Replacing Washing Machine Hook-up Faucets

Loose Water Hose

• A rubber water supply hose connects a washing machine to each hook-up faucet -- one for the hot and cold water. Sometimes a hose can come loose over time from the faucet fitting and drip water, notes Don Vandervort’s Home Tips website. Slide the washing machine away from the wall to access the washer’s connections. Turn the metal washer located at the top of each hose where the hose connects to the faucet clockwise until it’s tight to stop water from leaking.

Leaky Water Supply Hose

• Examine each water supply hose for a possible leak. A damaged hose, as opposed to the hook-up faucet, may be leaking water. Water supply hoses generally last only about five years before they need replacing, according to Repair Clinic. If a hose has a bulge or a hole or is splitting, change it out. You can typically obtain replacement hoses from the local hardware store or an appliance retailer.

Clogged Faucet Screen

• Each hook-up faucet has a screen that filters out contaminants in the water to keep them from ending up in your washer. If a screen becomes blocked, water can leak from the faucet where it connects with a water hose. Disconnect power to the washer. With the washer moved away from the wall, turn off its faucets by turning each one's lever clockwise. Place a bucket beneath the cold water faucet and detach its hose, placing it inside the bucket once removed. Unscrew the screen from the faucet and run it under warm water to clean it. Screw it back on the faucet and attach the hose. Repeat the process to clean the hot water faucet.

Leaky Faucet Lever

• A hook-up faucet can leak from its lever. Rather than replace the entire faucet, try tightening the valve-packing nut just below the lever with a pair of pliers. Turn the nut clockwise about an eighth of a full revolution, recommends Tim Carter of the website Ask the Builder. If this procedure doesn’t work, contact a certified plumber to inspect the faucet, as this can be a complex project best left to professionals.