How to Run Washing Machine Drain Outside
Are you looking for a way to dispose of your washing machine water without building an expensive drainage system in your yard? Well, don’t despair; there is an easy and inexpensive alternative!
Running the washing machine drain outside can be messy, but it’s important to do if you want to avoid costly damages and repairs. Not only will an external drain keep your laundry room clean and dry, it will also prevent any issues from arising down the line when dealing with clogged pipes.
This blog post will walk you through how to run washing machine drain outside quickly and properly so that your basement is cleared of its appliances and ready for other projects. Read on for more!
What are the Benefits of a Washing Machine Drain Outside?
There are several benefits to running your washing machine drain outside, including:
- Keeping your laundry room clean and dry by avoiding water damage.
- Preventing clogged pipes, which can be a costly repair if not addressed in a timely manner.
- Maintaining the structural integrity of your home by preventing mold growth or other issues that can arise from excess moisture in your basement or laundry room.
- Saving time and money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs due to water damage.
If you’re ready to start your outdoor washing machine drain, follow these simple steps.
What Will You Need?
To run your washing machine drain outside, you will need the following materials:
- A large bucket or tub to collect excess water from the washing machine.
- A garden hose long enough to reach your outdoor drainage system, if one exists. Otherwise, you may need to create a makeshift drain using gravel or other materials.
- Gloves and protective eyewear to help keep yourself safe during this process.
- Screwdrivers, wrenches, or other tools are needed to assemble any hardware that may be required to connect your outdoor drainage system with your washing machine hose.
- An outdoor spigot where you can connect the hose once it’s in place.
10 Easy Steps on How to Run Washing Machine Drain Outside
1. Wear the Protecting Gear
Put on your gloves, protective eyewear, and any other protective gear that may be needed for this process. You can also choose to wear clothes that you won’t mind getting dirty or wet. This will help keep you safe and prevent any water damage or other issues from occurring.
2. Prepare the Hose
If your washing machine drains outside is connected to an existing outdoor drainage system, gather the required parts and tools for this step. Otherwise, you may need to create a makeshift drain using gravel or other materials. It’s important to have everything you need within reach before starting this process.
3. Collect the Drainage Water
Before connecting your hose, collect any excess water from the washing machine so that it doesn’t leak onto your floor or into your basement as you work on installing the drain outside. This can be done by placing a large bucket or tub underneath the hose to catch any water that comes out during installation. If your washing machine is already disconnected from the drain, you may simply need to tilt the machine slightly forward so that excess water can flow out.
4. Assemble and Connect Your Hose
Once any excess water has been collected, assemble and connect your hose to the existing drainage system or makeshift drain. Make sure that all connections are secure and that you are confident about how to run your washing machine drain outside. Be careful not to spill any excess water as you work on connecting the hose.
5. Test the Hose
Before turning on your washing machine, test the hose to ensure that it is working properly and that there are no leaks or other issues. You may need to manually pump some water through the hose to clear any clogs or buildup. Don’t turn on your washing machine just yet.
6. Run Your Washing Machine
With your hose securely connected and all leaks or clogs cleared, you can turn on your washing machine and let the water run outside. Keep an eye on how much drainage water is coming out of the hose during this step and how clean it appears. If you notice any leaks or other issues, you must make some adjustments before continuing.
7. Finish Up and Maintain Your Drain
Once your washing machine is finished, be sure to disconnect the hose and clean any excess water or debris from the drain. In order to keep your outdoor drainage system running smoothly, you may need to periodically inspect it for clogs or other and make any necessary adjustments or repairs. Don’t forget to shut off the outdoor spigot when your washing machine is not in use, and keep an eye on how much water is coming out of the hose, to avoid a major leak or any other issues.
8. Installing an Outdoor Drain Cover
If you’re concerned about how your outdoor drain might look from the outside of the home, you can also install an outdoor drain cover to help hide it and protect it from damage over time. This can be a great way to keep your property neat and tidy while ensuring that excess water is properly drained away from your home. Remember to check your local regulations to ensure that you’re using an outdoor drain cover that is approved for use in your area.
