A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Machine Drain Cleaning

Your washer is your indispensable ally in maintaining the overall cleanliness of your home. However, it also requires a certain amount of care to keep performing well, and making sure its drain is fresh and clear is a part of regular maintenance.

So, while your home in Des Moines is being taken care of by a trusted house cleaning service, take some time to explore today’s article and see how you can take proper care of your washer’s drain. 

How often do you need to clean the drain on a washing machine?

This largely depends on usage but on average, it’s recommended to take care of it every 3 to 6 months. If you’re a family with kids or even pets, it’s better to do it more frequently to prevent the buildup of lint and grime as well as avoid any unpleasant odors. If you don’t tend to it on a regular basis, you may notice some signs such as water pooling in the drum, that show it needs your immediate attention. 

How do I clean the drain blockage in my washing machine?

Over time, lint, soap residue, and other debris can accumulate in the drain and cause poor drainage, unpleasant odors, and sometimes even machine failure. Here’s how you can keep it in optimal shape:

Unplug the machine

Always make sure you unplug the machine from its power source for your safety. Next, locate the drain hose, which is usually attached to the back of your washer and connects to your home’s plumbing system. You’ll also need to find the drain filter, which is typically hidden behind a panel or small door at the bottom of the machine. 

Remove the hose

Carefully loosen up the clamp that holds it in place and remove the hose from the machine. It’s a good idea to have a bucket or towel nearby so you can catch any water that may spill out. Now you can check the inside of the hose for any debris buildup and use a small brush or pipe cleaner to remove it. 

Tackle the filter

The job of the drain filter is to trap lint and other small particles before they make their way into the drain system. First, open the panel or small door and remove the filter, then simply rinse it under running water. However, if there’s some heavy buildup, you’ll need a brush to scrub it clean. 

Check the drain pipe

If after this treatment your machine still doesn’t drain properly, there may be a blockage deeper in the pipe. In this case, you can use a drain auger or plumber’s snake to reach the debris that’s causing blockage and dislodge it. However, make sure you do it gently to avoid damaging the pipe or reach out to a professional.

Reassemble and test

Once you’ve got everything checked and cleaned, carefully reattach the hose and filter, plug your machine back in, and run a test cycle with water only. This way, you can make sure you’ve successfully removed any blockages and your machine is now draining properly. 

Where in Des Moines can I find a reliable house cleaning service?

When your kitchen needs a deep clean, your electronics could use some TLC, or you’re tired of the constant vacuuming to keep your floors neat, phClean is here to keep your home sparkling. With years of experience and a highly qualified crew, we’ll cater to all your needs while respecting the integrity of your home. Take a relaxing stroll through Pappajohn Sculpture Park while our technicians give your home the care it deserves. Get in touch with us today!