How to Install a Basement Laundry | Ask This Old House

Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey helps a homeowner install a washer and dryer in his basement. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps.)
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Shopping List for How to Install a Basement Laundry:
Dryer vent [amzn.to/319zPvi]
Caulk [amzn.to/304Aywu]
Flexible metal dryer vent tubing [amzn.to/2LHbuq3]
Hose clamp [amzn.to/2LoAbbH]
2-inch-by-1-inch PVC Y-fitting [amzn.to/2Lowoeu]
2-inch PVC piping [amzn.to/2N77Zwn]
Rubber repair coupling [amzn.to/2LLsECL]
Flux [amzn.to/2O4Lfgf]
Solder [amzn.to/34yjx10]
Copper pipe T-fittings [amzn.to/31aVZNv]
Stainless-steel hoses [amzn.to/2LqtplU]
1-inch PVC piping [amzn.to/34Dxyus] and fittings [amzn.to/2LLQwqd]
1-inch PVC check valve [amzn.to/302kBqp]
1-inch PVC ball valve [amzn.to/2PXSZCX]
Washing machine valve [amzn.to/2Q2tv7u]
Laundry sink [amzn.to/30237KZ]
Laundry sink pump [amzn.to/2NTHtpO]
Tools for How to Install a Basement Laundry:
Drill/driver [amzn.to/2LrY6Y6]
2 1/2-inch hole saw [amzn.to/32z4gLt]
Caulking gun [amzn.to/2Lorz4S]
Reciprocating saw [amzn.to/2LqtLZM]
Copper-pipe cutter [amzn.to/2NPYIZ7]
Torch [amzn.to/2I0njGJ]
Pliers [amzn.to/2N9XzMm]
Steps for How to Install a Basement Laundry:
1. To install the dryer vent, use a small drill bit to drill through the side of the wall of the house. Pick a spot that’s near the base of the home and free from obstructions.
2. With the small hole as a guide, use a 2 1/2-inch hole saw to saw through the house siding and into the basement.
3. Place a bead of caulk around the dryer vent where it connects to the building. Then screw in the vent using a driver.
4. Connect the flexible metal dryer vent tubing to the dryer vent using zip screws and a driver.
5. Use an elbow fitting to connect the dryer vent tubing to the back of the dryer.
6. Connect the dryer vent tubing to the back of the dryer using a hose clamp.
7. Plug the dryer into a 240-volt receptacle.
8. Next, to connect the washtub and water pump, use a reciprocating saw to cut out a piece of old galvanized pipe.
9. Replace the pipe section with a PVC Y-fitting and connect it to the old galvanized pipe using a rubber coupling.
10. Ensure the water supply is off, then, using a copper-pipe cutter, cut the existing hot and cold water lines.
11. Replace copper pipe connections with copper pipe T-fittings.
12. Then connect new copper pipes to T-fittings that will lead to the washer.
13. Apply flux to each joint and solder the connections with a torch.
14. At the washing machine supply location, install a washing machine shutoff valve.
15. Attach stainless-steel hoses to the washtub and faucet supply line. Hand-tighten and then snug them up with a pair of pliers.
16. Connect 1-inch PVC pipes from the washtub to the PVC Y-connection and drain line. Ensure you install a check valve to prevent discharged water from returning to the pump and a ball valve to control the flow.
17. Move the washer into place and connect the stainless-steel supply hoses.
18. Be sure to throttle down the water pump until it continuously stays on while water is being fed. Otherwise it will short-cycle, shortening the life of the pump.
About Ask This Old House TV:
Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewers-and we make house calls! Ask This Old House features some familiar faces from This Old House, including Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook.
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How to Install a Basement Laundry | Ask This Old House
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[@cthroughit8521]

I watched this just to get some general plumbing info and it wound giving me a solution to the venting issue I’m having with my basement bar sink. Never would have heard about this pump if it wasn’t for these guys. Thanks to all of them!

[@christiane1025]

Ive loved this show ever since I was like 10 years old. I'm now 42 and it's still one of my favorites.

[@paidda]

I’ve seen them myself growing up watching Sesame Street 😄

[@Soligniari]

I am gonna guess you also loved The New Yankee Workshop?

