Cut Plumbing Costs With DIY Washer Standpipes
With the cost of living going up, many people are looking for ways to cut expenses. One area that often gets overlooked is home plumbing costs. Installing your own washing machine standpipe is an easy DIY project that can lead to significant savings over time.
By understanding the different types of washing machine drains, checking local codes, using quality materials, and following key installation steps, you can successfully create laundry drainage in your home. We'll walk through everything you need to know to cut plumbing costs with a DIY washing machine standpipe project.
Understanding Washing Machine Drain Types
When connecting a washing machine drain, you have two main options: a traditional standpipe with hook or a newer stack drain design.
Traditional Standpipe Hookups
The standpipe is a vertical pipe that uses a u-shaped bend to attach the washing machine hose. This allows wastewater to gravity flow out. Standpipes have been used for decades because they are inexpensive and don't require major plumbing alterations.
Newer Stack Drains
Stack drains utilize a single, larger vertical pipe to remove wastewater from multiple appliances like washing machines, laundry sinks, and dishwashers. The main benefit is convenience, saving space, and the ability to share drainage.
However, incorrectly installed stack drains can develop issues like backflow. Proper venting, pressure balancing, and prevention of cross contamination between appliances is crucial.
Checking Local Plumbing Codes
Plumbing codes establish the minimum requirements for safety and compliance in your area. It's important to check what washing machine standpipes are allowed before starting.
Some specifications you may encounter include:
- Required standpipe height off the floor
- Minimum and maximum drain line sizes
- Necessary backflow prevention devices
- Venting needs
- Allowable pipe materials like PVC, ABS, or cast iron
Consult your city's construction codes department to ensure your DIY project passes inspection. This prevents headaches, penalties, and potential hazards.
Choosing the Right Standpipe Materials
For standpipes carrying laundry wastewater, sturdy and corrosion-proof materials are vital. Otherwise, leaks, floods, cracks, or even mold growth could occur.
Common Standpipe Options
ABS Plastic: ABS is lightweight, durable, and resists rust and deterioration. It handles hot water well. Gluing ABS is straightforward too. This makes it a smart choice for DIY standpipes.
PVC: schedule 40 PVC is also approved for DWV residential projects. With good impact resistance and easy connections, PVC suits standpipe needs. Just take care when sawing to avoid cracking the pipe.
Other Material Considerations
Cast iron was once popular but is expensive and difficult to alter now. Galvanized steel is also outdated for laundry drains since it corrodes over time.
Choose code-approved, durable options suited to your skill level. Proper materials save money through longevity and leak protection.
Venting the Standpipe Correctly
Venting your washing machine standpipe serves two key purposes: preventing backflow issues and enabling effective drainage.
Types of Vents
For basic venting, an air admittance valve can allow air intake. More traditional pipe vents require roof or sidewall termination following strict guidelines.
Installation Tips
Vents should be sloped horizontally before turning vertically to allow wastewater drainage. All connections must be airtight and secured. Vent height depends on pipe size but must terminate properly through the roof or wall per code.
Well-designed vents keep your appliances flowing smoothly for years to come.
Tools and Equipment You'll Need
Assembling supplies is a key first step for any standpipe project:
Tools
- Hacksaw
- Cordless drill
- Channel lock pliers
- PVC cutter
- Utility knife
- Tape measure
- 4-foot Level
- Clamps
- Safety glasses
Materials
- ABS/PVC pipes
- Elbows and tee fittings
- Pipe cement/PVC glue
- Plumbers' putty
- Emery cloth
- Teflon tape
Gather what's needed before beginning. This prevents mid-project delays or confusion.
Finding the Optimal Location
Choosing your washing machine location involves both practicality and code compliance. Common options include:
Basement Installations
Basements allow access to drain lines. However, pumps may be needed to expel wastewater upwards. Consider a central basement location between plumbing hookups when positioning appliances.
Garage Standpipes
Attached garages offer convenience without moisture concerns. Use metal drain pipes here as ABS/PVC could crack from freezing.
Focus on accessibility no matter where you locate the standpipe. Leaving room for cleaning and repairs prevents headaches.
Step-By-Step Standpipe Installation
Once your prep work and planning is complete, installing your washing machine's standpipe takes nine crucial steps:
- Shut off the main water valve and electricity to the area.
- Remove existing plumbing connections.
- Measure and cut your length of drain pipe to size.
- Cement pipe adapters for your standpipe using primer and glue.
- Attach a backflow prevention device like a swing check valve.
- Connect vent piping with an airtight seal.
- Integrate your standpipe with other laundry drainage pipes.
- Reconnect washing machine hoses secured to the standpipe.
- Restore water supply, power on, and test for leaks.
Follow manufacturer instructions for curing times between steps. Allowing cement and parts to set fully ensures watertight functionality for your washing machine.
Preventing Drain Line Clogs
To keep laundry plumbing operating smoothly:
- Clean small mesh lint filters regularly
- Monthly, flush standpipes using enzyme drain cleaners
- Inspect standpipe joints and hoses for pooling water
- Manually snake or auger drains to extract hair/debris
Take proactive measures to catch minor clogs before major backups occur. Preventing outflows keeps washing machines running optimally.
Pro Help for Complex Plumbing Jobs
In certain situations, professional assistance ensures code compliance and lasting results:
- Major re-piping underneath the home
- Installing all new utility connections
- Failed city plumbing inspections
- Challenging designs requiring expertise
Don't risk fines or subpar DIY mistakes here. Consult licensed plumbers for guidance tying into main lines or navigating complicated blueprints.
FAQ
What size standpipe do I need?
Common standpipe sizes range from 1 1/2" to 2", with a minimum length around 18" tall. Determine your pipe diameter based on peak drainage flow rates outlined per fixture in the plumbing code.
Can I use PEX piping instead of PVC?
PEX tubing is easy to install but not approved for standalone waste pipes per code. Use rigid PVC or ABS only for your washing machine standpipe.
Place your standpipe 4-5 feet from appliances to allow flexible hose connections. Ensure the hookup height matches your discharge outlet to prevent backflow issues.
We hope this guide gave you more confidence to tackle washing machine drainage yourself. Follow important safety and compliance steps throughout your plumbing project. With proper materials and installation, a DIY standpipe offers years of convenience while cutting home costs.