Can a hot and cold fill washing machine be connected to cold only?
A hot and cold fill washing machine can be connected to a cold water supply only using a Y-piece connector. This splits the single cold supply into two feeds – one for each inlet valve. The machine will not know there is no hot supply; it will simply heat the cold water to the correct temperature. Without a Y-piece, leaving the hot inlet valve unconnected can cause some wash cycles to fail or abort with an error code.
What a Y-Piece Connector Does
A Y-piece connector is a small plastic fitting shaped like the letter Y. It screws onto a single water supply tap and provides two outlets – allowing two fill hoses to be connected to one tap. For a hot and cold fill washing machine connected to only a cold supply, the Y-piece allows both the hot and cold inlet valves on the machine to receive water from the single cold tap.
The machine does not know the water coming into both valves is cold. It will operate normally on all wash cycles and heat the water to the correct temperature using its own heating element.
How to Connect Using a Y-Piece
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Connect the single stem of the Y-piece to the cold water tap.
The cold (blue) tap is the correct connection. Do not use the hot tap – connect only to cold. Screw the Y-piece fitting onto the tap outlet.
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Connect both washing machine fill hoses to the two outlets of the Y-piece.
The two branches of the Y feed both the hot and cold inlet valves on the back of the machine. Both are now receiving cold water from the same cold tap. Check the rubber seals are in place at each connection.
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Turn on the cold tap fully and check for leaks at all connections.
Tighten by hand until firm. Do not overtighten with tools. Run a short programme and check the Y-piece connections during filling.
Y-piece hose splitters for washing machine fill hoses are available at plumbing merchants, DIY stores, and online. They are inexpensive and straightforward to fit without any plumbing knowledge.
What Happens If You Leave the Hot Inlet Unconnected
If only the cold fill hose is connected and the hot inlet valve is left without a supply, some wash programmes may fail. This is because on some hot and cold fill machines, certain cycles – particularly higher temperature programmes – are designed to fill via the hot valve only. With no water supply to that valve, the machine times out on fill and displays an error code or aborts the cycle.
What may work with only cold connected
Lower temperature programmes (30 and 40 degrees) that fill via the cold valve may work normally. If only a limited number of cycles are used and none rely on hot-only fill, the machine may be usable without a Y-piece. Testing a rinse and spin cycle first is a low-risk way to check before committing to full washes.
What will likely fail
Higher temperature cycles (60 and 90 degrees) often fill via the hot valve only on hot and cold fill machines. These will abort or produce an error code without a supply to the hot inlet. The full programme list cannot be used reliably without connecting both valves.
Does a Cold-Only Connection Affect Energy Use?
Using a Y-piece to supply cold water to both inlets means the machine heats all the water itself using its element, rather than drawing some pre-heated water from the hot supply. This may use slightly more electricity per cycle, but the difference is modest. Modern washing machines use relatively small amounts of water per cycle, and much of the energy saving from a hot fill comes from the heating of wash water rather than rinse water.
For a detailed comparison see our guides on cold fill versus hot and cold fill washing machines and whether a hot and cold fill machine is more economical.
Installation Guides
Related Guides
Cold Fill vs Hot and Cold FillThe differences between cold-only and hot and cold fill machines – and which is more common today.
What to Do With an Old Hot TapHow to properly blank off the old hot water tap connection when fitting a cold-fill-only machine.
Tips for Connecting a Washing MachineWhat to check when connecting fill hoses, drain hoses, and the first-use checks to carry out.
Washing Machine Hoses and PlumbingFill hoses, drain hoses, and water connections – everything about washing machine plumbing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect a hot and cold fill washing machine to cold water only?
Yes, using a Y-piece connector. This splits the cold supply into two feeds for both inlet valves. The machine will not know the water is cold on both sides and will simply heat it to the correct temperature. Without a Y-piece, leaving the hot inlet unconnected risks some cycles failing or producing an error code.
What is a Y-piece connector for a washing machine?
A Y-piece (or hose splitter) is a small plastic fitting that connects to a single water tap and provides two outlet connections. It allows two fill hoses to draw from one tap – useful when connecting a hot and cold fill washing machine to a single cold water supply.
Will leaving the hot inlet unconnected damage the washing machine?
It will not necessarily cause damage, but some wash cycles will fail or abort. Cycles designed to fill via the hot valve will produce an error code or not complete. The machine should be used with both valves connected – either via a Y-piece to a single cold supply, or with each hose connected to its correct hot and cold tap.
67 Comments
Grouped into 48 comment threads.
0 replies Fantastic - thanks so much. Will try again and give it a bit longer this time.
1 reply Hi - we recently moved house and have the problem highlighted here ie only a cold water feed to a washing machine with hot and cold connectors. I bought a y connector as you advised and tried that and it filled with water on programmes it wouldn't do previously, but it didn't look like much water to me... Also, it didn't feel hot - do I need to wait for quite a while for it to heat up? And should it now be using less water like it appears to be? Thanks in advance! Ps I was quoted £100 for some one to look at this and remedy it for me - think he thought I was a daft single woman, easily parted with her cash! I'm really hoping to prove him wrong!!