[@justinr8425]

This was one of my favorite shows as a kid. This and home time with Dean Johnson and his wife always got my full attention.

[@martell203]

#MeToo. I’m 36 now.

[@gurvirbhinder1743]

Shout out to Bob Villa too. Also, who remembers Home Improvement here to the fellow 80's Babies!!

[@cosmiclawnmower9818]

I nearly fell out of my chair at 1:34 when Richard begins to drill and says "hopefully that lines up pretty good outside."

[@fox10169]

Cosmic Lawnmower same hahahah then he just goes outside and immediately starts hole sawing the outside

[@100cvcv8]

fall off chair like in the movie? LOL

[@GrotrianSeiler]

Richard has always been AWESOME.

[@krisone5253]

This plumber guy is The Man. It's all second nature to him. He just knows what to do with every job by looking at it! 🤓

[@janetc4306]

Tip: make sure you put a sock or pantyhose over the end of the washer hose. Clean regularly so the old drain pipe does not clog.

[@adragland]

3years later and i’m popping in to say this is genius and thank you

[@TimmayFilms]

The most excellent, quick-video on basement plumbing I've seen.

[@rawbacon]

That laundry sink pump set up is the same setup we had when I was a kid, the house was built around 1965.

[@erik-rf3ku]

This guy he is genius.. I have learned a lot from this Guy. Thanks a lot..and God bless you.

[@rogerdevero8726]

Richard is a Real Pro. I've learned a LOT from you Richard! Excellent videos as always. John 3:16

[@ToolDeals]

This video answered several things for me as I'm going to be relocating my washer and dryer to the basement. My initial thought was "run the drain to the sump pump". Had no idea I could just install it to a sink! Brilliant. And also, yes, I can just drain it to the sump pump. Well done video!

[@bhadz100]

I’m also thinking abt relocating it to my basement but I’m totally clueless what to do with the venting. It seems that you don’t need a vent with pump

[@robertm5969]

@@bhadz100 the reason you don't need a vent in this application is the top of the slop sink acts like a vent stack.

[@willrobinson9575]

The washing machine i just bought has the ability to pump 8ft high. No need for a sink and pump. Ill be installing it today. In my case , the drain pipe i need to access is 6ft high from the floor.

[@rondenhollander4313]

Thank you, finally a video that shows proper dryer hook up. Prefer rigid pipe over flex, less issues.

[@Muly4366]

Except that he put zip screws in it. Tape or clamps only is the code I work under.

[@carlmax46]

zip screws should not be used on the 4" dryer vent. they will collect lint on the inside and have potential fire hazard. use high temperature metal tape.

[@nicholasphillips5406]

What about rivets?

[@DougCeleste]

Is there ANY plumbing job that Richard cannot do???? The man is AMAZING and so mechanically-gifted!

[@orbitmod1113]

Thanks for this information! No one wants to live without a washer dryer in their house if they can avoid it! Peace and Love.

[@phaelax]

I wanted to move my washer to the basement but had all the drain piping above the floor. Was afraid I'd have to hire someone to cut up the concrete and install a drain pipe in the floor, but this video was very informative.

[@armandocontreras5078]

Great video! I actually learned something I can use

[@fmartino100]

Great video Richard, an elegant solution to big problem...Frank

[@nofurtherwest3474]

"Time to put you to work" proceeds to do all the work himself

[@StephenNu9]

Makes it look so easy.

[@jorgecabrera2589]

Very good instructional video ,this is for my next project tank you

[@MultiPeacebewithyou]

Great instruction video, but what seems to be a great instructor. Thanks for the lesson...

[@alancastaneda8322]

When I was a child, the show was interesting, but did not hold my attention. As an adult, I'm enthralled, 'cause I gotta fix everything and build the things I want.

[@datstovey]

I used to think this show was so boring but now I'm taking plumbing classes

[@rjwalker6677]

These homeowners get a good deal. They get the the repair done for free. In return, they agree to be filmed for the show. Saves them alot of money.

[@ekoller]

Love hearing Richard’s laboring noises

[@ninja63639]

Which pump did you guys use. The links just take me to the general Amazon list

[@MRrwmac]

That was VERY informative Richard! Didn't know that pump and the vent design were available! Thanks.

[@balkrishansutar8321]

MRrwmac

[@shahsmerdis]

Why don't they just get a stacked unit. And use the washing machine's built in pump.....

