How to Install Washing Machine

Installing a washing machine is a straightforward DIY task that most homeowners can complete in under an hour. You don't need a plumber — just the right connections and a few basic tools. Here's a complete step-by-step guide.

What You'll Need

• Washing machine with inlet hoses (usually included)
• Adjustable pliers or wrench
• Level
• Bucket and towels
• Thread seal tape (Teflon tape) — optional but helpful

Before You Start: Check These Requirements

• Water supply: You need hot and cold water supply valves within reach of the machine's hoses (typically 4–5 feet). Most laundry rooms have these already.
• Drain: A standpipe (vertical pipe, minimum 18" tall, 2" diameter) or a utility sink to drain into.
• Electrical outlet: A grounded 120V outlet (standard in the U.S.) within reach of the power cord. Never use an extension cord.
• Floor space: Allow at least 1" on each side and 4" at the back for hoses and ventilation.

Step 1: Remove Transit Bolts

New washing machines ship with transit bolts that lock the drum in place. These must be removed before running the machine — running with transit bolts in will cause severe damage. Check the back of the machine for 3–4 bolts (usually marked in red or with a sticker). Remove them with a wrench and keep them in case you need to move the machine later.

Step 2: Position the Machine

Move the machine close to its final position but leave enough room to access the back for connections. Use a furniture dolly if needed — the ONEON Furniture Mover with 360° Wheels makes positioning heavy appliances much easier.

Step 3: Connect the Water Supply Hoses

1. Identify the hot (red) and cold (blue) inlet ports on the back of the machine
2. Connect the hot hose to the hot water valve and the hot inlet on the machine
3. Connect the cold hose to the cold water valve and the cold inlet on the machine
4. Hand-tighten the connections, then tighten a further quarter turn with pliers — don't overtighten
5. Wrap connections with thread seal tape if you want extra leak protection

Step 4: Connect the Drain Hose

1. Hook the drain hose over the edge of a utility sink, or insert it into the standpipe
2. The drain hose end should be between 18–96 inches above the floor — check your machine's manual for the correct height
3. Secure the hose with a cable tie or hose clip so it can't fall out during the spin cycle
4. Don't push the drain hose more than 6 inches into the standpipe — it needs an air gap to prevent siphoning

Step 5: Level the Machine

An unlevel machine vibrates excessively and wears out faster. Use a magnetic torpedo level placed on top of the machine to check both front-to-back and side-to-side. Adjust the feet by turning them clockwise to raise or counterclockwise to lower. Lock the feet in place with the locking nuts once level.

Anti-vibration pads under the feet further reduce noise and movement — see our guide on how to level a washing machine for details.

Step 6: Turn On Water and Check for Leaks

1. Slowly open both water supply valves
2. Check all hose connections for drips — tighten if needed
3. Check the drain hose connection

Step 7: Plug In and Run a Test Cycle

1. Plug the machine into the grounded outlet
2. Run a short wash cycle (rinse and spin is fine) to test all connections
3. Check for leaks during and after the cycle
4. Listen for excessive vibration — if present, recheck leveling

Step 8: First Wash

Run a cleaning cycle before your first load of laundry to flush out any manufacturing residue. Use an Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner tablet on the hottest cycle available.

Common Installation Mistakes

• Forgetting to remove transit bolts — causes immediate drum damage
• Overtightening hose connections — can crack the fittings
• Drain hose too far into the standpipe — causes siphoning and drainage issues
• Machine not level — causes vibration and premature wear
• Using an extension cord — fire and electrical hazard

A correctly installed washing machine runs quietly, drains properly, and lasts for years without issues. Take the extra 10 minutes to level it properly and check all connections — it's worth it.