Appliance Supply Lines & Drain Hoses

Appliance Supply Lines & Drain Hoses connect washers, dishwashers, refrigerators, and steam dryers to your home’s plumbing, delivering clean water in and moving wastewater out with reliability. Quality hoses and connectors reduce leaks, resist kinks, and stand up to pressure and temperature swings, protecting floors, cabinets, and nearby finishes.

Choose supply lines in braided stainless steel, reinforced PVC, PEX, or copper. Braided stainless offers high burst strength and abrasion resistance; PVC and PEX provide flexible routing in tight spaces. Common connections include 3/4 inch GHT for washing machines, 3/8 inch compression for dishwashers, and 1/4 inch OD tubing or 1/4 inch compression for refrigerator ice makers. Options with 90 degree elbows, color‑coded nuts, and integrated ball valves simplify installation behind appliances.

Drain hoses are typically corrugated polypropylene or rubber for durability and flexibility. Dishwasher drains generally run 5/8 or 3/4 inch to an air gap or disposal inlet; washers discharge to a standpipe or laundry sink. Smooth‑bore designs improve flow and reduce buildup, while included clamps, barbs, and hook ends secure connections under vibration.

Lengths range from 4 to 10 feet for most hookups; ice maker kits often include 10 to 25 feet of tubing for clean routing.

• Match thread type: compression vs NPT vs FIP/MIP vs GHT.
• Measure with slack; avoid bends and strain.
• Use new rubber or EPDM washers; do not overtighten.
• Apply thread tape only on tapered NPT threads, not compression.
• Create a high loop or use an air gap on dishwasher drains to prevent backflow.
• Set washer standpipe height per code (typically 30–96 inches) and secure the hose.
• Add hammer arrestors and stainless braided hoses to cut water hammer.
• Replace braided or rubber hoses every 5 years, or sooner at signs of wear, and test all joints under pressure.

These choices and practices help prevent leaks, speed up installation, and extend appliance life—key benefits for any plumbing upgrade or repair.