Tiffany Haney
A washing machine drain pan is a shallow tray that fits under your washing machine to catch any leaks or drips from the hose connection, preventing water damage to your floors. Drain pans usually have raised edges to contain any water that escapes and a drain outlet that allows collected water to be discharged safely away from your home’s flooring. This is important as washing machine leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes, and leaks on upper floors can cause damage to the ceiling of the floor below. Drain pans are typically made of plastic or metal, with plastic being more affordable but less durable, and metal offering greater longevity but at a higher cost. This article will guide you through the process of draining a washing machine drain pan.
How to drain a washing machine drain pan
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To catch leaks and drips from the washing machine and hose connections, preventing water damage to floors and ceilings |
| Installation | Slide the pan underneath the washing machine, ensuring it is connected to a drainpipe to avoid overflow |
| Materials | Plastic or metal (usually stainless steel or aluminum) |
| Maintenance | Check for leaks after each wash, clean the pan regularly to prevent stagnant water and unpleasant odours |
| Weight | Washing machines weigh approximately 180 lbs, with larger machines weighing 200 lbs or more |
| Safety | Always lift with your legs, not your back, and use helpers or tools to avoid injury and damage to walls and floors |
| Drainage | Most pans have a drainage system with a drain hole and pipe to channel water away |
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What You'll Learn
Prepare the washing machine
Preparing the washing machine for the drain pan installation is a crucial step in the process. Here are the detailed steps you should follow:
Firstly, it is important to note that moving a washing machine should not be done alone. The average weight of washing machines is 180 lbs, with larger washers weighing upwards of 200 lbs. Therefore, it is recommended to have at least one helper, and ideally, two people on either side of the machine to lift it, with a third person to guide and stabilise. Using straps designed for lifting heavy objects can also help minimise the risk of back injuries. Before attempting to move the machine, ensure you have the appropriate tools and safety equipment, such as furniture blankets, to protect your hardware and home.
Next, you will need to empty the contents of the washing machine. This includes any laundry, as well as residual water. To remove water from the hoses, turn off the water supply at the wall, unplug the machine, and disconnect the supply and drain hoses. Place a bucket underneath to collect any remaining water, and have a towel ready to absorb any spills.
Once the machine is emptied, you will need to secure any loose cords or hoses. Tape these to the back of the washing machine to keep them out of the way during the installation process. If you plan on significantly tilting or moving the machine, it is important to fasten the transit bolts to keep the drum aligned and prevent damage to the machine's transmission.
Now that the washing machine is prepared, you can begin the process of installing the drain pan. This typically involves sliding the pan underneath the machine, ensuring that the connections have enough slack, and then lowering the machine back down into place. If you need to move the washing machine out of its original position to install the pan, refer to the next steps outlined in the following paragraphs.
If your washing machine needs to be moved out of its original position, you will need to take additional steps. First, use a dolly to lift and move the machine away from the installation area. Be cautious and lift with your legs, not your back, to prevent injuries. Once the machine is clear of the area, you can begin installing the drain pan. Place the pan in the desired location and adjust it to fit the drain pipe or floor drain opening. If there is no existing drain hole, you may need to drill one into the pan or the floor, depending on your setup. Finally, move the washing machine back into place, taking care not to scratch or dent the walls and floors. Reconnect the hoses, plug the machine in, and you're ready to test your new drain pan!
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Position the drain pan
Positioning the drain pan correctly is crucial to prevent water damage from leaks. A washing machine drain pan fits snugly under the washing machine and has raised edges to contain any water that escapes. The raised edges ensure the water is contained within the pan and doesn't spill onto the surrounding floor. The design often includes a slightly sloped bottom that channels water toward the drain outlet, preventing water stagnation and reducing the risk of mould and mildew.
To position the drain pan, first, ensure you have the correct size and type of pan for your washing machine. Plastic pans are lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and affordable, but may crack or degrade over time, especially under heavy washing machines. Metal pans, typically made from stainless steel or aluminium, offer greater durability and longevity but are more expensive and heavier. Choose a pan with a pre-cut hole for the drain pipe or one that you can drill a hole into if needed.
Next, find a helper or two to lift the washing machine. The simplest method is to have two people on either side of the machine lift it a few inches off the ground, allowing a third person to slide the pan underneath. Alternatively, use a dolly to lift and move the machine, ensuring you tilt the washer back slightly to run straps underneath for easier lifting. Once the pan is in place, gently lower the washing machine back down inside the pan.
If you are installing the pan in a tight space, you may need to use a ramp to slide the washing machine over to the pan. Ensure the ramp is tall enough so that it doesn't interfere with the wall of the pan. Once the back edge of the machine is in the pan, gently lower the rest of the washer into place. Always be mindful of the washing machine toppling over while shifting or lifting, and protect your walls and floors with furniture blankets where applicable.
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Connect the drain pipe
To connect the drain pipe, first ensure that the washing machine is placed on a clean, level, and hard floor with access to hot and cold water connections, appropriate drainage, and an electrical outlet. If you are installing the washing machine in a new location, you may need to connect it to a laundry or kitchen sink or run the appropriate plumbing lines to the new area.
