How To Disconnect A Washing Machine (8 Important Steps)

You can’t just yank the plug and walk away. A washing machine involves heavy-duty electricity and gallons of water. If you don’t disconnect it properly, you risk leaks, floods, or a fried appliance.

Whether you are moving to a new house or just shuffling the laundry room layout, we will show you how to disconnect a washing machine safely. These steps work for both top-loading and front-loading models.

We also cover critical safety warnings, how to handle the heavy lifting, and the basics of disconnecting a dryer.

Key Takeaways

• Safety first: Always unplug the machine and turn off the water valves before loosening any hoses.
• Drain it: Have a bucket and towels ready to catch water remaining in the supply and drain hoses.
• Secure the drum: Reinstall transportation bolts (shipping bolts) to prevent internal damage during the move.
• Label connections: Tape cords and hoses to the back of the machine so they don’t get crushed or lost.

In This Article

• Unplugging a Washing Machine: Is it Safe?
• Turn Off Washing Machine Water
• Disconnect a Washing Machine
• Tips for Moving a Washing Machine
• Connect Washing Machine After Moving
• Uninstall a Dryer
• Cost to Disconnect a Washing Machine
• FAQs
• Ready for the Move

Is It Safe to Unplug a Washing Machine Yourself?

Yes, it is perfectly safe if you follow the right order. Unplugging the machine is actually the most critical safety step. It cuts the power source immediately. As long as you handle the plug with dry hands and ensure the water valves are closed before removing hoses, you can do this DIY project without a professional.

How to Turn Off the Water to a Washing Machine

You must cut the water supply before detaching any hoses. If you skip this, you will spray water all over your laundry room the moment you loosen a connection.

• Time: 5 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy

What You’ll Need:

• User manual (optional but helpful)

1. Read the User Manual

Most machines from brands like LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool use standard connections. However, checking your specific manual is always smart. If you lost the paper copy, search for the model number online to find a PDF version.

2. Turn Off the Electronics

Make sure the machine is off. Pull the plug from the wall outlet. If the cord is hard to reach, you may need to slide the washer out slightly, but be careful not to pull the hoses tight yet.

3. Locate the Water Valves

Look for the hot and cold water valves on the wall behind the machine. They are often inside a recessed washer box.

4. Close the Valves

Turn the valves clockwise (to the right) until they stop turning.

• Gate valves: These look like circular spigots. Turn them clockwise until tight.
• Ball valves: These look like lever handles. Turn them so the handle is perpendicular (at a right angle) to the pipe.

Double-check that they are fully closed. This prevents flooding when you unscrew the hoses in the next section.

How to Disconnect a Washing Machine

Now that the power is cut and the water is off, you can disconnect the unit. We will guide you through removing the hoses and prepping the machine for a move.

We recommend running a “Spin” or “Drain” cycle before you unplug the machine to remove as much water from the drum as possible.

• Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
• Difficulty: Intermediate

What You’ll Need:

• User manual
• Bucket and old towels
• Transportation/Shipping bolts
• Slip-joint pliers or adjustable wrench
• Work gloves
• Pipe cleaner (optional)
• Screwdriver
• Industrial tape or duct tape

1. Pull the Machine Out

Gently shimmy the washing machine away from the wall. You need enough space to work behind it. Do not pull it too far, or you might stretch or snap the connected hoses. If the machine is heavy, use a helper or slide it onto a piece of cardboard to protect your floor.

2. Disconnect Hoses From the Wall

This is the messy part. Place your bucket and towels directly underneath the water valves.

• Verify the water valves are closed.
• Use your pliers to loosen the metal connector on the hose.
• Once loose, unscrew it the rest of the way by hand.
• Quickly point the hose end into the bucket to catch the water trapped inside the line.

Repeat this for both the hot and cold water lines.

3. Disconnect Hoses From the Machine

If you are moving house, you should remove the hoses completely. Unscrew them from the back of the washing machine. Keep your bucket handy, as more water will drain out.

Pack these hoses inside the washer drum so they don’t get lost during the move.

Expert Tip

Check the rubber washers inside the hose connectors. If they are dry, cracked, or flattened, throw the hoses away and buy a new stainless steel set for your new home. Hoses degrade over time and are a leading cause of home water damage.

4. Remove the Drain Hose

The drain hose is the corrugated plastic tube that removes dirty water. It usually hooks into a standpipe or a laundry sink.

• Unhook the drain hose from the pipe or sink.
• Keep the end elevated until you have a bucket ready.
• Lower the hose into the bucket to drain any residual water.
• Disconnect the hose from the back of the machine if possible (check your manual). If it is permanently attached, wrap it up and tape it to the back of the washer.

5. Clean the Inlet Ports

While the back of the machine is accessible, check the water inlet ports. Small screens inside these ports catch debris. Use a pipe cleaner or a soft brush to gently remove any sediment buildup.

6. Secure the Power Cord

Tape the electrical cord to the back of the machine using strong tape. Do not let the plug drag on the floor, as the prongs can get damaged.

7. Install Transportation Bolts

This is the most important step for moving front-loading washers. The drum is suspended on springs and shock absorbers. If you move the washer without locking the drum, the suspension can break.

• Locate the shipping bolts (transportation bolts) that came with the machine.
• Insert them into the designated holes on the back of the unit.
• Tighten them to lock the drum in place.

If you lost the original bolts, buy a replacement set specific to your model online before moving day.

Tips For Moving a Washing Machine

Washing machines are awkward and heavy. Here is how to move one without breaking your back or your floors.

