How to clean the filter in an Electrolux top-loading washing machine

Finding the drain filter on front-loading washing machines is easy – it's located underneath, on the front wall in the right corner of the machine, behind a false panel or a service hatch. With top-loading washing machines, it's not so easy – the "dustbin" can be hidden in the most unexpected places. Where should owners of Electrolux automatic machines look for this element? How often should it be cleaned? Why do it?

The filter is hidden in the pump snail

It won't be possible to do this without disassembling the vertical one. To clean the filter in a top-loading washing machine, you will need to remove the side wall of the machine to access the drain pump. To work you will need:

• slotted screwdriver;
• star screwdriver;
• dry cloth.

First, you need to turn off the power to your Electrolux washing machine and disconnect it from the water supply and sewer system. Next steps:

• remove the side wall of the washing machine housing (it is held in place by four screws around the perimeter; the bolts can be unscrewed with a regular screwdriver);
• find the drain pump – it is located under the drum;
• Disconnect the pump from the power supply;
• Use a star screwdriver to remove the three bolts that secure the pump;
• remove the drain pump (at this stage water will flow out of the joint, so use a dry cloth);

After removing the pump, you will have access to the debris filter of the Electrolux vertical washing machine.

• Use your finger to pry the drain filter up and carefully remove it from the structure;
• disassemble the "trash can" into two parts and wash them in warm water;
• clean the seat from dirt and scale;
• Place the clean drain filter back, making sure that its projections line up precisely with the rib inside the structure;
• put the pump back in place and secure it with bolts;
• connect the power contacts to the pump;
• Install the left side wall of the vertical camera body back into place.

If the filter hasn't been cleaned in a while and scale has built up on it, soak the part in a citric acid solution for 4-5 hours or in a special store-bought descaler. The water should be warm, but not hot. Do not pour boiling water into the filter, as this will cause deformation of the element.

After assembly, connect the machine to the water supply and sewer system. After starting the wash cycle, observe the operation of the machine. If the filter is installed incorrectly, the washing machine will begin to leak at the dustbin location. Be vigilant to spot the leak and turn off the machine promptly.

How many times a year should this part be cleaned?

It's important to promptly remove any debris that has accumulated in the drain filter. Otherwise, your Electrolux washing machine will not function properly. Water will drain too slowly, causing the washing machine to display an error message. A clogged filter element can cause the pump to fail.

Cleaning the drain pump filter is a mandatory procedure that should be performed every 2-3 months.

Much will depend on how often you use your Electrolux washing machine. If you only wash a couple of times a week, you can reduce the frequency of emptying the dustbin to once every 3-4 months.

If you have a cat or dog in your apartment, the dust filter will clog faster. Hair from clothes will end up first in the washing machine's tub and then in the pump. Therefore, in this situation, you'll need to clean the filter element more frequently—once a month.

To prevent blockages in the drainage system:

• Always shake out laundry before loading it into the drum;
• Be sure to remove everything from your pockets – checks, paper, keys, nails, buttons and other small items;
• Pre-soak heavily soiled items in a basin before placing them in the machine.

This will be enough to prevent the drain filter from becoming heavily clogged. However, lint, threads, and hair will still accumulate on the parts. Therefore, periodic cleaning of the "dustbin" remains a mandatory procedure.

What problems does a dirty filter cause?

Some users don't even realize they need to clean the waste bin. This can lead to certain problems. A clogged drain filter can cause:

• An unpleasant odor emanating from the washing machine and the washed laundry. Dirt in the waste bin is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Harmful microorganisms will remain inside the washing machine for months, emitting a foul odor;
• obstructed drainage of waste water into the sewer. The filter may become so clogged that water stops draining from the tank altogether. The machine will stop the cycle and display a corresponding message. error code;
• Pump failure. With a clogged filter, the pump operates at maximum power. Due to the constant increased load, the element will eventually burn out.

The entire procedure takes no more than 15-20 minutes. Spending just 15 minutes can prevent many problems with your Electrolux washing machine. A simple filter cleaning will extend the machine's service life. Therefore, it's important to maintain your appliance regularly.

   

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