Installing a new washing machine can look more complicated than it really is. Once the appliance is positioned correctly, the shipping hardware is removed, the water and drain connections are made properly, and the machine is leveled, most installations are surprisingly straightforward.

The important part is not simply getting the washer to turn on. A proper installation should leave the machine stable, leak-free, correctly drained, electrically safe, and ready to handle high-speed spin cycles. Manufacturer installation guidance from Samsung, LG, Whirlpool and Bosch Home Appliances consistently emphasizes these fundamentals. (Samsung au)

Before You Start: Understand What the Installation Involves

A typical washing machine installation has several separate jobs:

Check that the machine fits the intended location.
Prepare the floor and surrounding area.
Remove packaging and transportation hardware.
Position and level the washer.
Connect the water supply hose or hoses.
Connect the drain hose.
Connect electrical power correctly.
Check every connection for leaks.
Run a test cycle.
Make final adjustments if necessary.

The exact arrangement varies between front-load, top-load, semi-automatic, fully automatic, and washer-dryer models, so the owner’s installation manual should always take priority over general instructions. Manufacturer requirements can differ significantly, particularly for drain-hose height, water connections, electrical requirements, and calibration. (LG NZ)

What You Need Before Installing the Washing Machine

Having everything ready before moving the appliance saves considerable effort.

Basic tools and supplies

Depending on the model, you may need:

Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Screwdriver
Spirit level
Measuring tape
Bucket
Cloth or towels
Flashlight
Manufacturer-supplied wrench
Water inlet hoses
Drain-hose guide or elbow
Supplied shipping-bolt covers
Anti-vibration pads, if recommended or appropriate

Whirlpool’s installation guidance similarly recommends having tools such as a level, adjustable wrench, pliers, measuring tape, bucket and flashlight available before beginning. (Whirlpool)

Important: Do not automatically reuse old hoses. Inspect existing hoses carefully for cracks, damaged washers, corrosion, stiffness, or other signs of deterioration. If the manufacturer specifies particular hoses or connectors, use those components.

Step 1: Measure the Installation Space

Before unpacking the appliance completely, measure the space where it will sit.

Measure:

Width
Depth
Height
Door or lid clearance
Space behind the machine
Distance to water taps
Distance to the drain
Distance to the electrical outlet

Do not measure only the empty opening. Consider the hoses and power cable behind the machine as well.

A washer that technically fits the opening may still be difficult to install if the rear clearance is too small for the water and drain connections.

LG’s installation guidance specifically recommends checking available space, door or lid clearance, ventilation, and hose positioning before installation. (LG NZ)

A useful rule

Leave enough room to:

Open the door or lid fully.
Reach the water valves.
Inspect hose connections.
Access the power connection when necessary.
Pull the appliance forward for future maintenance.

Step 2: Prepare the Floor

The floor is one of the most important parts of the installation.

A washing machine becomes particularly demanding during the spin cycle. The drum can rotate at high speed, and an unstable or uneven machine may produce considerable movement and noise.

The washer should normally sit on a firm, stable and level surface. Samsung specifically recommends a solid, level floor capable of supporting the washer and its contents, while LG recommends leveling the machine to reduce vibration and noise. (Samsung au)

Avoid placing the machine on a surface that is:

Soft
Severely uneven
Unstable
Wet
Structurally unsuitable
Covered by flooring that allows the appliance to slide excessively

If the floor itself is significantly uneven, simply adjusting the washer’s feet may not solve the underlying problem.

Step 3: Carefully Unpack the Washing Machine

Remove the outer packaging according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Look for:

Cardboard
Plastic wrapping
Foam blocks
Protective film
Internal packing material
Cable restraints
Hose restraints
Transport hardware

Do not immediately throw away every piece of packaging.

Some manufacturers recommend retaining particular components for future transportation. Shipping bolts and spacers, for example, may need to be reinstalled if a front-load washer is moved later. (Samsung au)

After unpacking, inspect the machine for visible transportation damage.

Check the:

Cabinet
Door
Control panel
Power cord
Water connections
Drain hose
Drum opening
Feet

If significant damage is visible, photograph it and contact the retailer or manufacturer before proceeding.

Step 4: Remove the Shipping or Transit Bolts

This is one of the most important steps for a new front-load washing machine.

Shipping bolts secure the drum during transportation. They are designed to prevent excessive movement while the appliance is being shipped.

They must normally be removed before operating the washer.

Samsung states that front-load washing machines are supplied with shipping bolts at the rear to secure the tub during transportation, and operating the machine with the bolts installed can cause excessive vibration and potentially damage internal components. (Samsung au)

How to remove them

Locate all shipping bolts on the rear panel.
Use the supplied wrench or the tool specified by the manufacturer.
Loosen each bolt.
Pull the bolts and associated spacers out completely.
Install the supplied plastic caps over the openings.
Store the bolts and spacers somewhere safe.