Next, locate the drain hose at the back of the machine, which may be coiled up against the back panel or have one end protruding. If you are connecting the machine to a standpipe, ensure that the top of the pipe is at least 24 inches above the floor and not more than 96 inches higher. Insert the end of the washer drain hose no more than 8 inches into the standpipe and secure it with tape or wire. If the machine drains into a laundry sink, hook the drain hose over the side and secure it in place.
If you are connecting the washing machine to a drain pan, you may need to drill a hole in the pan to fit over the threaded portion of the fitting. You can use a bulkhead fitting or a Meyer's hub to create a watertight connection. To use a Meyer's hub, cut a piece of rubber sheet with a hole that fits tightly over the threaded portion and is slightly bigger than the lock nut. Place this rubber gasket over the threaded adapter and add a lock nut. Insert the PVC adapter with the lock nut and gasket through the hole in the drain pan, add a second gasket, and tighten the assembly with another lock nut.
It is important to note that PVC fumes are toxic, so be cautious when drilling or cutting PVC pipes. Additionally, always ensure that you have the necessary plumbing and connections in place before installing the washing machine.
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Move the machine back into place
Moving a washing machine back into place is a task that should not be done alone. Two people are necessary, but three are ideal. First, tilt the washer forward a few inches and slide an appliance dolly underneath. Then, centre the unit and strap it to the dolly with rope or bungee cords. Next, wheel it back into place, using extra caution while passing over any thresholds or ramps. Once in place, slide the machine off the dolly.
If you are not using a dolly, you can use a ramp to slide the machine into place. Create an "I" beam out of three 2x4 wood planks. Place the "I" beam up against the pan. Use the other two planks as a ramp on the middle section of the "I" beam. Lift the washer onto the ramp and shift it up towards the middle of the beam. Continue sliding the washing machine over the other side of the ramp, down to the pan. The beam should be tall enough so that the ramp doesn't interfere with the wall of the pan when manoeuvring the washer. Once the back edge of the washing machine is in the pan, gently lower the rest of the washer into place.
After installing the drain 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.
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Check for leaks
Before checking your washing machine for leaks, turn off the power supply by unplugging the unit or flipping the circuit breaker. Also, shut off the water supply to the washer to avoid additional spills.
If you notice a puddle in the laundry room, it almost always means your washing machine is leaking. The size of the puddle indicates the severity of the problem, with small leaks indicating a minor issue. The most common cause of a leaking washing machine is a damaged, disconnected, or clogged hose that transports and drains water.
Inspect the hoses
The fill and drain hoses need to be securely attached to your washing machine to prevent leaks. Check each hose to ensure they are properly connected to the machine and that the washers on the inlet hoses are firmly in place. If any parts are loose, tighten them. Inspect the hoses for any kinks, clogs, or signs of wear and tear. If you discover any cracks, holes, rips, or tears, the hose will need to be replaced.
Check the water inlet valve
Unplug the appliance and pull it away from the wall. Locate the inlet valve on the back of the washer and inspect it for leaks. If you see cracks or holes, schedule a service with a professional for repairs. You can also test the water inlet valve by shutting off the power to the washer while it is filling with water. If the washer continues to fill, replace the inlet valve.
Inspect the internal components
If your washing machine is not leaking from any of the above locations but appears to be leaking from the inside, you can inspect the interior components. Make sure the appliance is switched off and unplugged from the mains before removing the back panel. Refer to your appliance's manual for specific instructions. Once the back panel is removed, look for leaks while the machine fills with water. If you don't see any, advance the machine to the agitate cycle and check again.
Check the water pump
A damaged water pump may be responsible for leaks if water is pooling from the bottom of the appliance. Inspect the drain pump for signs of leaks and replace it if necessary. Also, check the drain pump filter, which is usually located at the bottom corner on the front of the appliance. This can become blocked or damaged, causing leaks. Clean or replace the filter if necessary.
Other potential issues
- Unsealed gasket: Clean the rubber seal or gasket on your front-loading washer, as door seal leaks commonly lead to drips.
- Door out of alignment: Adjust the hinges to ensure the door closes properly.
- Clogged strainers: Clogged strainers can prevent washing machines from draining properly and cause leaks.
- Faulty tub seals: Rust often develops around the tub seals, causing leaks.
- Off-balance washing machine: Ensure your washer is level and adjust the levelling feet until the machine is balanced.
It is important to act quickly to identify and fix leaks in your washing machine to avoid further damage to the appliance or your home.
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Frequently asked questions
A washing machine drain pan is a shallow tray that fits under your washing machine to catch any leaks or drips from the hose connection, preventing water damage to your floors.
Washing machine leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes. The hoses that connect a washing machine can break or loosen, causing water to flood the room. A drain pan helps to mitigate this risk by maintaining a dry environment and minimising the moisture that mould and mildew need to thrive.
First, empty the contents from the washing machine and unplug it from the outlet. Then, find a helper or two to lift the washing machine. The simplest method is to have two people on either side to lift it, while a third person slides the pan underneath. Lower the washing machine back down inside the pan. Ensure that the pan is connected to a drainpipe to move water away from the area.
Each time you run a load of laundry, check to be sure no water has leaked out. If you notice an unpleasant smell, it could be due to excess stagnant water collecting in your drain pan. In this case, use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up the standing water. If you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, use thick towels or old clothes to soak up the water. Then, spray the drain pan with a household cleaner and baking soda to neutralise odours.