Hi – we recently moved house and have the problem highlighted here ie only a cold water feed to a washing machine with hot and cold connectors. I bought a y connector as you advised and tried that and it filled with water on programmes it wouldn’t do previously, but it didn’t look like much water to me… Also, it didn’t feel hot – do I need to wait for quite a while for it to heat up? And should it now be using less water like it appears to be? Thanks in advance! Ps I was quoted £100 for some one to look at this and remedy it for me – think he thought I was a daft single woman, easily parted with her cash! I’m really hoping to prove him wrong!!
Likely replying to Sarah
Hello Sarah. The y-piece allows the washing machine to work on all programs by supplying cold water to both the hot and cold fill valves, but of course without a hot water supply all water going in will be stone cold. Your washing machine will now be a cold fill washing machine. The water will heat up inside the machine.
It may now take longer to wash than it used to, however it may only be a small amount longer depending on your previous plumbing and the wash cycles you use. The upside is that if it does take a bit longer to wash it may actually wash more thoroughly than before and give better wash results. The only way to get hot water to your washing machine is to have a plumber to plumb it into a hot supply. This should not be necessary now you have fitted the Y piece unless by any chance you use a lot of boil washes or you find it is taking considerably longer to wash which you find inconvenient. Most washing machines are now cold fill only anyway as explained in my article cold Fill Washing Machines
0 replies I have a Whirlpool American top load washing machine we have connected both hot and cold feed but both to cold water, water is going into the machine but not heating up not sure if i have to defo have hot water going in
I have a Whirlpool American top load washing machine we have connected both hot and cold feed but both to cold water, water is going into the machine but not heating up not sure if i have to defo have hot water going in
1 reply Hi, 1st time setting up a washer so not very good.. Can i use 2 blue pipes to go on the hot & cold tap?
Hi, 1st time setting up a washer so not very good.. Can i use 2 blue pipes to go on the hot & cold tap?
Likely replying to Charlie
Hello Charlie: In the old days the cold water hose needed to be able to cope with higher water pressure and the hot one cope with higher water temperatures but I wouldn’t be surprised if they were exactly the same hoses – just in different colours. However, I can’t say for sure. They used to be made of soft rubber where the pressure and temperature may make a difference but they are now made of different material. I can’t see any harm in using one temporarily but to be on the safe side it’s probably best to use a red one for hot on a permanent basis just in case.
0 replies It's all explained in the article Ross. However, if you can still connect the hot water hose to the washer and you just mean there won't be any hot water (i.e the water will still run through but it won't have been heated up) then just connect and use it as normal and it will all work fine. It will just take a little bit longer. If the hot water system is out of commission and no water running to the hot pipe then just read the article which explains it all :)
It’s all explained in the article Ross. However, if you can still connect the hot water hose to the washer and you just mean there won’t be any hot water (i.e the water will still run through but it won’t have been heated up) then just connect and use it as normal and it will all work fine. It will just take a little bit longer. If the hot water system is out of commission and no water running to the hot pipe then just read the article which explains it all :)
0 replies Hello. I have moved into a new flat that has a washing machine with cold and hot inlet but the boiler is waiting to be repaired so have no hot water. Will the machine work or do I need to disconect the hot and use a y thing. Thanks
Hello. I have moved into a new flat that has a washing machine with cold and hot inlet but the boiler is waiting to be repaired so have no hot water. Will the machine work or do I need to disconect the hot and use a y thing. Thanks
1 reply Hi, I live in a caravan and am looking to buy a mini washing machine from good ideas, model 889, which has a single fill pipe which you connect to the hot water supply. I only have a cold water supply. Can I connect the inlet to the cold water supply and expect it to clean my washing if I use a biological washing poweer?
Hi, I live in a caravan and am looking to buy a mini washing machine from good ideas, model 889, which has a single fill pipe which you connect to the hot water supply. I only have a cold water supply. Can I connect the inlet to the cold water supply and expect it to clean my washing if I use a biological washing poweer?
Likely replying to Vic
Hello Vic: The reason you need to connect the mini washing machine to the hot water supply is almost certainly because it doesn’t have a heater. Checking some of the reviews on line about it, most people seem to say it washes OK but they have all said you need to fill it with water already at the right temperature. The chances of it washing well in cold water aren’t good but you should at least use biological detergent and let it soak a while so you may be OK if stains aren’t strong. If you could get hold of detergent designed for cold water it might be better but not sure if they do it. Also, it’s a twin tub, which always needs special twin tub detergent. If they still sell twin tub detergent you need to try that first as normal detergent designed for automatic washing machines won’t work as well inside a twin tub.
3 replies Yes you can not imagine how much has been ruined. I've also tried google to see if the landlord has an obligation to have a cold water pipe installed as washing machines ARE cold fill - and also the fact that he tricked us putting a blue cap on the hot pipe.
