Special Floor Drain for Washing Machines: What’s the Difference Between a Washing Machine Floor Drain and a Regular Floor Drain?
A floor drain not only provides drainage but also helps prevent clogs, which would otherwise require frequent cleaning. There are various types of floor drains available on the market today, including those specifically designed for washing machines and regular floor drains, with many well-known brands offering both. It’s essential to choose the right one based on your needs, particularly when it comes to drainage and odor control. Let’s explore the key differences between washing machine floor drains and regular floor drains, as well as installation tips for washing machine floor drains.
Differences Between a Washing Machine Floor Drain and a Regular Floor Drain
1. Structure
Regular floor drains can be installed in bathrooms, while washing machine floor drains are specifically designed for the drainage needs of washing machines. The main difference lies in their structure. A washing machine floor drain has a hole in the center to accommodate the washing machine’s drain pipe, whereas regular floor drains typically do not have this feature due to their water seal design.
2. Price
The price is another point of distinction. Regular floor drains are affordable and commonly found in supermarkets. Washing machine floor drains, however, are specially designed and priced higher.
3. Performance
Washing machine floor drains are essential for handling the chemical elements in the wastewater, such as phosphorus, which can pollute water if not properly treated. These drains must be connected to the indoor sewage system to ensure safe disposal. Regular floor drains are more suited for kitchen and bathroom drainage. Additionally, the deodorizing performance of regular floor drains tends to be better than that of washing machine floor drains.
How to Install a Washing Machine Floor Drain
There are many types of floor drains, but here’s a simple installation method that doesn’t require special tools. The main components include a sealing core to allow water flow while preventing odors, an adapter to connect the floor drain to the washing machine drain pipe, and a drain cover.
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Place the small sealing ring at the top of the floor drain cover to prevent water leakage when connecting the adapter.
- Unscrew the adapter nut and attach it to the drain cover.
- Remove the sealing ring from the lower end of the drain cover.
- Install the sealing core over the outlet and reattach the sealing ring.
- Connect the other end of the adapter to the washing machine drain pipe, securing it with the sealing ring.
- Adjust the angle to ensure the floor drain covers the sewer pipe completely.
Choosing the Right Washing Machine Floor Drain
When selecting a washing machine floor drain, consider the following:
1. Type
Choose an air-sealed floor drain for washing machines, as this type handles the large, instantaneous water flow efficiently.
2. Material
Popular materials include stainless steel, brass, and copper alloys. Stainless steel and copper alloy drains are durable and affordable, while brass floor drains offer the best overall performance.
3. Water Flow Speed
Opt for a floor drain with a large enough opening to ensure smooth water flow.
4. Casing
You can choose between single-pipe and double-pipe casings. A single pipe is dedicated to one washing machine, while a double-pipe setup allows for the drainage of two washing machines or both a washing machine and a mop basin.
How to Use a Washing Machine Floor Drain
- Install the floor drain at the lowest point of the floor to ensure proper drainage.
- Make sure the drain fits the opening in your home, as large drainage holes may need adjustment to fit the floor drain.
- Regularly fill the water seal to prevent it from drying out, which can allow unpleasant odors to escape. If you’ll be away for an extended period, choose a floor drain with a cover for extra protection.