How to clean washing machine pump filter properly?

 

Why Cleaning Your Washing Machine Pump Filter is Important

 

Regularly maintaining your washing machine’s pump filter is essential for efficient operation, hygienic laundry results, and prolonging the appliance’s lifespan. A washing machine pump filter works by trapping debris such as lint, hair, dirt, coins, or other small items that inadvertently end up during washing cycles. Over time, failure to routinely clean out this filter can lead to clogged drainage, musty odors, inefficient performance, increased wear on the appliance components, and even flooding.

For residents in busy urban areas such as St Louis or Nashville, regular maintenance becomes especially important, as lingering lint, dust, and pollutants can accumulate faster due to city life.

In the following detailed steps, you’ll learn how to properly clean your washing machine pump filter to ensure optimum performance and avoid expensive repairs.

 

Locate Your Washing Machine Pump Filter

 

Every washing machine model has a slightly different pump filter location, so consult your washing machine’s user manual if necessary. Common locations for the pump filter typically include:

• At the front bottom corner behind a removable panel (common in front-loading machines)
• Behind a flap or panel located at the lower right or left side at the front of your machine (front-loading machines)
• Behind the machine’s lower rear panel (often in top-loading machines)
• Under the agitator (rare, but sometimes necessary to check top-loaders this way)

 

Tools & Materials You Will Need

 

Before starting, gather the following items:

• Towels or absorbent cloth
• Bucket or shallow pan for water drainage
• Soft cleaning brush or toothbrush
• Dish soap or mild detergent solution
• Gloves (optional, to protect your skin)

 

Prepare Your Machine for Cleaning

 

Before accessing the filter, you must prepare your washing machine:

• Ensure the machine is completely turned off, unplugged from power, or disconnected from its electrical supply.
• Cut off water supply valves (optional, but advisable as a safety precaution).
• Place an absorbent towel beneath and around the filter area since some water will inevitably drain out.
• If accessible, place a shallow pan or bucket under the filter area to catch dripping water.

 

Remove and Clean the Pump Filter

 

• Open the access panel or flap cover by gently prying with fingers, or using a flathead screwdriver if necessary. Some machines require removal of screws.
• Slowly unscrew the pump filter by rotating it counterclockwise, letting any water drain into your pan or absorbent towel; be prepared as some residual water usually drains out.
• Pull the filter completely out once it's fully loosened.
• Inspect the filter for debris. Remove any solid material like lint, hair, coins, small clothing particles, or dirt.
• Wash the filter gently under warm running water. Use a gentle, soapy solution and a soft toothbrush or cleaning brush to remove stubborn residue or grime accumulation.
• Check the filter compartment closely, ensuring no debris is left behind that could quickly clog your filter again.

 

Inspect the Filter Housing and Drain Pump

 

After cleaning the pump filter, you should inspect the pump housing before reinstalling the filter:

• Use a flashlight to thoroughly inspect the inside area of the pump filter housing for additional debris or obstacles.
• Check the drain pump impeller (small rotating plastic blade) behind the filter. Make sure it rotates freely by gently turning it with your fingers. Clear away any debris that might obstruct it.
• If impeller seems stuck or damaged, it might require professional assistance.

In busy locations like St Louis and Nashville, appliance repair specialists can quickly help with repairs or inspections if necessary.

 

Reinstall the Pump Filter Properly

 

• Once your filter and pump area are clean, carefully screw the clean filter back into place. Tighten it securely by hand, but avoid overtightening to prevent damaging plastic components.
• Replace the access panel or flap securely. If panels require screws, tighten them adequately so no water leakage occurs.

 

Restore Power and Check for Proper Installation

 

When everything is back in place:

• Plug your washing machine back into power.
• Turn on the water supply valves, if they were closed during preparation.
• Run a short wash cycle with no laundry inside to ensure that water drains smoothly and that no leaks occur at the filter location.
• Check again around the filter compartment during and after the cycle. Be attentive for unusual noises or drainage issues.

 

Recommended Maintenance Schedule for Washing Machine Pump Filter

 

Generally, you should clean your washing machine pump filter every 3 to 6 months, depending on your usage frequency and household environment. Households with furry pets, frequent loads of laundry, or heavy dirt, lint, and dust accumulation may require more regular maintenance intervals.

By regularly cleaning your washing machine’s filter, you promote efficiency, hygienic cleanliness, and contribute significantly to prolonging your appliance’s life.