Yes you can not imagine how much has been ruined. I’ve also tried google to see if the landlord has an obligation to have a cold water pipe installed as washing machines ARE cold fill – and also the fact that he tricked us putting a blue cap on the hot pipe.
Likely replying to Mia
Mia, I would have thought if it’s a fully furnished rental property then all necessary appliances should be there and working correctly. Even if not, the basics such as electricity and plumbing are clearly prerequisite, and I’ve never heard of someone trying to rent out a property which doesn’t have the ability to use a washing machine – no one would accept such a property.
If there is somewhere like a letting agent involved you should try to get them to sort it out. Alternatively you need to take advice from a consumer or government advice group, try searching google for –
who do you complain to about rented accommodation – and you will get good links to research.
I realise you are in a difficult position but the fact you are researching implies you are not willing to accept the situation. There is a lot of protection against landlords available these days.
Yes we have an agent and they wrote a letter informing us the landlord have no intention of fixing the pipe situation :(
This is just among a lot of issues! There are unclosable doors and other repairs he has refused to carry out. I have tried google but can’t find any direct help. He has decided to end our tenancy when the contract ends in June so he doesn’t need to fix anything. We have lost hundreds of pounds in agency and moving fees. I have 2 kids under 3 and we now have no where to go in June as the deposit won’t be released until July and he has even threatened to keep it! I have decided to bring him to court because of this and his harassment.
I feel like I have no rights!
1 reply Hi! Do you have any advice to what can be done if we have a cold fill washing machine but only a hot water pipe? The pipe is marked blue but it is in fact hot and 'hot' is 80 degrees. The machine or clothes can not be touched for 15 minutes after a wash as steam are coming from them! Landlord is an asshole and doesn't care.
Hi!
Do you have any advice to what can be done if we have a cold fill washing machine but only a hot water pipe? The pipe is marked blue but it is in fact hot and ‘hot’ is 80 degrees. The machine or clothes can not be touched for 15 minutes after a wash as steam are coming from them! Landlord is an asshole and doesn’t care.
Likely replying to Mia
Hello Mia. Yours is an unusual problem. You can’t connect a washing machine to the hot water tap for reasons described here – Can you connect a washing machine to the hot water supply? If the house is furnished, and comes with all appliances then clearly it isn’t coming with a washing machine because without a cold water supply it can’t be used. I’m surprised you haven’t ruined lots of clothes.
1 reply Hi There, I have a cold only feed washing machine. My problem is that the un-used hot feed is dripping slowly when fully shut off. I have read i could cap it off witha fitting but i have some other info that i shouldnt do thuis if i have a combi boiler, which i do. My question is can i just cap it off and forget about it orwill there be an eventual problamatic build up of pressure? Thanks
Hi There,
I have a cold only feed washing machine. My problem is that the un-used hot feed is dripping slowly when fully shut off. I have read i could cap it off witha fitting but i have some other info that i shouldnt do thuis if i have a combi boiler, which i do. My question is can i just cap it off and forget about it orwill there be an eventual problamatic build up of pressure?
Thanks
Likely replying to Ben
Hello Ben. I’ve not heard of this advice. My question would be, how can there be a build up of pressure if the leaking water (which is not at any pressure) fills up the blanking cap and can’t go anywhere else? It would presumably be exactly the same pressure created when the hot tap is turned off?
I suppose the perfect answer would be to fix the leaking tap. However, I don’t understand what difference there would be between the hot water not flowing because of a blanking cap, and because the tap is shut off.
If your tap is one of those with the red plastic lever, unscrew the plastic lever and try turning it properly off with some pliers.
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0 replies I'm confused, my water inlets do not show me which one is which as they both do not show me what colour they are. It's odd I think they are old that's why. To turn on the valve I have to turn this round thing but I don't know which one is cold. My new Hotpoint WMD962 is a cold feed only and I don't know which valve is the cold one. Sorry if I've confused you.
I’m confused, my water inlets do not show me which one is which as they both do not show me what colour they are. It’s odd I think they are old that’s why. To turn on the valve I have to turn this round thing but I don’t know which one is cold. My new Hotpoint WMD962 is a cold feed only and I don’t know which valve is the cold one. Sorry if I’ve confused you.
3 replies Yes modern washing machines take a lot longer to wash but it's only partially down to being cold fill. You might find this interesting https://www.washerhelp.co.uk/forums/topic/182-wash-times-too-long/
Yes modern washing machines take a lot longer to wash but it’s only partially down to being cold fill. You might find this interesting
https://www.washerhelp.co.uk/forums/topic/182-wash-times-too-long/
Likely replying to Washerhelp
Hi Washerhelp, I’ve read all of the above but can’t find a specific answer to an issue I have. I’ve got a cold fill only hotpoint which has worked fine for 18 months but now no longer gets warm. Hotpoint want £120 – £180 to set up a service contract to sort it. I’m a bit handy so ordered a new element to try but when testing the current element with a multimeter it was fine. So to was the temperature sensor. I suspect that the error must be the temp dial, or motherboard. either way I’m out of my league. As a work around, could I use a Y hose to feed hot and cold into the machine? We never wash anything that needs to be a precise temp, if it was between 20-60 degrees I’d be happy. Is this a cheap fix or should i get it looked at properly?
