Remove Old Hoses and Valves — 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
Using a pair of large channel-lock pliers, first disconnect the washing machine's hot and cold water supply hoses from the old valves by turning the hose fittings counter-clockwise. Once the hoses are removed, use the pliers to grip the body of the old valve and unscrew it from the threaded copper pipe, again turning counter-clockwise. Repeat this process for both the hot and cold valves.
Goal: Remove the old washing machine valves
- Be prepared for some residual water to spill from the hoses and pipes when you disconnect them. Have a towel or bucket ready.
Used in this video
- Channel-Lock Pliers (brand: Channellock, Pliers Type: Channel-lock) — Gripping and turning the hose fittings and the body of the old valves to remove them.
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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.
Remove Old Hoses and Valves — 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
Using a pair of large channel-lock pliers, first disconnect the washing machine's hot and cold water supply hoses from the old valves by turning the hose fittings counter-clockwise. Once the hoses are removed, use the pliers to grip the body of the old valve and unscrew it from the threaded copper pipe, again turning counter-clockwise. Repeat this process for both the hot and cold valves.
Goal: Remove the old washing machine valves
- Be prepared for some residual water to spill from the hoses and pipes when you disconnect them. Have a towel or bucket ready.
Used in this video
- Channel-Lock Pliers (brand: Channellock, Pliers Type: Channel-lock) — Gripping and turning the hose fittings and the body of the old valves to remove them.
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.