When homeowners invest in new washing machines, they generally expect these new appliances to make their lives better. Some of these homeowners are surprised that they suddenly have problems with their drains backing up when they never had this problem before. I have had to explain to many homeowners why their new washing machines are causing this problem.
New Washing Machine Equals Stronger, Faster Water Pump
Your new washing machine most likely came equipped with a pump that’s way more powerful than the one in your old washer. Then, when the water drains out of your new washer, the volume of water entering the sewer line is greater than the sewer line can handle. The result is a backup of water in the drain pipe and a flood of water in your home.
There are two reasons this water can’t flow out quickly enough:
- If you have an older home, it’s possible that your drain pipe is too small to handle this more powerful flow of water. Older homes simply weren’t equipped with drain pipes big enough to accommodate the flow of water that comes from these powerful pumps.
- It’s also possible that your sewer line was just starting to have problems. Perhaps your sewer line could handle the volume of water coming from your household until you added this new washer. This water backup is your first sign that your sewer line needs work.
You’ll need to have a plumber come out to diagnose the exact reason for your backup. We can get your problem handled quickly so you can get the most out of your new washing machine.
Pro Tips for Homeowners: Check Your Hoses and Shutoff Valves
There are two basic maintenance steps every homeowner or renter should do at least annually. These are checking the hoses on your washing machine for wear and testing water shutoff valves all over the house.
Washing machine hoses: If your washing machine’s hoses are old and frayed, you risk a flood in your laundry room. An old or damaged hose can suddenly burst while the washer is running. If it’s a new washer with a more powerful pump, your risk is even higher. Therefore, look for any visible cracks, bulges, leaks or worn areas on any hoses. If the hoses are more than five years old, this inspection is an absolute must.
If you have a new washer professionally installed, the technician should replace the hoses. Check to make sure this is done. If you install it yourself, don’t skip replacing those hoses just to save a little money. The potential damage is far more expensive than the hoses.
Shutoff valves: Every water-using appliance has a shutoff valve that enables you to deal with a water emergency fast. Most homeowners don’t encounter water emergencies very often so these shutoff valves can, over time, corrode or seize up. Then when you need it, you can’t shut off the water. Or you get the water shut off but then can’t turn the water back on.
The right way to ensure you can control the water to this appliance, sink or the whole home is to regularly test each shutoff valve. First, find out where each shutoff valve is and make a list. You might consider taping this list to the inside of a cabinet door where it won’t get lost. Then, at least once a year, go around and shut and open each valve. This will keep them unfrozen and ready to help you in the event of a water emergency.
Rocketman Plumbing Is Ready to Help You With Water Emergencies
At Rocketman, we know that some plumbing problems just can’t wait till tomorrow. That’s why you can call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week and even on holidays. We send our well-trained technicians out with all the supplies they need to complete most repairs quickly. Just call us at (505) 243-1227. We serve Albuquerque and all the surrounding communities!