There are several ways to connect an automatic washing machine to the water supply. The most popular and reliable option is using a special tee. Let's look at how to properly set up the water connection point and tell you which faucet is best to buy.
Why install a tee tap?
It is quite possible to install a tee for a washing machine yourself, without calling a specialist. A shut-off valve designed to connect the washing machine to the water supply is considered essential, as it allows for immediate shut-off of the water supply to the system in the event of an emergency. For example, when a leak is detected.
Connecting the machine through a tee is recommended to reduce damage from possible water hammer. A sudden increase in pressure in the pipe can cause the inlet hose to rupture or fall off, causing a major flood. Such a leak will damage not only your property but also your neighbors'.
Connecting an automatic machine through a special tee tap is the safest option.
The tee must be installed in a visible location—in the event of an emergency leak, seconds count, and access to the valve must be quick. Therefore, proper placement of the faucet is crucial.
Let's collect the necessary tools
To connect a tee, you'll need various tools. It's best to prepare your tools in advance—this will prevent distractions during the work. What tools should you have on hand?
Adjustable wrench – needed to tighten the nuts.
Lerka – useful for cutting out threads.
Calibrator – necessary for “adjusting” the diameter of the tee and pipe.
A pair of screwdrivers - Phillips and minus.
Drill.
Special scissors for cutting polymer pipes.
Angle grinder – needed when the tap is cut into a metal pipe.
A factory-installed inlet hose is almost always included with your automatic washing machine. If it's not, purchase a corrugated hose yourself. Ideally, the hose should be equipped with the Aquastop system.
It is recommended to install a filter in front of the tee to purify and soften the water.
By installing a filter, you'll improve the quality of your tap water. This small "box" will help protect the washing machine's internal components from scale and limescale. Two filters can be installed, one for water purification and one for water softening.
You should also prepare sealing gaskets, FUM tape, some spare fasteners, and some tape. These accessories will help ensure a completely watertight connection. Before starting work, decide which tee installation method is optimal for your specific situation. Be sure to consider the room's layout and the placement of the plumbing fixtures.
Installation options for the part
There are three ways to connect a tee. The optimal option will vary in each case. Let's explore the nuances of each scheme.
The first option is to install a flow-through faucet. In this case, the procedure is as follows:
turn off the water;
drain the remaining liquid from the pipe;
screw the tee onto the existing threaded sleeve;
Connect the inlet hose to one of the branches.
When choosing this method, the faucet is installed on a separate branch of the water supply line. In most cases, a threaded bushing is already present at the required height. This is where the tee needs to be screwed.
Be sure to check the connection for leaks. Use sealing rings and FUM tape if necessary. Joints should not leak. If you notice any moisture leaking, wrap the affected areas with special plumbing flax fibers.
The second method is to install a tee. This type of tee can be installed when a permanent branch of the water supply pipe is connected to the automatic washing machine. The cut-in clamp is screwed into the riser so that the nipple faces outward.
Holes are drilled in the riser, and a section of pipe is connected through them, where the end valve will be attached. A thread is made on the free end of the pipe using a die. The thread should fit perfectly into the grooves of the tee. Then, wrap it with FUM tape and place the valve on top.
The inlet hose of the automatic washing machine is connected to the branch of the tee. Be sure to remove the transport valve provided inside the end valve. Next, check the connection for leaks. If the joints are dry, you can safely use the washing machine.
The third option is to install a shut-off valve with a cut-in connection. This method is the most labor-intensive, especially if the room has metal pipes. A grinder will be useful for this job. If the water pipe is plastic, the cut-in connection is made with special plastic shears.
To figure out how much pipe to cut, add together the length of the shut-off valve and the filter installed before it.
After measuring, cuts are made in the pipe. Of course, the water supply to the apartment should be shut off beforehand. Next, threads are machined on the ends to match the grooves on the tee being installed. Then, a filter element is installed to purify and soften the tap water.
After installing the filter, a shut-off valve is installed in the pipe. Both joints should have sealing gaskets to ensure a tight seal. If the water pipe is made of polymer, it is first expanded using a calibrator.
Next, connect the inlet hose to the faucet. Tighten all mounting nuts with a wrench. Wrap the joints with special plumbing thread.
When connecting a tee, it's important to consider the tightening force. A loose or overtightened bolt can cause a leak. Therefore, overtightening is also important.
Which tee should I buy?
There are various tees available for connecting automatic machines. Shut-off valves differ in the material they are made of, cost, design, and type of mechanism. To avoid disappointment, be sure to review all the device's specifications before purchasing.
Tee material. Budget faucets are made of an aluminum-silicon alloy. The main advantage of this type of valve is its low cost. The main disadvantage is rapid wear. Therefore, it's better to pay extra and buy a brass design, which will last much longer.
Operating mechanism. There are ball valves and multi-turn valves. Ball valves are much simpler in design, making them more affordable, but they are just as durable as multi-turn valves.
The faucet thread diameter. Typically, tee sizes are standard—3/4" or 1/2". Of course, if you search, you can find more "exotic" options.
The shape of the faucet valve. This is more of an ergonomic feature. Choose a tee that's comfortable to use.
Manufacturer. The faucet is installed in the water pipe and must withstand the flow pressure, be of high quality, and be reliable. The safety of the washing machine depends on the tee. Therefore, it's best not to skimp and buy products from well-known, trusted brands.
If you're considering connecting your washing machine to the utility lines yourself, be realistic about your abilities. You can install the tee yourself without hiring a professional. The key is to follow all safety precautions and purchase high-quality components.
There are several ways to connect an automatic washing machine to the water supply. The most popular and reliable option is using a special tee. Let's look at how to properly set up the water connection point and tell you which faucet is best to buy.
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