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The South African Homeowner's Guide to Washing Machine Installation
That new washing machine box sitting in your kitchen or scullery is a beautiful sight. It promises cleaner clothes, less time spent at the laundromat, and a little more convenience in your busy life. Before you tear it open, plug it in, and throw in your first load of laundry, take a deep breath. A successful laundry day starts with a successful installation, and unfortunately, this is where many things can go wrong. A professional plumber will ensure your machine is set up correctly, which not only prevents noisy operation and water damage but also guarantees the longevity of your new appliance.
The Value of Professional Washing Machine Installation
According to the Water Research Commission of South Africa, a modern washing machine can use significantly less water than hand washing, saving precious resources. A professional installation ensures your machine runs at peak efficiency, helping you maximise these savings*.***
We’ve spoken with professional plumbers across South Africa who have seen it all, and they agree: a few simple, often-overlooked steps are the key to a long and happy relationship with your washing machine.
- Correct Unpacking and Removal of Transit Bolts: This is, without a doubt, the most common and most destructive mistake homeowners make. A plumber in Johannesburg once shared a story about a call-out for a brand-new machine that was "possessed." On its first spin cycle, it was vibrating so violently it literally ‘walked’ across the room, making a sound like a helicopter landing. The cause? The transit bolts were still in place. A professional will always ensure these are removed and will often advise you to keep them in a safe place for future moves.
- Making the Right Connections: Connecting the water seems straightforward, but a small mistake here can lead to a big, wet problem. A professional ensures the small rubber washers are properly seated inside the coupling at each end of the hose to create a watertight seal. They have the experience to connect the hoses to the taps without cross-threading, which can damage both the tap and the hose permanently. An old hose bursting is one of the most common causes of household water damage.
- The Critical Importance of Levelling: A machine that isn’t perfectly level will cause problems. An expert from Durban puts it this way: "Think of it like a car with unbalanced tyres. At low speeds, you might not notice, but at high speeds, the whole thing shakes. It’s the same with a spin cycle." This constant, unbalanced vibration puts immense strain on the internal components, especially the drum bearings and suspension system, which can drastically shorten the lifespan of your appliance. A professional uses a spirit level and carefully adjusts the machine's feet until it is perfectly stable and level on all four corners.
- Proper Drainage Set-Up: A secure drain hose is the final piece of the puzzle. An improperly secured hose can easily pop out of its drain during a vigorous spin cycle, emptying litres of soapy water all over your floor. A plumber will ensure the hose is securely fastened with the provided U-bend bracket and ensure it’s at the correct height (typically between 60cm and 100cm from the floor) as specified by the manufacturer.
When to Hire a Professional Plumber
While connecting two hoses might seem like a simple DIY task, it's best to hire a professional plumber if:
- You need to install new water or drainage pipes.
- You are unsure about the condition of your existing valves and pipes.
- You need to drill through walls or cabinetry.
- You want the peace of mind that the connection is secure and guaranteed against leaks, which can cause thousands of Rands in damage.
A Quick Look at the Cost of Washing Machine Installation
A standard washing machine installation in South Africa, where all connections are in place, typically costs between R500 and R950. For more complex jobs that require new plumbing or modifications, the cost can range from R1,000 to R2,500 or more.
Basic Installation (R500 - R950): Connecting a freestanding machine to existing, fully functional water taps and a drain point right next to the machine.Complex Installation (R1,000+): This involves tasks like drilling through countertops, installing new water supply lines, adding a new drainpipe, or fitting an integrated appliance into cabinetry.
- Basic Installation (R500 - R950): Connecting a freestanding machine to existing, fully functional water taps and a drain point right next to the machine.
- Complex Installation (R1,000+): This involves tasks like drilling through countertops, installing new water supply lines, adding a new drainpipe, or fitting an integrated appliance into cabinetry.
Understanding the potential costs upfront helps you budget accurately. For a more detailed breakdown, see our Washing Machine Installation Cost Guide.
