Whenever you are about to purchase a new washing machine you tend to look for its functionalities and overall look. All these factors are important, I get it. But have you ever considered checking the drain pipe of the washing machine? I assume your answer would be no. This is the most common mistake made by people who go to buy the washing machine.
Believe it or not but the drain pipe and its height are two most important factors to consider whenever you are about to buy any washing machine. Many people neglect these two things and keep their focus on other things. Keep following this article till the end if you want to know more about the drain pipe height of your washing machine.
Washing Machine Drain Pipe Height – General Case
I have emphasized enough on the importance of drain pipe height. Now it is time to have a general discussion on it. On a general basis, your washing machine should be 23-25 inches higher than the floor. Your washing machine having a higher height than this is not at all recommended. The maximum height that is acceptable should be 96 inches only.
Types of Loaders
There are two types of loaders present. Both of them possess a different height range. Know this that height range isn’t the only determining factor in fact there are other factors too which can be considered seriously. However, let us discuss the types of loaders first.
- Top Loaders
- Front Loaders
Factors Determining the Height of Drain Pipe
There are a total of three factors which contribute in determining the height of your washing machine’s drain pipe.
- Washing Machine Type
- Washing Machine Brand
- Drainage Option
Now let us have a detailed look at these factors so you get to understand all the things clearly and in-depth.
1. Washing Machine Type
The first factor to discuss is the type of washing machine you own. As discussed before, there are two types of loaders; front loaders and top loaders. Both of them have a different requirement when it comes to drain pipe height.
- Front Loaders
Luckily, front loaders don’t require higher drain pipes. In these loaders, the height of the drain pipe should be 24 inches off the floor. The drain pipes present in front loaders have a height of 96 inches, if you exceed this height then you will need an additional device called a “sump pump” to pump out the wastewater.
- Top Loaders
Top loaders have a simple requirement which is that their drain pipe should be a little higher as compared to front loaders. In case of top loaders, the height of the drain pipe should be 30 inches off the floor. This proves to be beneficial for optimum pumping.
2. Washing Machine Brand
The second most important factor that contributes in determining the drain pipe height is the washing machine brand. Some of the famous brands are Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, Haier, GE and Bosch.
- Whirlpool Brand
While using a Whirlpool washing machine make sure to consult its user manual. The height of its drain pipe is mentioned in the manual. The reason for doing this is because the drain pipe height varies from brand to brand. Although the change is not that significant, it is still a change. A general recommendation by Whirlpool says that the drain pipe shouldn’t be placed more than 29 inches off the surface.
- Samsung Brand
Using a Samsung washing machine means that the drain pipe should be 24-35 inches off the floor. Before starting the installation process, make sure to have the standpipe cleaned otherwise it might create future inconveniences for you.
- LG Brand
On a general note, you shouldn’t place the drain pipe more than 29 inches off the ground while using an LG washing machine. If you want to know the exact measurements then try considering the user manual.
- Haier and Bosch Brand
Bosch and Haier washing machines provide the same drain pipe height recommendation i.e. 80 – 100 cm. This height helps a lot in the optimal performance of the washing machine.
- GE Brand
While using GE brand, if you are working with a front loader then the drain pipe height shouldn’t be more than 24 inches off the floor. In the case of a top loader washing machine the drain pipe height shouldn’t be more than 30 inches off the surface.
3. Drainage Option
There are a total of three drainage options available in every washing machine.
- Laundry Tub
- Underground Pipette
- Standpipe Drainage
Laundry Tub
In the case of a laundry tub, the drainage will be done using a washing tub. Your washing machine’s drain pipe length should be 8 ft. only. If you exceed this limit then it will create wastewater backflow. The distance between the laundry tub and washer should be only 45 inches.
Underground Pipette
Another efficient solution for your washing machines is an underground pipette. This is the most expensive of all. However, the height of this pipe shouldn’t exceed 8 feet.
Standpipe Drainage
Standpipe drainage is used to connect the washer drain pipe to the water waste stack. Using a standpipe eradicates the unwanted fumes. Moreover, it will also prevent you from facing an overflow issue. The recommended height of a standpipe drainage should be 39 – 96 inches. During the installation process, you need to buy a drain hose that is equal to the standpipe’s length. Last but not the least, you need to consider the horizontal distance along with the vertical distance as well.
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What should be the Height of P-Trap?
During installation, you must consider the height of your washing machine’s P-Trap. It should always be placed 6 – 18 inches above the ground surface. The distance should be calculated from the center of the p-trap’s arm to the ground.
The End
In a nutshell, the height of your machine’s drain pipe holds great importance. The height is different for every model and I have mentioned it for maximum brands. Now it is your duty to go through the article thoroughly and grasp the useful information from it.