The exact number varies by model. Samsung notes that some machines use between three and five shipping bolts, while other manufacturers may use a different arrangement. (Samsung au)

Never guess

If the rear of the washer contains unfamiliar screws or brackets, check the manual before removing them. Not every rear fastener is a shipping bolt.

Step 5: Position the Washing Machine

Carefully move the washer toward its final location.

A washing machine can be extremely heavy, so do not attempt to carry or maneuver a heavy appliance alone. Whirlpool recommends using two or more people for moving and installing a washer because of its weight. (Whirlpool)

Move the machine gradually rather than dragging it aggressively across the floor.

Before pushing it completely against the wall:

Make sure the drain hose is accessible.
Make sure water hoses can reach their connections.
Check that the power cord can reach its designated outlet.
Ensure no hose becomes trapped underneath the appliance.

Do not crush or sharply bend the hoses behind the machine.

Step 6: Connect the Water Supply Hoses

Water connections vary according to the washing machine.

Some models use:

Cold water only
Separate hot and cold connections
Specialized water connectors

Never assume that every washer uses the same configuration.

Check the labels on the appliance and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

General connection procedure

Turn off the water supply.
Inspect the hose washers or seals.
Connect the correct hose to the correct water inlet.
Attach the other end to the appropriate water valve.
Tighten the connection firmly.
Avoid excessive force.
Ensure the hose is not twisted or sharply bent.

LG emphasizes connecting the correct hot and cold supply to the appropriate inlet and keeping hoses straight without kinks. (LG NZ)

Do not rely on brute force

A water connection needs to be secure, but excessive tightening can damage threads or sealing components.

After installation, slowly open the water valve and inspect the connection.

Step 7: Connect the Drain Hose Correctly

The drain hose is just as important as the water inlet.

A poorly positioned drain hose can cause:

Slow drainage
Water remaining in the drum
Drain errors
Water spilling onto the floor
Unwanted siphoning
Unstable drainage performance

The exact drain requirements depend on the model.

For example, LG provides model-specific guidance for pump-equipped washers, including a recommended drain height of approximately 90–120 cm for certain models. Other models have different requirements. (LG NZ)

Samsung likewise provides model-specific requirements for drain-hose height, positioning and length. (Samsung au)

Common drain arrangements

The hose may connect to:

A standpipe
Laundry sink
Dedicated drain connection

Secure the hose so that it cannot jump out during the drain or spin cycle.

Do not simply place a loose drain hose over a sink and assume it will remain there.

Avoid these mistakes

Never:

Crush the hose behind the machine.
Submerge the hose end unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow the configuration.
Create unnecessary sharp bends.
Exceed the manufacturer’s maximum hose length.
Position the hose outside the specified height range.

Samsung’s guidance specifically warns against improper hose positioning, excessive extension and placing the hose end underwater in certain installation configurations. (Samsung au)

Step 8: Level the Washing Machine

Leveling is one of the easiest steps to overlook and one of the most important.

Place a spirit level across the top of the washer.

Check:

Left to right
Front to back

Adjust the leveling feet until the washer is correctly positioned.

LG recommends placing a level across the washer and adjusting the feet until the bubble remains centered. It also recommends gently rocking the machine afterward to check for stability. (LG NZ)

The washer should not rock

After leveling, gently press opposite corners.

If the appliance rocks, adjust the feet again.

Once the feet are correctly positioned, tighten the locking nuts if the model uses them.

A machine can appear level while still being unstable, so the final stability check matters.

Step 9: Check the Electrical Connection

Electrical requirements vary by country and appliance.

The safest approach is to follow the electrical specifications in the washing machine’s installation manual and local electrical requirements.

Do not:

Remove the grounding connection.
Use a damaged power cord.
Modify the factory plug.
Use unsuitable extension arrangements.
Operate the appliance with damaged electrical components.
Plug the machine into an outlet that is not appropriate for its electrical rating.

Samsung’s installation instructions, for example, specify using an appropriately grounded outlet and emphasize correct electrical connection as part of the installation process. (Samsung au)

If the available outlet does not match the manufacturer’s electrical requirements, stop the installation and have the electrical supply evaluated by a qualified professional rather than improvising an adapter or wiring arrangement.

Step 10: Turn on the Water and Inspect for Leaks

Before running a complete wash program, slowly open the water supply valves.

Inspect:

Faucet connections
Hose ends
Washer inlet connections
Nearby plumbing
Floor beneath the appliance

Look carefully rather than simply turning the water on and walking away.

Even a small leak can become significant if the washer continues operating unattended.

If water appears around a connection:

Turn off the water supply.
Check the hose alignment.
Inspect the sealing washer.
Reconnect the hose according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Test again.

