After purchasing a washing machine, it must be connected to water supply and sewerage. To do this, it is possible to use a number of additional elements, one of which is a faucet for a washing machine. When connecting the unit to a water pipe, this is an extremely important fitting unit.
We will tell you how to select and install a tap that allows you to open/shut off the water supply to the washing machine. We'll tell you what type of device to choose and how to install it correctly. Our recommendations will help home craftsmen cope with the work themselves.
The role of the tap when connecting the washing machine
The tap that is used to connect the washing machine to the water supply network plays an important role. With its help, you can instantly turn off the water in case of unforeseen circumstances, for example, if the machine breaks down, which can lead to leaks.
An even greater danger is posed by water hammer in water pipes: it can disrupt the integrity of the elastic hose of the washing machine, resulting in a large-scale flood that will cause justified indignation among neighbors.
To ensure complete safety of using the automatic machine, it is recommended to close the tap connecting the unit to the water pipe immediately after completing the wash.
To prevent this from happening, you need to connect the machine through a tap. It is recommended to place this part in a visible place so that you always have quick access. In an extreme situation, this solution will allow you to gain a few minutes, which can be decisive in preventing flooding.
Prepare for the process
The owner of the machine needs to know the specific procedure for installing the unit to the water supply.
After all, a breakdown of a special tap may occur, which will need to be replaced in the future, or if the machine needs to be moved to another place in the house. Even a beginner in this matter can cope with the task quite well if he remembers the list of important points.
Choose a prominent location for the tap
The installation of such taps is carried out in a visible place so that the owners can turn off the water flowing into the washing machine at any moment out of control.
The machine automatically performs various actions, heats up the water, having previously taken it from the system, at this time various types of breakdowns can occur, which can only be prevented if the tap is in a visible place, and then it becomes possible to turn the valve and stop the water supply.
In most cases of car breakdown, it is necessary to turn off the water, and if this is not done, then there is a possibility of flooding the apartment (house) and neighbors.
Types of shut-off valves
When connecting your washing machine, you can use shut-off valves, the types of which are divided into two categories:
Filter for water supply system
It would be better for the washing machine if it received water from the water supply running throughout the house with exactly the same cross-section.
We recommend turning off the water supply to the machine after washing, and turning it on only before starting it.
Or you can install a whole filter system. But this is subject to the availability of material resources.
Which hose is better?
It may be that the manufacturer provides a special hose for connecting to the water supply, and if one is available, then it is better to install it. The length of the provided hose may not be enough, so you should not immediately connect it in two parts, because in this case it will soon be broken.
The best option is to buy a new, longer hose in a special store from the manufacturer of your machine. It is better to buy a hose in a company store, because cheap analogues in ordinary stores, as a rule, break very quickly.
Types of cutting devices
Specialized stores offer a varied assortment of taps. Let's take a closer look at the most commonly used types.
Among them are multi-turn valves, which block the flow of water due to the movement of the plate, as well as ball valves, which are turned on and off by moving a small ball installed inside the structure.
To connect automatic machines, various types of cranes are used, differing in configuration, size, shape and design
Ball valves have a number of advantages:
- high tightness;
- prompt response, allowing you to quickly block the flow of water;
- simplicity of design, contributing to prolongation of the operational period.
It is also worth noting the small size of this type of cut-off devices, which allows them to be used even in the most cramped circumstances.
Types of ball valves
There are several types of ball cutters. Let's look at the main ones used to perform the process of connecting a washing machine at home.
Option #1 - pass-through
Such a mechanism has outlet holes on both sides, which allows you to shut off the water, dividing the branch into two parts. Devices belonging to this category can be installed on a separate pipe, which extends from a common riser to any piece of plumbing, or used for tapping.
Straight-through ball valves are often used to connect washing units, but they are also suitable for other plumbing devices, for example, they are often used to connect toilet tanks
Option #2 - tee (three-way)
As the name implies, such a device is equipped with three inputs and outputs. One of the holes is directly responsible for shutting off the water flow, the other two serve to combine all water supply outlets into a single system.
