Washer and Dryer Installation Guide

New appliances are always a welcome addition to the household. They’re designed to make life easier, even save you money and time with updated, more efficient technology. Installing a new washing machine and dryer combo is no exception.  

 Larger home laundry appliances can be a little tricky, especially when it comes to how to install a washer and dryer because of their bulky size and complicated requirements, but the benefits kick in almost immediately once they’re in place. To make the process easier, we put together this installation guide with everything you need to know about how to install a washing machine or dryer.

What Do You Need to Install a Washer and Dryer? 

Replacing a washer and dryer is an easy home improvement project. It should take an hour or two to install a washer and dryer if all necessary connections are ready. 

Make sure you have the following tools ready to be used: 

• Tape measure 
• Utility knife 
• Phillips and Flathead screwdrivers 
• Pliers 
• Adjustable wrench set 
• Wire stripper 
• Tin snips 
• A standard level  
• Caulking gun and caulking 

 Washer and dryer parts to have on hand before installation: 

• New washing machine and dryer 
• Dryer duct and vent 
• Vent clamps 
• Dryer power cord 
• New water intake hoses 
• Washer drain hose 
• “Y” Connector 
• Gas flex line

Not all manufacturers will include installation parts and materials with a new washing machine or new dryer. When included in the purchase, these parts are often stored in the drum inside the appliances. Before beginning your installation project, always check that you purchased and received the correct appliance parts, such as the dryer power cord, dryer duct and vent, washer water supply hoses, or the drain hose. 

 Some measurements may need to be done to be sure the connections will reach without stretching or kinking, which could cause dangerous wear and tear on the machines. If needed, extension hoses can be purchased.

Before Installing a Washer and Dryer

There are a few things you can plan on needing to do before the new washing machine and dryer are brought into the house. Before beginning any project involving the plumbing, always turn off the water valves near where you will be working. These are usually on the wall behind the washing machine.  

Next, disconnect the old appliances, after making sure that the tubs are empty, and that no favorite shirts will be snuck away when the old dryer is removed. Before moving the appliances, measure the distance between the connections and the installation point to be sure the new hoses, vent for the dryer, and electrical cables will fit with the new washer and dryer features and supplies.  

 Disconnecting the washer and dryer requires unplugging the appliances from the wall. Empty any water from the washing machine supply lines into a bucket before removing them from the back of the washer. Always be sure to team-move a washer and dryer using a hand truck or dolly.  

 If you have a gas dryer, let the installer do the disconnecting to be sure there are no difficulties with the natural gas line.  

 The other preparation is to measure the hallways, doorways, and stairways that the washer and dryer will have to be moved through. These measurements are good to know so you can be certain that the appliances will fit not only at their installation point, but along the route between the delivery point and the new laundry room. If necessary, remove doors along the way in order to be sure the appliances will fit without causing damage to the doors or nearby walls. Move furniture to clear the path as needed.  

 Plan to remove the delivery packaging in the driveway or garage, rather than bring it into the house. The boxes and other packaging materials will create a mess and be difficult to navigate around at the point of installation.  

 Finally, gather the necessary tools and supplies to have on hand. 

7 Steps to Washing Machine Installation 

Once all the prep work has been done, it’s time to install the washing machine. Note that if the standard washer and dryer hookups aren’t available, you have two installation options:  

• Connect the washing machine to a nearby sink. 
• Install new electrical and plumbing connections in the space you intend to convert into a laundry area. 

 We look at both installation options here. 

Let’s start with installing a washer with access to built-in washer hookups. This installation is quick and easy to do with just a little help. 

 With that, you’re done! Turn the machine on and do a test load to check for leaks and to ensure everything is level. 

How to Hook A Washing Machine Up to A Sink

Connecting a washing machine to a sink is a slightly different process that may require extra preparation with each laundry day. The washer should have a level, open space to sit where it can be easily connected to the nearest sink faucet and drain. These set ups require a hose guide to hold the hoses in place when in use, which may be provided by the manufacturer, and additional parts that will have to be purchased separately. 