Post-Installation Care and Maintenance
Proper post-installation care isn't just about avoiding immediate problems; it's about safeguarding your investment. A washing machine is a significant household appliance, and ensuring it operates correctly from day one helps prevent costly repairs down the line, saves on water and electricity, and keeps your laundry routine running without a hitch.
- Confirming Your Washing Machine is Level: Even after a professional installation, check for wobbling by gently rocking your machine from corner to corner. Use a spirit level to ensure it's stable on all four feet. An unbalanced machine can cause significant damage over time.
- Regularly Inspecting Hose Connections: Check the water inlet hoses and drainage hose for tightness and any signs of drips or leaks. Periodically check the hoses for wear and tear, such as cracking or bulging.
- Cleaning the Lint Trap (Filter): Many washing machines, especially front-loaders, have a small filter at the bottom that catches lint, coins, and other small items. A clogged filter can lead to drainage problems, foul odours, and reduced washing efficiency. Our experts recommend cleaning this trap every few months.
- Be Mindful of Hard Water: In areas with hard water, like much of Gauteng, limescale can build up inside your machine over time. Using a water softener or periodically running a cleaning cycle with a descaling agent can prolong the life of your appliance’s heating element and internal pipes.
For more advice on keeping your appliances in top shape, read our 5 Essential Plumbing Maintenance Tips for Homeowners. **
Customer Stories and Results
The Mkhize family in Durban was struggling with their new machine after a DIY installation. It was making a horrible vibrating sound, and their clothes weren’t getting clean. The Kandua Pro they called quickly diagnosed two problems: the machine wasn't level, and the drain hose was pushed too far into the standpipe, causing a siphoning effect. After levelling the machine and adjusting the hose, the machine ran quietly. The family was relieved they didn't have to buy a new machine, saving them over R6,000 and learning the value of professional installation.
Jaco and Lisa, a young couple in Cape Town, tried to save money by using an old hose for their water supply. Three months later, the perished hose burst, flooding their kitchen and causing over R15,000 in damage to their new cupboards and flooring. The cost of a professional installation with new, high-quality hoses would have been a fraction of the repair bill they had to face*.*
Checklist: Before Your Plumber Arrives
To make the installation process as smooth and quick as possible, run through this simple checklist before your Kandua Pro arrives.
- Clear the Area: Make sure the space where the machine will go, and the path to it, is clear of obstacles.
- Check Your Taps: Locate your water shut-off taps and ensure they turn on and off without leaking.
- Confirm Dimensions: Double-check that your new machine will fit into the designated space, leaving a little room at the back for hoses.
- Locate the Drain: Identify where the machine will drain to (e.g., a standpipe or gully).
- Keep the Manual: Have the washing machine’s instruction manual handy for the installer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are those big bolts at the back of my new machine?Those are called transit bolts or shipping bolts. They are installed by the manufacturer to keep the internal drum from moving around and getting damaged during transportation. They must be removed before you use the machine for the first time. Failure to do so will cause severe vibration and can permanently damage your appliance.
Q2: How can I tell if my washing machine is not level?The most obvious sign is excessive noise and vibration during the spin cycle. If the machine rocks or shakes violently, it's likely not level. You can check this by placing a spirit level on top of the machine (check front-to-back and side-to-side). You can also try to rock the machine gently with your hands; it should feel solid and not wobble.
Q3: Do I need special taps for my washing machine?
A: No, most machines use standard 3/4 inch taps common in SA homes. However, the taps must be in good condition and able to shut off completely. A plumber can easily replace old or leaking taps during the installation.
Q4: How do I know if my washing machine is draining properly?You can tell if your washing machine is draining properly by observing the water level during the drain cycle and checking if clothes are spun dry at the end of the wash. If water remains in the drum, clothes are still soaking wet, or the machine shows a drainage error code, it's likely not draining correctly.
Q5: What are the common reasons for a washing machine to leak after installation?Common reasons for a washing machine to leak after installation include loose or improperly tightened water inlet hoses, a poorly positioned or kinked drainage hose, a clogged lint filter, or damage to the detergent dispenser or door seal.