A three-way tap is often used to connect dishwashers or washing units to the water supply network. The use of this element allows you to provide autonomous water supply for several devices simultaneously
Such components, which can come in a variety of sizes, shapes and configurations, are typically used for tapping into water pipes, where they are often combined with other fixtures, such as a faucet. This function is not available to a conventional flow-through faucet due to its design.
Option #3 - corner
The design of this element corresponds to the features of the pass-through fitting. Using this tap, you can divide the outlet pipe into two independent branches located at right angles.
This element is most often used when installing toilets, but is also well suited for connecting non-standardly located washing machines.
An angle type ball shut-off valve can be used if it is necessary to connect the unit to a water pipe laid against a wall. In this case, it is extremely difficult to perform a direct retraction
The faucets of all categories include sealing rings, fixing nuts, as well as rotary handles, with the help of which the water is shut off and access to it. The last element is attached to the body of the part with a locking nut.
Life time
The service life of brass products depends on the frequency of opening and closing (other conditions are stable - cold water, operating pressure in household networks 1.6 MPa). If you don’t turn the tap every day, you can count on 15-20 years. If you have ten children and you spend the whole day loading things into the washing machine, sorted by all the colors of the rainbow, and at the same time opening and closing the water supply every time, then the faucet may die before the washing machine.
In general, it is advisable to change the shut-off valves along with the washing machine (i.e., once every 10-12 years).
Which type of crane do you prefer?
In the process of choosing a faucet model, you must first of all proceed from the location where you plan to install the washing machine. In small rooms it is better to use corner elements, with which you can reduce the space for connection.
If it is necessary to simultaneously connect two or more plumbing fixtures, it is better to use a three-way valve, and if there is an outlet for the washing unit, a pass-through ball valve.
An important factor when choosing faucets is the material from which the products are made. Although silumin elements are more expensive, you need to pay attention to the material from which the faucet is made. Silumin products are cheaper than brass ones, but the latter are durable and able to withstand heavy loads
It is also necessary to pay attention to the diameter of the device, which must match the dimensions of the water pipes. And also take into account the features of the thread - its size, location on the outside or inside. The last parameter can be omitted if the installation of the faucet requires independent thread cutting.
The angle of rotation of the device is no less important: it is not very convenient to use a device whose valve closes towards the wall, touching it.
Characteristics
There are no special requirements for connecting home washing machines, so ball valves are almost always used: sealed, reliable, simple, quickly shutting off the flow of the medium, and having a low cost. Valves with diameters of 15-20 mm are not installed in everyday life; valves that require longer turning to close and open water and which reduce the pressure somewhat more than ball designs are also practically not installed. Conical structures are also practically not used in everyday life.
Installation materials and tools
To connect the unit to the water supply network, it is not enough to select a suitable valve.
You also need to stock up on tools, which include:
- A wrench with an adjustable mechanism , which is needed to perform installation work: connecting pipes and pipes, tightening nuts.
- Plastic pipe calibrator for adjusting the tap when installing it on a water pipe.
- A thread cutter or similar tool used for this purpose.
- Drill, file, screwdriver , which may be needed for drilling and other work.
- Scissors for plastic pipes or a grinder for inserting a tap into a water supply system made of plastic or metal elements.
In addition, you will need a double hose, which can be included with the automatic machine or purchased separately. It is advisable that the length of such an element be slightly longer than required - this will allow for a small margin required when rearranging.
If a hose is purchased specifically, it is better to give preference to a part that has wire reinforcement, which makes it easy to withstand high pressure in the pipes.
The water purification filter is mounted on the thread of the tap, which is connected to the outlet of the water pipe. The small element improves the quality of the water used, thereby reducing the risk of plaque and sediment formation.
If the liquid contains a large amount of minerals, simultaneous use of several filters is allowed.
Sealing rings, winding, FUM tape, spare bolts, which are difficult to do without when installing plumbing products - the listed set will ensure reliable fastening of the faucet and the tightness of this unit. You should also consider the optimal connection option, taking into account the configuration of the room and the placement of plumbing fixtures.
