Step-by-Step Guide: Fixing a Drain Blocked by Your Washing Machine

When installing a floor drain, it's important to ensure that there is a certain slope. If, by mistake, a washing machine is positioned on top of the floor drain, here are some solutions to address this situation.

Tips for Addressing a Washing Machine That Covers the Drain

1. If the washing machine covers the floor drain, one solution is to add a base under the washing machine. This type of base can be moved as needed. The water pipe can be routed from beneath the base, allowing you to easily push the washing machine aside when doing laundry to meet the drainage needs. When not in use, the washing machine can be pushed back over the drain. However, there is a drawback to this method: while the base is movable, if it is not properly secured, it can cause the washing machine to vibrate during operation.

2. Another approach is to consider modifications to the washing machine itself. Check whether the drainage pipe can be rerouted. Generally, there may be other drainage outlets next to the washing machine that can be used to redirect the drainage pipe. If there is enough space underneath, you could also create additional holes from the back to connect to the center drain without obstructing the floor drain.

3. If none of the above solutions work, the only option left may be to change the floor drain's plumbing. This would involve blocking the original drain and reconnecting the drainage pipe. However, this approach can be more costly.

Regarding the issue of foul odors coming from the bathroom floor drain

1. Sometimes, there can be a bad smell at the floor drain, but the source is often not the drain itself; rather, it may be caused by a blockage in the sewage pipe. When selecting a floor drain, it's advisable to choose one that has a water trap. If there is a certain amount of water in the trap, it can prevent odors from escaping.

2. When designing bathroom floor drains, it’s important that the drainage pipes are slightly elevated and that they are tightly connected to the floor drain. This can facilitate proper drainage and reduce the risk of water accumulation, which can help mitigate foul odors.

In summary：whether in a bathroom or on a balcony, it's essential to plan the location of floor drains appropriately from the outset, while also ensuring adequate waterproofing.