Do Plumbers Fix Washing Machines

Find out whether plumbers fix washing machines, including when to call a plumber for leaks and installations or an engineer for mechanical faults.

At Lillian Purge, we specialise in SEO for Plumbers. Find out if plumbers fix washing machines in our guide.

When a washing machine stops working, it can be difficult to know who to call first. Some problems relate to the appliance itself, while others stem from plumbing connections such as water supply or drainage. Understanding what a plumber can and cannot repair saves time and prevents unnecessary callout fees.

This guide explains when a plumber is the right professional to call for washing machine problems, what issues fall under their expertise, and when an appliance engineer is a better option.

When to Call a Plumber for Washing Machine Problems

Plumbers are specialists in water systems, pipework, and drainage rather than appliance electronics. However, washing machines rely heavily on proper plumbing connections. If the problem involves water flow, leaks, or installation, a plumber can help.

Common situations where a plumber is the right choice include:

Installing a new washing machine and connecting it to existing pipework
Fixing leaks from the water supply or waste hose
Resolving drainage issues causing water to back up into the machine or sink
Checking or replacing faulty isolation valves
Moving a washing machine to a new location and extending pipes or waste outlets

If your machine isn’t filling or draining properly, the issue may be within the plumbing system rather than the appliance. A qualified plumber can diagnose and repair problems involving water supply, pipe blockages, or waste outlets that affect performance.

When to Call an Appliance Engineer Instead

If your washing machine won’t turn on, spin, or heat water, the fault is usually mechanical or electrical. These issues require an appliance engineer rather than a plumber.

Situations for an appliance repair specialist include:

Faulty motors or belts
Electrical faults or broken switches
Drum or bearing problems
Heating element failure
Error codes showing internal malfunctions

Appliance engineers are trained to safely open, test, and repair electrical components, which falls outside a plumber’s remit.

How Plumbers and Appliance Engineers Can Work Together

In some cases, both trades are needed. For example, a plumber might repair a leaking hose or drainage pipe, while an engineer fixes the washing machine’s internal parts. Working together ensures the entire system functions correctly from water supply to spin cycle.

Some plumbing companies employ multi-skilled engineers who handle both water and appliance repairs. Always check before booking a service to confirm what’s included.

Washing Machine Installation and Relocation

One of the most common reasons to call a plumber is for washing machine installation. Whether fitting a new appliance or relocating one to a different part of your home, plumbing expertise ensures the connections are safe and leak-free.

Plumbers can:

Install cold and hot water feeds if required
Fit isolation valves for easy maintenance
Set up correct waste pipe connections
Secure the machine and test for leaks

Relocating a washing machine without professional help can lead to improper drainage, water damage, or even flooding. Using a qualified plumber gives peace of mind that the system is fitted to building regulations and won’t cause problems later.

Signs Your Washing Machine Problem Is Plumbing-Related

You may suspect a plumbing issue if:

Water remains in the drum after a cycle
The machine fills slowly or not at all
You notice leaks from behind or beneath the machine
There’s a foul smell coming from the drain hose
The sink gurgles when the washing machine empties

These are typical signs of blocked or poorly fitted waste pipes, restricted water supply, or venting problems. A plumber can diagnose and repair these quickly, often without needing to replace the machine.

Costs and Callout Expectations

For most plumbing-related washing machine issues, you can expect to pay between £40 and £80 per hour depending on your location and the complexity of the job. Installation costs for a new washing machine typically range from £75 to £150, depending on whether new pipework is required.

If an appliance engineer is needed for mechanical or electrical repairs, prices may differ. Some engineers charge a fixed callout fee that includes the first hour of labour and diagnosis.

Preventing Future Washing Machine Plumbing Issues

A few simple habits can reduce the risk of plumbing problems around your washing machine:

Regularly clean the filter and drain hose to prevent blockages.
Avoid overloading the machine, which can strain pipes and valves.
Ensure the machine sits level to prevent vibration-related leaks.
Periodically check water hoses for wear or cracks and replace them as needed.

Routine maintenance keeps both your washing machine and plumbing system running efficiently.

Expert Advice for Homeowners

If you’re unsure whether your issue is plumbing or appliance related, start by identifying the symptoms. If water is leaking, draining slowly, or failing to enter the machine, call a plumber first. If the drum isn’t moving or the display shows an error, contact an appliance engineer.

Providing this information when booking helps the professional bring the right tools and parts, saving time and money.

Final Thoughts

So, do plumbers fix washing machines? The answer is yes but only when the issue involves plumbing connections, leaks, or drainage. Problems with electrical or mechanical components require an appliance engineer instead.

Plumbers play a key role in installing, relocating, and maintaining washing machine systems safely and efficiently. Knowing who to call helps resolve problems faster and avoids unnecessary disruption.

At Lillian Purge, we help plumbers improve their online presence so that when homeowners ask questions like this one, your business appears as the trusted local expert with the right answers.