Updated Oct 19, 2022
Updated Oct 19, 2022
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A washing machine pan is an inexpensive way to prevent water damage from a leaking washing machine. This drip pan slides under your washing machine and protects the floor and surrounding area against washing machine overflow, leaks, accidental spillage, and drips.
A washing machine pan is a rectangular-shaped pan that’s slightly larger than the base of your washer. It’s typically made of a high-density plastic or metal to withstand water and debris.
A busted washing machine hose poses one of the greatest threats when it comes to potential flooding in the home. If a hose comes loose or ruptures, it can leak gallons of water per hour. If the leak isn’t detected immediately, the water damage could be very expensive to repair.
You can install a washing machine without a pan, but you run the risk of water damage. Simply adding a washer pan will gather any water that overflows, protect against complete hose failure, and catch drips from the hoses. The pan also protects your floor from condensation.
The washer pan is placed under your washing machine and then connected to a drain pipe that funnels away excess water. Most drain pans have a pre-cut hole which you can fit a PVC pipe into. The other end of the pipe is connected to a drainpipe that moves water out of the pan. If there’s a leak, the water will never rise above the level of the drain pan—it’s channelled away into the drainage system.
Drain pans aren’t hard to install, but they require the help of a partner or use of a dolly.
Step-by-step instructions:
Although a drain pan will help you avoid water damage, it’s important to routinely check it to make sure it’s in the best shape possible. Look for cracks or wet spots around the drain pan to ensure that its integrity has not been compromised. It’s possible for the actual drain to get clogged from washing machine debris, so keep an eye on your drain pan to make sure it’s draining properly.
Drain pains are available in various types of materials and at different price points. Here are our top three picks for the best drain pan for your home.
Our Picks | Oatey 34067 Plastic Pan | Camco 20751 Washing Machine Drain Pan for Stackable Units | Heavy Duty Washer Machine Drain Pan |
What it Looks Like | |||
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Summary | This pan is made from semi-flexible plastic polymer that’s tough, yet pliable. It’s 32” wide x 30” long x 2.5” deep and will fit most machines. The pans have formed a hole to punch out that will fit 1-inch PVC plastic fittings. | Made with heavy-duty polypropylene, this washing machine pan has a thick design mold that resists shattering and cracks. The pan is 32” wide x 30” long x 2.5” deep (other sizes are available). The pan has pre-formed cut lines that make installation easier. | Made from 20-gauge stainless steel, this pan is on the smaller side—27” wide x 25” long by 2.5” deep. It’s perfect for smaller units and is compatible with many major front-loaded washing machine brands. |
Pros | • Includes punch-out hole • Deep tray holds lots of water • Great value for price | • PVC and CPVC fitting options • Deep tray • Lock nut with a washer included | • Heavy duty welded corners • Outlasts plastic |
Cons | Plastic can get bittle over time | No formed holes | This washing machine pan may not fit all machines and doesn't come with pre-cut holes |
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