Replace a washing machine hose

Turn off the water, swap the old washing machine hose for a new one, and check for leaks.

WM-01Gather your tools and clear the spaceYou'll need a new washing machine fill hose (buy one the same length as the old one, or slightly longer), an adjustable spanner or pliers, an old towel, and a shallow tray or bowl. Pull the machine forward a little so you can see the back, and lay the towel down to catch drips.

1 each · Washing machine fill hose

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1 each · Old towel

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1 each · Shallow tray or bowl

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WM-02Turn off the water supplyFind the tap the hose connects to, usually behind or beside the machine, and turn it clockwise to shut it off. If there's no separate tap for the machine, turn off the main stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink, and check it moves freely before you start. Turning off the water here means if anything goes wrong later, you can stop the flow straight away.

WM-03Unplug the machine and pull it forwardSwitch the washing machine off and unplug it from the socket. Gently pull the machine away from the wall, just enough to reach the back. Take care not to strain the drain hose or the power cable as you move it.

WM-04Disconnect the old hoseHold the tray under the hose connection to catch any water. Unscrew the hose from the tap end first using your hand or an adjustable spanner, then unscrew it from the back of the machine. Some water will still be trapped in the hose, so let it drain into the tray.

WM-05Check the old washers and fit the new hoseLook inside both connection points for a small rubber washer. If it's cracked, flattened or missing, swap it for a new one before fitting the hose. Screw the new hose onto the machine first, then onto the tap, tightening by hand until snug, then giving a quarter turn with the spanner. Don't overtighten, as this can crack the fitting.

2 each · Rubber hose washers

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WM-06Turn the water back on and check for leaksTurn the tap or stopcock back on slowly. Watch both connection points for a minute or two, and run your hand along the hose to feel for damp patches. If you see any dripping, turn the water off again and tighten the joint a little more.

WM-07Push the machine back and run a testOnce you're happy there's no leak, plug the machine back in and push it gently back into place, keeping the hoses free of kinks. Run a short quick wash cycle and check behind the machine again for any drips once it's finished.

WM-08Tidy upDry up any spilt water and wring out the towel. Dispose of the old hose, it can't be reused safely once removed. Keep the receipt for your new hose in case it fails within its warranty period.

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