Is Your Washer Drain Height Right? Avoid These Problems!

Maintaining the correct height of washer drain is crucial for optimal appliance performance and preventing common household issues. Backflow, a frequent cause of concern, occurs when wastewater reverses direction, potentially contaminating your clean water supply. The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), a leading authority, sets standards that often specify a recommended height for washer drains to mitigate backflow risks. Incorrect drainage height can also strain your washing machine’s drain pump, shortening its lifespan. Furthermore, understanding the relationship between your washer drain’s height and your home’s overall plumbing system is essential for preventing overflows and water damage.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Benjamin Sahlstrom , from the video titled How To Install a Washing Machine Drain Stand Pipe – 2″ Trap & Stand Pipe Height .

Is Your Washer Drain Height Right? Avoid These Problems!

Getting the height of your washer drain right is more important than you might think! An incorrectly sized drain can lead to a host of frustrating issues, from messy overflows to plumbing nightmares. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the proper "height of washer drain" to ensure your laundry room stays clean and functional.

Why the Height of Your Washer Drain Matters

The height of your washer drain significantly affects how well your washing machine can drain water. If it’s too low or too high, you could experience several problems:

• Back Siphonage: A drain that’s too low can cause wastewater to be siphoned back into your washing machine, contaminating your clean clothes.
• Overflowing: A drain that’s too high can overwhelm the pumping capacity of your washer, leading to water spilling onto your floor.
• Slow Draining: Improper height can restrict the natural flow of water, making your washing machine take longer to drain.
• Straining the Pump: When the drain isn’t right, the washing machine pump has to work harder than it should, potentially shortening its lifespan.

Understanding the Correct Washer Drain Height

So, what exactly is the right "height of washer drain"? The International Plumbing Code (IPC) and many local codes specify a range for optimal performance.

Standard Height Guidelines

The generally accepted standard for the height of your washer drain standpipe is:

• Minimum: 18 inches (45.7 cm) from the floor.
• Maximum: 42 inches (106.7 cm) from the floor.

This range allows for proper drainage without risking backflow or overflows.

Why These Heights?

The minimum height prevents back-siphonage. The maximum height ensures that the washer’s pump can effectively push the water upwards against gravity.

Checking Your Current Drain Height

Before making any adjustments, you need to accurately measure your current drain height.

1. Locate the Standpipe: This is the vertical pipe that your washer drain hose connects to.
2. Measure from the Floor: Using a measuring tape, measure from the floor to the top of the standpipe. This measurement determines your drain height.
3. Compare to Standards: Compare your measurement to the standard 18-42 inch range. Is your drain within this range? If not, you may need to make adjustments.

Potential Problems and Solutions Based on Height

Let’s delve into specific problems you might face and how to address them:

Drain is Too Low (Below 18 Inches)

• Problem: Back-siphonage of dirty water into the washing machine. Contamination of clean laundry.
• Solution:
  • Extend the Standpipe: You can extend the standpipe using PVC piping and fittings from your local hardware store. Ensure all connections are properly sealed with PVC cement.
  • Professional Plumbing Assistance: If you’re uncomfortable working with plumbing, contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

Drain is Too High (Above 42 Inches)

• Problem: Washing machine overflows during the drain cycle. Strain on the washer’s pump.
• Solution:
  • Lower the Standpipe: This might involve cutting the standpipe down. However, be extremely cautious! Cutting too much off is irreversible.
  • Check Washer Pump: Ensure your washing machine pump is working correctly. A weak pump can exacerbate drainage issues, even with a properly sized drain.
  • Professional Plumbing Assistance: Again, a plumber can safely and effectively lower the drainpipe if needed.

Other Factors Affecting Drainage

Even if the height of washer drain is within the recommended range, other factors can still contribute to drainage problems:

• Drain Hose Issues:
  • Kinks: Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or bent, which can restrict water flow.
  • Clogs: Check the drain hose for any clogs. Remove the hose and flush it out with water.
  • Proper Insertion: Ensure the drain hose is inserted correctly into the standpipe. It should fit snugly but not be forced.
• Standpipe Diameter: The standard diameter for a washer drain standpipe is 2 inches. A narrower pipe can restrict water flow.
• Clogged Drain Line: A clog further down the drain line can also impede drainage.

DIY vs. Professional Help

While some adjustments, like clearing a clogged drain hose, are straightforward DIY tasks, altering the height of the standpipe requires plumbing skills and careful consideration. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it’s always best to consult a qualified plumber.

So, next time you’re doing laundry, remember to check that height of washer drain! It might just save you from a plumbing headache down the road. Happy washing!