How to clean a filter in a washing machine

Maintaining your washing machine’s optimal performance and lifespan depends on keeping it in good working order. Cleaning the filter is an essential component of routine maintenance. Even though many people ignore it, keeping your filter clean promotes a smooth operation of your machine and helps avoid clogs and unpleasant smells.

So, how do you approach this seemingly difficult task? It’s easier than you might think, so don’t worry. The simple steps to find, clean, and replace the filter in your washing machine are outlined in this guide. All you need is a little time and a few common household items; no special tools are required.

You can help your washing machine operate more effectively and protect yourself from future repairs by keeping the filter clean. To guarantee that your washing machine remains in excellent functioning order and that your clothes remain clean and fresh, adhere to these simple instructions.

Why are filters needed and where are they located

Find out where the washer’s filters are located and what they are used for before you begin cleaning. Rust and other impurities are kept out by the inlet filter. This tiny component helps ensure that the water for washing is thoroughly cleaned and supplied to the tank free of large debris.

A fine mesh filter is used to clean the water that enters the washing machine.

At the point where the washing machine and inlet hose connect is the filter, which resembles a fine mesh. In the majority of equipment models, the water supply system is situated on the rear panel.

The drain filter shields the drain pump from foreign objects, lint, and debris that fall into the tank with clothes by blocking their path. The component is usually found at the bottom, concealed by a small hatch or detachable panel. The location of the drain filter in washing machines may vary slightly depending on the brand:

1. LG – the filter can be found at the bottom on the left behind the hatch.
2. Ariston, Indesit, Zanussi, Electrolux, Samsung – at the bottom right behind the plastic hatch or removable panel.
3. Bosch, Siemens – on the right side behind a decorative strip or hatch.

The drain filter ought to be situated beneath a tiny hatch at the base of the washing machine.

If your washing machine loads clothes vertically, the filter is behind a small window at the bottom on the left.

Cleaning filters: stages of work

In order to clean the inlet filter, unplug the device from the network, shut off the water supply, unscrew the hose, and use pliers to remove the component.

Cleaning the inlet filter on a regular basis is advised as this will enhance the washing machine’s functionality.

There will be tiny particles, rust, or silt on the mesh if the water supply lacks a pre-filter and the water is of low quality. Using an old toothbrush and regular running water, you can get rid of dirt. After giving the mesh a thorough cleaning, run water over it. You can then replace the filter after this.

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The washing machine’s inlet filter is situated on the back body, where the water supply hose is attached.

Cleaning the drain pump’s filter in front should be done gradually:

1. Disconnect the machine from the power supply and turn off the water.
2. Find the location of the required part (where the filter is in the washing machine, described above).
3. Open the hatch or remove the panel behind which the element is hidden. This can be done either by moving it towards you or by sliding the cover to the side.
4. Drain the remaining water from the machine. There is always a little liquid left in the drainage system, which will flow out when you unscrew the filter. If the machine does not have a special tray for collecting water, place a rag under the body that will quickly absorb the liquid. Many models have an emergency hose in the filtration compartment, which will simplify the draining process – you need to lower the end of the pipe into the container and unscrew the plug.
5. Remove the filter. It can consist of one solid part or two parts – a plug and a filter. At the end of our article, there is a video that explains in detail how to remove the filter on an Indesit washing machine.
6. Clean the filter. Remove all large debris – lint, wool, hair, small objects. Using a hard sponge, clean the part from plaque and dirt. After all the steps, rinse the filter under warm water.
7. Check the pump and drain compartment for dirt. Free the pump from debris and wipe the walls of the compartment with a damp cloth. It is also recommended to rotate the impeller to make sure that nothing prevents it from rotating freely.
8. Install the filter. This must be done extremely carefully so that the part accurately takes its place in the compartment. In some models of Zanussi, Electrolux, Whirlpool washing machines, the filter is secured with a locking cover.

To prevent the water from spilling onto the floor, arm yourself with a rag before removing the filter from the compartment.

It’s time to check the equipment for leaks after you’ve figured out how to clean the washing machine’s filter and finished the process. Start the rinse mode and keep an eye on the filter cover to achieve this. You can close the hatch or install the panel if there are no leaks of water indicating that the part is correctly installed.

Appliance manufacturers recommend cleaning the component at least once every two to three months. By doing this, significant contamination can be avoided, as well as the drain pump’s failure, which could remove some debris from the filter, from occurring.

Maintaining the optimal performance of your washing machine requires routinely cleaning its filter. You can lessen the likelihood of offensive odors and help prevent clogs by clearing out hair, debris, and trapped lint. By performing this easy maintenance, you can increase the machine’s lifespan and guarantee that your clothes always come out clean.

For detailed instructions on how to access and clean the filter, don’t forget to consult the handbook that came with your washing machine. Though there may be small differences between each model, the procedure is usually very simple. It’s always a good idea to have a small towel on hand in case any water spills.

Every few months, spend a few minutes cleaning the filter to prevent expensive repairs later on. It’s a little work that pays off big time by giving you peace of mind and enabling your washing machine to operate at peak efficiency. Thus, incorporate this into your regular maintenance schedule as a habit.

In order to keep your washing machine functioning properly, avoid unpleasant smells, and possibly even save damage, cleaning the filter is an easy but important task. The machine’s effectiveness may be impacted when lint, coins, and other debris get trapped in the filter over time. Cleaning the filter on a regular basis prolongs the life of your washing machine and helps preserve the quality of your washes. In order to maintain the best possible condition for your washing machine, we’ll walk you through the simple procedures in this article for checking and cleaning the filter.

Video on the topic

How to clean the filter in an Electrolux washing machine

How to clean the filter in a Bosch washing machine in 3 minutes

The washing machine does not fill with water! How to clean the water supply filter!