Q6: How often should I check my washing machine hoses for wear and tear?It's a good practice to visually inspect your washing machine hoses at least once a year. Look for any signs of cracking, bulging, fraying, or rust near the connectors. If you notice any of these, it's time to replace the hoses. Hoses typically have a lifespan of about 5-7 years, but this can vary.
Q7: Can an unbalanced washing machine cause damage?Yes, an unbalanced washing machine can cause significant damage over time. The excessive vibrations can wear down internal components, particularly the bearings and suspension system, leading to costly repairs and a shorter lifespan for the appliance. It can also cause the machine to move or "walk" across the floor during spin cycles.
Q8: Can a professional install an integrated (built-in) washing machine? A: Yes, absolutely. Just be aware the cost may be slightly higher as it involves fitting the machine into cabinetry and attaching a cupboard door, which is more time-consuming than a freestanding model.
Q9: What happens if my old water valve is stuck or leaking?A professional plumber will be able to replace the old, faulty valve with a new one. This is a common issue in older homes and will add the cost of the new valve plus a small amount of extra labour to the total bill.
Why you can trust us to get it right:
At our company, getting your home projects done is simple, safe, and stress-free.
- Tell us what you need: Or let our smart AI Home Companion help diagnose your problem if you’re not sure where to start.
- Get answers as you go: While posting your job, you can ask our smart AI home companion anything — from understanding typical costs, to how the process works, to how long it might take. Ask questions whenever they pop up, and get clear, helpful answers instantly.
- We match you with the best: All our pros are 100% vetted: ID-verified, criminal background checked, certification verified, and maintaining at least a 4.5-star rating. You don’t have to worry about picking the right person — we make sure the pro we send has the right skills and certification to get your job done right.
With us, you can rest easy knowing you’re in safe hands from the first click to the final handshake.
A plumbing problem is never just “a small thing”. A dripping tap can turn into damp walls. A slow drain can become a full-on overflow. And when a geyser acts up, it’s suddenly everyone’s problem.
Kandua helps you get it sorted quickly by matching you with a vetted plumber for your job — whether it’s a repair, installation, inspection, or an urgent call-out.
A few quick answers (so you don’t have to scroll)
How do I choose a good plumber?
Pick someone who communicates clearly, explains the cause (not just the symptom), prices transparently, and can provide the right compliance paperwork where it’s required.
Do I need a plumbing certificate (COC) in South Africa?
Sometimes, yes — especially for bigger plumbing work and specific installations. If a job needs a Plumbing CoC, it must be issued by the right person (more on that below).
What should plumbing cost?
Most plumbers charge a call-out fee + hourly labour + materials. After-hours and specialist work (leak detection equipment, camera inspections, gas, hot water systems) usually costs more.
What should I do first in a plumbing emergency?
Turn off your main water supply, keep water away from electrics (switch off power if needed), and call a plumber.
Common plumbing problems (and what they usually mean)
You don’t need to diagnose like a plumber — but it helps to know what the signs typically point to.
“My water bill jumped”
Often linked to a hidden leak (toilet running silently, underground line leak, cracked pipe behind a wall). If you’ve ruled out obvious dripping taps, it’s worth booking leak detection early — it can save you from expensive “guess and break” repairs.
“My drain keeps blocking”
One blockage can be a once-off. Recurring blockages usually mean a deeper issue: build-up in the line, an incorrect slope, roots, or damage. This is where a camera inspection is a game-changer because it stops the cycle of temporary fixes.
“My geyser is leaking / overflowing / tripping power”
Geysers are high-pressure systems and often linked to electrical components too. If the geyser is leaking, the overflow is running constantly, or the power is tripping, don’t gamble — get a plumber involved quickly.
“Low water pressure everywhere”
Could be municipal supply — or it could be your pressure control valve, a partially closed stopcock, a clogged filter, pipe restrictions, or a leak. A good plumber will help you narrow this down fast.
When it’s a DIY job — and when it isn’t
DIY can work for simple, low-risk things (like replacing a shower head, cleaning an aerator, tightening a visible fitting).
