How to Replace Washing Machine Water Supply Lines

Replacing the water supply hoses to your washing machine is an easy and low-cost home maintenance task. This project should take 15 minutes and should be done at least once every five years. Doing so will help prevent costly repairs should a hose begin to leak or even burst. Most public water supplies use chlorine to disinfectant water, and chlorine is known to degrade rubber hoses. A pair of replacement hoses should cost $12 to $14 and can be found at your local hardware, appliance or home improvement store.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable pliers
• 1 gallon bucket
• Replacement washing machine hoses

Instructions

1. 

   Shut-off valve

   Move washing machine away from the wall to get access to the hoses and water shut-off valves. Turn off the water supply at the back of your washing machine for both hot and cold water. Also, disconnect the power to the washer.

2. Disconnect the hose connections at the turn-off valve by hand. Allow the water still in the hoses to drain into a bucket. If hoses are too tightly connected to release with your hand, use the adjustable pliers. Remember to turn clockwise to loosen. Remove both hoses.

3. Disconnect the hose connections on the washing machine and discard the old hoses.

4. Connect the hoses to the washing machine and to the water shut-off side. Remember to connect hot to hot and cold to cold. Hand-tighten and then tighten at least 1/4 turn using the pliers.

5. Turn the water back on and check for leaks. Further tighten the connections if a leak is found. Plug the washer back into the outlet. Move the washer back in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember water and electricity can cause a shock when they come into contact. Be sure to cut off the power before starting this project.

Resources

• House Fixer Info
• MA Department of Environmental Protection