How to Clean a Washing Machine Filter

Filters are an important part of a washing machine. They trap the lint and prevent the pipes from getting clogged.

If these filters are not cleaned regularly, the it can get clogged with lint and dirt, leading to in-effective washing of clothes.

But not any one is aware of the right process to do it.

In this article, we will talk about the washing machine filters, their significance, and how to clean them. Cleaning the filters regularly can save you from spending lots of bucks on repairs.

Without any delay, we shall get started.

What Are Washing Machine Filets?

All washing machines irrespective of top-load or front-load model have two types of filters in them – inlet filter and the lint filter. Like every other filter, even these collect the dirt, debris, etc. Gradually, all these particles get accumulated in them and start blocking the filters. This will obstruct the performance of your washer and reduce the life span. If you want your appliance to keep running for longer years, you must clean the filters regularly, at least quarterly once.

How To Clean The Washing Machine Filters?

Before you start cleaning the washing machine filters, you should know where they are. Th location of filters may vary for a top-load machine and a front-load one. Locate the filters first, and then you get started with the cleaning process.

Let us learn how to locate and clean the inlet filter and the lint filter in the washing machine.

Inlet filter

As the name says, an inlet filter is a part that allows water into the drum from the main source through a hose. If you live in an area with hard water, there are chances for limescale to accommodate in this inlet, obstructing the water flow. To arrest the congestion and ensure proper cleaning of clothes, you must clean this filter regularly.

Let us look at the necessary steps below for locating and cleaning the inlet filter:

• Unplug the washing machine from the electric socket.
• Locate the inlet filter.
• Reach the back panel of your washer to find the water inlet hose connection.
• Once you locate it, disconnect the hose from the unit by rotating it in the counter-clockwise direction.
• After removing the hose carefully, check for the filter in the inlet port.
• Remove the filter out and clean it using a toothbrush.
• You can also wash and rinse it under running water.
• After cleaning, re-fix the filter in the inlet port.
• Now, re-attach the hose to the unit carefully.

Lint Filter

As mentioned earlier, the location of the lint filter varies for the top and front-loading washing machines.

While the top loaders have the lint filter located inside the drum, the front loaders have it in the lower front (right side) of the unit.

In Top-Load Washing Machine:

• You can locate the lint filter inside the drum. Remove it from the slot.
• Open the lint filter cap, which looks similar to a box.
• After opening it, check for the lint or dirt inside.
• Clean it using a brush by washing it under running water.
• After cleaning, close the filter cap and re-fix it in the tub.

In Front Loading Washing Machine:

• You can locate the lint filter on the right side of the lower front of the unit. It is an access panel.
• Open and remove the access panel by pulling the tab downwards and then out.
• After opening, you will see the lint filter with an accessible opening handle.
• You can remove the filter by rotating it in the counter-clockwise direction.
• Make sure you have a towel or rag in hand, as water will come out after removing the filter.
• Remove the lint from the filter using a toothbrush.
• If the filter has a removable screen, detach it and wash it by soaking the screen in a bowl of hot water for some time. (Soaking removes the lint, fabric softener, or detergent lingering to the sheet)
• If it is not detachable, wash the filter under hot running water to remove any residues.
• Once you finish cleaning the filter, re-fix it in the access panel and close it.

What Are The Symptoms for A Clogged Lint Filter:

While it is advisable to clean the filters frequently to prevent any clogs, specific symptoms will alert you if there is any blockage. Check for the below signs and clean your lint filter, immediately, if you notice any.

• If you notice any pause in your washer during the load cycle.
• If clothes remain wet even after the last spin of the load.
• If the washing machine door remains locked even after completion of the wash cycle.
• If your appliance is taking more time than usual to wash the clothes.
• If your washer keeps vibrating when operating.

Should you Clean the Filter or Call an Expert?

Many people ask this question. However, the answer is very simple. Here you go. If you have enough knowledge about washing machine maintenance, you can follow the above steps to clean the filter. Since this is an easy process, it would not be daunting or tedious.

If you are an amateur, you always have the option to seek a professional’s help by calling him. Get the servicing done for your washer if it is still under the warranty period. You can always rely on this option, as it is the safest.