Call a plumber when:
- the leak is hidden (walls/ceilings/floors)
- there’s sewage, a strong drain smell, or repeated backups
- you’re dealing with geysers, hot water systems, or pressure issues
- the job involves gas
- you may need a certificate for compliance, insurance, or future sale of the property
- you want the job done properly the first time (instead of paying twice)
Certifications, registrations & compliance in South Africa (what matters and when)
This is the part most people only learn after they’ve paid. Here’s the simple version.
1) Plumbing CoC (Certificate of Compliance)
A Plumbing Certificate of Compliance is a document confirming that plumbing work meets required standards and rules. You typically want a CoC when:
- major plumbing work is done (especially on water supply systems)
- hot water systems are installed or materially altered
- compliance is needed for insurance, sale of a property, or peace of mind
- the job is significant enough that you’d want proof it was done correctly
Important: not every small repair results in a CoC, but when a CoC is required, it must be issued by the appropriately authorised plumber (see PIRB below).
2) PIRB (Plumbing Industry Registration Board)
In South Africa, you’ll often hear plumbers mention PIRB. In practical terms:
- PIRB is linked to professional plumbing registration/designations.
- A PIRB-licensed plumber is typically the person who can issue a PIRB Plumbing CoC where applicable.
When you should ask about PIRB licensing:
If your job involves compliance paperwork, geysers/hot water systems, major installations, or work you’ll want certified for insurance or property transfer, ask upfront:
“Will I receive a Plumbing CoC, and are you licensed to issue it?”
3) Gas plumbing compliance (LPG / Natural Gas)
Gas work is a separate category because it carries higher risk. For gas installations and repairs, you should expect:
- the right gas-related registration/authorisation from the installer, and
- a Gas Certificate (often called a certificate of conformity/compliance) for the installation or modification.
When it’s needed:
New gas installations, changes to gas lines or appliances, or work that materially affects the gas system.
If a plumber is doing gas work, don’t be shy about asking:
“Will I receive the gas compliance certificate for this work?”
4) Solar geysers & heat pumps (hot water specialists)
Solar geysers and heat pumps sit in that “specialist” zone: plumbing, pressure, safety components, sometimes electrical integration too.
When you should care about specialist competency:
Installations, system changes, recurring failures, or when you want the job signed off properly. Ask whether the plumber is experienced specifically with solar hot water or heat pump systems — they’re not the same as a standard geyser swap.
5) Electrical CoC (sometimes relevant)
This is not a plumbing certificate — but it becomes relevant when hot water work involves electrical changes. If electrical components are installed/altered, the right electrician should handle that portion and issue the correct electrical compliance documentation.
Simple rule: plumbing paperwork for plumbing work, gas paperwork for gas work, electrical paperwork for electrical work.
Pricing: what to budget for plumbing in South Africa
Plumbing pricing varies a lot depending on where you live and what the job involves. Hiring a plumber in South Africa can cost anywhere from about R450 to R900+ per hour, with the overall price influenced by the job’s complexity, urgency, travel distance, and the plumber’s experience.
As a realistic rule of thumb :
- Standard labour often lands around R450–R850 per hour (excluding any call-out fee), with many homeowners commonly seeing ~R600–R900 depending on area and job type.
- Specialist work (complex diagnostics, difficult access, multiple points of failure) can push higher.
- Many plumbers quote ex VAT, so if you’re comparing quotes, always confirm whether VAT is included.
Typical cost structure
- Call-out fee (covers travel + initial assessment)
- Labour (hourly)
- Materials/parts
- After-hours premium (nights, weekends, public holidays)
- Specialist equipment (camera inspections, leak detection gear)
Typical hourly ranges you’ll see (guideline)
- Basic plumbing: ± R350 – R600/hour
- Average general plumbing: ± R500 – R850/hour
- Specialist / urgent work: ± R900 – R1,400/hour (sometimes more after-hours)
A realistic “small job” expectation
Even for something that sounds simple, budget for a call-out + 1–2 hours labour plus small parts. That’s why bundling a few small fixes in one visit often saves money.
10 genuinely helpful plumbing FAQ's
1) When should I get a drain & sewer camera inspection instead of just unblocking?