Any help welcome.
Thanks
John
Just to add, I’ve since read your Don’t connect the hot water supply to the cold valve on a cold-fill washing machine page and comments. Whilst I see the reasons against, my situation is, the machine doesn’t work with cold water. We are a ground floor flat so the cold water is very cold. We also have a combi boiler within a 1.5 metres of the washing machine giving out 63 degree hot water. With the difference in water pressure from hot and cold, presumably a Y hose would favour the cold over hot? We use non-bio washing capsules so if it was too hot it wouldn’t be the end of the world. Ill wash any delicate stuff by hand. (were 3 men and don’t really do delicates!) at the moment the machine is only washing cold, this means the detergent isn’t dissolving and doesn’t get stuff clean.
Likely replying to John
Hi John: You could connect them both and experiment with pressure to hopefully get a reasonable temperature but it will use a lot of hot water because each time the washing machine rinses it will also take in hot water. A wash could drain all the hot water unless you turned off the hot tap once the washer was happily washing. It would be a lot of messing about though.
2 replies I've been told by Bosch, that all new washing machines are cold feed only....because its more economical. Is this true?
I’ve been told by Bosch, that all new washing machines are cold feed only….because its more economical. Is this true?
Likely replying to Lee Kay
Hello Lee, yes they virtually all are cold fill but it’s not as simple as saying they are more economical as it depends very much on how it’s used and what the plumbing is like, read this Cold fill washing machines
0 replies This site has helped me so much, I was panicked last night when realised I only had cold water supply and new washer has hot or cold but now I'm off shopping for Y adaptor and feel a lot happier.thanks guys. Lisa
This site has helped me so much, I was panicked last night when realised I only had cold water supply and new washer has hot or cold but now I’m off shopping for Y adaptor and feel a lot happier.thanks guys. Lisa
0 replies Hi, we used a screw on cap on hot feed when new washing machine was cold feed only. Now 4 years later, we want to use hot feed for dishwasher so have removed the cap but have no water coming through, even when tap is opened. The end of the tap is wet but water is not flowing. The nearby sink hot water tap on the same leg is functioning without issue. Any idea why the washing machine/dishwasher hot water feed is not flowing?? we get hot water from combi boiler. Thanks
Hi, we used a screw on cap on hot feed when new washing machine was cold feed only. Now 4 years later, we want to use hot feed for dishwasher so have removed the cap but have no water coming through, even when tap is opened. The end of the tap is wet but water is not flowing. The nearby sink hot water tap on the same leg is functioning without issue. Any idea why the washing machine/dishwasher hot water feed is not flowing?? we get hot water from combi boiler. Thanks
1 reply Hi, I ordered a Y piece but it will not fit as the cold tap is too close to a wall - in rental accommodation so can't do too much about it. Is it okay for me to just connect the cold or is there some other way that I should do it? Cheers
Hi, I ordered a Y piece but it will not fit as the cold tap is too close to a wall – in rental accommodation so can’t do too much about it. Is it okay for me to just connect the cold or is there some other way that I should do it?
Cheers
You can connect a small hose to the tap first, then connect the y-piece to the small hose and two further hoses to the y-piece. You’ll need to make sure there are no leaks with so many connections and try to use small hoses otherwise there could be a mess of hoses. Also, make sure the plastic y-piece lays somewhere safe so it doesn’t get knocked.
I would connect the bent end of the first hose to the tap so that you can connect the y-piece to the straight end of the other end which would be easier and neater (though not essential). You’ll also need a fill hose connector between the first hose and the y-piece.
0 replies Hi I have had a washing machine for two or three years from new cold feed only to find that we have never had hot water working. The reason for this is when we discovered lots of hard lime scale stuck to the clothes & a nasty ordour we could put the machine on a 90 wash with a cup of bleach would solve the problem , so this we did but found it was not getting hot. Time to call the engineer. The engineer came to fix the element as this is what he thought what the problem was & then he found that the front main board had never functioned properly thus this not ever powering up the element when needed. My question is that as this has never got warm or hot would this effect the running or the life span of the machine. Apart for the really bad odour that we get from it & the copious amounts of scale i'm sure it would have doubled the amount from a normal working machine. Thank you
Hi I have had a washing machine for two or three years from new cold feed only to find that we have never had hot water working.
The reason for this is when we discovered lots of hard lime scale stuck to the clothes & a nasty ordour we could put the machine on a 90 wash with a cup of bleach would solve the problem , so this we did but found it was not getting hot. Time to call the engineer.
The engineer came to fix the element as this is what he thought what the problem was & then he found that the front main board had never functioned properly thus this not ever powering up the element when needed.
