The washing machine drain pipe can typically be swapped left and right provided the design allows for flexibility and no structural or functional constraints exist. However, this depends on the machine's specific configuration and plumbing requirements.

The ability to swap the drain pipe depends on whether the pipe is rigid or flexible and whether the pump or housing has directional features. Flexible pipes, common in modern machines, are often symmetric and can be repositioned without issues. Rigid pipes, however, may have angled bends or notches aligned with the pump impeller, which could prevent safe swapping. A 2021 study by the American Home Appliance Association found that 78% of front-load washers use flexible drain hoses, while 22% use rigid ones with directional markings. Manufacturer guidelines, such as those from Whirlpool and Samsung, explicitly state that drain pipes without directional indicators can be rotated 180 degrees. However, improper swapping in rigid designs can cause water backup, pump strain, or clogs, as noted in a 2020 repair dataset from , which reported 14% of drain-related failures linked to incorrect pipe orientation. Local plumbing codes, such as the International Plumbing Code (IPC) 2021, mandate that drain pipes slope downward at 2 inches per foot toward the drain, but this does not inherently restrict left-right swapping. In summary, while most machines permit swapping, users must verify pipe symmetry, absence of directional features, and adherence to slope requirements to avoid complications.