 For a sink-connected washer, the sink’s faucet temperature will determine the water temperature, not the water supply lines. The water supply hose connects to the cold-water connection at the back of the washer. When connecting the washing machine to the sink, disconnect the supply hose from the hot water line and purchase a cap to close the hot water connection on the back of the washer to prevent potential links.  

 The cold-water supply line installed into the back of the washer connects to the sink faucet directly. This requires an aerator adaptor on the faucet that provides a threaded connection that attaches to the hose. The faucet adaptor will likely have to be purchased separately.  

 The water supply hose should fit between the washer and the faucet connection without stretching or twisting. If there is any pressure on the hose, buy a longer replacement hose or an additional extension hose. 

 In order to set up the washing machine for a load of laundry: 

 Dryer Installation 

Having mastered learning how to install a washing machine, the dryer is the obvious next step. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions for any model-specific installation advice and warnings.

Finally, plug the power cord into the wall. If all connections are secure, move the dryer into place. Do not push it against the wall and be careful not to twist or trap the vent duct or hoses. Turn the dryer on and do a test run to make sure everything is in working order. 

Gas Dryer Installation

With gas dryers, gas burners are used to heat the drum, which can make them more cost effective and energy efficient to use over time. These appliances require connection to a home’s natural gas or propane line.  

 Because gas dryers are built to utilize natural gas, a conversion kit will be required for a liquid propane gas line. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions for converting the dryer to liquid propane gas. There are specific codes and requirements for the conversion kits, so it’s best to have them professionally installed. 

 It is not possible to convert a gas dryer to an electric dryer or vice versa, so be careful to buy the correct type of dryer that your laundry room connections will allow. Installing a gas dryer hookup can be an extensive remodeling project because it requires rerouting the home’s gas line, if the connection is not already in the laundry room.  

 Due to the potential problems handling the natural gas or liquid propane connections in the home, professional installation is recommended for connecting a gas dryer. Many retailers will include installation service options with the purchase of a new appliance.  

 Know where the metal gas shut off valve is and that it is in good condition before your installation appointment. Most will be located directly behind the dryer. Some installers may have to replace an older, non-standard shut-off valve to guarantee safe operation of the dryer. 

 If you have a gas dryer, be sure there is a carbon monoxide alarm installed nearby. Because of the potential for dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the laundry room, a gas dryer requires effective ventilation to the outdoors. The vent for a dryer must be installed correctly and securely, and provide unobstructed access to an open, outdoor area that will not trap the vented air.

Dryer Cord Installation

Whether buying a new machine or moving a dryer to a new home, the dryer cord must match the electrical outlet where it is installed. The type of power supply cord used for a new dryer can be changed out to make sure that the machine you chose fits the outlet in your laundry room.  

 If the existing dryer electrical cord is in good condition and you know it meets the necessary safety codes, it can be saved to be used on a new dryer. Do not reuse a cord if it shows signs of damage, excessive wear, or any fraying.

The design of every dryer will be different, so always check the product manufacturers’ instructions. Here are the basics of how to change the dryer cord, step-by-step: 

 Once everything is reconnected, turn on the dryer and test to be sure the dryer is working. Changing the cord on the dryer is a simple process that shouldn’t take more than a half an hour to complete.

Important Considerations for Washer and Dryer Installation

While the install and connection hook ups for washing machines and dryers may seem simple and straightforward, there are a whole range of extra considerations that should be planned out before the new washer and dryer are brought into the home. Determinations like where to put the washer and dryer, what type of power connections are available, and the venting options are all key safety factors to the type of washing machine or dryer that will work best for your household. Read on to learn more about to plan for these important details.

Where to Install A Washer and Dryer 

When determining where to put a new laundry room, or maybe just expanding on the existing one, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Consider the Size

Laundry appliances are large and boxy, usually requiring two people to safely move and place into the laundry room. They can weigh anywhere from 100 to 300 pounds, depending on the type and features built in. Keep that in mind when you make your purchases, because it may take extra help to get a washer and dryer up to a second-floor laundry room, or even down to the basement hookups.  

 Always measure your home laundry area completely. The dimensions for washers and dryers are not standard and will vary. Even when replacing an older machine for a new one that is the same manufacturer and model, the measurements may have changed in the years since the last one was purchased, so it is not a guaranteed fit.  

