Moving a Washer and Dryer Upstairs
Thinking of moving a washer and dryer from the basement to upstairs? Learn code issues, risks, and safer ways to add an upstairs laundry.
Helping older homeowners with accessibility is important, and moving laundry equipment upstairs can make life easier. In this case, the goal is to relocate a washer and dryer from the basement to a first-floor bedroom. The challenge is how to connect the new laundry drain and supply lines without major renovations.
The plan involves inserting a 2″ PVC pipe into the existing 3″ cast iron standpipe, running it up through the floor, and creating a new 2″ standpipe upstairs. The washer would connect there while using long hoses for hot and cold water, connected to the basement valves. The washer would also sit in a drain pan piped to the basement. While this idea avoids breaking concrete, it raises questions about safety, code compliance, and property value.
Question:
Is it safe and practical to run a 2″ PVC pipe from the basement standpipe to upstairs and use it as a new washer drain?
Answer:
No. This setup is not code-compliant and risks overflow, improper venting, and backflow issues. Washing machines discharge large volumes of water quickly, and long vertical runs of pipe without proper venting can cause siphoning or slow drainage. Building codes require laundry drains to be vented and sized correctly. Extending hoses for supplying water also increases the risk of leaks and pressure loss.
The best solution is to install a dedicated laundry drain line tied correctly into the home’s main drain system, complete with venting. While this may mean breaking some concrete or remodeling, it ensures compliance and avoids future plumbing issues. Another option is using a laundry tray pump system to lift water into the drain system safely.
Relocating laundry upstairs adds convenience, but it should be done correctly to protect the home’s plumbing and value. Cutting corners may cause long-term damage.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.
