Cody Casey
Installing a washing machine drain pan is an easy and inexpensive way to prevent water damage from a leaking washing machine. It is particularly important to have a drain pan if your washing machine is located upstairs. Drain pans can come in many different shapes and sizes, but most are low-edged plastic pans with a drain pipe attached to allow water to be redirected to an area where it cannot cause damage. This guide will take you through the steps to connect a washing machine drain pan.
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the area
Preparing the area for a washing machine drain pan installation involves several steps. Firstly, ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment. You will need a helper or two to assist with lifting and moving the washing machine, as it is a cumbersome task that may require more than one pair of hands. Additionally, a dolly can be useful for gently lifting and shifting the appliance. If you are unable to enlist help, consider hiring professional movers or handymen through apps or services.
Next, drain the hoses of the washing machine to keep the floor surface dry during the installation process. Tape any loose cords to the back of the machine to keep them secure and out of the way. If you plan on significantly tilting or moving the washing machine, fasten the transit bolts to keep the drum aligned and secure. Protect your walls and floors by using furniture blankets where applicable to prevent scratches or dents during the process.
Before beginning the installation, turn off the water supply hoses at the wall and unplug the machine. Place a bucket underneath to catch any residual water that may drain from the hoses. If you are installing a new drain pan, you may need to install a drain pan pipe to the correct size using a hacksaw. Ensure that the location of the washing machine has a clean, level, and hard floor. Check that there is access to both cold and hot water connections, appropriate drainage, and an electrical outlet nearby.
If you are replacing an old washing machine, remove any existing packaging materials and carriage bolts. Your new washing machine may come with a wrench designed for bolt removal, but an adjustable wrench or pliers can also be used. If you are installing a new drain pan, mark the spot for the drain hole and drill it in a separate location with a sacrifice piece of wood underneath to prevent fracturing.
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Lift the washing machine
Lifting a washing machine is not a one-person job. Two people are necessary, and three people are ideal. Always be mindful of the washing machine toppling over while shifting or lifting. Before you begin, tape loose cords to the back of the machine and fasten transit bolts if you plan on significantly tilting the machine.
To start, turn off the water supply hoses, unplug the machine, and disconnect the supply and drain hoses. Place a bucket underneath with a towel to absorb any residual water.
Next, use a dolly to lift and move the machine. Alternatively, use moving straps to wrap under the machine for better leverage. If the machine is in a tight spot, you may need to get creative. One option is to install heavy-duty hooks in the ceiling and use suction cups and a block-and-tackle setup to lift the machine. Another option is to find a beam, screw in eye bolts, and use a come-along with straps to lift the machine.
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Slide the drain pan underneath
To install a washing machine drain pan, you will need to slide the pan underneath the washing machine. This can be a daunting and heavy task to do alone, so it is recommended to have one or two other people to help. Before attempting to move the washing machine, ensure you have the necessary plumbing ready and turn off the water supply hoses at the wall. Unplug the machine and disconnect the supply hoses and drain hose, placing a bucket underneath to catch any residual water. Tape any loose cords to the back of the washing machine to keep them out of the way. Use furniture blankets to protect your hardware and home from scratches and dents.
If you are replacing an old washing machine pan, you can use the existing drain pipe. Install the new pan onto the floor and adjust as necessary for the drain pipe to fit into the floor or wall drain opening. If there is no existing drain hole, you may need to drill one into the pan.
Once the washing machine has been lifted, carefully slide the drain pan underneath. If the washing machine is only lifted a few inches off the ground, you may need a third person or a spare foot to carefully slide the pan underneath. If the back edge of the washing machine is in the pan, you can slide 2x4 ramps out from underneath, gently lowering the rest of the washer into place.
After installation, check that the washer is level and use the feet of the washer to adjust as needed. Add Anti-Vibration Pads to the bottom of the pan to reduce vibration and "walking" of the washing machine and pan. You can also caulk around the interface between the pipe and the drain pan to create a seal, although this may tear if the washing machine shifts.
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Secure the drain hose
To secure the drain hose, begin by turning off the water supply valves. Then, disconnect the supply hoses and the drain hose from the connections at the back of the washing machine. Place a bucket underneath to catch any residual water left in the hoses.
If you are installing a new drain pan, you may need to install a drain pan pipe to the correct size using a hacksaw. Your drain pan must be connected to a drainpipe to move water away from the area. Drain pans typically use either bottom or side drains to channel water out of the pan to a floor drain.
If you are replacing a pan, you can use the existing drain pipe. Install the pan onto the floor and adjust as necessary for the drain pipe to fit into the floor or wall drain opening. If there is no existing drain hole, you may have to drill one into the pan.
Once the pan is in place, feed the drain pan hose through the drain pipe. Secure the hose by clamping it to the drain pipe or by using a hose clamp. Be sure that the hose is not twisted or kinked.
Finally, move the washing machine back into place and reconnect the supply hoses and drain hose to the washing machine. Plug in the machine and check for leaks after the next few washes, particularly around the hose connections.
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Check for leaks
Before connecting a washing machine drain pan, it is important to check for leaks. If you are installing a new drain pan, it is recommended to turn off the water supply hoses at the wall, unplug the machine, and disconnect the supply hoses and drain hose. Place a bucket underneath to collect any residual water left in the hoses.
Once the drain pan is installed, check for leaks by turning on the water supply and observing the connections for any signs of dripping or moisture. Pay close attention to the hose connections, as they are a common source of leaks. Inspect the hot and cold water supply hoses to ensure they are securely fastened and undamaged. Check the internal hoses for any wear and replace them if necessary.
If you notice any leaks around the drain hose, especially during the spin cycle, the drain pipe may be clogged, causing an overflow. In this case, it is important to clear the clog and ensure the hose is properly secured in the drain pipe.
For washing machines with an inlet valve at the back, inspect it for any cracks or holes, as this could indicate a problem with the valve allowing water to drip into the machine when it is turned off. If you notice any issues with the inlet valve, it is recommended to schedule a service with a professional for repairs.
Additionally, check the tub cover gasket to ensure it provides a proper seal between the outer tub and the tub cover. If there is visible damage or signs of leakage, such as moisture or soapy residue, the gasket may need to be replaced.
If you are connecting the drain hose to an existing drain pipe, ensure that the hose is securely attached and there are no kinks or clogs that could prevent proper drainage.
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Frequently asked questions
First, turn off the water supply hoses at the wall, unplug the machine, and disconnect the supply hoses and drain hose. Place a bucket underneath this area and have a towel ready for any residual water left in the hoses that may drain out. Next, use a dolly to lift and move the machine away from the area where the pan will be installed. Washing machines are very heavy and this should be done with the assistance of a second person. Drain pans typically use either bottom or side drains to channel water out of the pan to a floor drain. Your drain pan must be connected to a drainpipe to move water away from the area.
Mark the spot where the hole needs to be drilled and drill it somewhere else with a sacrifice piece of wood/etc. underneath. You will need to apply a decent amount of pressure to hold the bit in place and plastics are prone to fracture if not properly supported.
Try to heat up the pipe and bend it a little to make it straighter, then find a fitting that will fit over the pipe snugly. You will then need to cut the pipe gradually until the screw portion of the fitting is flush with the floor.
Before installing the drain pan, ensure that the location you are placing the washing machine has a clean, level, and hard floor, and access to electrical outlets and hot and cold water connections. After installing the pan, always check that the washer is level. Use the feet of the washer to adjust as needed. Add Anti-Vibration Pads to the bottom of the pan to reduce vibration and "walking" of the washing machine and pan.