If the blockage keeps coming back, multiple fixtures are affected (e.g., toilet + shower), you’re getting gurgling sounds or sewer smells, or the plumber suspects roots/pipe damage. A camera inspection helps confirm why it’s blocking (build-up vs roots vs collapse) so you don’t keep paying for temporary fixes.
2) Is it safe to use drain cleaner chemicals for blocked drains?
Occasionally for minor, slow drains — but be cautious. Chemical cleaners can damage older pipes, create heat reactions, and are hazardous for you and the plumber. If you’ve used chemicals, tell the plumber before they work on the drain. For recurring blockages, mechanical clearing + camera inspection is usually safer and more effective.
3) How does professional leak detection work, and will it require breaking tiles or walls?
Leak detection typically uses non-destructive tools (depending on the leak type), like acoustic listening, pressure testing, and moisture mapping to narrow down the source. It usually reduces “guess-and-break”, but a small access point is sometimes still needed to confirm and repair the leak once the location is identified.
4) My geyser overflow pipe is dripping — is that normal?
A brief drip during heating can be normal because pressure rises as water heats. But constant dripping, heavy flow, or water running when no hot water was used can signal a pressure/valve issue or a failing component. If the overflow suddenly changes behaviour, get it checked—especially if you also notice low hot water, temperature fluctuations, or tripping power.
5) What’s the difference between a standard electric geyser, a heat pump, and a solar geyser — and what breaks most often?
- Electric geyser: simplest; common failures are element, thermostat, valves, and leaks from corrosion.
- Heat pump: heats water efficiently using a compressor; common issues include refrigerant leaks, compressor/fan faults, and control problems.
- Solar geyser: uses solar collectors; common issues include circulation problems, leaks, valve failures, and controller/sensor faults (depending on system type).
A plumber can advise which system suits your area, water hardness, usage, and roof layout.
6) Do I need special plumbing for installing a water filtration system?
Often, yes—especially for whole-house or under-sink systems. The plumber needs to confirm pipe sizes, water pressure, placement (so it’s serviceable), and whether a pressure-reducing valve or bypass loop is needed. Filter choice also depends on your water source (municipal vs borehole vs tank) and what you’re trying to remove (sediment, taste/odour, chlorine, bacteria).
7) Can a plumber install a washing machine or fridge water line, and what usually goes wrong?
Yes. Common problems are incorrect connectors, leaking valves, poor hose quality, and water hammer/pressure issues. A plumber will usually check that the shut-off valve works properly, connections are correct, and that the appliance has the right pressure and drainage setup.
8) What’s involved in installing a water tank backup system for a home?
Typically: tank placement, inlet/outlet plumbing, a pump (if needed), a non-return valve, and a safe changeover arrangement so tank water can’t feed back into the municipal supply. The right setup depends on whether you want the tank for garden use only, toilet flushing, partial household backup, or full backup.
9) When do I need septic system maintenance, and what are warning signs?
Warning signs include slow drains throughout the house, sewage smells outside, soggy ground near the tank/soakaway, gurgling pipes, and sewage backing up. Septic systems usually need periodic pumping/servicing depending on household size and tank capacity. Avoid flushing wipes/grease/chemicals—those are common causes of failures.
10) For gas plumbing (LPG or natural gas), what checks should I expect after installation or repair?
You should expect leak testing, safe routing of gas lines, correct fittings, and verification that appliances are correctly connected and ventilated where required. For installations or modifications, you should also expect the correct gas compliance certificate for the work performed. If a plumber is doing gas work, ask upfront what documentation you’ll receive and who is issuing it.
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How Much Does A Plumber Cost per hour in South Africa
Hiring a plumber in South Africa can cost anywhere from R450 to R900+ per hour, with the overall price influenced by the job's complexity, urgency, and the plumber's experience. Expect to pay a call-out fee of roughly R450–R750 (usually deducted if the work is completed), standard labour of about R450–R850 per hour, and higher after-hours/emergency pricing of about 1.5–2× the normal labour rate (plus an emergency call-out), plus materials and any access/repair or compliance-related costs. This guide will help you understand the various factors that contribute to plumbing costs and provide transparent pricing estimates.