How to connect washing machine drain?

Question

I just got a new top loader and im struggling with the drain connection and think the issue might be the sink we had installed 3/4years ago. The original laundry sink had a hole for the drain hose. The new ceramic sink doesn't and the plumber who installed the sink connected the washing machine drain hose to a spigot on the under sink plumbing with a hose clamp and silicon. I've tried to do the same with the new hose but the sizes don't match, 19mm spigot and 25mm hose. Looking for solutions I've read advice that the drain hose shouldn't be taped or sealed air tight. So I think need new undersink plumbing with a drain hose connection to properly solve this.

Does that sound right?

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @Raycer76,

Most washing machines connect directly to the spigot with an airtight connection. However, if the specific manual for your machine suggests that is not appropriate, then you would need a plumber to install an upstand pipe to drop your hose into, similar to the older style on washing tubs.

Mitchell

EricL · Answer

Hello @Raycer76

Please note that plumbing work needs to be completed by a licensed professional for safety and compliance.

The siphoning phenomenon occurs when the drain hose is installed at the wrong height. The drain hose must be installed at the suggested height as indicated in your washing machine instruction manual. It has a powerful draining pump that pushes the water up and out of the washing machine. Leaving the hose low creates that auto siphoning event. Water drains out of the washing drum because the drain hose is too low. The washing machine will then try to compensate by filling the tub with more water and the cycle goes out of sequence or your clothes don't get properly washed.

The watertight seal will not be a problem as it prevents leaks from occurring under your sink. My best advice is to make sure that spigot is properly drilled to allow water to pass through.

Here is a handy guide - How to connect a dishwasher (the installation steps are applicable to your washing machine)

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

Raycer76 · Answer

Thanks Michael

In researching the drain hose connection I've come across advice that the connection shouldn't be an air tight seal as this can cause a siphon effect and poor machine performance

The old style drainage into a sink wouldn't have an air tight seal but the spigot connection with a hose clamp would

Do you know about the air tight seal being required or is it a problem?

C