Nothing like the feeling of getting a brand new appliance delivered.
But some kitchen appliances are easier to set up than others. Case in point, a microwave needs just plugged into the nearest power socket, the same thing with a fridge freezer – they’re child’s-play to install.
However, when you have to connect something like a washing machine, dishwasher, or built-in electrical hob, things can get tricky, and sometimes, specialists need to be called in.
Today, we’re talking about connecting a washing machine, and if this is your first time installing one, it can seem a little intimidating. Hoses, pipes, power cable, there’s some work involved. Don’t worry, it’s incredibly simple to install a washing machine, so don’t go calling in the pros, yet.
All you really need to do is three things – connect the water inlet hose to a water source, connect the drain hose to an outlet source, and plug the machine into a power source and you’re ready to start washing.
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So, let’s walk through these steps together, in more detail.
DIY Washing Machine Installation
As I said, a professional is required for certain installation jobs in the house. This is especially true when it comes to electrical connections because there are numerous dangers lurking here, and if you get the plumbing work wrong, then floods could happen.
The washing machine only needs a normal socket and connections to the water inlet and drain- simple. So you don’t need to pay an expert for this. However, it is worth bringing in a second person to help you move the washing machine because these are the heavies of kitchen appliances.
Fitting Preparation
Before you connect cables and hoses, however, there are a few things to consider. I’ve seen people push the washing machine into place, and then try and connect hoses in the tight space left at the back of the machine, or worse, install it in a completely inappropriate place. So, consider the following before making any moves.
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Machine Location
Unlike a refrigerator, the placement of the washing machine is not very flexible. In addition to the power connection, you need to install the machine within reaching distance of the water inlet tap connection and a drain, which is usually under the skink.
The connection cables and hoses, which are between 1 and 2 meters long, are supplied with a new washing machine. With an older machine, you can reuse the existing hoses from your old machine, but it’s always better to replace them when you get a new machine. This is particularly useful if the old hoses are getting brittle or simply too heavily contaminated. If you find any visible damage on the hoses – old or new – discard and replace.
Extension cables offer you a more flexible installation option, but this also increases the risk of water damage. Transitions from the supplied hoses to the extension increase risk of leaks, which means that water can escape during the washing process. Not only is this annoying for you, but in the worst-case scenario, it can even affect your neighbour or seriously damage the flooring.
Vibrations
Today’s washing machines not only have modern energy-saving mechanisms, but also quiet motor technology. While older models can sound rough when spinning, washing machines have become quieter in recent years. Nevertheless, you have the option to contain even the smallest vibrations. This not only keeps sound levels down in your home but also those of the neighbours.
You must make sure that your washing machine is level on all feet, otherwise, the machine will wobble, causing harmful vibrations to the machine and surroundings. If you like in an apartment, it might be a good idea to set your machine up on foam mats to dampen the vibrations and noise.
As a rule, correct adjustment of the feet of a washing machine should be sufficient to minimize noise and vibration.
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Remember The Transport Locks
Before you connect the washing machine, carefully look at the device and the operating instructions. This will first tell you where the transport lock is located, which is used to protect the drum, to stop it from rotating when being transported. Remove the locks (which are usually plastic screws/bolts) and keep them in a safe place. If you move later, you can use them again to protect the machine when being moved.
Connect the Washing Machine
The order in which you connect the individual cables and hoses to the necessary connections is up to you. The simplest is the power cord, which you can plug into the socket after you have positioned the washing machine.
Look for the water inlet hose, connect one end onto the machine, screw tightly, then the other end to the water inlet connection. before you connect these, make sure the mains water valve is set to “off”.
The third and last connection is the drain hose, which takes care of draining dirt water away after each cycle. One end should already be connected to the machine, and the other end should fit over the drain connector, like a sleeve, and be secured with a hose clip.
Waste Piple
The waste water pipe will have a curved bracket, this is used to raise the pipe so that the bend is level with the top of the machine, so that wastewater can’t flow back into the washing machine.
Washing Machine Fit Checklist
That’s it, the washing machine is ready for use. In the following you will find a short checklist of the steps mentioned above in order to check that everything is correct:
- Find a suitable place for the washing machine.
- Create enough space for cables and hoses.
- If necessary, use a foam mat in the area where you plan to stand the machine.
- Remove the transport locks
- Use a spirit level to level the washing machine by turning the feet, so that it stands straight.
- Connect the power cord to an electrical outlet.
- Connect the water inlet hose to the water source.
- Connect the drain hose to the drain pipe connection.