 When planning your washer and dryer installation, remember that any maintenance work will require easy access to the back panels of the machines. Arrange the appliances so they can be easily moved in and out of the space. If space allows, plan a laundry room layout that provides enough room for someone to work safely in the space open between the appliances and the wall. 

 It’s important to measure the area ahead of the washer and dryer installation to be sure they will fit. Plan to add in up to as much as 6 inches of space behind the units to allow for room to connect to power, gas, and water lines. Include in the measurements any overhead countertops or cabinets that may be in the way of the machines themselves, or that interfere with opening the washer or dryer doors or reaching the control panel. The direction of the door swing on some machines may be reversible to help them fit into your laundry area.

Venting Requirements

The dryer vent is designed to expel lint and moisture. If the exterior vent is too far away and the air flow is too weak to push it outside, dryer lint can clog and block the duct. Most vented dryers require efficient ducts or vent hoses connecting to outdoor spaces, which means usually cutting a hole in an exterior wall or adding a specific vent for a dryer up through the roof. Gas dryers are especially important to have properly vented, as the natural gas used to warm the tumbler that dries the clothes can be dangerous if it leaks into the house.  

 The dryer vent location will depend on the layout of your home. Plan the location of the dryer to keep the ducting as short as possible. Keep in mind that a longer duct, or one with multiple bends and angles in the pipe, interferes with the air pressure coming from the dryer.  

 The exterior vent must be placed somewhere that is easily checked for maintenance issues and cleaning. If anything blocks the vent, such as lint, or in some cases wildlife nests, they need to be promptly cleaned out to avoid dangerous carbon monoxide buildup in the house or the potential for fire from the trapped heat. Use vent covers, such as a louvered vent or a vent hood, to help keep the vent clear of obstructions. 

 For apartments and other homes with small-space laundry rooms that don’t allow for exterior vents, look for ventless dryers, also known as condenser dryers. These electric dryers recycle the air through a filtration system before allowing it back out into the laundry room, reducing the amount of moisture in the air. Condenser dryers remove the water from the air, and it is then either drained out through the drainpipe or collected in a tray that must be emptied at the end of each cycle. They don’t get as hot as a vented dryer and are gentler on clothes. 

 When installing a washer and dryer in a closet or other enclosed space, the doors in front of the machines must have open ventilation, either with a vent register on the top and bottom of the doors, or with louvered doors that allow free airflow. Due to the smaller, confined space of a closet, make sure that there are no additional fuel-burning appliances installed in the same area to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. It is important that the area around the washer and dryer have adequate air flow.

Connection Requirements

A washing machine installation requires access to both a ready water supply and the necessary plumbing for effective draining. They may fit in dedicated laundry rooms, bathrooms, basements, or garages. Washer and dryer sets can even be installed in closets, providing they have a shared wall with the plumbing lines of perhaps a kitchen or bathroom, electrical outlets, and enough space and access for proper ventilation for the dryer. 

 If installing plumbing isn’t a home improvement project that you’re comfortable doing yourself, call in the professionals. New washer and dryer hookup installation requires opening up the walls, floors, and the existing plumbing lines to add in extra drains, connecting valves, and to reroute pipe. It also may require installing new electrical outlets and connecting additional wiring into the new laundry room.  

 These are complicated projects that may involve local building codes, depending on the size of the new room or other factors. Consult with local contractors or plumbers before adding new washing machine hookups.

It Should Fit the Household

The rumble of even the quietest laundry drums can interfere with enjoying TV in the den, so part of any washer and dryer installation is to make sure to plan for the day-to-day inconveniences, too. When determining where to install a washer and dryer, consider the noise, and of course the potential for water messes or even flooding if the washing machine drain hose isn’t secured properly or some other damage occurs.   

Whenever possible, the appliances should be installed in a separate area from other daily home-activities to help insulate against the sounds from the different cycles. A water-resistant or water-proof flooring makes it easier to clean up spills and protects the floor in case of leaks. To reduce both noise and potential damage from leaks, the floor must be level to minimize rattling and “walking” when the appliances spin unbalanced. If necessary, there are leveling, anti-vibration pads available to correct the problem.  

