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how tight should washer hoses be

by Ulises Cassin Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Full Answer

How much space do you need between washing machine hoses?

Allow enough space between the wall and the machine to avoid kinks in the hoses. Aim for 3 to 4 inches but adjust as needed to avoid sharp bends in the hoses. Inspect washing machine hoses regularly. At a minimum, check the hoses once or twice a year.

Do I need to tighten hose pipe for washing machine drain?

If it is the washing machine hose pipe, hand tight is all need. Daniel. Yes the hose pipe with the rubber washer. Is this because if you tighten with grips you can split the washer? Also if putting the drain in to a stand pipe do you need to put anything on it to keep it in the stand put when discharging.

Do your washing machine hoses need replacing?

The hoses that deliver hot and cold water to your clothes washer may not be something you think about very often, but failing washing machine hoses are responsible for $150 million yearly in flood damage. Listen to BOB VILA ON WASHING MACHINE HOSES , or read text below:

How much damage can a washing machine hose cause?

Listen to BOB VILA ON WASHING MACHINE HOSES , or read text below: “The hoses that deliver hot and cold water to your clothes washer may not be something you think about very often, but failing washing machine hoses are responsible for $150 million yearly in flood damage.

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How tight should washing machine hose be?

Tighten the hose finger tight. Once firmly finger-tight I then tighten it just a fraction more. I would describe it as screwing the hose about 2 – 5 mm tighter than I got it by hand – but if you have a strong grip it may be unnecessary to tighten it further. I tighten with pipe pliers.

Do you hand tighten washing machine hose?

After draining each line and cleaning up any spills, remove each hose from its water supply valve. Remember to turn the hose's fittings clockwise, using pliers when necessary. Connect the new hoses to the water supply valves, first hand tightening before using pliers to secure.

Do washing machine hoses need Teflon tape?

“Hose” Threads These threads are farther apart from each other than pipe threads, and they screw together and seal against a washer which must be in place in the female fitting to be leak free. No Teflon tape or thread sealant should be applied to hose thread connections.

How do you tighten a washer hose?

0:201:51Leaking Water Supply Lines to Washer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBegin by shutting off the water valve on the wall. Then using a set of pliers or channel locks. TurnMoreBegin by shutting off the water valve on the wall. Then using a set of pliers or channel locks. Turn the hose connector clockwise. Until it's snug.

Why are my washer hoses leaking?

WORN OUT WASHERS OR SEALS A common reason for a washer water hose leak is a worn washer that sits in the water fill hose. Over time these washers get “smooshed” and allow water to pass through which causes a leak. These seals or washers can be easily replaced. Rubber Seal In Washing Machine Hose Prevents Leaks!

What tool do you use to tighten a washer hose?

Install New Washer Hoses Connect your new hoses to the water supply valves by turning the metal fitting clockwise by hand, then tighten with pliers or wrench tool. Connect the red hose to the hot water supply which may be red or labeled "hot" and the blue hose to the cold water supp which may be blue or labeled "cold."

How often do you need to replace washing machine hoses?

about every three to five yearsWhether they're made of black rubber or stainless steel, washer hoses need to be replaced about every three to five years. If it's been that long, or if the hoses are showing signs of wear, it can be easy to replace them if you follow these simple steps: Turn off the water supply.

When should you not use Teflon tape?

An important thing to remember is that PTFE tape should not be used when connecting PVC fittings or valves with a female (FPT) thread. If the tape is used on female connections, a wedging action can occur which will cause major stress on the joint during assembly. PTFE tape does not guarantee a leak free connection.

How tight should Teflon tape be?

1:323:20How to Apply Teflon Tape the RIGHT Way - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipMy first pass here. And then I'll go about a half way down. And I like to do a good two to threeMoreMy first pass here. And then I'll go about a half way down. And I like to do a good two to three wraps. You pull that off push that over looks real nice just like that. And when we thread the nipple.

Should water valves be fully open for washing machine?

