Where is the filter located in the washing machine?

The drain filter of the washing machine performs an important function - it protects the pump from debris and foreign objects that get into the tank. Since the element retains 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 can lead to a breakdown of the machine. Let's figure out where the drain filter is located, how to wash it yourself, how often the procedure should be performed.

Placement of filter by car brands

The first thing to do is to understand where the "trash can" 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 waste filter is an internal part of an automatic washing machine. It is “hidden” behind a false panel or a technical hatch door. To make it easier to find the filter element, we will tell you where exactly it is located in units from different manufacturers.

• LG, Atlant – in the lower right corner, in front, behind a small door.
• Indesit and Ariston - behind the lower false panel, also in the right corner.
• Candy – on the left side, behind the technical door.
• Bosch, Samsung and Siemens – 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 by a small plastic hatch.

Some manufacturers have come up with another place to install the drain filter. For example, in Electrolux and Zanussi verticals, the "trash can" is built into the drum rib. You can get the element by looking into the "centrifuge".

How to clean properly?

Washing machine users should understand that it is necessary to clean the "trash can". 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 machine. It is very important to start working only after the washing machine has been disconnected from the socket,
• Close the shut-off valve responsible for the water supply,
• Cover the floor around the washing machine with dry rags,
• Prepare a low, capacious container to collect the water that will flow out of the hole,
• Open the service door or unhook the decorative panel from the body. The hatch cover is usually fixed with several plastic latches, to deal with them, you will need a screwdriver,
• Tilt the machine back and place a container under the bottom to collect water,
• First unscrew the filter plug by half a turn. Wait until the water drains into the basin. Remove the "trash can" completely. If the element does not give in, try to grab it with pliers and turn it counterclockwise.

In some brands of washing machines, before removing the filter, you will first have to unscrew the plug that blocks the water flow. For example, in AEG, LG, Zanussi and Electrolux machines. Many housewives wonder where the water comes from in an empty washing machine. In fact, the pump empties the tank, and a small amount of liquid is always in the drain pipes. After unscrewing the filter, it will flow out of the hole that has formed.

Also, all washing machines have a hose for emergency draining 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 plug. Having finished with dismantling, you can start cleaning the filter element. Remove wound threads and hair from it, rinse well under the tap. The water should be warm. If the spiral is heavily contaminated, treat the surface with a sponge with an abrasive coating.

If the film on the filter surface does not come off, 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 the "garbage can" basin. After soaking, clean it with a brush.

You also need to wash the hole where the filter is installed. Wipe its walls with a damp cloth, shine a flashlight inside. This way you can see the impeller of the pump. Remove any hair, lint, and threads that have wound around its blades. Once you have 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. Then close the hatch or put the removed false panel back in place.

After cleaning the dust filter, be sure to run a test wash cycle. If you insert the filter even a little unevenly, there may be a leak. Therefore, run a short cycle and monitor the operation of the "home assistant". If there is no puddle under the machine, the "cleaning" can be considered successful. The entire process of cleaning the dust filter is described in the instructions for the washing machine. Therefore, you can study the user manual to understand the essence of the upcoming work and find out the manufacturer's recommendations. Information is provided in the section "Cleaning and care of the automatic machine".

When to repeat cleaning?

In order for the waste filter to fully perform its functions, it must be cleaned periodically. Otherwise, the operation of the washing machine will be disrupted. Water will leave the system too slowly.

That is why it is important not to forget about the need for periodic cleaning of the "dustbin". Manufacturers of washing machines recommend servicing the drain filter once every 2-4 months. It is better to perform the procedure more often if you wash woolen clothes and items with long pile in the machine. Also, the dustbin gets dirty faster if there are pets in the house. Pet hair is constantly on the clothes of household members and settles on the "spiral". In such a situation, cleaning should be started at least once a month.

If you are going to wash something really “garbage”, for example, a woolen blanket, a cat mattress or a down pillow, then clean the filter immediately after the end of the cycle. In fact, there is nothing complicated about the procedure, it will take only 10-15 minutes of free time. Also, in order to prevent clogging of the drainage system elements, be sure to shake out the items 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. Do not ignore your pockets either - a paper clip or keys forgotten in your pants can disrupt the normal operation of the equipment.