How to connect washing machine to laundry tap thread?

[sdcaro]

Hi everyone,

I’ve just moved into a new rental and I’m having trouble connecting my washing machine to the laundry taps.

The issue is that the washing machine hose (standard 3/4”) will not screw fully onto the tap outlet. Because it can’t fully engage the thread, it leaks as soon as the water is turned on.

What I’ve tried so far:

• Confirmed the hose is standard 3/4” washing machine hose
• Tried a brass male–female adaptor/extension (20mm / 3⁄4”)
• Used PTFE (Teflon) tape
• Tried tightening by hand only (not overtightening)

Even with the adaptor, the fitting still won’t screw on far enough to seal properly.

What I’m noticing:

• The tap handle/body seems to sit very close to the outlet, so the hose nut or adaptor hits the tap body before it can fully thread on
• This happens on both hot and cold taps
• The taps are older-style with plastic knob handles, not lever taps
• For comparison, my previous apartment had similar wall taps but with metal cross handles, and the washing machine connected without any issue

My questions:

1. Is this a known issue with certain laundry tap designs?
2. Is there a specific adapter, offset fitting, or longer extension that could solve this?
3. Would changing just the tap handle help, or does the entire tap need replacing?
4. Is this something a tenant can reasonably fix, or does it need a plumber/landlord involvement?

I’ve attached photos to show the taps, the adaptor, and how the hose stops short.

Thanks in advance — I’d really appreciate any advice before escalating to the landlord or calling a plumber.

 

 

 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @sdcaro,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is wonderful to have you with us.

Your tap does appear to have a relatively short thread when compared with modern versions. I wouldn't say as a blanket statement that it is a known issue, but looking at your tap specifically, it is clear there is an issue stemming from the thread being too short and the tap handle being too bulky.

Looking at the clearance between things when you have the brass adaptor in place, it seems unlikely that using an adaptor or changing a hose will resolve the issue, because the tap handles will still be there.

My suggestion is to replace the tap handles with a lower profile version, such as these Shaw & Mason White Easy Clean Cross Tap Handles. If you are just swapping the tap handles, the effect is minimal, and you wouldn't need a plumber, but it is still worthwhile to mention that you are doing it to your landlord.

If you have any issues removing and replacing the tap handles, please reach out so we can assist further.

Jacob