The typical washing machine is connected to the water supply by a hose. The hoses can fail with age. The most common use of a shut off valve like yours is to stop the flow of water when the machine is not in use. So you would open the valve allow the washing machine to run it's complete cycle.

Should I get new hoses with new washer?

If installing yourself you do not have to purchase new hoses, but unless you have fairly new stainless steel hoses, it is a good idea to buy new stainless steel hoses. If you are having them install the washer, you have to purchase their stainless steel hoses. or they will not install and you have to install yourself.

Why do I hear water running behind my washing machine?

When the washing machine starts to drain you'll hear the water going down the drain and since it can't handle the amount of water it's being given, it starts backing up.

Is Teflon tape necessary?

In essence, PTFE tape comes in handy whenever you need a sturdy material to help tighten and seal pipes to avoid leaks. And it's not just for plumbers, either – almost all households will need some of this handy tape sooner or later.

How do you use plumbers tape on a washing machine?

0:262:21How to Apply PTFE Thread Seal Tape to Stop Leaks and Nozzle Clogging ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHands take the thread seal tape to the bottom side of the threads. Just like this. And then i goMoreHands take the thread seal tape to the bottom side of the threads. Just like this. And then i go around. And what that allows me to do is to hold it with my fingers. And it stays tight.

Do you use plumbers tape on plastic fittings?

Do use a sealant. Teflon tape, Teflon paste and pipe dope is intended for metal pipe and fittings. Metal to metal fitting joints are more difficult to tighten than plastic; the surfaces tend to gall without the aid of such lubricants as Teflon or pipe dope. Plastic fittings do not need this lubrication.

Do you need plumbers tape?

Plumber's tape is recommended for use with most threaded connections that don't have a built-in rubber seal. It also helps lubricate the connection, making the threading a bit smoother, and it helps to prevent pipes from sticking when you want to disassemble the joint.

Why aren't washing machine hoses recommended?

If your washing machine is inside the house, these hoses are not recommended because they are the most likely to burst. Note that there are non-reinforced hoses available, so check that the label specifically says they are reinforced.

What is the best hose for washing machine?

A stainless steel braided hose is better than the basic rubber hose and meets a minimum standard when the washing machine is located inside the house.

What is the best hose for indoor use?

A stainless steel braided hose is the minimum recommended for indoor use. They are middle-of-the-road when it comes to price, but the added safety is worth the extra money. The braided stainless steel encases a rubber hose and provides a burst-resistant measure. These washing machine hoses have a lower failure rate than rubber hoses ...

What is a washing machine hose made of?

Many people are familiar with the standard washing machine hose made of reinforced rubber. They are relatively inexpensive to buy and easy to find. The reinforcement comes in the form of a braided rayon or polyester mesh that makes the rubber stronger and less likely to burst.

What is an auto shut off hose?

These are also stainless steel-braided hoses that can be used indoors. These hoses have a shut-off mechanism at one end as an added safety feature. If the hose bursts, the connector can sense the water pressure change and it stops the flow of water. This auto-shutoff device can mean the difference between a little water on the laundry room floor and extensive flood damage. There are a few variations in appearance and warranty based on the brand.

What is the first step in avoiding hose failure and flooding?

Proper installation is the first step in avoiding hose failure and flooding. Follow these tips for installation and maintenance to help prevent costly flood damage.

What happens if a hose bursts?

If the hose bursts, the connector can sense the water pressure change and it stops the flow of water. This auto-shutoff device can mean the difference between a little water on the laundry room floor and extensive flood damage. There are a few variations in appearance and warranty based on the brand.

Where is the drain hose hung on a washing machine?

Typically the hose is hung from over the side, and then over the top rim of the sink. It is important to have a sizable air gap between the end of the drain hose, and the bottom of the sink. An air gap prevents backwater from ever getting sicked back into your washing machine. In some cases, the size of the drain pipe from ...

What is a stand alone drain hose for a washing machine?

