An automatic clothes washer requires a minimum _____ -inch fixture drain period.

The minimum requirement for the fixture drain for an automatic clothes washer is 2 inches. This specification is in place to ensure proper drainage and to avoid any potential clogs that could result from the volume of water discharged during a wash cycle. A 2-inch drain provides sufficient capacity to handle the high flow rate of water, particularly during the rinse and spin cycles, which are essential for washing efficiency.

Choosing this size helps maintain a sanitary and functional plumbing system in residential settings. A smaller drain, such as 1 1/2 inches, may lead to backflow or slow drainage, thus causing issues with water pooling or inadequate drainage. This standard is important for maintaining proper plumbing and facilitating efficient water flow as required by the appliance's operational demands.