How Much Does It Cost to Install Washer and Dryer Hookups? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $350 - $1,150
Installing washer and dryer hookups costs $750 on average, depending on the size of the project. Most spend between $350 and $1,150.
The cost to install washer and dryer hookups ranges between $350 and $1,150 on average, but prices will vary depending on the extent of your installation. Your price could reach up to $2,000 if you need to add a gas line, extensive plumbing, or an additional electrical panel. However, if your plumbing hookups and vents are ready to go, your cost could be as low as $50 for professional appliance installation.
- Average
- $750
- Low end
- $50
- high end
- $2,000
Washer and Dryer Hookup Cost Factors
The cost to install a washer and dryer hookup largely depends on your home's existing setup. For instance, many dryers need a 240-volt outlet, rather than a standard 120-volt outlet, to properly run. If you don't yet have a 240-volt circuit, you'll need to install one, which can drive up your overall costs.
Here's a breakdown of the common costs associated with installing a washer and dryer hookup. You might need to pay for all or some of these components, depending on your home's existing setup and where the washer and dryer are located.
Electrical Work
Most washers require a 120-volt outlet, which is the standard outlet you'll find in most homes, while most dryers call for a 220-volt outlet or 240-volt outlet. Installing a new outlet for either of these types of appliances usually costs around $100 to $250, including labor costs.
Plumbing Work
All washers need a drain pipe to properly eliminate the water they use. Drain lines cost an average of $230 to $1,170 to install, depending on how easy it is to access the required plumbing. That cost doesn't include the cost of the pipe itself, which ranges from $0.75 to $30 per linear foot. The cost of replacing a pipe ranges anywhere from $150 to $250 per linear foot.
Installing a Dryer Vent
Dryer vents work to expel heat and moisture from your dryer, which helps to prevent mold growth and damage. A dryer vent installation costs between $80 and $200.
Running a Gas Line
If you have a gas dryer, then you'll need a gas line for it to work. Running a gas line usually costs around $260 to $800 based on the complexity of the installation site. Moving an existing gas line costs between $15 and $25 per linear foot.
Building a Laundry Room
In some cases, homeowners want to build a laundry room before installing the washer and dryer hookup. Adding on a laundry room costs an average of $8,100, depending on the size and complexity of the project. And if you build a laundry room in a detached shed, you'll end up spending more to lay the pipes and gas lines underground.
Permits
You'll encounter quite a large range of permit costs for installing a washer and dryer hookup. Plumbing and electrical projects can cost anywhere from $10 to $500. On average, however, expect to pay between $50 and $125 for the permit to install the most standard hookup. Expect higher costs when adding an electrical panel or laying gas lines underground.
Appliance Installation Costs
Once you install the hookup, you'll need to install the washer and dryer. The cost to install a washer and dryer typically ranges from $50 to $175. Depending on the company, you may pay extra for delivery and hookup service. In most cases, it's best to have a professional plumber connect your appliance, especially if they worked on the new hookup. They’ll be able to help you determine the proper washer box height so the appliance can reach the hookups.
Washer and Dryer Maintenance Costs
In addition to the cost of installing washer and dryer hookups—not to mention the cost of the appliance installation itself ($50 to $175 on average, though up to $2,000 if you need plumbing, electrical, and vent work)—you’ll need to budget for maintenance costs over time.
The good news is that most homeowners can handle basic washer and dryer maintenance on their own. That includes cleaning the lint filter and occasionally cleaning the washer drum. Some homeowners may even be comfortable vacuuming out the vent, though you can hire a dryer vent cleaner near you if your vent is particularly backed up.
Over time, appliances such as washing machines and dryers can break down, and you’ll want to hire a professional to handle repairs.
Dryer repair costs between $100 and $430. Common dryer issues include a dryer that won’t heat, spin, or simply won’t turn on, loud noises, sparks and smells, and overheating.
Washing machine repair costs between $125 and $450. Costs vary depending on the type of washing machine and the part that is malfunctioning, such as the motor, drain hose, drum, agitator, or shut-off valve.
If you need emergency washing machine repair, you may need to hire an emergency plumber. Emergency plumbers cost anywhere from 1.5 to 3 times as much as a regular plumber, depending on if you need the service in the evening, on a weekend, or on a holiday. Similarly, you could pay more if you need to hire a local emergency electrician for dryer repair.
Installing Washer and Dryer Hookups DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Since these installations deal with your home's electrical and plumbing systems, your best bet is to hire a local plumber to tackle this project for you. Plumbers charge $45 to $150 an hour to install a washer and dryer hookup, but the cost offers peace of mind that your system will run safely and smoothly. If you're trying to trim costs by doing any part of the project yourself, consider handling the appliance connection yourself once the hookup installation is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Only portable washers and dryers function without a full hookup, though in most cases, you will need the proper plumbing, electrical, and ventilation installation. However, many homes already have a washer and dryer hookup installed, in which case, all you need to do is attach your new appliances to the existing hookup. If you're not sure whether you have a functioning hookup, you can call a plumber to come and assess your setup for you.
Depending on your type of washer and dryer, you will need to hire a local natural gas plumber and an electrician to install washer and dryer hookups. Plumbers can also handle the additional drain pipes necessary for the new hookups. In some cases, you may also need a contractor who can handle any needed drywall repair for the washer and dryer vent.
Moving a washer and dryer hookup can cost as much as $2,000 depending on the complexity of the project. For instance, some projects require you to install new electrical outlets, gas lines, vents, and drain pipes, while others are more straightforward. The more steps involved in your project, the closer it will be to $2,000.