Tips for choosing
Valves take a long time to close, and leaks occur more often. Gate valves – does not make sense (see above). Cast iron is cumbersome. Steel rusts. Titanium and stainless steel are expensive and make no sense. Silumin - will not live long, but the stingy pays twice. Plastic is not designed for everyday torsion. In general, the well-known brass ball products are the best choice. Yellow or plated with nickel or chrome is a matter of taste; you need to focus on the overall style of the bathroom. But it is worth considering the fact that brass tarnishes over time.
Our production or imported? Our mid-priced products are no worse, and the exclusive design behind the machine body is usually not visible.
The choice of design depends on the installation location of the unit, pipe material, and repair plans. If the house has plastic pipes, it is easy to cut them, install the required piece of pipeline by inserting a tee and installing a direct-flow tap. If there are old steel ones and you plan to replace them in the next couple of years, then you should screw the fitting to the nearest mixer or tap and not have to worry about cutting into steel pipes. There are different fittings: some are screwed between the faucet body and the shower hose and gooseneck; some consist of a tube and a three-way compact faucet and are screwed between the eccentrics and the mixer body (a tube for hot water, a tee with a faucet for cold water).
If the metal is in good condition and no repairs are planned, it is better to cut in, add a piece of pipe (plastic can be used) and connect the machine permanently.
Direct-flow models are used when a suitable threaded pipe (or a suitable section of pipeline) is available. Angular products are used in the same way - their use is determined by the location of the machine.
Three-way taps are installed to connect two units, for example a washing machine and a dishwasher; or with a temporary connection from a mixer.
Special connection options
Separately, we can also mention non-standard types of tap connections. They are often used if it is not possible to make a traditional connection or an unusual method is the most convenient.
Option #1 - installing a faucet on a mixer
This option is found in practice because it attracts users with its simplicity and accessibility. However, it can hardly be called acceptable, since such a scheme has a large number of negative factors.
The connection tap installed at the mixer does not look very aesthetically pleasing, since it is quite difficult to place an additional valve in this position
This arrangement of the tap has a detrimental effect on the condition of the mixer: the latter experiences an increased level of stress, which significantly reduces the service life of the device. In addition, combining two appliances complicates the use of both the tap and the mixer.
Experts consider it acceptable to use such a solution only as a temporary option, but it is worth taking care in time to correctly connect the machine.
Models equipped with the Aqua-Stop system allow you to eliminate the need for a tap to connect. For these options, magnetic valves are installed at the end of the inlet hose to prevent the water level from exceeding
It is worth especially warning apartment owners against installing a faucet on old-style mixers. To connect the device in this case, you will have to perform a complex procedure that requires material and time costs.
If this particular connection diagram is required, it is advisable to install a new modern mixer simultaneously with the installation of the tap.
Option #2 - installation on old pipes
In older houses, the water supply network is often made of metal (usually cast iron). In this case, the ends of the pipes may be corroded, which complicates installation work.
There are two methods for installing a similar problem:
- File the edges of the pipes . This will allow the ends of the elements to be aligned, so that the hose can be laid close to the pipe.
- Install an extension cord, at one end of which you can hide the ends damaged by corrosion. On the other end, this part is mounted with a fixed hose with a gasket.
In any case, it is important to ensure the integrity of the structure and protect the pipes from further destruction, for example, by covering them with anti-corrosion paint. But it’s even better to immediately change the pipes so that connecting other devices does not cause problems.
Option #3 - double connection of the washing machine
Some models of washing machines, most often made in Japan and the USA, provide the ability to simultaneously connect to hot and cold water supplies.
The double connection of a washing machine is generally similar to a conventional connection using a flow-through tap, however, these parts are installed on two hoses at once, stretched to the cold and hot water pipes
Such options can significantly reduce energy costs, since there is no need to specially heat cold water, as in conventional units.
The widespread use of such machines is hampered by the low quality of hot water: it contains a large amount of mineral impurities, which not only increases the risk of mechanism failure, but also reduces the quality of washing.