My question is that as this has never got warm or hot would this effect the running or the life span of the machine. Apart for the really bad odour that we get from it & the copious amounts of scale i’m sure it would have doubled the amount from a normal working machine.
Thank you
0 replies Yes jen: I would just make sure you don't run them at the same time. Another alternative could be to connect the dishwasher to the hot tap if it says you can in the instruction book and you think it might be a good idea - Can you connect a dishwasher to the hot water supply?
Yes jen: I would just make sure you don’t run them at the same time. Another alternative could be to connect the dishwasher to the hot tap if it says you can in the instruction book and you think it might be a good idea – Can you connect a dishwasher to the hot water supply?
0 replies Got 2 blue taps but one is delivering hot water! Need one cold for bosch wm + one cold for bosch dishwash. Can we use a y thingy to run both appliances off same pipe?
Got 2 blue taps but one is delivering hot water! Need one cold for bosch wm + one cold for bosch dishwash. Can we use a y thingy to run both appliances off same pipe?
0 replies Jasonthomas: You just need to read this article, it describes exactly your issue.
Jasonthomas: You just need to read this article, it describes exactly your issue.
0 replies I have a washing machine that has 2 feeds hot and cold im moving shortly and the new home only has one supply supply can this work what should i do thanks
I have a washing machine that has 2 feeds hot and cold im moving shortly and the new home only has one supply supply can this work what should i do thanks
0 replies Anonymous: If the noise occurs during filling or just when the washer stops filling it could be air in the cold water supply or too high water pressure. I would remove the cold fill hose and run it into a bucket or the sink a little to ensure it's running smoothly. Then reconnect it and turn the tap on a little at a time until you get a good flow of water into the machine rather than turn it on full straight away. If you have low water pressure though it may need to be on full anyway. Make sure you watch out for leaks though over the next few days if you disturb the fill hose and don't over-tighten the hose which can cut into the rubber seal and damage it. (Tips for installing a washing machine: How tight should I tighten the fill hose?)
Anonymous: If the noise occurs during filling or just when the washer stops filling it could be air in the cold water supply or too high water pressure. I would remove the cold fill hose and run it into a bucket or the sink a little to ensure it’s running smoothly. Then reconnect it and turn the tap on a little at a time until you get a good flow of water into the machine rather than turn it on full straight away. If you have low water pressure though it may need to be on full anyway.
Make sure you watch out for leaks though over the next few days if you disturb the fill hose and don’t over-tighten the hose which can cut into the rubber seal and damage it. (Tips for installing a washing machine: How tight should I tighten the fill hose?)
0 replies got a new indesit washing machine with just cold feed our old one run of hot & cold i have capped the hot feed but since i did it makes a clunking noise can you help me please
got a new indesit washing machine with just cold feed our old one run of hot & cold i have capped the hot feed but since i did it makes a clunking noise can you help me please
0 replies Alison: Connecting both valves to one cold supply can't cause any problems with a washing machine. I can only assume presumably you have low water pressure? Maybe splitting the water between two valves was too much for it to supply them both.
Alison: Connecting both valves to one cold supply can’t cause any problems with a washing machine. I can only assume presumably you have low water pressure? Maybe splitting the water between two valves was too much for it to supply them both.
0 replies This seems to be a common theme! I did as you suggested and bought a 'Y' fitting, fitted it all together, started the machine and the pipes were making the most awful noise. I isolated the hot water feed and all sounds ok now. I have a gravity feed (renting so cant make any changes) does this mean that I can only wash in cold if only the cold supply is being fed?
This seems to be a common theme! I did as you suggested and bought a ‘Y’ fitting, fitted it all together, started the machine and the pipes were making the most awful noise. I isolated the hot water feed and all sounds ok now. I have a gravity feed (renting so cant make any changes) does this mean that I can only wash in cold if only the cold supply is being fed?
0 replies Anonymous: This article should answer your question about connecting a washing machine to a hot water supply - Don't connect the hot water supply to the cold valve on a cold-fill washing machine
Anonymous: This article should answer your question about connecting a washing machine to a hot water supply – Don’t connect the hot water supply to the cold valve on a cold-fill washing machine
0 replies I have a cold fill washing machine but have since found out the water pipe in my garage is a hot water pipe will this hurt the washing machine in anyway?
I have a cold fill washing machine but have since found out the water pipe in my garage is a hot water pipe will this hurt the washing machine in anyway?
1 reply I have a hot and cold fill washing machine but my hot feed is being used by the dishwasher. The cold feed is fine and can be connected to the WM. Can I T piece the hot water feed so the washing machine has both hot and cold feeds, or is it best to T piece the cold water feed and just supply the WM with cold water?
I have a hot and cold fill washing machine but my hot feed is being used by the dishwasher. The cold feed is fine and can be connected to the WM. Can I T piece the hot water feed so the washing machine has both hot and cold feeds, or is it best to T piece the cold water feed and just supply the WM with cold water?