[@pf5658]

@@shahsmerdis Either way the drain is way too high so a pump would be needed in both cases.

[@san379]

i mostly see the laundry tub pump in the basement floor and plugged in and the ball valve is good trick.. .. alot of people here put it in the sump pump and the sump pump puts it in the sewer..

[@Nate-vd1zf]

This video was incredibly helpful. Can I ask why water hammer arrestors werent used after the washer valve?

[@Sjrick]

I have the exact same throttling problem in my basement. Now i just have to take the time to get it fixed.

[@miltonnegron65]

Excellent video !!!

[@TRYtoHELPyou]

This was freeking awesome!

[@plumbingpassionandwork9859]

Very good job guys

[@marianunez2767]

Omg thank you!!!

[@briandjordjevic9969]

I think thats cool now if i get a job like this it would be very helpful

[@austinmoehring6110]

Badass setup

[@icelineman]

This guy is good!

[@DarkRaptor99]

I just had to deal with a nightmare natural gas install with my clothes dryer. The good thing is I was able to fix it with out too much of a hassle.

[@moorefilmltd]

Please don’t use screws on dryer vents. Lent gets caught and prevents air flow. Use a worm gear clamp for the metal flex tube or foil tape on hard pipe

[@samsngdevice5103]

Right!!

[@xJMSports]

Lint*

[@samsngdevice5103]

@@getoaluminumformworksystem5131 Dummy - Why are you posting SPAM? Don't you know how to sell? Idiot, go back to your Ghetto where you belong.

[@beotheguitarist]

Awesome!

[@darrylfitzys8632]

That guy did one hell of a plywood job in that corner... I’ve never seen anything like it.

[@diamondsdavid]

Great video.

[@curiosity2314]

Smart, I enjoyed that video!

[@sanjuchandy]

Richard great

[@saoyang9824]

Amazing

[@davidriblet9300]

That water valve was pretty nice

[@yard-foodz]

Wow that's a lot of work

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Since using the valve as a throttle of course tightens the drain orifice, I would've added a cleanout just before it. I also would've added a check valve after it, to relieve pressure from the ball valve and check valve in the pump, as replacing an in-line check valce is cheaper and easier than replacing the check valve that built into the pump assembly.

[@travelbro9930]

Im about to do this. So you're saying to install the check valve after the ball valve? I using the rubber one so it could be worked on later if needed. And also a cleanout before the ball valve? so in order: pump > cleanout > ball valve > check valve?

[@swss12]

ball valve for throttling. nice.

[@doctordumbass9425]

Is that bad?

[@LemonZ89]

@@doctordumbass9425 It's wasteful. You restrict the diameter of the waste pipe, potentially risking a clog. In addition, the pump now have to fight an artificial counterpressure in the waste end and has to work way harder than it needs to, hence it works slower, using the same power, but applying a lot of bonus wear on the pump mechanics. This should have been solved by pulse width modulation on the power end

[@doctordumbass9425]

@@LemonZ89 cool Thanks for the info

[@RoastBeefSandwich]

@@LemonZ89 That pump is strong enough to suck a golf ball through a garden hose, that ball valve is not even causing it to break a sweat. PWM would have increased cost and possibly reduced pump life more than the ball valve did.

[@murph914]

My rudimentary google kung fu tells me that most of these pumps are mounted in a small tank below the sink which allows it to fill a bit more and pace itself. I think?

[@paulgush]

My washer can pump its discharge into a standpipe 96 inches above the floor the machine is installed on. I suspect most can do the same, doing away with the need for a second pump.

[@ricklee827]

Glancing through the comments hartell pumps makes a very good laundry pump similar to what they were using. And they've been around for years

[@patrickm.parisou8328]

I’m very critical of this show, but Rich is probably the star in how he explains things to the customer.

[@4656superman]

Still Teaching after 40 years....Wow🤯

[@bosborne0]

The house I just moved into has a drain/sump pump enclosed into a bucket (I don't know the actual term), submersible sump pump. Is there a difference between that method and the non submersible no bucket method in the video? At some point I'm going to add another sink and will either need to drain into the current sink or buy another pump.

[@WhyTheHorseface]

Need more info about installing that laundry drain system....

