Once your washing machine has been delivered, remove all packaging and check inside the washing machine for installation instructions and the drain hose. Make sure you have everything you need before you start the installation process.
To install your new washing machine you will need the following:
- Adjustable spanner
- Pliers Screwdriver (depending on the model you may need a phillips or a flathead)
- Level Bucket or a towel
- Someone to help you (moving and maneuvering heavy appliances is best done with two people)
Step 2: Prepare the area
Once you have removed all packaging and gathered your supplies, it’s time to prepare the area for where you want to install the washing machine. Depending on the model of your washing machine you might need cold and hot water hookups. If your washing machine has an internal heating element you will only need a cold water connection. You will also need an electrical outlet (with an optional surge protector) and a drain.
Clean the area where the washing machine will be located and make sure to turn off the water supply. You don’t want to accidentally flood your house by leaving the water supply on!
Step 3: Attach the drain hose to the drain port
At the back of the washing machine look for the drain port which will be marked. Attach the drain hose that was included with the washing machine to the drain port. Tighten the clamp with a spanner but be sure not to overtighten.
Step 4: Place drain hose in standpipe
A U-shaped form should have been included with the drain hose. Place the loose end of the drain hose into the form so that the end of the hose is facing down. Place this end of the hose into the standpipe or utility sink. Make sure that the drain hose is secure and that it won’t move or come out of the standpipe or utility sink when the washing machine is in use.
Expert Tip: Only about 11 centimeters of drain hose should be in the standpipe or utility sink. Do not force more drain hose into the drain as this could cause malfunction or damage later on.
Step 5: Connect the hose to the water supply
Attach the water hose or hoses to the corresponding faucets or water hook ups. Tighten by hand until snug and then tighten an additional 2/3 of a turn with a spanner. Before connecting the water hose to the washing machine, turn on the tap and run water through it for a few minutes into a sink or bucket to make sure the hose is clean of debris that could damage your washing machine.
Expert Tip: Teflon plumper’s tape should not be necessary to create a watertight seal, especially if your connections are plastic or use rubber washers. But, if your couplings are metal to metal threaded connections, teflon tape could be useful.
Step 6: Connect the water supply to the washing machine
Take the other end of the water hose and connect it to the washing machine. Screw the coupling by hand until it is tight and then tighten an additional 2/3 of a turn using a spanner. Turn on the water tap to check for leaks.
If there is water leaking from any of the connections be sure to turn off the tap and disconnect and reconnect the couplings, ensuring that the thread is lined up correctly. Alternatively, you may need to tighten with a spanner a bit more. Be careful not to overtighten as it can damage the fittings and strip the threads.
Expert Tip: It’s recommended to replace water hoses every 5 years to avoid problems related to leaks or hose failure.
Step 7: Level the washing machine
Once in its final position, and everything is connected, it’s time to level your washing machine to avoid bouncing when in use. Place a level on top of the washing machine both lengthwise and widthwise, making sure that all four feet are level on the ground. You can also gently rock the washing machine back and forth to make sure that all four feet make contact with the floor.
If the washing machine isn’t level, rotate the plastic leveling feet to lower or raise the washing machine. This is best done with two people, one that lifts the washing machine and the other that rotates the leveling feet. Rotate in a clockwise direction to raise the washing machine and a counter clockwise direction to lower it. Place the level on the washing machine again to make sure that the washing machine is level in all directions.
Step 7: Plug in the Washing Machine
Now that your washing machine has been connected to the drain, the water supply and is level on the floor, you can safely plug it into the nearest electrical outlet. You may opt to use a surge protector to protect your washing machine from variations in electrical current or power surges. Now your new washing machine is ready to go!
Step 8: Run a Short Wash Cycle
Finally, to make sure that everything is working properly, run a short wash cycle without laundry. This way you will be able to double check for leaks and that everything is in working condition.
Expert Tip: Try the Quick Wash cycle on Hoover washing machines which uses less water and electricity, perfect for a test run.
Conclusion
With this step-by-step guide installing a washing machine can be an easy and seamless task. With the right tools, a helper and some attention to detail even people without technical knowledge can set up a washing machine in a few simple steps.
Expert Tip: If you don’t have time or you prefer to let the professionals handle it, Hoover offers free professional installation when buying directly from our website!