Likely replying to Neil
Hello Neil: I would just connect the cold feed because you couldn’t control how much hot water went into the machine. You could end up wasting a lot of hot water for little if any benefit or hardly any hot water would go in because of the power of the cold supply overwhelming it.
0 replies As long as it has a good seal in then it shouldn't leak. I would use mole grips or pipe pliers to nip it up but only very carefully, and only so it's a little bit tighter than you can do by hand. If you over-tighten you cut into the rubber seal and make it leak.I normally tighten up as much as I can by hand and then nip it up with pipe pliers only so that it turns maybe 2 or 3 more millimetres or so. Make sure it's not got a hairline crack in it that could account for the leak and try swapping one of the rubber seals from one of the hoses to see if that one seals.
As long as it has a good seal in then it shouldn’t leak. I would use mole grips or pipe pliers to nip it up but only very carefully, and only so it’s a little bit tighter than you can do by hand. If you over-tighten you cut into the rubber seal and make it leak.I normally tighten up as much as I can by hand and then nip it up with pipe pliers only so that it turns maybe 2 or 3 more millimetres or so.
Make sure it’s not got a hairline crack in it that could account for the leak and try swapping one of the rubber seals from one of the hoses to see if that one seals.
0 replies Hot and cold washing machine but only cold inlet. It's proving v difficult to attach the y-piece to the inlet. It's screwed on (very) hand tight but water still gushes out when the water's switched on. Is it just a matter of getting the mole grips out and tightening up or is it something I'm missing. The rubber washer looks intact. To be honest I'm not keen on the y-piece as it seems an obvious risk of leaks but needs must...
Hot and cold washing machine but only cold inlet. It’s proving v difficult to attach the y-piece to the inlet. It’s screwed on (very) hand tight but water still gushes out when the water’s switched on. Is it just a matter of getting the mole grips out and tightening up or is it something I’m missing. The rubber washer looks intact. To be honest I’m not keen on the y-piece as it seems an obvious risk of leaks but needs must…
0 replies Yes Astrid. It works for every washing machine, you need to connect a water supply to the hot valve even if it's only cold water. Use a y-piece and everything will work as described in the article.
Yes Astrid. It works for every washing machine, you need to connect a water supply to the hot valve even if it’s only cold water. Use a y-piece and everything will work as described in the article.
0 replies Hi - just got a Servis M6312X second hand - has both hot&cold pipes, but I only have a cold tap to connect to. Doesn't seem to be working if I just leave the hot inlet completely unconnected (no error on display, just doesn't do anything at all) I assume I need to do the Y-valve method as described above. Has anyone else tried this with this particular model? Does it work? Any faults (ie water not heating on certain programmes)? Thanks in advance
Hi – just got a Servis M6312X second hand – has both hot&cold pipes, but I only have a cold tap to connect to. Doesn’t seem to be working if I just leave the hot inlet completely unconnected (no error on display, just doesn’t do anything at all)
I assume I need to do the Y-valve method as described above. Has anyone else tried this with this particular model? Does it work? Any faults (ie water not heating on certain programmes)?
Thanks in advance
1 reply I have hot & cold fill but want to buy a cold fill only washing machine. Do i have to do anything as we are not very good at these diy things?
I have hot & cold fill but want to buy a cold fill only washing machine. Do i have to do anything as we are not very good at these diy things?
Likely replying to su
Hello su: You just connect the new cold-fill washing machine up to your existing cold tap, and blank off the hot tap – What should I do with the old hot water tap when connecting a cold fill washing machine?
0 replies Excellent advice, Thank you.
Excellent advice, Thank you.
1 reply I have a very efficient new combi boiler right next to the washing machine, which has hot and cold supply. Unfortunately, I have a problem with my Hotpoint WM74 washing machine and its such as shame but I think the old (circa 98) dear will have to go as I cant get it fixed at reasonable price (Hotpoint want £120 min, which is reasonable I guess but I can get a new 520P for £215!) Thought it was the door lock as the info bubble kept saying (close door). It happened one day and it made the power trip. I changed the interlock but still says same message. PCB problem perhaps. And they're £100. Anyway. All these new washing machines are all cold fill only so my combi wont be used. Is this sensible? My combi boiler can provide 40 degrees C water a lot more efficiently than a washing machine, cant it? Could I not connect my combi boiler hot water to cold water fill? It would use a lot less electricity to heat it up then.
I have a very efficient new combi boiler right next to the washing machine, which has hot and cold supply. Unfortunately, I have a problem with my Hotpoint WM74 washing machine and its such as shame but I think the old (circa 98) dear will have to go as I cant get it fixed at reasonable price (Hotpoint want £120 min, which is reasonable I guess but I can get a new 520P for £215!) Thought it was the door lock as the info bubble kept saying (close door). It happened one day and it made the power trip. I changed the interlock but still says same message. PCB problem perhaps. And they’re £100. Anyway. All these new washing machines are all cold fill only so my combi wont be used. Is this sensible? My combi boiler can provide 40 degrees C water a lot more efficiently than a washing machine, cant it? Could I not connect my combi boiler hot water to cold water fill? It would use a lot less electricity to heat it up then.
