Do you need a siphon for a washing machine?

You may ask yourself if a siphon is really necessary when setting up a washing machine. It’s a minor but important plumbing component that can have a significant impact on how well your washing machine works. The trap, also known as a siphon, aids in keeping smells and soiled water from seeping into your machine or the plumbing system in your house.

It makes sense to install a siphon to keep your washing machine operating efficiently and to make sure everything goes as planned. It functions by forming a seal to prevent used water from flowing backward, which is particularly significant if your washing machine is attached to a laundry sink or standpipe. If you don’t have this small part, you could smell bad or even have water damage.

The siphon, despite its seemingly insignificant appearance, is essential for safeguarding your washing machine and the plumbing in your house. It’s usually a good idea to speak with an expert if you have questions about the installation process or need help selecting the appropriate type. In the long run, taking this small step can save you a great deal of trouble.

Many people wonder if they really need a siphon to ensure proper drainage when setting up their washing machine. Although a siphon can help stop backflow and stop wastewater from returning to the machine, the plumbing system in your home and local codes will determine whether or not you need one. A properly installed drainage system or standpipe may be adequate in certain situations. Determining whether a siphon is required for your setup can be aided by knowing how the drainage system of your washing machine functions and by speaking with a plumber.

What is this device for?

Ensuring proper washing machine connection is crucial to ensure seamless water removal from the system during the washing process. This is required for the equipment to operate properly. The purpose of the siphon’s invention was to guarantee that any amount of waste liquid would continuously drain into the sewer pipe. This is an essential tool that

• prevents the penetration of unpleasant "aromas" from the sewer into the apartment, in particular – into the automatic machine. This becomes possible due to the hydraulic lock, in other words – a water plug that completely closes the required section of the corrugated tube;
• prevents clogging of the drainage system. When a blockage does form in the structure, you can easily clean the siphon, without any special efforts;
• filters waste water from large debris. Some siphons are equipped with a filter, which also eliminates clogging of the sewer pipe. Such an addition will help protect valuables that accidentally fall into the drain, for example, a ring, cufflink, key. The mesh will hold them inside, not “throwing” them into the sewer;
• reduces the load on the washing machine pump. Organizing the drain through the “elbow” significantly extends the service life of the automatic machine pump.

Installing a washing machine siphon offers the user these benefits. These days, every machine has a hose that makes changing the drain fittings simple. The simplicity of installation is the one benefit of this connection option.

For instance, it is simple to toss the drain hose over the edge of the sink or bathtub and fasten it with a specialized holder. Thus, arranging the drain should take no more than five minutes. Cutting the sleeve into the pipe takes a little longer. These drainage options have many drawbacks in contrast to a few benefits.

First, you must bend the drain hose into a U shape in order to create a water seal. As a result, the corrugation will be under continual stress, which eventually causes damage. The sleeve’s walls will start to crack, and the drainage system’s tightness will break. You run the risk of continuously sensing "aromas" from the machine that come from the sewer if you refuse to use the water seal.

Second, the drain hose cannot be installed at an angle for the whole distance between the washing machine and the pipe’s drain point, as required by the regulations. The sleeve is just horizontally positioned on the ground. This causes the machine pump to become overloaded, which causes the pump to fail early.

Thirdly, it’s not hygienic to aim the hose into the sink or bathtub. Consider how frequently waste water that contains dirt and debris will trickle down the walls. After using the automatic machine every time, you will need to clean the plaque and wash the plumbing. Furthermore, there’s a chance that a single, thoughtless move will send the sleeve tumbling to the ground, filling the room with water.

Additionally, users extend the sleeve using extra corrugated pipe and connecting components when the drain hose is extremely short. Additionally, this puts more strain on the washing machine pump. Furthermore, more "joints" raise the possibility of leaks.

Without a siphon, it is possible to connect equipment to the sewer for a washing machine, but there are more drawbacks to this method than benefits.

Which siphon to take?

Plumbing department consultants can assist you in selecting drain fittings. This is something you can solve on your own, as there are no challenges involved. There are just three different kinds of siphons: combined, internal, and external.

Every siphon has unique qualities. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each in greater detail will help you decide which "knee" to stop at.

If the washing machine is placed sufficiently away from the sewer pipe, external drain fittings are utilized. In this situation, installing a structurally straightforward siphon will suffice; its small size and extra technical features won’t set it apart. The inability to move the washing machine in close proximity to the wall is the primary drawback of these products. Because of this, the external "elbow" is installed even though it is not necessary.

Internal siphons are small and installed straight into designated wall niches. When it’s crucial to position the machine near the intended surface, they are employed. Additionally, unlike standard fixtures, these fittings blend in with any interior design and do not detract from the bathroom’s aesthetic. The structure’s main body is concealed by a metal or plastic decorative panel. Consequently, following installation, the product’s compact nipple is the only part that is still visible.

Compared to the external design, the internal siphon’s disadvantages include a higher cost and more complicated installation. In addition, cleaning the "elbow" will be difficult if the drainage system is clogged.

Several fittings on combined siphons let you arrange the connections of drain hoses from various devices at the same time.

There are no distinctions from the external fittings other than this one. There are situations where having multiple outlets on the "elbow" can be quite useful. It is possible to arrange the water drainage from a sink and dishwasher as well as connect a hose from a washing machine by using a combined siphon. Customers most frequently choose this most adaptable product.

Whether or not your washing machine requires a siphon usually depends on your particular plumbing setup and local laws. Often, a siphon, also called a trap, keeps dirty water from running back into your washer, preventing odors and shielding your house from possible water damage. This is particularly valid for systems where the washing machine empties into a separate drain line or a standpipe.

Installing a siphon is usually a good idea, even though it’s not always required by law. It guarantees that everything functions properly and provides an additional degree of safety for your plumbing system. If you’re unclear, getting advice from a plumber can help you decide what’s best for your house.

In the end, thinking about the function of a siphon can spare you from potential hassles when installing a new washing machine or maintaining an old one. For operational efficiency and peace of mind, it’s a small investment.

Video on the topic

Review of siphons for washing (dishwashing) machines from the Czech company Alca Plast APS1 and APS2

Siphons for bathrooms and kitchens

Concealed siphon for washing machines. Review and installation principle

How to connect a dryer and washing machine to the sewer. Full instructions.

Viega concealed siphon for a washing machine, for a dishwasher

Installation of a siphon for a Hutterer & Lechner HL4000 washing machine and dryer.2

Connecting correctly. Siphons for washing machines, dryers and dishwashers.