 A popular alternative for an in-home laundry room is to place the washer and dryer in the garage or another outdoor, enclosed building. These are often concrete or unfinished floors, so keep in mind that a washer and dryer placed on bare concrete should have at least 18” of space between the appliance and the flooring to ensure proper ventilation, away from potential chemical spills on the ground. Many chemicals used in the garage are highly flammable and these fumes combined with the heat from a dryer could lead to explosions or fire. For these installations, look for a laundry pedestal.  

For additional tips on what to look for when buying a new washer or dryer, or ideas to help plan the perfect laundry room, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top tips on how to make your laundry room work for you.

Power Sources for Washing Machines and Dryers 

A washer and dryer set may require either a 120-volt grounded outlet, which is the standard home electrical outlet, or a 240-volt outlet. Make sure you know the connection type available in your laundry room before you have the machine delivered or installed, to ensure the correct cord type is included.  

 Most washing machines will feature the 120-volt plug that can plug into standard home electrical outlets. Dryers, however, will likely require a 240 plug, even if it is a gas dryer. (Electrical power is required to run both electric and gas dryers.) Make sure that both the washer and dryer are close enough for the cord to easily reach the outlet and do not use extension cords for the appliances.  

A 220/240-volt plug is either a three or four prong plug, which look very different and are not interchangeable. Determining which type of cord is needed for the machine will partly depend on the age of the home or electrical installation. The standard 240 connection for homes built after 1996 in the US will be an over-sized 4-prong plug.  

Required Features of Your Washer and Dryer Setup

The washing machine requires hoses, the floor should be properly protected, and the dryer must be properly vented. Here’s the basics on what you need to know about your laundry room’s most important accessories.

Are Washer Hoses Standard?

There are multiple hoses required to complete your washing machine installation: two water supply washer hoses and a drain hose. Not only are there different hoses for different jobs, there is some variety in the types of hoses available. The washer hose does not come standard with the unit and you should choose the type of hose that fits your budget and laundry setup. You should also replace washer hoses as needed to prevent leaks and to extend the life of the washer. 

 For the water supply hoses, which connect the water from the home plumbing to provide the hot and cold water for a load of laundry, there are three types of hoses. The first option is a standard rubber hose, though these are not recommended as they are prone to leaks or long-term damage that can result in burst hoses and laundry room floods. 

 If the washer and dryer installation will be outdoors, a reinforced rubber hose can be used for the washer’s water supply. Reinforced rubber hoses have a rayon or polyester mesh lining around the rubber hose that helps protect against damage from water pressure, but they are not as effective as steel-braided hoses and are not recommended for indoor installations. Though these reinforced hoses can be used for a shed or garage laundry room, a standard garden hose should not be used as a washer hose.  

The industry standard and recommended washer hose is the braided stainless-steel hose, which is a rubber-lined hose with a steel-braided outer shell that helps reinforce the hose against the amount of water pressure that is sent through the line. This helps prevent bursting hoses and leaks. Some of these hoses have a connector which can detect the water pressure changes and stop the water flow entirely to help prevent water damage to the laundry room.  

 The other type of hose needed for washer installation is the washer drain hose. A universal drain hose connects to the washing machine outlet at one end, with a U-shaped bend in the opposite end that is designed to hook into the drain standpipe that connects to the home plumbing. The drain hose should be checked as part of regular maintenance on the washer, ensuring that the hose is secured in the standpipe and connected appropriately to the washer in order to handle the water pressure of the washing machine emptying the water from the laundry load. A standpipe hose grip can help keep the hose in place within the standpipe.  

 During washer and dryer installation, always leave the washer hoses enough room to connect to the machine without sharp bends or twists in the line, usually a minimum of 4” space between the washer and the wall. Washing machine hoses should be checked for leaks yearly. Replace them if there are any signs of rust, fraying and wear, or in the case of a leak. A high-quality washer hose can last reliably up to 5 years. 

Does a Washing Machine Require a Drain Pan? 

