How To Prevent Flooding in an Upstairs Laundry Room

Upstairs laundry rooms offer convenience, but they also come with risks, as water damage from a malfunctioning washing machine can be catastrophic. In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert, Richard Trethewey, demonstrates how to use and install an automatic washing machine shutoff valve. Below, we explore effective strategies to prevent flooding in your upstairs laundry room to give you peace of mind and help you protect your home from costly water damage.

Upstairs Laundry Room Risks

Placing laundry facilities on upper floors is increasingly popular due to its convenience. However, this arrangement comes with inherent risks that homeowners should be aware of. When a washing machine leak occurs in an upstairs laundry room, the water can quickly spread to lower floors, causing damage to ceilings, walls, flooring, and personal belongings. 

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average insurance claim for water damage and freezing in the United States between 2018 and 2022 was just under $14,000. In 2022, water damage and freezing made up 27.6% of all homeowners insurance claims.

Several factors can contribute to washing machine-related floods, including aging or faulty hoses, loose connections, overflowing drain pipes, and malfunctioning internal components. Washing machine hoses only last between eight and nine years. When they fail or burst, they can release a significant amount of water in a short time.

Given the potential for extensive damage, homeowners have to take preventive measures.

How To Prevent Flooring in an Upstairs Laundry Room

To minimize the risk of flooding in your upstairs laundry room, implement one or more of these preventive measures.

Install an Automatic Shutoff Valve

Washing machine hookups come with manual water supply valves that can be shut off after each use, but this approach is often impractical and easily forgotten. 

One of the most effective ways to prevent flooding is to install an automatic washing machine shutoff valve. It controls the water supply based on the washing machine’s electrical current. When the washing machine is turned on, the valve opens, allowing water to flow. When the cycle is complete, and the machine turns off, the valve closes, depressurizing the hoses and minimizing the risk of leaks or bursts.

Upgrade Washing Machine Hoses

If your washing machine hoses are older, they likely could do with an upgrade. Replace your standard rubber hoses with more durable options, such as stainless steel braided hoses, auto-shutoff hoses, or flood-safe hoses.

Perform Routine Maintenance 

Inspecting your washing machine regularly can help you spot problems before they become disastrous. You should inspect hoses for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks and bulge, and check any connections for tightness. Clean lint filters and drain pipes often. 

Homeowners can also prevent plumbing problems by scheduling professional plumbing inspections once a year.

Additional Tips To Prevent Water Damage

Here are some other strategies to prevent flooding and water damage from your upstairs laundry room:

• Install a drain pain. Place a drain pan underneath your washing machine to catch minor leaks or overflows. Make sure the pan is connected to a drain line that leads to a suitable drainage point.
• Use leak detection systems. Water leak detectors can alert you to leaks early, allowing for quick intervention. They can be installed around the washing machine base, near water supply connections, or by the drain pipe.
• Control humidity. Moisture buildup won’t cause flooding, but it can damage your home and lead to mold growth. Install an exhaust fan and use a dehumidifier if necessary to prevent humidity. 

How To Install an Automatic Washing Machine Shutoff Valve

In the video, Richard demonstrates the installation of an automatic washing machine shutoff valve, a device that can significantly reduce the risk of flooding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the installation process.

Tools and Materials

Before beginning the installation, you will need:

• Automatic washing machine shutoff valve
• Handsaw
• Oscillating saw
• PEX cinch tool
• PEX couplings and tubing
• PEX tubing cutter
• PVC cement
• PVC pipe
• Stainless steel clamps
• Wrench

Step-by-Step Installation Process

Once you have your materials, you can follow these steps:

1. Shut off the water supply to the washing machine.
2. Cut the hot and cold water lines going into your current shutoff valves.
3. Cut the drain pipe.
4. If necessary, cut the wall to accommodate the new device.
5. Make the drain connection first, as it has less flexibility than the water lines.
6. Clean and glue PVC components together.
7. Cut the existing hot and cold lines to the appropriate length.
8. Connect water lines using stainless steel clamps and PEX couplings.
9. Use a PEX cinch tool to secure connections.
10. Mount the automatic shutoff device to the wall.
11. Plug the device into a nearby electrical outlet.
12. Connect the washing machine’s power cord to the device.

DIY vs. Professional Plumbing Projects

While some homeowners may be comfortable with DIY installations, it’s often best to enlist the help of a professional plumber for complex tasks, such as installing an automatic shutoff valve or rerouting drain lines.

Professional plumbers have the experience to back up their work. They can make sure there are proper fits and connections, which reduces the risk of further issues. They’re also familiar with local building codes and can often offer warranty coverage for parts and labor.

Our Conclusion

Upstairs laundry rooms can be more convenient, but homeowners should take extra steps to protect their homes from water damage. With an automatic shutoff valve, you can reduce the risk of flooding from washing machine hoses and get peace of mind.

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