Disconnect and Remove Old Hoses — Shut Off Water and Disconnect Hoses
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 2 of 5
In this video
Place a bucket below the hose connections to catch any draining water. First, disconnect the old hoses from the back of the washing machine by unscrewing the threaded fittings. Next, disconnect the other ends from the supply valves on the wall. If the fittings are too tight to remove by hand, use a pair of channel-lock pliers to get them started.
Goal: Remove the existing rubber hoses
- Have towels handy to clean up any spills.
- Disconnecting from the machine first can sometimes make it easier to drain the hoses into the bucket.
Used in this video
- Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual) · optional — Loosening stubborn hose connections
- Bucket (Material: Plastic) — Catching residual water from the old hoses
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FAQs
Why do my washing machine pipes bang, and how do these arrestors help?
Washing machines often cause "water hammer" because their solenoid valves close very quickly, creating a sudden pressure surge in the water lines. Water hammer arrestors absorb this shock wave, preventing pipes from banging, vibrating, and potentially damaging your plumbing system over time.
What specific tools and materials are essential for installing these screw-on arrestors?
You will primarily need two adjustable wrenches or groove joint pliers (e.g., Husky 12 in. Adjustable Wrench, Channellock 12 in. Tongue and Groove Slip Joint Pliers) to properly tighten the connections. PTFE thread seal tape (plumber's tape) is crucial for preventing leaks, and a bucket and towels will be useful for catching any drips.
Is this a difficult project for someone new to DIY, and how much time should I set aside?
This is considered a beginner-level plumbing project, making it very approachable for DIY novices. The actual installation of the arrestors is quick, but accounting for water shut-off, hose disconnection, installation, and thorough leak testing, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete the task.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this installation?
Always shut off the water supply to the washing machine (or the main house supply) before starting to prevent flooding. Have a bucket and towels handy for any residual water. Be careful not to overtighten connections, as this can strip threads or crack fittings, potentially leading to leaks.
Disconnect and Remove Old Hoses — Shut Off Water and Disconnect Hoses
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 2 of 5
In this video
Place a bucket below the hose connections to catch any draining water. First, disconnect the old hoses from the back of the washing machine by unscrewing the threaded fittings. Next, disconnect the other ends from the supply valves on the wall. If the fittings are too tight to remove by hand, use a pair of channel-lock pliers to get them started.
Goal: Remove the existing rubber hoses
- Have towels handy to clean up any spills.
- Disconnecting from the machine first can sometimes make it easier to drain the hoses into the bucket.
Used in this video
- Pliers (Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual) · optional — Loosening stubborn hose connections
- Bucket (Material: Plastic) — Catching residual water from the old hoses
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my washing machine pipes bang, and how do these arrestors help?
Washing machines often cause "water hammer" because their solenoid valves close very quickly, creating a sudden pressure surge in the water lines. Water hammer arrestors absorb this shock wave, preventing pipes from banging, vibrating, and potentially damaging your plumbing system over time.
What specific tools and materials are essential for installing these screw-on arrestors?
You will primarily need two adjustable wrenches or groove joint pliers (e.g., Husky 12 in. Adjustable Wrench, Channellock 12 in. Tongue and Groove Slip Joint Pliers) to properly tighten the connections. PTFE thread seal tape (plumber's tape) is crucial for preventing leaks, and a bucket and towels will be useful for catching any drips.
Is this a difficult project for someone new to DIY, and how much time should I set aside?
This is considered a beginner-level plumbing project, making it very approachable for DIY novices. The actual installation of the arrestors is quick, but accounting for water shut-off, hose disconnection, installation, and thorough leak testing, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete the task.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this installation?
Always shut off the water supply to the washing machine (or the main house supply) before starting to prevent flooding. Have a bucket and towels handy for any residual water. Be careful not to overtighten connections, as this can strip threads or crack fittings, potentially leading to leaks.