Never ignore a small leak simply because it appears insignificant.

Step 11: Run the Manufacturer’s Recommended Test Cycle

The first cycle is essentially the final inspection.

Different manufacturers recommend different test procedures. Some provide a dedicated installation test or calibration mode, while others recommend a short wash, rinse-and-spin, or similar cycle.

LG recommends a test cycle after installation to verify water inlet connections, leveling and drainage. Samsung also recommends a test cycle that confirms filling, spinning and draining. (Samsung au)

During the test, watch and listen.

Check for:

Proper water filling
No leaks
Correct drainage
Excessive vibration
Abnormal banging
Grinding sounds
Error codes
Door or lid operation
Proper spinning

If the machine begins moving excessively, stop the cycle.

Check the leveling and confirm that all shipping bolts have been removed on applicable front-load models. LG specifically identifies shipping bolts and leveling as common causes of excessive vibration after installation. (LG NZ)

Washing Machine Installation: Quick Comparison Guide

Front-Load vs. Top-Load Installation

Installation Point	Front-Load Washer	Top-Load Washer
Shipping bolts	Commonly required	Depends on model
Drum transportation locks	Usually important	Model dependent
Leveling	Essential	Essential
Water connection	Model dependent	Model dependent
Drain hose	Must follow model specifications	Must follow model specifications
Door/lid clearance	Front door needs sufficient space	Lid needs sufficient vertical clearance
Vibration sensitivity	Often significant during high-speed spin	Also important
Test cycle	Recommended	Recommended
Calibration	Some models require it	Some models provide it
Moving later	Reinstall transport hardware if specified	Follow manufacturer’s moving instructions

The table provides general guidance rather than a replacement for the specific installation manual. Manufacturer requirements can differ even between models from the same brand. (Samsung au)

Common Washing Machine Installation Mistakes to Avoid

1. Running a front-loader with shipping bolts installed

This can cause severe vibration and potentially damage the appliance.

2. Ignoring the floor level

An unstable washer can move considerably during high-speed spinning.

3. Leaving hoses kinked

A kinked supply hose can restrict water flow, while a badly positioned drain hose can interfere with proper drainage.

4. Forgetting to secure the drain hose

A drain hose that comes loose can discharge water onto the floor.

5. Over-tightening connections

More force does not necessarily mean a better seal.

6. Pushing the machine too tightly against the wall

This can compress hoses or make future inspection unnecessarily difficult.

7. Skipping the test cycle

A washer may appear perfectly installed while still having a leaking connection or drainage problem.

8. Using the wrong electrical connection

Electrical requirements should be verified from the appliance documentation rather than guessed.

9. Ignoring unusual vibration

Excessive vibration is a warning sign, not simply a normal characteristic of a new washer.

10. Throwing away transport hardware

Keep shipping bolts and spacers if the manufacturer says they are needed for future relocation. (Samsung au)

What to Do If the Washing Machine Vibrates Excessively

A small amount of movement can occur during operation, but strong shaking or walking across the floor deserves attention.

Work through these checks in order:

First: Confirm that the shipping bolts have been removed if the machine is a front-loader.

Second: Check whether the washer rocks when pressed at different corners.

Third: Recheck the leveling feet.

Fourth: Make sure the washer is sitting on a firm, stable surface.

Fifth: Check whether the load is unusually unbalanced.

Sixth: Look for contact between the appliance and nearby cabinets or walls.

LG specifically identifies unremoved shipping bolts and incorrect leveling as common causes of excessive vibration. (LG NZ)

If severe vibration continues despite correct installation, consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guidance or service department.

What to Do If the Washing Machine Is Not Draining

A drainage problem after installation often comes down to hose positioning.

Check whether:

The drain hose is kinked.
The hose is crushed behind the washer.
The drain opening is blocked.
The hose is positioned outside the manufacturer’s required height.
The hose is excessively extended.
The drain connection is improperly secured.

Samsung and LG both provide model-specific drain installation requirements because correct height and routing can affect drainage performance. (Samsung au)

Do not modify the drain arrangement randomly. Check the installation manual for the exact model first.

What to Do If Water Leaks

If water appears during the first test:

Stop the machine and turn off the water supply.

Then identify where the water originates.

Leak at the faucet

Inspect the hose connection and sealing washer.

Leak at the washer inlet

Check that the correct hose is connected to the appropriate inlet and that the connection is properly seated.

Leak from the drain

Check the drain hose position, connection and securing mechanism.

Water underneath the appliance

Do not assume that the inlet hose is responsible. Water can travel along surfaces before appearing underneath the machine.

If the source cannot be identified safely, discontinue use and arrange professional inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one person install a washing machine?

The plumbing connections may be manageable by one person, but moving a washing machine is another matter. Manufacturers such as Whirlpool recommend using two or more people for moving and installing the appliance because of its weight. (Whirlpool)

Do all washing machines have shipping bolts?

