Two manufacturers publish steps for the filter and pump at the bottom of a washing machine. Samsung's are written for front-load washers. Washer designs differ, so use the one that matches your machine and check your manual. Samsung recommends cleaning the pump filter at least once per month or approximately every 40 washes.
Steps, by source
Samsung: the pump filter
Drains leftover water and cleans the debris filter at the bottom of a Samsung front-load washer. Source: Samsung: Clean the washer pump filter.
- Front-load washers only: Locate the pump filter access panel near the bottom of the washer and open it by pressing the top or center of the cover.
- Front-load washers only: Locate the rubber drain hose and have a towel and a shallow container ready to collect the remaining water.
- Front-load washers only: Hold the drain hose and twist off its cap, then let the water drain completely.
- Front-load washers only: After all the water has drained, remove the pump filter by twisting it counterclockwise.
- Front-load washers only: Use a small toothbrush or another soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and debris from the filter, and check that the drain pump impeller inside the filter housing is clean as well.
- Front-load washers only: Reinsert the pump filter and twist it clockwise until it is secured in the vertical position.
- Front-load washers only: Firmly replace the cap on the drain hose, secure the hose in the mounted clip, then close the access panel.
What the source lists: Towel; Shallow container; Small toothbrush (or another soft-bristle brush).
From the source. If the washer recently ran a hot cycle, allow time for the water to cool before draining.
From the source. Depending on your washer, the pump filter location or removal method may vary.
How often, according to Samsung: We recommend cleaning the pump filter at least once per month or approximately every 40 washes.
Bosch: the drain pump
Drains the tube behind the service flap and checks a Bosch washer's drain pump for foreign objects. Source: Bosch: Clean the washer drain pump.
- Make sure the power to the washing machine has been disconnected.
- Open the service flap on the machine and let the water run off from the tube.
- Unscrew the pump cover.
- Place a towel underneath it in case any remaining water runs out.
- Carefully check the pump for foreign objects.
What the source lists: Towel.
From the source. If the impeller can’t be turned, something could have become jammed in the pump. In this case, contact the customer service department
Questions
How often should I clean the washer pump filter?
Samsung recommends cleaning the pump filter at least once per month or approximately every 40 washes.
What should I have ready before draining the washer?
Samsung's steps list a towel, a shallow container to collect the remaining water, and a small toothbrush or other soft-bristle brush.
What if the water is hot?
Samsung says if the washer recently ran a hot cycle, allow time for the water to cool before draining.
What if the drain pump impeller won't turn?
Bosch says if the impeller can't be turned, something could have become jammed in the pump, and to contact the customer service department.
Models vary, check your manual. These steps come from the sources linked above and HouseHack doesn't verify them. Follow your appliance's manual and safety labels.
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