A stand-alone connection to a washing machine drain hose is the most desirable option. This means the drain pipe is indeed designed to handle the kind of workload or volume of water typically drained from a washing machine. A dedicated drain pipe is usually a larger diameter than a typical sink drain. It is less likely to clog, or dislodge. It usually also connects at a higher elevation, well above the machine itself, another advantage.

Why does my washer overflow?

It needs to be cleaned thoroughly to ensure proper draining from the washing machine. Debris of any sort, both on the drain pipe or the hose, can cause clogging and overflow.

What does a new washing machine do?

Having a new washing machine, or upgrading to a newer and better model, brings the promise of more effective wash. many models also promise a quicker laundry cycle. Cleaner resulting laundry is also a common outcome as well. Some TV commercials even go further by suggesting that certain washing machines make people happier when they do their laundry! The commercials are not entirely incorrect, but most of the time they skip the part where you need to figure out the plumbing. Connecting your appliance properly so it works as advertised is a vital part of the deal. That is when connecting your washing machine drain hose correctly becomes important.

Do you need venting for a washing machine?

In such a scenario, you need proper venting to prevent the possibility of a vacuum which will obstruct water flow. Creating a separate venting for a washing machine, although possible, is not necessary.

Is the washing machine drain hose in the commercial incorrect?

The commercials are not entirely incorrect, but most of the time they skip the part where you need to figure out the plumbing. Connecting your appliance properly so it works as advertised is a vital part of the deal. That is when connecting your washing machine drain hose correctly becomes important.

Does a washing machine have to be connected at a higher elevation?

It usually also connects at a higher elevation, well above the machine itself, another advantage. Regardless of the type of connection, always follow the instruction manuals included in the washing machine package. Take care to be especially careful with the connection length, height, materials, fittings, and other configurations.

How Long Should a Washing Machine Drain Hose Be?

You can find drain hoses in various sizes, including 4-feet, 6-feet, 8-feet, 10-feet, and longer.

Where should the drain hose go on a washing machine?

Basically, a washing machine drain hose should come from the bottom of the machine and be able to reach upward. Then, one option is to drain the washing machine to the outside of your house. Alternatively, you loop the drain hose over the edge of a laundry tub or a standpipe (more typical).

How far down should a drain hose go?

When you place the drain hose into the standpipe, it should reach down about 4 to 6 inches. You simply place it over the side of the standpipe and down enough, so it doesn’t fall out. You can also use a 180-degree pipe hook to help keep it in place.

What happens if a washing machine drain hose isn't placed properly?

Plus, it also has a big impact on how your laundry room smells. If a drain hose isn’t the right length or poorly placed, it can lead to a host of problems. A drain hose that is too long can lead to backflow ...

Why attach a standpipe to a washing machine?

You attach it to the hose and the back of the washing machine to raise the hose’s height. If your standpipe is too low, it can lead to overflow issues. Conversely, if it’s too high, you could end up with water flowing back into the machine. Backflow problems can cause your machine to work overtime to pump out water.

How tall is a washing machine standpipe?

However, many washing machines require a standpipe height of at least 36 inches and a maximum of 96 inches. Some washers even require a minimum height of 39 inches for the standpipe. If your drainpipe is lower than necessary, you can use an anti-siphon clip.

What happens if your standpipe is too low?

If your standpipe is too low, it can lead to overflow issues. Conversely, if it’s too high, you could end up with water flowing back into the machine. Backflow problems can cause your machine to work overtime to pump out water.

What to do if someone calls me saying they have a leak with their machine hose?

If someone calls me saying they have a leak with their machine hose i just tell them to tighten it and see if that stops it, 95% of the time that's all it needs and no need to go out on a call and charge them for something as daft as that and I usually then get the call when it's something significant.

Can you put plastic on metal with a rubber washer?

Plastic on metal with a rubber washer - I only do as tight as I can get with my hand. With a new install I always say to the customer, pull out the machine in a month and tighten it again once the washer has bed in. Too tight and it'll be a pig to come off later too with a deformed washer.

Can you tighten a hose nut?

