Washing Machine Plumbing Problem

[Stealth]

Hi All,

Firstly, I'm not a plumber just a general d.i.yer

Problem: The washing machine valve connected to the mains water is locked in the open position. Tried everything and no good. There is no way of getting at the valve without ripping out the work top and probably pulling a few tiles off the wall at the same time!

My washing machine has developed a fault and is going in for repair under warranty. So I need to temporarily disconnect the washing machine and thus flood the place (unless I turn of the at the mains).

So I was wondering: Is there a temporary way of capping off the valve, or better still, a way of capping off the washing machine hose ? (at the machine end), while I wait for the machine to be repaired (3/4 days).

Thanks in advance

 

[Resolute]

You should be able to get a blank plate to screw onto the washing machine valve. Surprised that you cant undo the existing one and replace though - got any pics?

 

[Stealth]

You should be able to get a blank plate to screw onto the washing machine valve. Surprised that you cant undo the existing one and replace though - got any pics?

I would like to replace but as I said the space is inaccessible. When I replace the worktop and tiles I'll certainly replace, but at the moment it's a no-goer.

When you say you should be able to get a blank, how sure are you? I've searched the Screwfix website and can't find anything. Can you point me in the right direction.

 

[Resolute]

You need a 3/4" blanking cap, any plumbers merchant should be able to supply one.

 

[nysk2008]

how about a self tapping valve, if you can access a small piece of pipe that is?

 

[dontknowitall]

Can you get to the pipe earlier in the pipe run? If so, you could fit an isolation valve.

 

[pobsdad]

Or call a plumber.

 

[Stealth]

Thanks for all the useful replies. Managed to get a 3/4" blanking cap from B&Q for a couple of quid - 2 mins and job done.

 

[AWheating]

why not put a washing machine valve on the other end of the hose as a temp cap end?

 

[Resolute]

why not put a washing machine valve on the other end of the hose as a temp cap end?

That's thinking out the box!

 

[WaterTight]

how did you cap the valve if you can't get to the valve? a cap won't be much good on the end of a hose unless it's got a valve on it.