A washing machine load uses a large amount of water, creating a potential hazard zone in the laundry room in case of a leak. A washing machine drain pan is a metal or durable plastic base with raised outer edges that the washer and dryer can be placed in to contain any water from the appliances. It is an extra step you can take to protect your floors against the chance of leaks or flooding from the washing machine or steamer dryer.   

The drain pan is particularly important if you’re installing a washer on an upper floor, where a drain overflow, machine maintenance issue, or leaking hose can cause damage to the ceiling and walls of the room below. They also help with general issues, like accidental spills and condensation, in the laundry room. They can prevent water damage to the floors, trim, and walls, and are a relatively inexpensive solution. Some building codes now require drain overflow pans, so check with your plumber or a local contractor for a new build.

Washing Machine Drain Pan Installation 

It can be helpful to install the drain pans prior to installing the washer and dryer, as the appliances must be lifted over the edge of the drain pan, which requires they be unplugged and disconnected from any water supply or drain lines.  

 A high-quality drain pan is made of durable plastic or metal and will have a raised edge all around that traps the water to keep it off the flooring. The washing machine and dryer units should fit inside the drain pans completely, with a few inches to spare all around the appliances. Some drain pans may be large enough to hold both a washer and dryer in a single pan. Drain pans can be glued into place against the drywall and subfloor of a new build, or they can rest on top of the flooring.  

Drain pans may require cutting a drain hole in the bottom to fit over the floor drain, or they may include a cutout in the side that can be connected to a drain hose, depending on the materials and pan type you choose. Always check the installation instructions that fit the drain pan you choose. The pan should connect to the drainpipe, either directly via a bottom-drain fitting, or with a short length of hose to allow a side-fitting outlet to direct the overflow to the drain.  

With a bottom-drain pan, mark the location of the drain under the pan and cut or punch-out the hole to place the drain, then connect it to the laundry room floor drain. This may require cutting the drainpipe that comes up from the floor, so that it rests below the level of the subfloor and the pan drain fitting can secure to it while remaining level. Be sure to secure drain fixtures with the appropriate glue for the material type and use caulking around the edges to create a watertight seal. 

What is a Dryer Vent For?

A dryer uses movement and heated air to dry a load of clothes. The dryer vent is needed to safely get rid of the moisture that builds up inside the drum. It removes excess heat from the dryer itself to keep it from overheating, ensuring the washer and dryer stay in working condition longer. It protects the house and household from the dangers of high humidity, which can lead to problems like mold growth and water damage in the walls and floors, or even health problems. 

 A dryer vent and duct system should always be installed carefully when installing a gas dryer. Gas dryers are connected to the home’s gas line and so must also remove any remaining carbon monoxide in addition to the heat and moisture. They must be vented outside into an open space with plenty of airflow in order to prevent dangerous buildup indoors or even within the duct itself.  

 When it comes to how to install dryer vent ducting or hoses, there are multiple options for the types of vent hoses or connections you can choose from. Most dryer ducts will be 4” wide pipe or hoses, available in varying lengths up to 8 feet, and will be designed to clamp into place. Check local codes and the dryer manufacturer’s installation requirements to determine the best fit for your laundry room.  

 Options for transition ducts include:  

• Rigid metal duct pipe, a smooth-surfaced pipe that can run from the exterior vent to the dryer connection without obstruction. 
• Semi-rigid metal duct, a flexible and durable duct with a smooth interior, usually made of either aluminum or galvanized steel.  
• Aluminum foil duct, made of a flexible, accordion foil that clamps into place between the dryer and the exterior wall vent. Because of the ridges and the more fragile nature of the foil, the tubing should be maintained and cleaned out regularly. 
• Plastic duct, usually made of vinyl, is a fully flexible vent hose with ribbed construction. Check local building codes as these are often not allowed due to the potential fire hazard created by trapped heat and lint debris within the thin plastic tubing. 

 For small-space laundry rooms with the dryer vent placed close to the dryer itself, slim ducts are available that offer a direct connection to the vent without the need for the curled hoses and long pipes. Slim ducts utilize the same, standard 4” connections, but they have a flat, rectangular air duct rather than the round hose. The slim duct adjusts from about 27” to 48” in length, allowing it to telescope to fit the required distance between the dryer connection and the exterior vent. 

