I have a new washing machine that drains more rapidly then the pipe size will tolerate initially. It leaks for a monent and then is ok. The house is older and does not have the new larger drain pipe. Is there a way to solve this problem without redoing the plumbing? Thanks in advance for any suggestions.
You've just described a perfect case of improper drain venting. With proper venting a 1 1/2" drain pipe usually works fine, given the proper height, etc.
Size may not matter . See above.
Probably not. Have competent plumber check over the system and price mods or repairs to the vent, whatever. It may be less costly than you think. Some folks drain washers into laundry tubs to mitigate such problems. HTH
Joe
If the pipe is simply too small and it is vented properly, you may be able to add to the pipe making it go up higher. It's not the perfect fix but it may work well if it only overflows a little now. Refer to the machine manual for the maximum height the drain hose should go. If it's old steel pipe, you may want to use a rubber sleeve/coupler, two hose clamps, a short length of PVC pipe, and something to clamp the pvc to the wall so the rubber coupler doesn't let the new pipe sag sideways. Before all that, I'd snake the hell out of the old pipe to be sure it and the trap isn't half clogged up.
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