[@mportklr]

I want to add a laundry room in my detached garage but there is no drain there. The nearest drain is under my house maybe 20'-30' away. Will one of these pumps be strong enough to send the grey water to the drain under the house?

[@synon9m]

this is great. also had no idea you could run a pump like this in lieu of sanitary pit.

[@hopeforthefuturesg]

If I dont need the sink part can I just run the drain hose to the pump or take the drain hose off and run pvc pipe into the back of the washer machine then have it go to the pump? I dont have much space to fit a sink or barrel

[@youcandoit3772]

Mentioned in a previous video was an extra pipe for venting, but on this one there isn't one. Is an extra vent required for the washer? I am a DIY'er and I find plumbing intimidating but am unable to find any company to come and fix my plumbing. They come out I ask for a bid and never get one. So I will have to fix my plumbing myself. Right now my washer is draining into my sump pump area, I am worried about the wear and tear on that sump pump, and then it not working when we get a big rain and it flooding my basement. I want to do a utility sink with the said pump on it, professional advice is appreciated.

[@wrestling1998]

Where can you find the pump? I’m finding everything but the pump.

[@o1gtt]

What sub pump did you use I gotta do this to my washer to drain

[@VivaElMole]

I got this pump and I want to install in the glacier bay laundry sink, but the bottom of the sink have 4 leaps that do not let the fiber or the rubber gasket, to flush to the sink and seal it, should I change for other sink? or there is a way around it? Thank You

I think I need a laundry sink with a pump since I'm having the same problem, the previous owner rigged something up to force the washer to the waste pipe but the drainage wasn't good. Now the new washer won't reach it at all. Links to this pump would have been nice I'm left with more questions but I'll figure it out.

[@GetToThePointplz123]

Didn't know they made a small pump specifically for that and no vent cool, curious about the cost of the pump itself and what it would've cost to have all that done

[@lep8622]

Can a air admittance valve be used to vent all three items?

[@khwajaahmadhasan9388]

Can this be used for a kitchen sink? I have a concrete slab foundation and would like to relocate my entire kitchen.

[@gregkeel4155]

What if you can't place the sink right next to the washer? Mine is ten feet away and I can't run drain pipe across a walkway

[@redpine8665]

I have a similar set up, but I connected both the washing machine and laundry sink to the drain going out. I don't understand why you'd want to pump the washing machine water twice, and also add extra workload to the sink pump.

[@trek520rider2]

Probably because the washing machine pump isn't designed to pump against gravity, in this case about 6 ft., but the sink pump is so designed.

[@DarkRaptor99]

I just got the big Samsung 5.6 Front load and Matching dryer with a scratch and dent deal at Lowes and it was the best money I spent in awhile. I had an old GE front load washer that was horrible thing could never balance a load, and an ancient clothes dryer. The new laundry appliances are so nice and fast now and the capacity is insane you could wash an army with this washing machine.

[@kalijasin]

if you going to refinish a basement like that you should use exterior grade - plywood, 2x4s, etc.. and the basement/foundation wall should be painted with drylok.

[@jesusval3ncia816]

How about to use transition bands??

[@PBS-nm1uu]

please explain that pump thanks

[@stuntz0rZ]

do all basement laundry set-ups require a pump?

[@DianaRamirez-ke1sh]

So if I have a sump pump I can just let the water of the washer go into the sump pump ?

[@ryanswob3583]

Only supposed to run 6 feet of flex drier vent. I use as little as i need to anyways

[@Rearmostbean]

This is semi rigid, not flex. You can run 12’ i believe. This is a good set up

[@themangymarmots]

DO NOT USE ZIP SCREWS OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF SCREW TO SECURE THE VENT PIPE TO ITSELF. You mut only use clamps or tape to fasten the pipe together. If you do the lent will get caught on the screw inside the pipe and cause a FIRE.

[@user-er4xl8dr8p]

can i pipe the washer in and add a check valve, instead of draining it into the sink?

[@samkhanhphane6256]

I am planning to buy Liberty 404 DRAIN pump 1/3 hp compact sink pump with 4.3 gallon capacity for my washing machine is this pump can handle?

[@shred46]

I thought zip screws or screws aren't allowed by code because of the lint?

