When you buy a washer or dryer from a company, they send their employees to set everything up, and you don’t have to budge a finger. But what if you get a washer or a dryer as a gift from a friend? But installing a new washing machine is a difficult job if you are not a DIY person. So, if you’re wondering “How to set up a washer and dryer?” then this blog explains every step in detail.
What Do You Need Before Installing a Washer and Dryer?
When installing a new washer and dryer, there are certain things you need, such as -
Space
Make sure you have enough space for the washer and dryer. If you have a small space, consider placing the fridge under the kitchen counter, in a closet, or in a cabinet.
Building Approval
When installing a washer and a dryer, you need building approval. Many buildings have no “wet-over-dry” rules, so you can choose a wet zone in the apartment, such as a kitchen or bathroom, or simply a room next to these spaces. This makes plumbing routing easier, as buildings usually stack the wet zones vertically. Before installing the machines, you may need to submit an architect’s plan for review and approval by the board.
| Notes | It is not permissible to put the washer and dryer in your bedroom even if there’s enough space to accommodate them. |
City Permits
It’s important to seek the city permit before you install any electrical equipment, as it allows you to be compliant with the local building codes.
Electrical Capacity
Check the electrical capacity in your home. The local building code requires an AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breaker, as it prevents fires that are caused by electrical faults.
New Plumbing and Electrical
You may need to install new lines for the washer and dryer, and if you have a gas dryer, you will also need a new gas line.
Step-By-Step Guide to Install Your Washer and Dryer
If you’re not a pro DIYer, then it is advisable to call a professional. This is because, if you are doing it on your own, something may go wrong, such as plumbing damage or a water leak. However, if you want to install the appliance on your own, here’s a small guide to help you -
Always Read the Manual
Always read the instruction manual that comes with the appliance. It contains detailed information about the parts and segments, and also how to install the machine properly.
Prep and Clean the Laundry Room
Before installing a washer, ensure that to clean the laundry room. Make sure the floor is free from debris so that the washing machine stands on a flat surface, as it might start to shake when it's spinning. Also, check all the connections and make sure they are all safe to use.
Check for the Power Cord
The power cord is at the back of the washer, which can be pulled firmly out of the rear panel. Then, place it on the washer console as it allows free access to the back of the machine.
Attach Drain Hose and Drain Port
At the back of the washing machine, you will find a plastic plug attached to a port, which is the drain port. You might also find a clamp included with the drain hose. However, if it’s not there, you can place the clamp on the elbow (bent) end of the hose. Then, fit the elbow end onto the drain port and secure it by tightening the clamp with a wrench.
Connect the Water Supply
Attach the hot and cold water supply lines to the corresponding inlets on the washer. It is advised to use braided stainless steel hoses, as they offer durability and prevent leaks. Tighten the connection properly, but avoid overtightening it, as it could damage the fittings.
Install the Discharge Hose
Set up the discharge hose properly for efficient drainage and to prevent water damage. Here’s how to do it -
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Connect the discharge hose to the back of the washer.
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Guide the hose toward the standpipe, and make sure it isn’t bent or twisted.
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Fasten it using a cable tie and secure it to the standpipe.
Level the Washer
Ensure that the washing machine is leveled properly by checking its legs. Also, check if the washer is rocking back and forth. To prevent the machine from shaking, balance it using the level in the front and back. You can prop it with a wooden block and adjust the feet using a wrench.
Attach the Dryer
The dryer needs to vent away all the heat, and that can be done using a vent hose or duct. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it -
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Built-In Cuff Vent Hose: If the vent hose has a built-in cuff, you can easily slide it into the circular void at the back of the dryer and attach it to the vent, too. However, if you don’t have a vent hole in your laundry room, you can buy an indoor dryer vent kit.
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Vent Duct: If you have a metal vent duct, get a screwdriver to complete this step. Both ends of the vent should have an adjustable metal tension band. You can gently loosen the band with the screwdriver so that you can glide both the band and the duct over the dryer’s vent opening. Once you have everything in place, tighten the band to secure it, but ensure not to tighten it too much, as it might bend the thin metal.
Once done, stretch the duct and connect it to the wall using the same method. But do not over-extend it, as it can crush the fragile aluminum, which might lead to lint build-up that poses a fire hazard.