Likely replying to Joseph O'Brien
Hello Joseph: Answers to your questions can be found here –
Don’t connect the hot water supply to the cold valve on a cold-fill washing machine
1 reply Have a hotpoint washer 9yrs old have recently moved it to outhouse with cold supply only.Manual says cold spply fine using y-piece but water not heating up-any ideas?
Have a hotpoint washer 9yrs old have recently moved it to outhouse with cold supply only.Manual says cold spply fine using y-piece but water not heating up-any ideas?
Likely replying to Andrew
Hello Andrew: Not heating the water isn’t related to the water supply apart from it potentially making the wash take a bit longer. It sounds like you have a fault –
Washing machine isn’t heating up the water
0 replies James: You could fit a second y-piece on the end of the cold hose to the washing machine and fit another 2 cold hoses onto that to supply both valves of the washer. It's not ideal because it means the plastic y-piece is going to lay on the floor behind the washer somewhere. It also introduces another potential source of leaks. However, it will work OK as long as the dishwasher isn't running at the same time. Even if the dishwasher was running at the same time the only issue would be if there was enough water pressure to supply water to 3 valves from one tap.
James: You could fit a second y-piece on the end of the cold hose to the washing machine and fit another 2 cold hoses onto that to supply both valves of the washer. It’s not ideal because it means the plastic y-piece is going to lay on the floor behind the washer somewhere. It also introduces another potential source of leaks. However, it will work OK as long as the dishwasher isn’t running at the same time.
Even if the dishwasher was running at the same time the only issue would be if there was enough water pressure to supply water to 3 valves from one tap.
0 replies Yes thanks for this info. Mine is an old ( -ish) hot and cold fill Bosch washing machine and doesn't run on any programme over 30 deg if I merely disconnect the hot supply (I tried it). I want it to run on just cold supply now (otherwise it uses up 59 litres of my hot water from my tank). Problem is I already have a Y-piece connector on the cold supply for a dishwasher so I'm not sure if I can fit a 2nd one there....any suggestions?
Yes thanks for this info. Mine is an old ( -ish) hot and cold fill Bosch washing machine and doesn’t run on any programme over 30 deg if I merely disconnect the hot supply (I tried it).
I want it to run on just cold supply now (otherwise it uses up 59 litres of my hot water from my tank). Problem is I already have a Y-piece connector on the cold supply for a dishwasher so I’m not sure if I can fit a 2nd one there….any suggestions?
0 replies excellent guys, hi ho, its off to B&Q we go cheers
excellent guys, hi ho, its off to B&Q we go
cheers
1 reply Quite a few modern machines (at least on Australian one I have read about on a board on this site lately and my own new LG) are hot and cold fill but can happily be connected to cold only on just the cold valve. HOwever, beware! The LG and teh Australian one I have read about warn you to cap off the hot valve (the LG don't supply the cap but you can buy them at any plumbers' merchant on DIY chain - it's a 3/4 inch iron threaded blank plug that you buy). On certain cycles that take in both ot and cold water together it is apparently possible for cold water to leak out of the open hot valve if there is no hose and no blank plug.
Quite a few modern machines (at least on Australian one I have read about on a board on this site lately and my own new LG) are hot and cold fill but can happily be connected to cold only on just the cold valve. HOwever, beware! The LG and teh Australian one I have read about warn you to cap off the hot valve (the LG don’t supply the cap but you can buy them at any plumbers’ merchant on DIY chain – it’s a 3/4 inch iron threaded blank plug that you buy). On certain cycles that take in both ot and cold water together it is apparently possible for cold water to leak out of the open hot valve if there is no hose and no blank plug.
Likely replying to Dave
Thanks Dave: It’s a new thing being able to just leave the hot fill hose disconnected and have no problems. In the past it would cause problems as some machines filled with hot water only on some programmes and specifically on whites. With no hot supply the washer just used to sit there humming for ever.
0 replies Steve: Normally a hot and cold fill washing machine needs water to both valves even if both are fed cold water using a y-piece. Otherwise some programmes such as whites may not work. If the instruction book said you can just connect to the cold valve, and leave the hot valve unconnected without mentioning that then I would assume it will work OK on all programmes.
Steve: Normally a hot and cold fill washing machine needs water to both valves even if both are fed cold water using a y-piece. Otherwise some programmes such as whites may not work. If the instruction book said you can just connect to the cold valve, and leave the hot valve unconnected without mentioning that then I would assume it will work OK on all programmes.
0 replies Managed to find the manual for the washing machine, which made things even easier. Manual says if using cold supply only, don't even connect the hot fill hose. Might cause a problem if doing a 90 degree wash, but we don't do that anyway. I disconncted the hot supply hose altogther and utilised the spare connector on the y-piece for the new dishwasher and all works great. May not work for all washing machines though. Main advice is, hang on to the manuals. You never know when they might be handy!