No. Shipping hardware depends on the machine design and model. Front-load washers commonly use transport bolts to secure the tub, while installation requirements for top-load models vary. Always check the manual for the specific appliance.

What happens if shipping bolts are not removed?

The tub may be unable to move normally during operation, producing excessive vibration and noise and potentially causing damage. Samsung and LG both warn about this issue. (Samsung au)

Should a washing machine be perfectly level?

The machine should be installed according to the manufacturer’s leveling instructions and should be stable without rocking. Proper leveling helps reduce vibration and noise, particularly during high-speed spinning. (LG NZ)

Can a washing machine drain into a sink?

Some washing machines can drain into a suitable laundry sink when the manufacturer’s installation instructions permit it. The hose should be securely positioned so it cannot fall out during operation. LG provides installation instructions for both standpipes and laundry tubs on applicable models. (LG NZ)

Can the drain hose be extended?

Sometimes, but only within the limits specified by the manufacturer. Excessive length or incorrect routing can interfere with drainage. Samsung, for example, specifies maximum lengths and positioning requirements for particular models. (Samsung au)

Should the washing machine be plugged into an extension cord?

The answer depends on the manufacturer’s instructions and local electrical requirements. Do not assume that a household extension cord is suitable for a high-power appliance. Use the electrical arrangement specified for the particular washer, and consult a qualified electrician when the existing outlet is unsuitable.

Why does a new washing machine make loud noises?

A new machine that makes unusually loud banging or shaking noises should be checked rather than ignored. Common installation-related causes include unremoved shipping bolts, an unlevel machine, an unstable floor, or an unbalanced load. (LG NZ)

Does a new washing machine need calibration?

Some models do. Calibration allows the appliance to establish operating parameters appropriate to its sensors and suspension system. Samsung, for example, provides calibration procedures for certain washing machines and recommends following the model-specific process. (Samsung au)

Should the washing machine be tested before adding clothes?

Yes. A manufacturer’s recommended installation test or short cycle provides an opportunity to identify leaks, drainage problems, excessive vibration and other installation issues before normal use. LG and Samsung both recommend testing after installation. (Samsung au)

When should a professional install the washing machine?

Professional help is sensible when the installation involves new plumbing, electrical modifications, structural changes, difficult access, an unsuitable floor, or connections that do not match the appliance requirements. A straightforward replacement installation can often be completed by following the manufacturer’s instructions, but electrical and plumbing work outside the appliance’s normal connection procedure should be handled by appropriately qualified professionals.

Final Installation Checklist

Before considering the installation complete, verify every item below:

The washer fits the available space.
The floor is firm and suitable.
All packaging has been removed.
Shipping bolts have been removed where applicable.
Shipping-bolt covers have been installed.
Transport hardware has been stored safely.
The washer is level.
The washer does not rock.
Water hoses are connected correctly.
Water hoses are not kinked.
Drain hose is correctly positioned.
Drain hose is secured.
Electrical connection meets the manufacturer’s requirements.
Water valves have been opened gradually.
All connections have been inspected for leaks.
The recommended test cycle has been completed.
The machine fills correctly.
The machine drains correctly.
The machine spins without excessive vibration.
No unusual noises or error codes appear.

Conclusion: A Proper Installation Is the Foundation for Reliable Washing

Installing a new washing machine is not really about connecting a few hoses and plugging in a power cord. The quality of the installation determines how safely and reliably the appliance can perform every time it enters a high-speed spin cycle.

The most important principles are straightforward: measure the space first, use a suitable floor, remove transportation hardware when required, connect the correct water supplies, position the drain hose according to the manufacturer’s specifications, level the appliance carefully, use the correct electrical connection, and test everything before normal use.

The shipping bolts deserve particular attention because they are easy to overlook and can cause severe vibration if left installed. Leveling deserves equal attention because even a correctly connected washer can shake, walk or make excessive noise when its feet are not properly adjusted. Drain-hose positioning is another area where generic advice can be misleading, which is why the exact manufacturer’s requirements should always take precedence.

The final test cycle is effectively the installation’s quality check. Watching the machine fill, drain and spin allows problems to be identified while they are still easy to correct. A small leak can be addressed before it damages flooring, while excessive vibration can be investigated before repeated operation places unnecessary stress on the appliance.

For anyone installing a washing machine for the first time, the safest approach is to work methodically rather than quickly. Keep the installation manual nearby, do not guess when two models have different connection requirements, and stop whenever a plumbing or electrical situation falls outside the normal appliance connection procedure.

Once the machine is stable, correctly connected, leak-free and successfully tested, the installation is complete. Taking the extra time to get those fundamentals right can make the difference between a washer that simply works and one that operates quietly, reliably and safely for years.