How to Knock Out Holes for a Washing Machine Fixture

If you've just purchased a new washing machine and are eager to install it, you may find that protruding fixtures are not an aesthetic complement to your new appliance. Using a washing machine outlet box fixture allows quick access to hoses and fittings without detracting from the room. Attaching the fixture to the wall requires making a cut to match the box.

Stud finder
Measuring tape
Pencil
Outlet box
Utility knife
Handsaw
Hammer
Wood screws
Screwdriver
Level

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the electrical wires in the wall. Use a stud finder set on the electric or metal setting. Move the finder over the wall until it beeps.
- 2
  Move the stud finder away from the area until the beeping stops. This indicates there are no electrical wires in this location and cutting is safe. Also, check for studs in the location using the stud finder and avoid cutting them. Generally, studs are placed every 16 inches.
- 3
  Measure 48 inches from the floor up the wall where attaching the washer fixture. Ensure it is directly behind the washer's location and no farther than four inches. Mark the spot using a pencil.
- 4
  Align the bottom edge of the washer outlet box with the mark on the wall. Trace the outline of the box onto the wall. Use a level to ensure the trace is even on all sides.
- 5
  Press the utility knife into the wall at the edges of the outline. Gently knock the top of the utility knife so it goes all the way through the wall. Move the knife up and down with sawing into the wall to create a small hole. Do this on all four corners of the trace.
- 6
  Insert a handsaw into the cut and saw the entire square.
- 7
  Tap the center of the cut square with a hammer until it falls out. Remeasure the hole and ensure it is the correct size for the fixture.

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