The washing machine is an appliance whose operation is impossible without water supply. Cold water to the washing machine comes from the water pipes, but not directly, but through an “intermediary” – a faucet.
The faucet of the washing machine provides protection for the unit. In the event of a water leak, the tap can be quickly and easily shut off, preventing a “flood”. But often problems arise with the faucet itself:
- The handle of the faucet is twisted, the water supply is not regulated.
- The faucet leaks.
- Faucet is mechanically damaged (may burst, tear off).
Is it possible to repair or will it be necessary to replace the entire washing machine faucet?
Types of washing machine taps
Not all washing machine owners install a faucet for the washing machine during its connection to the plumbing. Alternative, but not the most reliable, options for connection through:
- Tees,
- Overhead clamps,
- A piece of pipe.
In all these cases, the water to the machine comes after opening the tap of the central water supply.
The best option to prevent emergencies is a separate special washing machine faucet.
Taps for washing machines are of the ball type. Inside their body there is a ball-shaped part, the rotation of which regulates the flow of water – blocks or opens.
The longevity of the tap depends on the material from which it is made. For example, powder-alloy faucets can fall apart during installation, but brass faucets last for many years.
Types of ball valves for washing machines:
- Pass-through. Installed when the unit is already connected to a separate pipe from the common riser.
- Three-way. Installed if in addition to the washing machine, you want to connect another unit (for example, dishwasher).
- Angle. Installed for convenience in bathrooms where there is already a separate pipe outlet for connecting appliances (usually in new buildings).
Repair and replacement of the washing machine faucet with a new one
In the vast majority of cases, a washing machine faucet that has failed over time or is torn off will be completely replaced with a new one.
Repair of any of its components is a temporary solution and does not give proper results. However, it is possible:
- If the knob is twisted, you can seal its stem, replace it with a similar or other suitable knob.
- If water leaks from the valve stem, the stem o-rings (alternatively, use FUM tape to seal) or the locknut seal can be replaced. Note: Sometimes the locknut just needs to be squeezed well to stop leaks.
To replace the entire washing machine faucet, you must first remove the old one with a wrench and physical strength.
Attention! Preliminarily it is necessary to shut off the cold water and put rags on the floor (or put a basin under the faucet).
The new faucet is installed in place of the old one. Its thread sealing is wrapped with FUM tape. Of the tools you need only a suitable wrench.
It seems that to replace the faucet of the washing machine will be able to any person barely familiar with the device of household appliances, but this is not true.
For example, you can make a mistake with the choice of faucet or break the plastic nut filler hose during screwing it to the faucet, and so on.
For a professional, the replacement of the faucet of the washing machine – a task not difficult. If you do not want to lose your time and energy, and you are afraid that you will make a mistake during the replacement of the washing machine faucet yourself, call a specialist at home.
