How to shorten a washing machine drain hose

Shortening a washing machine drain hose is sometimes the only option if its length significantly exceeds the required connection distance. Twisting it will cause drainage problems, and simply cutting it will prevent you from using the special fittings. To ensure proper and hassle-free installation, read the instructions below.

Just cut it off

It might seem like the only reliable and affordable option is to simply trim off the excess centimeters. This would be true if the drain hoses didn't have special plastic ends, which are necessary for a secure and convenient connection to fittings, tees, and other methods of connecting the pipe to the sewer. Finding suitable replacements for them will be difficult and expensive in the future, so it's important to understand that by removing them, you'll lose the ability to provide a proper drain without additional gaskets and fasteners.

If the latter point isn't important, as the hose is simply inserted into a pipe bend or placed in a sink, bathtub, or toilet, there's no need to worry about preserving the ends. Then the sequence is as follows:

• we turn off the water supply tap by turning the corresponding valve on the water pipe;
• we turn off the power supply by removing the plug from the socket or turning off the corresponding circuit breaker in the panel;
• we pull out the drain hose;

Important! Be prepared for water to remain in the hose.

• we measure the required length and put a mark with a marker;
• Using a sharp knife, cut off the excess piece.

All that's left to do is replace the disconnected hose, turn on the water supply valve, and connect to the power supply. A quick test might be helpful: run the shortest cycle and then select spin mode. If water flows freely from the hose, everything is correct.

Let's save the plastic tips

The above option may not be suitable for everyone. When connecting the drain hose to the sewer via a trap or tee, it's important to retain the provided fittings. In such cases, an excessively long hose can be shortened using another method.

1. Disconnect the drain hose.
2. We measure the available space from the drain hole on the machine body to the connection point to the sewer pipe. Accuracy is important here: the hose should not be stretched.
3. We cut the hose in half.
4. We take one of the halves and cut it as much as necessary to reduce the length.

Important! It is recommended not to throw away the cut piece of hose, as it may be needed for future extension.

5. We take out a special connector. It's a plastic adapter and can be purchased at any service store for $0.30–$0.80.
6. We pull first one part tightly onto the connector, then the other.
7. We fix the position of the hoses with silicone, metal clamps or electrical tape.

We reconnect the shortened hose and test the machine to ensure proper drainage. This is done in the standard manner: start a cycle and select "Spin" mode. The most important thing is to ensure there are no leaks at the connection point. If drips are detected, tighten the fastening elements further.

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