How to Install a Washing Machine Drain Pan

Like all appliances that use water, washing machines can spring unexpected leaks. A washing machine drain pan is constructed of heavy-duty plastic or stainless steel and is designed to catch leaking water and channel it through a bottom or side hole to a nearby floor drain. Installing a drain pan is an easy and inexpensive preventative measure that can end up saving a homeowner a good deal of money and hassle. Make sure there is a floor drain in the room before installing the drain pan.

Step 1

Unplug the washing machine at the outlet. Remove the drain hose from the drain pipe. Turn off the washing machine water valve and remove the hot and cold water hoses from the back of the washing machine, using pliers if necessary.

Step 2

With the help of another person, lift or slide the washing machine away from the wall. Place the drain pan on the floor where it will set under the washing machine.

Step 3

Use a screwdriver to knock out the perforated knockout on the bottom or side of the drain pan. If the model does not have a precut hole, use a power drill with a 1-inch hole saw to drill a hole according to the pan's instructions.

Step 4

Insert a 1-inch male to 3/4-inch threaded PVC bushing into the outlet hole with the male threads facing in. Slide a rubber gasket over the male threads and then tighten it to the drain pan with a locking nut.

Step 5

Insert a 3/4-inch PVC thread-to-hose nipple on the other end of the bushing, and tighten it with pliers. Connect a piece of 3/4-inch hose to the nipple and tighten with a clamp. Run the other end to the floor drain.

Step 6

With the help of another person, lift the washing machine and gently place onto the drain pan to avoid cracking it. Level the washing machine if necessary by turning the four leveling feet at the bottom, clockwise to raise the machine and counterclockwise to lower it.

Step 7

Connect the hot and cold water hoses to the washing machine and tighten with pliers. Return the drain hose to the drain pipe. Plug the washing machine back in to the outlet.

Step 8

Run a test load of laundry. Adjust the leveling feet if the washing machine is off balance and tighten hoses if necessary.