How to connect a washing machine to a bathroom faucet
How to install a washing machine
How to connect a washing machine to the water supply through a ready-made outlet
How to connect a washing machine to a water supply through a tee
How to connect a washing machine to the water supply through a bathroom faucet
How to make a tap into a water pipe
How to connect a washing machine to a ready-made sewer outlet
How to connect a washing machine to a toilet, sink or bathtub drain
How to connect a washing machine to the sewer through a siphon
How to make a tap into a sewer
How to connect a washing machine to the mains
Just five steps separate you from your goal. Just first choose the appropriate connection methods.
How to choose a place
It all depends on the amount of free space and the availability of communications. Usually the washing machine is installed in the bathroom. If you can’t turn around there, the best option would be the kitchen. But you can even place the machine in the hallway. However, in this case you will have to tinker with connecting water and sewerage.
Another point worth paying attention to is the floors. They should be firm and even. It is best if they have a concrete base. Wooden is allowed if rubber pads are used and installed correctly.
Well, don't forget about the outlet. It is advisable that the plug of the machine reaches it without extensions.
How to connect a washing machine to the water supply through a ready-made outlet
This is the simplest and most correct option. If the renovation was done recently, then at the stage of laying communications they probably provided a separate line for the washing machine. As a rule, a tap is immediately installed on the pipe and simply left closed.
If that's the case, you're in luck. Connect the inlet hose from the washing machine to the faucet and tighten the nut. Run the water by opening the tap and make sure there are no leaks.
How to connect a washing machine to a water supply through a tee
The most common connection method, which is used if there is no ready-made outlet, but you don’t want to make a connection into the water supply. The essence of the method is to install a tee on the supply line of any device and power the device itself and the machine from it.
As a connection point, you can use the cold water supply to the sink, toilet cistern or kitchen sink. After installing the tee, all that remains is to connect the device and the inlet hose of the washing machine.
How to connect a washing machine to the water supply through a bathroom faucet
Another popular method that comes to the rescue when pipes are in hard-to-reach places. Instead of trying to reach them, use a special three-way faucet and extension. They are installed on taps for connecting the mixer, and the mixer itself is connected directly to them.
The result is an independently operating mixer and an additional outlet for the washing machine, which can be closed if necessary.
How to make a tap into a water pipe
The most difficult method, which requires certain skills and is usually performed by masters. Although it is quite possible for anyone who has the tools at hand and knows how to work with them. There are, as always, several options.
Steel pipe
Steel pipes have almost completely been replaced by more modern metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes, but are still found in old houses.
The idea is to drill a hole in the pipe and install a special coupling on it, into which the tap is screwed and the inlet hose of the washing machine is connected.
Metal-plastic pipe
This thin white pipe with large metal fittings (connections) is an aluminum frame enclosed between layers of polyethylene.
Tapping into a metal-plastic water supply system involves installing a tee. The pipe is cut in the right place, its ends are connected using a tee, and the faucet of the washing machine is connected to the free outlet.
Polypropylene pipe
These pipes have become the most common in recent years. Usually, when installing such a water supply system, a ready-made outlet for the washing machine is immediately soldered in. If for some reason this was not done, you will have to make a tie-in.
As with a metal-plastic pipe, a tee with a tap is installed on a polypropylene pipe. Only the type of connection differs - the pipes are not crimped, but soldered.
How to connect a washing machine to a ready-made sewer outlet
To connect to the sewer, the machine has a drain hose, which usually comes directly from the body. If its length is not enough, it can be increased with the help of an additional one. The total length should not exceed 4–5 m - otherwise the power of the built-in pump may not be enough for pumping.
If the repair was recently done and you yourself, or on the advice of the craftsmen, have previously provided for a sewerage outlet at the planned installation location of the washing machine, then to connect you will only need to insert the drainage hose into this outlet.
How to connect a washing machine to a toilet, sink or bathtub drain
The basic and simplest option, but with drawbacks. While washing is in progress, you cannot use the appliance. The bathtub or sink will have to be washed after draining the dirty water, and if you forget to install the hose, there is a risk of causing a flood.
