Where is the filter located in the washing machine?
The drainage filter of a washing machine performs an important function - it protects the pump from debris and foreign objects entering the tank. Since the element traps everything that is not needed, it must be cleaned periodically. If you neglect this rule, it will be difficult for the pump to pump out water, and this may lead to breakdown of the machine. Let's figure out where the drain filter is, how to wash it with your own hands, and how often the procedure should be performed.
Filter placement by machine brands
The first step is to understand where the “trash bin” is located. Washing machines differ in brands, models, and type of laundry loading. Despite the variety of types of automatic machines, the drain filter is always placed at the bottom of the body, in close proximity to the pump.
The garbage filter is an internal part of an automatic washing machine. It is “hidden” behind a false panel or technical hatch door. To make it easier to find the filter element, we will tell you exactly where it is located in units from different manufacturers.
LG, Atlant - in the lower right corner, in front, behind a small door.
Indesit and Ariston are behind the lower false panel, also in the right corner.
Candy - on the left side, behind the technical door.
Bosch, Samsung and Siemens are in the lower right corner. Can be hidden behind a hatch or false panel.
Electrolux and Zanussi. The “trash bin” is located in the lower right corner and is covered with a small plastic hatch.
Most top-loading machines have a dust filter installed in the lower left corner.
Some manufacturers have come up with another place to install the drain filter.For example, on the Electrolux and Zanussi “verticals” the “trash bin” is built into the edge of the drum. You can get the element by looking into the “centrifuge”.
How to clean it properly?
Users of washing machines should understand that it is necessary to clean the trash bin. Experts recommend washing the drain filter at least once every 3 months. The process will not take much time; any housewife can handle the job. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:
Turn off the power to the automatic machine. It is very important to start working only after the washing machine is unplugged from the outlet;
close the shut-off valve responsible for the water supply;
cover the flooring around the washing machine with dry rags;
prepare a low, capacious container to collect the water that flows from the hole;
open the service door or unhook the decorative panel from the body. The hatch cover is usually secured with several plastic latches; you will need a screwdriver to remove them;
tilt the machine back and place a container under the bottom to collect water;
First unscrew the filter plug half a turn. Wait until the water flows into the basin. Remove the trash can completely. If the element does not give in, try grabbing it with pliers and turning it counterclockwise.
For some brands of washing machines, before removing the filter, you will first have to unscrew the plug that blocks the flow of water. For example, for AEG, Elgie, Zanussi and Electrolux washing machines. Many housewives wonder where the water in an empty washing machine comes from? In fact, the pump empties the tank, and there is always a small amount of liquid in the drain pipes. After unscrewing the filter, it will just flow out of the resulting hole.
All washing machines also have a hose for emergency drainage of liquid from the system. You can “empty” the machine with it before unscrewing the garbage filter. To do this, you need to pull out the plug installed in the pipe. The tube is located here, next to the cork. Having finished dismantling, you can begin cleaning the filter element. Remove the wound threads and hair from it, rinse thoroughly under the tap. The water should be warm. If the spiral is very dirty, treat the surface with an abrasive sponge.
Do not wash the drain filter in hot water; the plastic may become deformed.
If deposits cannot be removed from the surface of the filter, you can soak the part for 2-3 hours in a solution of lemon powder. Dissolve 50 grams of “lemon” in warm water and immerse it in a “trash can” basin. After soaking, clean it with a brush.
You also need to rinse the hole where the filter is placed. Wipe its walls with a damp cloth and shine a flashlight inside. This way you can see the pump impeller. Wound hair, lint and threads should be removed from its blades. Having finished “cleaning”, you can put the “trash can” back. Insert the spiral into the hole as evenly as possible, without distortions, and screw the “plug” from left to right. Next, close the hatch or put the removed false panel back in place.
After cleaning the debris filter, be sure to turn on the test wash program. If you insert the filter even slightly unevenly, there may be a leak. Therefore, run a short cycle and monitor the work of the “home assistant”. If there is no puddle under the machine, the “cleaning” can be considered successfully completed. The entire process of cleaning the garbage filter is described in the instructions for the washing machine.Therefore, you can study the user manual to understand the essence of the work ahead and find out the manufacturer’s recommendations. Information is presented in the section “Cleaning and maintaining the automatic machine”.
When should I repeat the cleaning?
In order for the garbage filter to fully perform its functions, it must be cleaned periodically. Otherwise, the operation of the washing machine will be disrupted. Water will begin to leave the system too slowly.
A clogged drain filter makes it difficult to pump water into the sewer and can cause the pump to fail.
That is why it is important not to forget about the need to periodically clean the trash can. Washing machine manufacturers recommend servicing the drain filter once every 2-4 months. It is better to perform the procedure more often if you wash woolen underwear and items with long pile in the machine. Also, the garbage filter gets dirty faster if there are pets in the house. Pet hair is constantly present on the clothes of household members and settles on the “spiral”. In such a situation, cleaning should be done at least once a month.
If you start washing something completely “junk”, for example, a woolen blanket, a cat’s mattress or a down pillow, then clean the filter immediately after the cycle is completed. In fact, there is nothing complicated in the procedure; it will only take 10-15 minutes of free time. Also, in order to prevent clogging of the drain system elements, be sure to shake out things before loading them into the drum. It is better to pre-soak heavily soiled laundry in a basin, and only then put it in the machine. Don’t ignore your pockets either – a paperclip or keys forgotten in your pants can disrupt the normal operation of your equipment.
The drainage filter of a washing machine performs an important function - it protects the pump from debris and foreign objects entering the tank. Since the element traps everything that is not needed, it must be cleaned periodically. If you neglect this rule, it will be difficult for the pump to pump out water, and this may lead to breakdown of the machine. Let's figure out where the drain filter is, how to wash it with your own hands, and how often the procedure should be performed.
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