How Much To Have a Washing Machine Plumbed In? (2025 Cost Guide)

You’ve just bought a new washing machine—or maybe you’re finally upgrading your laundry room—but now comes the real question: how much to have a washing machine plumbed in? It’s a common concern for homeowners and renters alike, especially when you’re trying to avoid DIY disasters or surprise contractor bills. Whether you’re moving into a new home or replacing an old unit, understanding the true cost—and what affects it—can save you hundreds of dollars and a lot of stress. Let’s break it all down clearly, fairly, and without the fluff.

What Does “Plumbing In a Washing Machine” Actually Mean?

Plumbing in a washing machine involves connecting it to your home’s water supply (hot and/or cold), drain system, and electrical outlet. This isn’t just about attaching hoses—it requires proper valves, secure drainage, leveling, and sometimes minor modifications to your existing setup.

While some handy homeowners attempt this themselves, improper installation can lead to leaks, flooding, or even voided appliance warranties. According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage from appliances is one of the top causes of home insurance claims—averaging over $7,000 per incident.

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Washing Machine Plumbed In? (2025 Pricing)

On average in the U.S., professional washing machine plumbing installation costs between $150 and $600. However, your actual price can vary significantly based on several factors:

💡 Real-World Example: In a 2024 survey by HomeAdvisor, 68% of users paid under $300 for a standard washer installation. Only 12% exceeded $500—usually due to rerouting pipes or correcting code violations.

What Affects the Cost? 5 Key Factors

1. Existing Plumbing Setup

If your laundry area already has dedicated hot/cold shut-off valves and a standpipe (drain pipe), installation is quick and cheap—often under $180. No existing connections? You’ll need a plumber to run new lines, which adds labor and materials.

2. Location of the Washer

Installing a washer in a basement or garage may require longer pipe runs or floor drains. Second-floor installations can involve more complex drainage solutions to prevent backflow.

3. Type of Washing Machine

Front-load vs. top-load doesn’t drastically change plumbing needs, but stacked washer-dryer units or compact models in tight spaces may need custom hose routing or brackets.

4. Permits & Code Compliance

In some cities (like Chicago or San Francisco), plumbing work requires a permit if new pipes are installed. Permit fees range from $50 to $200, but skipping them risks fines or failed home inspections later.

5. Who Does the Work?

• Handyman: $75–$150/hour (may not be licensed for plumbing)
• Licensed Plumber: $100–$200/hour
• Appliance Retailer (e.g., Best Buy, Lowe’s): Often includes basic hookup for $99–$149 with purchase

⚠️ Pro Tip: Retailer installations usually only cover standard hookups. If your home lacks proper valves or drains, they’ll stop work and refer you to a plumber—delaying your setup.

DIY vs. Professional: Should You Do It Yourself?

Many assume connecting a washer is simple: attach hoses, plug it in, done. But plumbing mistakes can cause catastrophic water damage.

DIY Pros:

• Saves $100–$200
• Takes 30–60 minutes if everything’s ready

DIY Cons:

• Risk of improper drain slope → sewer gas or overflow
• Incorrect hose clamps → leaks under pressure
• Voided warranty (most manufacturers require professional install for full coverage)

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), nearly 40% of DIY plumbing failures in laundry rooms stem from poor drain venting or unsecured hoses.

✅ Best Practice: If you’re confident with tools and your laundry area is prepped, DIY might work. Otherwise, hire a licensed plumber—especially if you’re adding plumbing from scratch.

Step-by-Step: What a Professional Installation Includes

A certified technician typically follows this process:

1. Inspect the area: Check for existing water shut-offs, drain access, and floor stability.
2. Install isolation valves (if missing): These allow you to turn off water without shutting off the whole house.
3. Connect supply hoses: Use stainless-steel braided hoses (not rubber)—they last longer and resist bursting.
4. Attach drain hose: Secure it to a standpipe or utility sink with a proper air gap to prevent backflow.
5. Level the machine: Adjust feet so the washer doesn’t “walk” during spin cycles.
6. Test for leaks: Run a short cycle and check all connections.
7. Dispose of old unit (if applicable): Many services include haul-away for $20–$50.

🔧 Note: Always ensure your home’s water pressure is between 20–120 PSI—outside this range can damage the washer’s inlet valves.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

• Old pipe replacement: Galvanized pipes corrode over time; replacing a section can cost $200+.
• Floor repair: If previous leaks damaged subflooring, expect $150–$500 in fixes.
• Water hammer arrestors: Required in some states to reduce pipe shock; adds ~$75.
• Extended warranties: Some plumbers upsell protection plans—read the fine print.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can a washing machine be installed anywhere in the house?

A: Technically yes, but it must have access to water supply, drainage, and a 120V grounded outlet. Installing in non-traditional spaces (like under a kitchen sink) often requires custom plumbing and may violate local building codes.

Q2: How long does installation take?

A: For a standard hookup in a prepared space: 30–60 minutes. If new plumbing is needed: 2–4 hours.

Q3: Do I need both hot and cold water lines?

A: Most modern washers use only cold water and heat it internally for warm/hot cycles. However, some high-efficiency models still use dual inlets. Check your manual—but cold-only installation is increasingly common and cheaper.

Q4: What’s the difference between a standpipe and a utility sink drain?

A: A standpipe is a vertical PVC pipe (min. 30″ tall) with an air gap to prevent siphoning. A utility sink drain is acceptable if the hose is secured above the sink’s flood level. Never insert the drain hose directly into a sink or floor drain—that risks sewer gas backup.

Q5: Can I reuse old hoses?

A: No. Rubber hoses degrade over time and are a leading cause of leaks. Always use new, burst-resistant stainless-steel hoses (cost: ~$20/pair).

Q6: Does plumbing a washer increase home value?

A: Not directly—but having a functional, code-compliant laundry area is expected in U.S. homes. Missing or faulty plumbing can delay sales or trigger inspection failures.

Conclusion

Knowing how much to have a washing machine plumbed in isn’t just about getting a price quote—it’s about protecting your home, ensuring safety, and avoiding costly mistakes. With average costs between $150 and $600, hiring a professional is often worth every penny, especially if your setup isn’t “plug-and-play.”

Before you book a service, check your laundry area, ask for a detailed estimate, and confirm the plumber is licensed and insured. A small investment now prevents thousands in water damage later.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s setting up their first laundry room! 🔄
Your next load of laundry might just be the driest—and safest—one yet.