Last Updated on February 9, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Whether your old washing machine finally gave up, or you’re moving house, we all need to learn how to disconnect one. It’s one of those things we should all know because it saves a little cash, and it can be handy when you are in a pinch.
So you want to know how to disconnect a washing machine ? with our steps its easier than you think.
We will help you understand the following; is it safe to unplug your washing machine, the cost, how to turn off water and the tools required.
Below, you will find everything you need to know about disconnecting your washing machine, so you can get started as soon as possible.
Is it Safe to Unplug a Washing Machine?
Yes, it is safe to unplug it. In fact, it is often recommended you do so when it is not in use to save energy. Additionally, lightning striking your home could damage the electrical components if left plugged in during a storm.
Before you undertake any kind of work on your washing machine, it is strongly advised that you unplug it from the mains first. This will prevent potential electric shocks or other such damage while the work is carried out.
Cost to Disconnect a Washing Machine
You can call a professional to disconnect your washing machine for you, usually in the form of a plumber. On average, you can expect this to cost around £85.
This can be quite a lot to fork out, and so doing it yourself is often the cheaper solution; you just have to put a little extra work in.
If you are getting a new washing machine, many companies will disconnect and remove the old one for a small fee as well.
How to Turn Off the Water to Washing Machine
This is so much easier than you might think. A lot of people just decide to turn the water for the house off, but there is no need.
The washing machine has its own valve, or stop clock, that you can switch on or off at will. So, when you need to disconnect the machine, all you have to do is turn the valve accordingly.
You’ll find the stop clock behind the washing machine, and there are two main types. Many have two valves, one for hot water and one for cold, whereas others have a lever valve that only leads to one pipe.
For valves, you need to turn it clockwise to shut it off, and for levers just pull them down.
How to Disconnect an Integrated Washing Machine
There isn’t much difference between an integrated and freestanding machine. All it comes down to is that the former can be tougher to move and pull out because it has been built into a specific spot.
So, the steps to disconnecting your washing machine are actually the same for both – you just might have to put some extra effort in for the integrated one.
#1 Power Down. Pull the washing machine out of its space, making sure you are careful as the machine is heavy and you don’t want to injure yourself. Reach behind the machine and switch the power off, or locate the appropriate mains switch.
Unplug it from the socket for your safety. If you have an integrated washing machine, you will likely need to remove the worktop it has been installed under.
#2 Stop the Water. Turn the water off using the valve or lever behind the machine. You can use the method in the previous section. It’s important that this is switched off to prevent leaking and flooding when you disconnect the machine.
#3 Disconnect the Water Supply. This is actually really easy to do, and all you need is to unscrew them using your hands or a wrench. Most of the time, your hands should be more than enough, but if the connectors are old or worn, they might be a little too tight and require the help of a wrench.
#4 Waste Pipe. After this, you should disconnect the waste pipe as well so that everything is free. This will often be attached to your kitchen sink. Make sure you have a bucket ready to drain any water from it.
When you disconnect the machine, you must ensure the waste pipe is blocked to avoid water spurting everywhere when you turn the tap on.
#5 At this point, the washing machine is now fully disconnected and ready to be removed. If you have hard floors, it is best to use a hand truck, or dolly, to move the appliance to avoid them getting scratched. That’s it, job done. It really is as easy as those five steps.
Tools Required to Disconnect a Washing Machine
You won’t actually need much in order to disconnect your machine, but here is a quick list of the essentials so that you are ready to tackle the challenge:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver (if you need to remove a worktop for an integrated machine)
- Gloves
- A bucket (for collecting excess water)
- Cloths/towels (for mopping up excess water)
- Hand truck
To Conclude
As long as you are careful with the machine, and you follow the advice in this guide, disconnecting it should be a cinch. All you need are some simple tools, and you are ready to go.
It’s an important skill to have, and one that comes in useful more often than you might think. I’ve got some other great washing machine maintenance and repair guides you can look at as well if you find yourself in need.
Read Here: How to Plumb in a Washing Machine
What did you think of my washing machine disconnection guide? Did it help you out, or are there areas you felt were lacking? I love hearing from you, so feel free to leave a message in the comment section below to let me know.
Last Updated on February 9, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
