Is there an air release valve (or something) that can be installed between a washing machine water supply (single handle dual hot/cold shut off valve) and the machine inlet hoses to release airlocks. Because I travel a lot I frequently turn off the main house shut off valve. Once I return and open the main valve, my washer will time out in seconds because of the lack of water entering the machine --I have a new Samsung front loading machine. Currently, I correct the problem by partially opening the dual shut off valve and loosening the inlet hoses at the dual valve to release the air. I'm looking for a simpler fix if possible. Thanks.

Hi Vertz...

Are you draining the pipes after you shut the water off? If so, then stop doing that.. not necessary as shutting off the water main is the important thing to do. Otherwise, I don't see how the air is getting into the line..?

Back to you...

MARK

Yes, doing the winter months I drain the pipes to avoid pipes in the outer wall from freezing

I see... so draining them is important.

About the only thing you could do would be to install some drain type fittings at the washing machine valve... even a double wye shutoff fitting would do here. Then you could open the unused branch of the wye shutoff(s) and would be all set.

You could also install a couple tees with boiler drains in them and simply open them to purge the air clear. Anything like that will work for you.

Another option would be to install shutoffs with petcocks on the side... can open to clear of air.

MARK

Thanks for the input. I was hoping there was a small threaded inline insert with a bleeder valve.

They make a tee fitting with a petcock, but it still needs to sweated onto copper.

The wye branch shutoff fittings would work great, too... just attach onto the valve... they come in brass, too!

MARK

Thanks again.

Anytime!