How to Install a Washing Machine?
We’ve all been there, a brand new washing machine sat waiting patiently to be set up, with the fear and worry of flooding the kitchen if it’s done incorrectly. And by all means, installing a washing machine yourself is no mean feat, however here at GK Plumbing, we would always advise to consult a professional before attempting it yourself, because if it goes wrong, it can go very wrong!
Nevertheless, within this guide we will share how to install a washing machine and the step-by-step process. Need some assistance? Speak to one of our friendly team members and we will do our best to help.
Within this article we will cover:
- What Tools do I need to Fit a Washing Machine?
- What Can go Wrong?
- Step-by-Step Guide on Fitting a Washing Machine
- How GK Plumbing & Heating Can Help
What Tools Do I Need to Fit a Washing Machine?
Before you begin, you need to have the correct tools and equipment to ensure you correctly install your washing machine.
You will need:
- Adjustable spanner
- Towel for any spillages
- Spirit level
- Screwdriver (Optional)
What Can Go Wrong?
Fitting a washing machine seems easy and straightforward in principle, but in execution, can be complicated and lead to long-term issues. If you incorrectly install your washing machine, you could see water damage that incurs you further costs in the future. Not only can a poorly installed machine damage the surrounding areas, but the machine itself will suffer, leading to a shorter lifespan and less efficient washing.
Here at GK Plumbing, we have a team of experienced and qualified plumbers on hand to help, so please contact us if you need any assistance.
Step-by-Step Guide on Fitting a Washing Machine:
If you are feeling brave and still wish to fit your own washing machine, here is a step-by-step guide from start to finish.
Step 1: Unpackage Your Machine
The first step of installing a washing machine is to unpackage it. Remove all the plastic and polystyrene from around the machine and open the door. Inside the drum you will typically find the instructions, a cold water pipe and blanking caps. Put these to the side and move onto step 2.
Step 2: Remove the Transit Bolts Using an Adjustable Spanner
On the back of your washing machine should be a bendy pipe, a plug cable and between 3 and 5 transit bolts. These are installed during the transportation of your washing machine, to hold the drum in place and ensure it is not damaged in transit.
Locate these transit bolts and use your spanner or wrench to unscrew and remove them. Be sure to also remove the rubber insert to leave an empty hole. You then need to fill in these holes with your blanking caps provided.
Step 3: Find Your Cold Water Supply and Attach Your Pipe
Locate your cold water supply and ensure the water valve is turned off – if you have recently removed your old washing machine, you will have already turned this off.
Take the cold water pipe that was found in the drum and connect the 90° end to the cold water supply on the rear of the washing machine. Then tighten this by hand as far as you can, the rubber inside the connector will seal the water from leaking.
When tightened, you can then connect the other end to your cold water inlet. Once more, tighten this by hand as far as you can. You are then safe to turn the water valve back on and check for any leaks.
Step 4: Connect the Waste Water Pipe to the Water Outlet
On the rear of your washing machine, you will find a flexy pipe already attached. This is your waste water pipe, which will remove the dirty water from your machine and into your drainage system.
Locate the waste water pipe in your plumbing and place the flexy pipe inside this. Waste water pipes may vary and require different fittings, such as needing a jubilee clip and screwdriver. Get in touch with our team for more help if needed.
Step 5: Double and Triple Check Your Pipes
Check that your pipes are connected correctly and securely without showing any signs of leakage. Once you have double-checked, check once more before plugging in your machine and pushing it into place.
Step 6: Check Your Machine is Level
Before your machine is ready to be used, grab your spirit level and ensure that it is evenly balanced, with the feet being secure to the floor. These feet are found on the two front corners of your machine and can be tightened by hand or by spanner.
If your machine is not sturdy and level, it will be noisy, disruptive and be damaging to itself.
Step 7: Test Your Machine
Once you have completed all of the previous steps, you are ready to test the machine. Simply turn on the machine and run a short wash cycle – with nothing inside! This will allow you to check that it is operating correctly and there are no signs of leakage.
How GK Plumbing & Heating Can Help
Installing your washing machine is a risk if not done correctly and can lead to large implications in the future. At GK Plumbing we have a team of experts located across Beds, Herts, Bucks and Oxon ready to assist you with all of your plumbing needs.
If you are looking to install your washing machine, get in touch with our team and we’ll help to sort it out, providing a secure and reliable installation.
Here at GK Plumbing, we not only provide general plumbing services we also specialise in new boiler installations, boiler servicing and also bathroom fittings in Aylesbury and the surrounding areas.
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