• Use an appliance dolly: Do not drag the machine. Rent or buy an appliance dolly with straps. This protects your flooring and makes navigating stairs safer.
• Tape the door: Use tape or plastic wrap to secure the washer door. If it swings open during transit, the hinges can snap.
• Keep it upright: Never lay a washing machine on its side. This can cause oil to leak from the motor or damage the internal suspension. Keep it vertical at all times.
• Drain it early: Try to disconnect and drain the machine 24 hours before the move. This allows internal moisture to dry out, reducing the risk of mold or mildew smells.
• Protect the finish: Wrap the machine in moving blankets. Secure the blankets with shrink wrap or tape. This prevents scratches and dents inside the moving truck.

How to Connect a Washing Machine After Moving

Once you get the machine to the new spot, reversing the process is straightforward.

• Time: 30 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate

What You’ll Need:

• Pliers or wrench
• Bucket (for testing)
• Spirit level

1. Remove Shipping Bolts

Do not forget this. If you run the machine with the shipping bolts still installed, it will vibrate violently and potentially destroy the appliance. Unscrew and remove all bolts. Keep them in a safe place for the next move.

2. Level the Machine

Place a spirit level on top of the washer. Twist the adjustable feet at the bottom of the machine until it sits perfectly flat. Once level, tighten the locking nuts against the machine base to hold the feet in place.

3. Connect Water and Drain

• Flush the new home’s water taps into a bucket for a few seconds to clear out debris.
• Connect the water supply hoses to the taps and the machine (ensure rubber washers are inside). Hand-tighten, then give a quarter-turn with pliers. Do not overtighten.
• Insert the drain hose into the standpipe or sink. Ensure it is secured with a zip tie or bracket so the water pressure doesn’t force it out.

4. Power Up and Test

Plug the machine directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord. Turn on the water valves and check for leaks immediately. Run a short “Rinse & Spin” cycle while watching the connections to ensure everything is watertight.

How to Uninstall a Dryer

Disconnecting a dryer is generally easier than a washer, but you must identify if you have an electric or gas model.

• Clean the lint trap: Empty the lint trap to prevent dust from flying around during the move. Vacuum out the vent hose if possible.
• Electric dryers: Flip the breaker off at your electrical panel first. Then, unplug the large 240V plug from the wall. Tape the heavy cord to the back of the unit.
• Gas dryers (Warning): Locate the gas valve behind the dryer and turn it to the “Off” position. Unscrew the gas flex line. We strongly recommend hiring a professional for this step. If you do it yourself, you must cap the gas line immediately and check for leaks using soapy water. If you smell gas, evacuate and call the utility company.
• Vent hose: Use a screwdriver to loosen the clamp holding the foil vent hose to the back of the dryer. Pull it off and shake out any loose lint.
• Steam dryers: If your dryer has a steam feature, it will have a small water line connected to it. Turn off the water and disconnect this hose just like you did with the washer.

How Much Does It Cost to Disconnect a Washing Machine?

If you prefer to hire a pro, you can usually pay a plumber or a handyman service. Prices typically range from $80 to $150.

If you are using a full-service moving company, ask if appliance disconnection is included. Many movers require appliances to be disconnected before they arrive due to liability reasons, so always check their policy first.

FAQs

What Is the Best Way to Remove a Washer From a Tight Space?

Slide a towel or a piece of cardboard under the front feet of the washer. This reduces friction and allows you to slide the heavy machine forward without scratching the floor. Once you have enough clearance, tilt it back onto an appliance dolly.

Should I Hire a Plumber to Disconnect a Washing Machine?

You generally do not need a plumber. It is a simple DIY task requiring only pliers and a bucket. However, if the water valves are rusted, stuck, or leaking, you should call a plumber to replace the valves before you attempt to disconnect the machine.

Do Removal Companies Disconnect Washing Machines?

Most standard removal companies will not disconnect water or gas lines due to insurance liability. They usually expect the appliances to be disconnected, drained, and ready to load when they arrive. Always verify this with your mover during the booking process.

Why Is There Still Water In My Washing Machine?

If water remains in the drum after disconnecting, the drain pump might be blocked or the cycle didn’t finish. You can manually drain it by lowering the drain hose into a bucket near the floor (gravity will pull the water out). Some front loaders also have a small access door on the bottom front with a manual drain tube.

Do You Have to Turn Water Off to Disconnect a Washing Machine?

Yes. The water hoses are under constant pressure. If you unscrew a hose without turning off the valve, water will spray out at high pressure, causing immediate flooding and potential water damage to your home.

Can One Person Move a Washing Machine?

It is physically possible but risky. An average washer weighs 150 to 200 pounds. While you can disconnect it alone, we strongly recommend using an appliance dolly and having a second person specifically to help load it onto a truck or navigate stairs.

Can I Transport a Washing Machine on Its Side?

No. You should always keep a washing machine upright. Laying it on its side or back can cause the tub to bang against the cabinet, damaging the suspension. It can also cause residual water to leak onto the motor or electronics, leading to failure when you plug it back in.

Do I Need to Cap the Water Lines After Disconnecting?

If you are leaving the house vacant, it is a good idea to screw brass caps onto the water valves after removing the washer. This acts as a secondary safety measure in case the valves are slightly faulty or someone accidentally bumps the handle to the “on” position.

Ready for the Move

Moving appliances is a workout, but doing it correctly saves you from plumbing disasters and broken machines.

Remember the golden rules: unplug the power, close the water valves, and use those shipping bolts. If you follow these steps, your washing machine will be ready to tackle the first load of laundry in your new home without a hitch.

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