9. Run Washing Machine Drains Outside as Needed
Depending on how frequently you use your washing machine, you may need to run your washing machine drain outside regularly. By following these simple steps and taking care of any maintenance or repairs that may be needed, you can easily keep your outdoor drainage system running smoothly so that your home stays protected from water damage.
10. Consult a Professional for More Serious Needs
If you’re having any major issues with how to run your washing machine drain outside or are concerned about how well it’s working, it’s always best to consult a professional for assistance. They will help identify and resolve any concerns or problems you might have and ensure that your drainage system is functioning properly. Additionally, if you’re considering making any major changes or updates to how your drainage system is set up, it’s a good idea to get professional advice before moving forward with any major projects.
Following these steps, you can successfully install an outdoor washing machine drain that will protect your home from water damage. Whether connecting a hose to an existing drainage system or creating a makeshift drain using gravel or other materials, gather all necessary parts and tools before getting started. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can easily run your washing machine drain outside and keep your property safe from unwanted water.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Before running your washing machine, drain outside, check for any clogs in the pipe and clean out any debris or dirt that may obstruct the flow of water.
- If you notice any leaks or drips, make sure to fix them immediately to prevent further damage to your drain system.
- Another important step to keep your washing machine drain running smoothly is regularly checking and cleaning out the hoses, valves, and other components that make up your drain system. You may need to replace certain parts as they wear out or become damaged over time.
- Consider investing in a water-flow regulator device that can help minimize how often you have to run your washing machine to drain outside. These devices are designed to regulate how much water flows through each cycle, ensuring that the pressure of the water doesn’t exceed safe levels for your pipes and drains.
- If you notice any signs of mold or mildew in or around your laundry area, be sure to address these immediately to prevent further problems with your washing machine drain. This may involve cleaning out the pipe and inspecting it for any cracks or signs of damage and thoroughly disinfecting the area to remove any lingering bacteria and other contaminants.
With regular maintenance and care, you can keep your washing machine drain running smoothly for many years to come.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid running your washing machine drain outside too frequently, as this can cause extra strain on the system and result in leaks or other damage.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products when cleaning out your washing machine drain, as these can damage the pipes and disrupt how well it functions.
- Avoid overfilling your washer with water or laundry items, as this can put unnecessary pressure on your drainage system and may lead to clogs or other issues down the line.
- Avoid using makeshift solutions like gravel or fabric strips to create an outdoor drainage system for your washing machine, as these are not always effective at safely removing excess water from your home.
- Avoid ignoring signs of trouble with your drain systems, such as leaks, clogs, mold, or mildew growth. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to address them immediately to prevent further damage to your drain.
You can keep your washing machine drain running smoothly with proper maintenance and care.
Can a Washer and Toilet Share the Same Drain?
No, a washing machine and a toilet should not share the same drain. In order to keep your home functioning properly and in good working condition, it is important to have a separate drainage system for each appliance.
A shared drainage system may lead to clogging, which can cause leaks or other damage to your drains. To prevent this from occurring, you should always check your home’s plumbing to ensure that it is in good working order and that there are no signs of trouble, such as leaks or clogs. You should also invest in a water-flow regulator device, which can help reduce how much water flows through your wash drain.
You can enjoy many years of trouble-free use from your washing machine drain with proper care and maintenance.
Conclusion
Draining your washing machine outside is a great way to avoid any potential flooding in your home. It’s a relatively simple process that anyone can do, and it only takes a few minutes. By following the steps above, you can rest assured that your washing machine will be properly drained and won’t cause any damage to your home.
Hopefully, the article on how to run washing machine drain outside was helpful in answering any questions you may have had about how to maintain your drains properly and how to keep them running smoothly for many years to come. Good luck!
