How to Install Laundry Room Plumbing in a New Home

Installing laundry room plumbing in a new home can seem like a complicated task, but with the right tools, planning, and knowledge, it can be completed effectively. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing laundry room, it’s crucial to plan the plumbing carefully to ensure smooth operation.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install laundry room plumbing.

1. Plan the Layout of the Laundry Room

Before installing the plumbing, consider the layout of the laundry room. The plumbing for a laundry room typically includes water supply lines (hot and cold), a drain line, and a vent for the dryer. Think about the placement of your washing machine, utility sink, and dryer vent, as well as ensuring easy access to the plumbing system. The washing machine should be located close to existing water supply lines and the main drain system for ease of connection.

2. Install Water Supply Lines

Your laundry room needs two water supply lines—one for hot water and one for cold water. These lines are typically connected to the washing machine’s inlet valves.

• Measure and Cut Pipes: First, measure the distance between the water supply sources (usually cold and hot water valves on the wall) and the washing machine. Use a pipe cutter to cut the appropriate length of pipe to fit.

• Install the Valves: Install water supply valves (called “hose bibs”) onto the pipes leading to the washing machine. You’ll need both hot and cold valves.

• Connect the Pipes: Use appropriate fittings (like elbows and tees) to connect the pipes to the valves. Use Teflon tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks. Secure the pipes with pipe hangers or brackets to keep them in place.

• Test for Leaks: Once the valves and pipes are connected, turn on the water to check for leaks. Tighten connections if necessary.

3. Install the Drain Line

The drain line for the laundry room is essential to carry away wastewater from the washing machine. The drain should be connected to the home’s main drain system.

• Choose the Drain Location: The drain should be placed directly behind or near the washing machine to minimize the length of the drain hose. Ensure that the drain is at least 30 inches above the floor to allow proper gravity drainage.

• Install the Standpipe: Install a standpipe (a vertical pipe) that connects to the drain. The standpipe should be at least 18 inches tall and have a diameter of at least 2 inches to accommodate the washing machine’s drainage. Make sure the top of the standpipe is about 3 inches above the drain hose to prevent backflow.

• Connect the Drain Hose: Attach the washing machine’s drain hose to the standpipe. The hose should fit snugly inside the standpipe to avoid leaks, but not be forced in too tightly. You can secure the hose to the standpipe using a clamp if needed.

• Test the Drainage: Run a cycle on your washing machine to test if the water drains properly and if there are any leaks in the system. Check for any clogs or improper drainage.

4. Install the Vent for the Dryer

If you have a dryer in your laundry room, it will need a vent to carry exhaust air outside. The dryer vent installation is a critical part of laundry room plumbing and ventilation.

• Plan the Vent Route: The vent should be routed to an exterior wall. Choose the shortest, straightest path for the vent to ensure it works efficiently. Avoid sharp turns or long routes, as these can cause airflow problems.

• Install the Vent Duct: Use metal ducting to install the vent. Flexible vent ducts are typically used for dryers, but solid metal ducts are the best option for efficient venting. Attach the vent duct securely to the dryer’s exhaust port and route it outside through a vent cap.

• Seal the Connections: Seal the connections of the vent duct to both the dryer and the exterior wall vent using duct tape or metal clamps to prevent air leaks. Be sure the vent cap is secure on the exterior to avoid debris or animals entering the vent.

• Test the Vent: Run the dryer to ensure proper airflow. If there’s a buildup of lint or if the vent seems blocked, clean it immediately. Poor venting can be a fire hazard.

5. Connect the Washer and Dryer

Once the water supply and drain lines are in place, and the dryer vent is installed, it’s time to connect the washer and dryer.

• Connect the Washing Machine: Attach the water supply hoses from the wall to the washing machine’s inlet valves (hot and cold). Tighten the connections with a wrench, but avoid overtightening, which can cause damage.

• Connect the Drain Hose: Place the washing machine’s drain hose into the standpipe you installed earlier. Ensure it fits securely to avoid leaks.

• Connect the Dryer: Attach the dryer vent hose to the venting system you installed. Make sure it’s securely fastened to both the dryer exhaust and the vent cap on the exterior of the house. Ensure there are no kinks in the vent hose.

• Test the System: Turn on the water supply and run the washing machine and dryer through a cycle to test all connections. Check for leaks in the water supply and drainage lines, as well as proper ventilation for the dryer.

6. Final Inspection

After installation, perform a thorough inspection to ensure that everything is working correctly. Look for any leaks, water pressure issues, or improper drainage. Additionally, make sure that the dryer vent is venting air properly outside. If any problems arise, fix them immediately to avoid long-term damage or inefficiency.

Conclusion

Installing laundry room plumbing in a new home is a complex yet manageable task if you follow the correct steps. Proper installation of water supply lines, drain lines, and dryer vents ensures your laundry room will be functional and efficient for years to come. However, if you are not comfortable with plumbing work or if you encounter unexpected issues, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional plumber to ensure everything is installed correctly and safely.

By planning the layout, selecting the right materials, and testing each step of the installation, you’ll have a well-functioning laundry room that meets your needs.