[@rohall5060]

He hooked him Up! Lol

[@msk3905]

Exactly what I'm having a plumber quote today, curious how much this will be?

[@tylerkelly1965]

About how much was it? I'm getting a quote today.

[@tylerkelly1965]

I may try to do it myself but I know I'll end up on the floor covered with pvc shavings and sewage.

[@thesauce807]

How do you know which water pipes are hot and cold, cus in my apartment, its labeled or clear as to which is which, Great vid btw.

[@jean-claudegoddamn5858]

run the water, then feel both lines, hot water line will be warm/hot

[@yzhang8629]

Don’t need a pair of water hammer arrester for the hot and cold supply to the washing machine?

[@stiggy60426]

Not really, the flex hoses take a lot of the shock

[@boopmybutthole3616]

Sooo..I have a serious question. My mother has that sink set up...but on hers....she covers the exit washing pump with a nylon so it catches the lint and stuff...as she said it shouldn't go down the drain/water pumper?? Whhhat?

[@AStanton1966]

Rich has and knows about every plumbing do-da that was ever made.

[@charlesh7962]

Ok i just saw 2 dryer vents installed, one was rerouted to go right outside with lil bends , the 2nd one went up then 90° bend to go outside. What's the dryer vent " rule of thumb ?"

[@Vanilla_Icecream1231]

Just try and go out the closest way you can

[@randyhollysfarmhouserenova36]

Question: The manufacturer says a minimum of 6' pipe is needed from the check valve up. Is this necessary? I notice you have a similar setup where 6' isn't available. Thanks

[@Scott-eo7lj]

No, I've done it with less and never had a problem

[@PianoSoulos]

Keeps saying he's going to put the guy to work, then proceeds to do all the work, culminating with getting pissed at 5:10

[@garytsuikk]

Do you have the name of the pump that was installed under the sink in this video? I have a similar setup, except I have to manually turn on the pump whenever I do laundry. I would like to have it come on automatically when water is drained into the sink. Thank you!

[@rawbacon]

There's a link in the description that takes you to automatic pumps.

[@jim575757]

Wouldn't that partly open ball valve plug up in no time? Especially with a washing machine draining in there.

[@superCisco]

Same question....anyone have any thoughts?

[@charlesking678]

It won't. You have to throttle the valve for the pump to work properly. I've installed a ton of these pumps and never an issue. Also the pump is mainly only running gray water. It's not much to clog it up.

[@iLikeC00kieDough]

He probably installed a mesh screen on the end of the drain line from the washer to catch any lint before it gets to the pump

[@DTSupstateNY]

It’s just grey water so there’s nothing to clog it.

[@jahri57]

I need some work done

[@rayklatt7818]

So this setup doesn't require a vent pipe?

[@jacksplumbingvideos7147]

That’s why I am happy that my drain doesn’t leave through the wall

[@DC-ff1xm]

Is this approved in Canada? The pump

[@Negative13Prod]

Never use screws on drier vent. The lent will stick to them. Never use flex pipe either.

[@adanz008]

the area where i want to do this there is the main circuit box of home, can anyone tell me, in NY, how far away does this laundry set up need to be? thanks

[@fernandocoeto2248]

There must be a space 30" wide and 36" deep in front of the main panel. The washer and sink can be as close as like as long as not within that space.

[@coltonpoulter7936]

Wow when you cut the pipe did you get crap on your hands it looked 👍

[@Scott-eo7lj]

It was a 2" line so no crap would flow through that pipe. It's just sediment and grease, it was on the outside wall so it probably was the kitchen sink which has a disposal on it. But definitely not literal crap.

[@fernandocoeto2248]

Can't use a swing check on a vertical lines you only use them on horizontal lines , you would use a spring loaded check valve on vertical lines , and the laundry valves need air arresters to prevent water hammering

[@richik_sc]

Rich Santana the check was on a horizontal line, the ball valve was vertical

[@archiehunt1]

wrong. That only applies to waterlines. Swing checks are installed on sewage/sump pumps in the vertical all the time and it meets code.

[@ginacirelli1581]

My mother had this kind of setup and the sink was constantly clogging with all the lint coming off the clothes from the washing machine. She had to put pantyhose over the outlet, which was unsightly.

[@kikoperreta]

what brand is that pump ?