plumbing in washing machine

andrewf75

I'm about to attempt to plumb in a washing machine. Plumbing skill level: very low!

I've heard about these self cutting valves. Do they do the job well enough or is it worth spending more time to cut the pipe and fit a connection that way?

Ruski

Cut the pipe and install a proper spigot or w/m trap.

Self cutting can lead to 'cutout bit' causing a blockage if you're unlucky!


Are you anywhere near the kitchen sink? If so, an appropriate new trap may be your easiest solution....

HTH

Russ

London50

Hi

Yes they do work well, even someone with no plumbing skills SHOULD have no problems fitting then just remember that after you have fitted it according to the instructions on the packet SLOWLY turn on the water supply to make sure it is tightened correctly.
There are a number of DIY vids on you tube as well if you are not sure and will be far cheaper and easier than attempting to cut your water pipe and insert a washing machine T piece or to pay a plumber to do the connection for you. :0)

London50

wallbash

First of all , never used a self cutting valve.
For a beginner I would suggest compression fittings. Used with a pipe cutter, nearly fool proof .
A pipe cutter ONLY cuts cleanly.
And compression fitting is so simple. Tighten finger tight , turn on water , expect a little leak , tighten slowly with 'spanner' til water stops. This ensures you DONT over tighten
Fittings are cheap , all standard size ( depending on pipe, guessing the normal 15mm).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpIh1u_Y3h0

But i would use PTFE tape instead of compound , cleaner.

wallbash

London50 wrote: »

Hi

Yes they do work well, even someone with no plumbing skills SHOULD have no problems fitting then just remember that after you have fitted it according to the instructions on the packet SLOWLY turn on the water supply to make sure it is tightened correctly.
There are a number of DIY vids on you tube as well if you are not sure and will be far cheaper and easier than attempting to cut your water pipe and insert a washing machine T piece or to pay a plumber to do the connection for you. :0)

London50

Always thought this site was too help us save money

someguystu

As a relative newby to plumbing, I've had some success recently. Compression fittings from screwfix with good reviews and bulk packs are serving me well. I used a £3 pipe cutter from the big diy shop. Make sure you have enough space on your pipe in case it goes wrong first time. Then cut and make sure you clean the cut end very carefully with wire wool and clean up the loose fibres well.

I've removed a sink and bidet successfully. I have a tiny leak in a thread due probably to some wool stuck in it. If you get it wrong, you can buy packs of olives (the copper ring that compresses onto pipe inside the bolt part) so the fitting isn't wasted...just undo thread, cut off old olive, start again with new olive. Though your pipe will be getting shorter!


Make sure the water is off and you understand whether this bit of pipe is fed from mains or header tank.

I've heard mixed advice about using tape on the threads of compression fittings.I'm using them as sold.

andrewf75

I think I'm more confused now than before...but thanks anyway!

I'm sure its easy enough, its just having the confidence to give it a go...

wallbash

andrewf75 wrote: »

I think I'm more confused now than before...but thanks anyway!

I'm sure its easy enough, its just having the confidence to give it a go...

Its a small skill that will help you for life, and plumbing in a washing machine is a great start. Its not like playing with electrics, a small leak won't kill you!
Plenty of help on youtube , a video is worth a 10000 words.

Ruski

Most importantly understand your existing system and ensure that you can already isolate the hot and cold supplies.
Once you can do that then you have no worries if things don't go to plan - you know how to turn eerything off

Good luck

Russ

davenport151

wallbash wrote: »

Always thought this site was too help us save money

Yes but surely its better to be clear on what you are doing. If you are not its better to call in someone who does.

wallbash

davenport151 wrote: »

Yes but surely its better to be clear on what you are doing. If you are not its better to call in someone who does.

With that attitude surprised YOU can actually get out of bed in the morning .

Its plumbing in a washing machine not rocket science.

ps you are not a plumber short work??