How to Replace Washing Machine Hoses

First turn off the water supply to the washing machine. Next turn the machine on for a few seconds. This will relieve any pressure in the hoses and confirm that no water is getting to the washing machine. Set the machine to the filling cycle, and turn it on for a few seconds. This will relieve the pressure in the hoses and reassure you that the water is off.

Next unplug the washing machine and pull it away from the wall. You should see three hoses coming from the washing machine, two in (hot and cold) and a larger one out (drain). You want some space to work so if there is additional slack, pull the washing machine out some more. You can usually disconnect the drain hose just by pulling it out of the drain in the wall. This should provide you with additional space. There will be some water in this hose so if you can set it into the washing machine, you will avoid spilling.

Once you have enough room, place a pan or bucket under the hot and cold water lines. Spray some WD40 onto the hose fitting and allow the lubricant to help loosen the connections.

Use a monkey wrench to remove the fittings. A vice grip can also be used to remove the hoses. Remember the plumber maxim, “right tight, left loose”. Take your time and allow the wrench to do most of the work. If the fittings are still tight, tap lightly on them with a hammer. Then apply more WD40 and wait a bit. The intake valves on most washing machines are plastic so you should not have difficulties with them. I always have problems at the shut off valves. Be careful not to put excessive leverage on the shut off valves as you remove the hoses as that could cause them to crack. Also take care not to compress the fitting as you try to remove it. Once you have one side of the hose removed, drop it into the bucket to allow any water to drain out of the hose.

Once both hoses are removed, add some plumber’s grease on the threads of the shut off valves. You can also use Teflon tape. Hand thread the new hose onto the shut off valve fully then use your wrench to turn is until you feel moderate resistance. Repeat the process for the other end of the hose. Next attach the hoses to the washing machine. Be sure that you do not put the hot water hose into the cold water intake. Once you have attached the hoses, turn the water back on and check for leaks.

If everything is dry, reinstall the drain hose and push the washing machine back into place. Be sure not to crimp the hoses as you push the washing machine.