How to Locate & Clean the Filter of Your Washing Machine?
Quite a few washing machine problems are usually due to a blocked Filter. When the washer vibrates, or sounds loud, tends to get unexpectedly longer to complete a cycle, or fails in the middle of a cycle, or leaves clothes sopping wet, there is a high possibility of a blocked filter. Small objects like coins or buttons can sometimes get stuck inside and hinder the impeller from operating smoothly.
On the brighter side, all that is normally required to solve the problem is a fast clean. These faults cannot only be resolved through regular maintenance of filters but also prevent the recurrence of the faults. In this guide, Appliance Repair Dubai tells you in detail how to locate and clean the filter on your washing machine.
10 Steps to Clean Your Washing Machine Filter & Unblock the Pump
Drainage, noise and fumes can be a result of a clogged filter. Follow this checklist to clean the washer debris and keep it in good condition.
Quick Checklist
- Turn off the water supply.
- Unplug the washing machine.
- Open the service flap.
- Place a towel and drain water via hose.
- Reseal the drain hose.
- Unscrew and remove the filter.
- Clean the pump area and check the impeller.
- Reinstall the filter and tighten securely.
- Close the service flap.
- Restore water supply and power.
1. Shut off the Water Supply
Shut off the water that is supplied to your washing machine. This prevents incoming fresh water into the appliance as you remove the rest of the water from the pump.
2. Disconnect Power Completely
Turn off the machine and unplug it from the main socket so that there is complete electrical safety during work.
3. Open the Service Flap
Find the small access door (typically near the bottom front of the machine) and open it or take it out to access the area of the pump.
4. Prepare for Draining
Put a towel or cloth behind to mop any spills. Internally in the compartment there is a small drain hose beside the pump cover.
- Gently pull the hose out over the shallow tray or container.
- Take the hose cap off and push or give the remaining water out.
- It might require you to pull out the container many times clearing all the water.
Be cautious: The water will be hot in case you are doing so, immediately after a wash run.
5. Seal the Drain Hose
When discontinuing the water, end the water and securely fit the sealing cap on the hose and reinstate it.
6. Remove the Filter
Unscrew the pump cover slowly; some remaining water may still leak out onto your towel. Then unscrew and slide out the filter cap.
- Look for trapped items such as buttons, coins, or lint buildup.
- Remove all obstructions before cleaning the filter thoroughly under running water.
7. Clean the Pump Area
Wipe the interior housing, pump threads, and filter seat to remove grime. Ensure the pump impeller (small fan-like part inside) rotates freely. Test it gently with a spoon handle or stick — it should move without resistance.
8. Reinstall the Filter Securely
Tighten the filter cap securely in its upright locked position. Reattach the pump cover and make sure its handle is firmly aligned vertically.
9. Close the Service Flap
Reconnect the flap by snapping or screwing it to close the compartment.
10. Restore Power & Water
Restore the water supply and plug the machine back into the wall socket. Your washing machine is now ready to run with a clean filter and clear pump.
Washing Machine Filter: Signs, When to Clean and Call a Pro
5 Signs Your Washing Machine Filter Needs Cleaning
It is as important to know when you should clean the filter as how to do it. Frequent maintenance helps to avoid small repair issues and transform them into major repairs. These are the things to look out for that signify that there is a clogged filter or a blocked pump:
- After a wash, the drum drains slowly orkeeps standing water inside it.
- Abnormal sounds like rattling and humming during spinning or grinding.
- Wet or dripping clothes even after a full spin cycle.
- Unexpected cycle interruptions where the machine stops mid-wash.
- Musty or unpleasant odors coming from the drum or drain area.
When you have already observed some of these, then it is time to clean your washing machine filter. Leaving these signs unattended may result in machine breakdown, longer wash time, and damage to the pump.
What is the Recommended Time for Cleaning the Filter of Your Washing Machine?
Most families could simply clean the washing machine filter in 2 or 3 months to ensure that their machine is operating healthily. Nevertheless, depending on the situation you might have to wash it more regularly when:
- You wash heavily soiled clothes or pet bedding.
- Your residence is in a region with hard water that leaves mineral deposits.
- Any of the warning signs listed above is noted by you.
Proper cleaning reduces the possibility of pump blockage and expensive repairs because lint, coins and other small debris cannot accumulate. You can treat this like the regular care of your appliances, and it is a quick few minutes that can give your washing machine years of service.
When to Call a Professional for Cleaning Your Washing Machine Filter
Cleaning the filter usually fixes blocked mid-cycle stops, loud noises, error codes, or incorrect drainage. However, if cleaning does not stop the symptoms, a faulty pump or impeller will often cause persistent problems. In many cases, these can be attributed to an electrical fault.
It is advisable to consult an experienced technician for actual diagnosis and safe servicing in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and all the seven emirates in UAE, rather than attempting such a DIY repair that could be dangerous.
Final Thoughts
A filter in any washing machine is an important part because it maintains the smooth running of your machine. When it gets clogged then you can realize slow drainage, noisy washing and interrupted in the middle of the washing process or even the clothes ending up wet. Luckily, filter cleaning and pump unblocking is a very easy process that can be performed at home and in only a few moves.
Common faults can be prevented by periodically cutting the water supply, drain left over water, debris trapped in spaces, and inspect the pump impellers to lengthen the life of your washing machine. Regular filter cleaning prevents the need for repairs and ensures that your washing machine works at its best; it should be done every few months.
Following this guide will not only cleanse the immediate problems but also avert potential future problems in your appliance.
