With both water valves shut and the washer unplugged, you can replace washing machine fill hoses in about half an hour by unscrewing the old hoses and threading on new braided ones with fresh rubber washers. Bulges, cracks, rust at the fittings or any dampness mean they're due, and older rubber hoses are worth swapping before they show trouble.
Time: about 30 minutes · Difficulty: Easy · You'll need: two new fill hoses (braided stainless steel is a common choice), new rubber hose washers if not included, adjustable pliers, a bucket, towels, a flashlight
Before you start
- •Unplug the washer before pulling it out.
- •Turn both the hot and cold supply valves fully off. If a valve is stuck or leaks when turned, stop and call a plumber rather than forcing it.
- •Keep a bucket handy. Each hose holds some water.
- •Don't use thread tape on the hose connections. The rubber washer does the sealing.
Steps
Step 1 — Pull the washer out
Slide the washer forward far enough to reach the back, watching that you don't stretch the drain hose or power cord.
Step 2 — Note hot and cold
Mark which hose goes to which valve and which inlet on the washer. Most washers label the inlets, often with H and C.
Step 3 — Disconnect the old hoses
Unscrew each hose from the wall valve first, holding the end over the bucket, then from the washer. Use pliers only if hand-turning won't break them loose.
Step 4 — Check the inlet screens
With the hoses off, look at the small screens inside the washer's inlet ports. If they're full of grit, clean them before you connect anything; see how to clean washer inlet screens.
Step 5 — Attach the new hoses
Make sure each new hose has its rubber washer seated in the fitting. Thread each one on by hand, then snug it with pliers following the hose maker's instructions. Overtightening can crush the washer and cause a leak.
Step 6 — Turn the water back on slowly
Open each valve gradually and check every connection for drips with a dry paper towel.
Step 7 — Position the washer
Push the washer back, leaving several inches of space so the hoses don't kink against the wall. Run a short cycle and check the connections again.
Didn't fix it?
If a connection still drips, the rubber hose washer may be misaligned or missing. Turn the water off, reseat it and retighten. Water leaking from inside the washer rather than the hoses points to an internal part, such as the inlet valve or a tub seal. That needs our washer repair team.
How often to do this
Check the hoses a couple of times a year for bulges, cracks and corrosion. Many manufacturers suggest replacing them about every five years, or sooner if they show wear; check your manual for your washer's guidance.
From Kevin: A burst fill hose under pressure keeps pouring until someone shuts the valve. When I see original rubber hoses on an older washer, I always suggest swapping them.
Have a leak? Call ProFix NJ at (973) 718-9373.