Managed to find the manual for the washing machine, which made things even easier. Manual says if using cold supply only, don’t even connect the hot fill hose. Might cause a problem if doing a 90 degree wash, but we don’t do that anyway.
I disconncted the hot supply hose altogther and utilised the spare connector on the y-piece for the new dishwasher and all works great.
May not work for all washing machines though.
Main advice is, hang on to the manuals. You never know when they might be handy!
0 replies A hot and cold fill washing machine can be connected like yours, with both valves supplied with cold water via a y-piece and it will still work fine. It may take slightly longer on hot washes but it could wash better especially if using biological detergent. If it's a hot and cold fill machine it's designed to have the hot valve connected to the hot supply and the cold valve to the cold supply. However, if it's a recent machine it's very unusual to be hot and cold fill. If they supplied a y-piece connector it could be like the Hotpoint machines that have two valves but both need connecting to the cold. The instruction book should make it clear how it should be connected.
A hot and cold fill washing machine can be connected like yours, with both valves supplied with cold water via a y-piece and it will still work fine. It may take slightly longer on hot washes but it could wash better especially if using biological detergent.
If it’s a hot and cold fill machine it’s designed to have the hot valve connected to the hot supply and the cold valve to the cold supply. However, if it’s a recent machine it’s very unusual to be hot and cold fill. If they supplied a y-piece connector it could be like the Hotpoint machines that have two valves but both need connecting to the cold. The instruction book should make it clear how it should be connected.
0 replies Sorry for the confusion. The washing machine is hot and cold fill, but both hoses are connected to the cold supply i.e. cold water going into both inlets on the machine. So. does the hot hose from the machine need connecting at all?
Sorry for the confusion. The washing machine is hot and cold fill, but both hoses are connected to the cold supply i.e. cold water going into both inlets on the machine. So. does the hot hose from the machine need connecting at all?
0 replies Steve: If your washing machine is a cold fill only then the hot water shouldn't be connected to the washing machine at all. If it's a hot and cold fill machine it should of course be connected to both supplies, but can be connected just to the cold to free up the hot supply if you wanted to. The y-piece can connect a hot and cold fill washing machine to a cold water supply by connecting the two washing machine hoses to the y bit and the other end connects to the cold water supply so both valves use cold water. Your hot water supply can be used for the dishwasher if the dishwasher manufacturer says it's OK to connect it to a hot supply and the hot water temperature doesn't exceed 60 degrees. It should be mentioned in the instruction book if it is.
Steve: If your washing machine is a cold fill only then the hot water shouldn’t be connected to the washing machine at all. If it’s a hot and cold fill machine it should of course be connected to both supplies, but can be connected just to the cold to free up the hot supply if you wanted to. The y-piece can connect a hot and cold fill washing machine to a cold water supply by connecting the two washing machine hoses to the y bit and the other end connects to the cold water supply so both valves use cold water.
Your hot water supply can be used for the dishwasher if the dishwasher manufacturer says it’s OK to connect it to a hot supply and the hot water temperature doesn’t exceed 60 degrees. It should be mentioned in the instruction book if it is.
0 replies I have a Bosch WFB 2004 washing machine. Both hot and cold supply pipes are connected to the cold water supply via a Y connector i.e. cold water to both inlets. However, I want to instal a dishwasher but space at the pipes is at a premium. Does the hot water supply pipe to the washing machine need to be connected at all? If not then I could utilise that side of the Y connector for the dishwasher.
I have a Bosch WFB 2004 washing machine. Both hot and cold supply pipes are connected to the cold water supply via a Y connector i.e. cold water to both inlets.
However, I want to instal a dishwasher but space at the pipes is at a premium. Does the hot water supply pipe to the washing machine need to be connected at all? If not then I could utilise that side of the Y connector for the dishwasher.
0 replies In theory you could connect it in reverse although I can't see any point to doing it. It's possible to connect a hot and cold supply to the y end of the y-piece, and then attach a single hose to the other end of the connector - and fix that to the cold valve on a cold fill only washer. That would result in the washing machine getting a mix of hot and cold water each time it fills. Because the cold is usually at a much higher pressure the chances are that very little hot water would get into the machine on wash. On the rinses more would get in but washing machines only need cold water to rinse so it would waste hot water.
In theory you could connect it in reverse although I can’t see any point to doing it. It’s possible to connect a hot and cold supply to the y end of the y-piece, and then attach a single hose to the other end of the connector – and fix that to the cold valve on a cold fill only washer.
That would result in the washing machine getting a mix of hot and cold water each time it fills. Because the cold is usually at a much higher pressure the chances are that very little hot water would get into the machine on wash. On the rinses more would get in but washing machines only need cold water to rinse so it would waste hot water.
0 replies Is there something in reverse, as it were? So that I can take a hot and cold feed into a Y connector onto a cold-fill only machine?
Is there something in reverse, as it were? So that I can take a hot and cold feed into a Y connector onto a cold-fill only machine?
Fantastic – thanks so much. Will try again and give it a bit longer this time.