For a lot of us, we don’t even think about our filter until a problem develops with our washing machine.
Did you know…
Your filter is supposed to be cleaned once a month?
For many of you, this will be, to say the least, a shocking discovery.
By cleaning your filter monthly, it will help prevent drainage problems, and we’re gonna show you exactly how to clean your filter in this post.
Let’s get started.
What job does your washing machine filter do?
The washing machine filter is an important part that prevents lint, debris, and other foreign objects from entering the drainage system.
Over time, these filters can become clogged, hindering the machine’s ability to drain properly.
Neglecting your filter not only compromises your washing machine’s performance but can also lead to foul odours.
Signs Your Washing Machine Filter Needs Cleaning
1. Slow Drainage
If you notice that your washing machine is taking longer than usual to drain, it may be a sign that the filter is clogged.
You might notice that water remains in the drum longer after the cycle has concluded, or perhaps the cycle takes longer to conclude as a whole.
2. Foul Odours
Unpleasant smells coming from your washing machine could indicate a buildup of mould or bacteria in the filter.
Cleaning it regularly will help eliminate these odours and keep your laundry smelling fresh.
3. Visible Debris
Take a moment to inspect your washing machine’s drain pump or filter area. If you notice visible debris such as lint, hair, or small objects, your filter needs some cleaning.
Materials You'll Need To Clean Your Filter
Screwdriver – To remove the access panel on most washing machine models.
Bucket or Towels – Placing a bucket or towel under the filter area will help contain any water that may spill during the cleaning process.
Old Toothbrush – Using a toothbrush will help dislodge stubborn debris from the filter mesh without causing damage.
Step-By-Step Guide On How To Clean Your Washing Machine Filter
Step 1: Power Off & Unplug Your Washing Machine
Safety should always be the top priority.
Turn off your washing machine and unplug it from the electrical outlet to avoid any accidents during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Locate The Filter Access Panel
Refer to your washing machine’s user manual to identify the location of the filter access panel.
In most cases, it is situated at the front or rear of the machine. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the panel in place.
Step 3: Position Your Bucket (or Towels)
To catch any water that may spill during the cleaning process, position a bucket or towels under the filter area.
Step 4: Remove The Filter Cover
Once the access panel is removed, locate the filter cover.
Use your screwdriver to loosen any screws securing the cover, and then carefully remove it.
Step 5: Empty The Drainage System
Before tackling the filter cleaning itself, allow any standing water to drain into the bucket or be absorbed by the towels.
This will minimise the mess and make the filter cleaning process more manageable.
Step 6: Remove & Clean The Filter
Gently detach the filter from its housing. Inspect it for visible debris, such as lint, hair, or foreign objects.
Use an old toothbrush or soft brush to scrub away any residue (if required), paying close attention to the mesh or perforated surface.
Step 7: Rinse The Filter
Once you’ve scrubbed the filter, rinse it thoroughly under running water (if required).
Step 8: Reassemble The Filter
After cleaning and rinsing the filter, place it back into its housing. Reattach the filter cover and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
Step 9: Check For Leaks
Before sealing the access panel, run a short test cycle to check for leaks. Ensure that the filter is properly seated and that there are no issues with the drainage system.
Step 10: Replace The Access Panel
Once you’ve confirmed that there are no leaks and the machine is functioning correctly, replace the access panel and secure it with the screws.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning your washing machine filter is a great way of ensuring that your washing machine stays healthy and fully functional.
By investing half an hour in cleaning your filter every so often, you will save money and also have an excellent washing machine that will serve you for many years to come.
But if you’re still not able to find a solution to your problem, it’s advisable to seek professional help.
And… what better way than to seek help from Georgi’s Services?
You can simply contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
We highly recommend checking out our prices too.