 For gas dryers and for other vented dryers placed more than 8 feet away from the exterior vent connection, it’s recommended to use a rigid metal duct pipe, as the smooth duct allows greater airflow and has fewer surfaces to catch lint and trap heat. Rigid metal ducts can be used for concealed installations within walls or flooring and can be arranged with elbow piece fittings to direct the pipe.  

When choosing a vent duct, make sure that product is certified as safe by a national testing laboratory and meets all necessary building codes. The hoses and ducts can be installed using round clamps to make for easier maintenance, or for rigid ducts, use metal duct tape at the connection points; never screw or nail into the ducts as this creates extra air holes that collect lint and can be hazardous over time. 

How to Install Dryer Vents 

One of the more intimidating tasks when learning how to install a washer and dryer is installing the dryer vent. It doesn’t take a lot of time, but it does involve careful planning, as well as making permanent changes to your home’s exterior, and can require the use of specialized tools. 

 Dryer vent installation requires drilling a 4” hole through the exterior wall of the home, whether the wall is standard siding, solid brick, or stucco. It must vent to an outside area with plenty of airflow. The exterior vent should be a minimum of 12” off the ground on the outside of the home to avoid trapped air or debris clogs. 

 This may mean cutting through the wall directly behind the washer and dryer, or it can require extending a rigid, metal vent duct as much as 20’ to 25’ up a basement wall in order to reach an exterior wall. To minimize airflow loss over a larger area, it’s best to use a rigid metal vent duct and connect directly to an exterior wall vent hole. Tape the connection joints with metal foil tape to keep them sealed. 

 A new vent installation involves using a stud finder to make sure the location doesn’t drill through a framing stud and helps to steer clear of interference with electrical or plumbing lines. Cutting a hole for a dryer vent can be done with an electric drill, jig saw, or a skill saw, using the correct rounded saw bits. Once the hole is cut, the duct is connected to a vent mounting block and cap to help protect the duct.  

 With a home improvement project such as how to install a dryer vent, there is not a lot of room for error. There are multiple codes and regulations that help ensure safe dryer venting. The vent must be installed properly to help protect the household from carbon monoxide and moisture damage. It’s a good idea to consult with your contractor to make sure it is done correctly and up to code on the first attempt. 

Washer and Dryer Stacking Kits 

Washer and dryer installation can get complicated in smaller spaces. With some front loading washers, it is possible to purchase a stacking kit that allows the dryer to be mounted to the top of the washer to save space. Because of the differences between brands and model designs, stacking kits are not universal and should be purchased to match the washer and dryer brand.   

If you’re planning to stack the washer and dryer, it’s best to purchase from the same brand and model series if possible, to make sure the design sizes are compatible. For easier daily use, make sure both units are front-loading and that the controls are placed at the front edge above the doors. A stacked dryer will still require proper venting connections and space at the back of the unit.  

Keep in mind that a dryer can weigh up between 150 to 200 lbs. Only stack a dryer on a washer with help from others and the proper safety equipment, such as furniture movers or lifting straps. The washing machine should always be the base when stacking a washer and dryer, due to the added weight of the water with a load of laundry. Most washer pedestals will not work with stacked models due to the weight of the combined units, and they make it more difficult to reach the dryer controls.  

The stacking kit consists of mounting brackets that are screwed into place along reinforced sections of the appliances to secure the stackable washer and dryer together. These keep the two appliances balanced and help prevent the dryer from “walking” off the flat top. The stacking kits must be mounted prior to washer and dryer installation to make sure the appliances are secure before being moved into place. 

Always select a stacking kit from the same manufacturer as the stackable washers. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for how to install a washer and dryer using a stacking kit to ensure the correct mounting locations and connecting pieces. Making “do it yourself” stacking kits can void the warranty on your washer and dryer. 

Once the appliances are secured together, they can be moved as needed for normal dryer and washing machine installation steps. After connecting the hoses, ducts, and power cords between the machines and the wall, move the two appliances into place before testing the machines.