Yes, tighting with grip may spilt the plastic hose nut as well. Hand tight is usually enough.

How long is a washing machine hose?

This is the same female fitting found on garden hoses. Washing machine hoses also come in a few different lengths, from 4 feet to 10 feet. Finally, you can get hoses with straight ends or with a 90-degree elbow on one end.

Why is it important to use a good quality washer hose?

For this reason, it's important to use good-quality hoses and to be alert to problems or wear and tear with older hoses. If a cheap, old or faulty hose ever does spring a leak, you'd better hope you're not on vacation, or even asleep. Advertisement. Washing machine hoses are a lot more important that you may realize.

How does a washer control unit work?

The control unit installs between the water supply pipes and the washer hoses. If the sensor detects water on the floor—due to a leaky hose or an overflowing or leaking washing machine—the control unit shuts off both water supplies, and the alarm sounds. The water stays off until you reset the unit with the push of a button.

How to stop a washer from leaking?

Despite your best efforts to make sure your washer hoses are in good shape, the potential for a leak is always there—again, because the hoses are holding back pressurized water, unless you shut off the supply valves. If this concerns you, there are a couple of ways to minimize the risk of a washer-related flood. One is to simply turn off the water supply valves when you leave home for extended periods. This stops the pressurized water at the valve, so the hoses are no longer under pressure. You can simplify this task by installing a single-handle valve that controls both the hot and cold water with one lever.

What to do if washer hose leaks?

If a washing machine hose leaks a bit where it connects to the water supply valve or to the back of the washer, you can try replacing the rubber sealing washer inside the threaded hose fitting, which is just like the ones that fail periodically on garden hoses. However, a bad rubber washer usually indicates the washing machine hose is old, ...

Why is a washing machine hose important?

You probably wouldn't leave your garden hoses on under full pressure while you're on vacation, but most people never take the same precaution with their washing machine. For this reason, it's important to use good-quality hoses and to be alert to problems or wear and tear with older hoses. If a cheap, old or faulty hose ever does spring a leak, you'd better hope you're not on vacation, or even asleep.

What type of hoses are burst proof?

Choosing a hose is simple: Go straight for the "burst-proof" hoses that have an outer layer of braided stainless steel. This steel braiding reinforces the plastic (usually PVC) or rubber hose within, to prevent weak spots that can lead to leaks.

What happens if a washer hose leaks?

A washer leaking water can quickly become a disaster. If a damaged water hose is not fixed ASAP, the hose could leak even more water and seriously damage your laundry room or home. Leaking washing machine hoses could mean replacing drywall, tiles, baseboards, flooring, and more. Fix a washer leak the moment you find it or it could mean replacing ...

Why does my washer water hose leak?

A common reason for a washer water hose leak is a worn washer that sits in the water fill hose. Over time these washers get “smooshed” and allow water to pass through which causes a leak. These seals or washers can be easily replaced.

What is the purpose of a filter screen on a washer?

NOTE: It is a good idea to use a filter screen on the water hose end that attaches to the washer water inlet valve. This filter screen catches any particles or hard water that may enter the washer. This prevents any foreign objects from entering the washer and getting into the water inlet valve and clogging it up.

How to catch water from a hose?

Use a small bucket under the water hoses to catch any water.

What to do if there is no leak in washer?

If no leaks are found, turn the power back on to the washer.

Can a leaking washer hose cause water damage?

Washer hoses leaking! Washer hoses can leak and cause water damage. If you have washing machine water fill hoses that leak from behind your washer, you need to inspect them ASAP. Damaged or loose and leaking washing machine hoses can cause water leaks at the back and around the washer. Any damaged water hoses need to be inspected or replaced as soon as possible.

Leak prevention tip

Hand-tightened compression nuts for water supply lines always seem to need an extra turn with pliers. But a big part of the problem is low-quality supply lines.

Toilet water supply line installation

Buy a toilet water supply line that has a metal nut or a reinforced plastic nut.

Required Tools for this toilet water supply line Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

Required Materials for this toilet water supply line Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

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