How to Check a Front Load Washer’s Drain Trap (2024)
Is your washer having some problems draining properly? This is a common issues that can have a number of causes. However, before you start shopping for replacement drain motors or looking up appropriate standpipe adjustments, there is one super easy culprit you can check with very minimal disassembly – the drain trap.
Many front load washers have a drain trap that catches items like socks or coins before they reach the main drain. This helps limit complex clogs. However, if the drain trap itself is getting pretty full, it can cause drain issues in the washer too.
Not every washer has a drain trap. The good news is that models that do have a drain trap make checking the drain trap really easy for the average appliance owner. There is essentially a little trap door located on the body on the front of the washer. If you open this up, it allows you to check the drain trap. You may need to remove a screw to open it or simply pry it open. Regardless of which, you will likely need a screwdriver handy. Once the cover is removed, you will see a small plug that you can pull out. Be sure to have a bucket or towel underneath as there can be some water in there. If your washer is still full of slow draining water, the runoff could be substantial. Once the water is drained off, slide out the trap and remove the items. Finally, you will want to check if the washer drains better. If not, the clog could be deeper in.
Do you have a slow draining washer that a clean drain trap didn’t solve? We can help.Contact ustoday to see what Central Valley Appliance Repair can do to help you fix any appliance issue fast.
As an appliance repair expert with years of hands-on experience in troubleshooting and fixing various washer issues, I've encountered and resolved numerous drainage problems similar to the one mentioned in the article. My expertise in this domain is backed by a comprehensive understanding of washer mechanics, gleaned from practical experience and extensive knowledge of appliance functioning and repair methodologies.
The article highlights a prevalent issue - a washer's improper draining, often stemming from various causes. It wisely directs attention to a fundamental yet often overlooked component: the drain trap. This component, commonly found in front load washers, acts as a barrier, preventing foreign objects like socks or coins from obstructing the main drain.
The drain trap can become clogged itself over time, leading to drainage problems. The article accurately describes how to access and clean this trap with minimal disassembly. For washers equipped with a drain trap, users can easily locate it on the front body of the washer. They might need to remove a screw or pry open a cover to access the trap. Once open, a small plug can be removed, and any trapped debris causing the obstruction should be cleared out, ensuring smoother drainage.
The step-by-step guidance provided in the article is precise, mentioning the necessity of having a screwdriver, preparing a bucket or towel to manage the water, and ensuring the trap is thoroughly cleaned to improve drainage. Moreover, it correctly notes that if the issue persists after cleaning the drain trap, the blockage might be deeper within the system, necessitating further inspection or professional assistance.
Additionally, the article offers a call-to-action, encouraging readers experiencing persistent drainage problems to seek professional help from Central Valley Appliance Repair, emphasizing their ability to resolve such issues promptly.
In essence, the concepts covered in the article include:
Washer Drainage Problems: Addressing common issues related to improper draining in washers.
Drain Trap: Explaining the purpose and function of the drain trap in front load washers to prevent clogs.
Accessing and Cleaning the Drain Trap: Providing clear instructions on locating, opening, cleaning, and reassembling the drain trap, emphasizing the need for basic tools and precautions.
Further Troubleshooting: Acknowledging the possibility of deeper issues if drainage problems persist despite cleaning the drain trap.
Professional Assistance: Offering a solution for readers unable to resolve the issue independently, directing them to seek professional appliance repair services.
Overall, the article serves as a valuable guide for homeowners experiencing washer drainage issues, offering practical advice to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem while also providing an avenue for professional help if needed.
To check for clogs, loosen the clamp connecting the hose to the bottom of the tub, then inspect the inside. If you see something blocking the hose or its connecting parts, remove it with the pliers, then reconnect the hose.
This means that the water cannot be extracted out of your washing machine when draining and your filter will be full of water. This could cause a little or a lot of water to form around the machine itself and is the first telltale sign of a blocked filter.
[ ] Flow Test: Run water through sinks, showers, and toilets to check for proper flow and drainage. Note any slow draining, gurgling sounds or backups. [ ] Manholes and Cleanouts: Inspect manholes and cleanouts for blockages, damage, or standing water within the pipes.
First, airtight plugs are inserted in order to isolate the section of pipework that's being tested. Using a drain pressure gauge, the pressure is set to 110mm head for 5 minutes. Next, the pressure is adjusted to a 100 mm head reading of the pressure gauge and after 5 minutes any change in head is measured.
Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe.Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose. Top tip: If the blockage is not completely gone, you can repeat the above process. Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out.
Many front load washers have a drain trap that catches items like socks or coins before they reach the main drain. This helps limit complex clogs. However, if the drain trap itself is getting pretty full, it can cause drain issues in the washer too. Not every washer has a drain trap.
Measure out two cups of distilled white vinegar and pour them directly into your washing machine's liquid detergent dispenser. Set your front-loading machine on its longest cycle with the hottest water.
To prevent buildup and prolong your machine's lifespan, clean your washing machine filter at least every three months. You know to clean your dryer's lint trap with every use, but did you know you may also have a washing machine filter that requires similar routine cleaning to prevent buildup?
Any fixture connected to a waste line must have a P-trap. The trap should be 6-18” from the floor. It is critical to maintain the correct pitch in the horizontal pipe connecting the trap to the waste stack.
"The drain trap is usually easy to access and can be cleaned out periodically to ensure it continues functioning properly.” Although most modern washing machines do have a drain trap or similar mechanism, Smith suggests checking your owner's manual if you aren't sure.
If your washer won't drain, the first thing to inspect is the drain hose. If this part is clogged, frozen or bent, water won't be able to flow out—which will leave all the liquid in the tub. Make sure the drain hose isn't kinked or twisted in a way that obstructs the flow of water.
Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe.Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose. Top tip: If the blockage is not completely gone, you can repeat the above process. Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out.
To test this, remove the drain hose attached to the washer and make sure it is clear. An easy way to check that the drain hose is clear is to blow air through it. If nothing is obstructing the drain tube, the problem is most likely at the washing machine pump.
Try using hot water and vinegar. If you're not comfortable using a snake or auger or would like to try an alternative method, you can try pouring a mixture of hot water and vinegar down the drain to dissolve the blockage. Combine equal parts of hot water and vinegar and pour the mixture down the drain.
Introduction: My name is Dean Jakubowski Ret, I am a enthusiastic, friendly, homely, handsome, zealous, brainy, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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