Washing machine drain hoses connect your washing machine to the drainage system in your home, allowing wastewater from the wash cycles to exit the machine. When it’s time to replace your old drain hose, you may be wondering – can I use any drain hose? Or do I need a specific one for my washing machine model?
What Is a Washing Machine Drain Hose?
A washing machine drain hose is a flexible, accordion-style pipe that attaches to the outlet on the back of a washing machine. It’s usually made of plastic or rubber. The drain hose transports the used wash water from the washing machine to a standpipe or drainage system.
Are All Washing Machine Drain Hoses the Same?
The good news is that most washing machine drain hoses are fairly universal these days. As long as you get the right diameter and length, you can use a drain hose designed for any washing machine brand on most standard washing machine models.
Important Drain Hose Measurements
There are two key measurements to pay attention to when selecting a new drain hose:
Inside Diameter
Most washing machine drain hoses have a 1 1/4 inch or 1 1/2 inch inside diameter. Choose whichever matches the size of the outlet on your washing machine – this is the connector size that matters most.
Length
Washing machine drain hoses are sold in lengths ranging from 4 to 10 feet long. Measure how far your washing machine outlet is from the standpipe or drain access to determine what length you need. It’s best to get a drain hose that is a little longer than required – this allows some slack and flexibility in positioning your machine.
Additional Drain Hose Specs
You may also come across the following specifications when looking at replacement drain hoses:
- Material: Most are made of plastic or rubber. Either works fine, choose based on price and durability preferences.
- Brand: Brand name isn’t too important for drain hoses. Focus more on getting the right size measurements.
- Price: Drain hoses range from $5 to $25. Don’t overpay – a basic affordable option will usually do the trick!
Installation Tips
Installing a new washing machine drain hose is quite straightforward. Just remember a few key tips:
- Make sure to completely remove the old drain hose first and drain any residual water
- Securely fasten the new hose at both ends with clamps/ties
- Ensure there are no kinks, blockages or leaks throughout the length of the pipe
- Consider attaching the hose to the wall with strapping for extra stability
The Bottom Line
The great news is that washing machine drain hoses are designed to fit most standard washing machines regardless of brand. As long as you choose the right diameter and length for how your machine and drainage setup is configured, then most replacement drain hoses on the market will work! Just focus on accurately measuring your connector size and required hose length. With those two numbers, choosing and installing a new universal washing machine drain hose is quite simple.
References: [1] https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-replace-a-washing-machine-drain-hose/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90e418c7b9 [2] https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/washers-and-dryers/how-to-replace-washing-machine-drain-hose.html [3] https://www.mrright.in/blog/universal-washing-machine-drain-hose-buyers-guide/
Laura has had an enthusiasm for laundry ever since she was a teenager experimenting with wash cycles. She went on study textile science in college before working in product testing.
Soon, Laura found friends and family constantly asking her laundry advice, realizing she had become an unofficial laundry guru. The questions kept coming in, so Laura decided to start sharing laundry tips online to help more people. The enthusiastic response led her start the blog “Laundry How”.
Now in her late thirties, Laura uses Laundry How to tackle all kinds of laundry topics – stains, fabric care, detergents, and more. She provides advice from both her studies and experience testing techniques out firsthand. Laura continues to grow an engaged community of laundry learners, feeling fulfilled empowering people to make laundry an easy, confidence-building ritual rather than a dreaded chore.