If you’ve just moved into a new home or replaced your old washing machine, you may need to hook up washer hoses. Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before – it’s a simple task that you can complete in just a few minutes. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step so you can have your washer up and running in no time.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, you’ll need a few things:
- Washer hoses (usually included with the washing machine)
- Wrench
- Teflon tape (optional)
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you need to do is turn off the water supply. Locate the shut-off valve behind the washing machine and turn it clockwise until it stops. This will prevent water from flowing into the machine while you’re hooking up the hoses.
Step 2: Attach the Hoses to the Washer
Next, grab the washer hoses and attach one end to the hot water inlet on the back of the washing machine. The hot water inlet is usually marked with a red dot or the letter H. Attach the other end of the hose to the hot water supply valve.
Do the same thing with the cold water hose. Attach one end to the cold water inlet on the back of the washing machine (usually marked with a blue dot or the letter C) and the other end to the cold water supply valve.
Step 3: Tighten the Connections
Using a wrench, tighten the connections on both ends of the hoses. Make sure they are snug, but don’t over-tighten them or you may damage the threads.
If you’re using Teflon tape, wrap it around the threads before attaching the hoses. This will create a watertight seal and prevent leaks.
Step 4: Turn On the Water Supply
Once you’ve tightened the connections, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise until it’s fully open. Check for leaks around the connections – if you see any, tighten them a little more until the leaks stop.
Step 5: Test the Washer
Finally, turn on the washing machine and run a quick cycle to make sure everything is working properly. Check for leaks again as the machine fills with water.
Related Questions
1. Do I need to use Teflon tape?
No, Teflon tape is optional. If you have good quality washer hoses and have tightened the connections properly, you may not need to use Teflon tape. However, if you want to be extra cautious, you can use it to create a watertight seal.
2. What if I see leaks?
If you see leaks around the connections, turn off the water supply and tighten the connections a little more. Check again for leaks after turning the water supply back on.
3. How often should I replace my washer hoses?
Washer hoses should be replaced every 3-5 years or sooner if they show signs of wear or damage. Check the hoses regularly for cracks, bulges, or other signs of wear.