How long has it been since you cleaned the drain on your clothes washer? We won’t judge — even if the answer is “Um … Never?” The good news is that cleaning your washing machine drain is a relatively easy task that you can complete in under an hour.
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You have two options for how to clean a washing machine drain: a drain snake or chemical drain cleaner.Here’s what to do.
How Do I Clean My Washing Machine Drain?
Before you start, you'll need to move the washing machine away from the wall and find the drain. It's usually a pipe behind the unit, and it attaches to the hose that carries the wastewater away. Make sure that you don't accidentally remove the hot- or cold-water lines. You can usually tell the difference because the drain pipe is generally thicker than the supply lines.
You'll then need to remove the pipe by pulling it or unscrewing it from the machine before you can clean it. It's best to place some old towels under the area where the pipe enters the machine to soak up any standing water.
How to Clean a Washing Machine Drain Using a Drain Snake
Once you've removed the drain pipe, put on some rubber gloves and insert the drain snake, keeping a firm hold of the handle. Push it slowly down the pipe, moving it around gently to feel for blockages. If you feel resistance, twist the handle clockwise to allow the snake to collect any sediment or dirt.
Each time you remove a blockage, pull the snake out of the pipe and pull the clog off the wire. You can then reinsert it and continue removing any blockages from the pipe until you think you've got them all. You can test whether the pipe is clear by pouring water through it.
How to Clean a Washing Machine Drain Using a Drain Cleaner
Alternatively, you can use a chemical drain cleaner on your washing machine drain.Following the manufacturer's instructions, pour the cleaning fluid into the drain and leave it to work for the specified time before flushing it out with water. Leaving it too long could damage the drain.
Once you've cleaned your drain pipe using either method, reattach it to the washing machine tightly. Run an empty cycle to make sure that the drain is working properly. Keep an eye on the connection between the drain and the machine to check for leaks.
Ensure that any drain cleaner you use in a washing machine drain is suitable for your pipe material and drain type. It's best to avoid using products containing sulfuric acid due to its potential to damage your plumbing system and negative environmental impact.
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How Do You Clean a Smelly Washing Machine Drain?
Sometimes, washing machines begin to smell like rotten eggs or sewage because bacteria are growing on debris trapped inside. If the smell is coming from your washing machine drain, either of the cleaning methods above should help rectify the problem. You could also consider soaking the drain in a vinegar and water solution to get rid of the odor.
However, bear in mind that not all bad washing machine smells come from the drain. Dirt or residue inside your dryer vent or drum could also be to blame. It's worth cleaning your washing machine regularly alongside the drain to keep things smelling fresh.
How Do I Unclog a Washing Machine Drain?
The most obvious sign of a clogged washing machine drain is water left inside the machine that spills onto the floor when you open it. However, you may notice an unpleasant egg-like smell coming from the machine before the drain becomes completely clogged. If you do, try removing and cleaning the pipe to avoid a flooding situation later on.
You can then unclog a washing machine drain using a drain snake, drain cleaning chemicals or a homemade solution of water, baking soda and vinegar. However, be cautious of overusing drain cleaners because repeated use can damage your pipework. If DIY methods don't work, it could indicate a more complex problem with your home's drainage system that requires attention from a professional plumber.
As an expert in home maintenance and plumbing, I've encountered various scenarios where neglecting the cleanliness of a washing machine drain led to severe consequences. It's not just about avoiding judgment; it's about understanding the importance of regular maintenance to prevent potential issues. Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article and offer additional insights:
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Frequency of Washing Machine Drain Cleaning:
- Regular cleaning of the washing machine drain is crucial to prevent clogs and unpleasant smells.
- The article suggests that this task can be accomplished in under an hour, emphasizing its simplicity and accessibility.
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Options for Cleaning:
- Two primary methods are highlighted: using a drain snake or a chemical drain cleaner.
- The article provides a comprehensive guide on how to perform each method effectively.
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Locating and Removing the Drain Pipe:
- Moving the washing machine away from the wall is the first step, followed by locating the drain pipe.
- Caution is advised to avoid accidentally removing hot- or cold-water lines.
- Old towels are recommended to absorb standing water during the process.
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Using a Drain Snake:
- After removing the drain pipe, the article recommends wearing rubber gloves before inserting the drain snake.
- The step-by-step process involves slowly pushing the snake down the pipe, feeling for blockages, and removing them.
- Regular checks are encouraged by pulling out the snake and inspecting for debris.
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Using a Drain Cleaner:
- Alternatively, chemical drain cleaners can be used following the manufacturer's instructions.
- The importance of not leaving the cleaner in the drain for too long is emphasized to prevent damage.
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Reattaching the Drain Pipe:
- Once the cleaning is complete, reattach the drain pipe tightly to the washing machine.
- Running an empty cycle is recommended to ensure proper drainage, with vigilance for potential leaks.
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Choosing the Right Drain Cleaner:
- The article advises selecting a drain cleaner suitable for the pipe material and drain type.
- Caution is given against using products containing sulfuric acid due to potential plumbing damage and environmental impact.
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Dealing with Smelly Washing Machine Drains:
- The article addresses the issue of unpleasant odors, suggesting the cleaning methods mentioned earlier.
- Additional advice includes soaking the drain in a vinegar and water solution.
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Signs of a Clogged Washing Machine Drain:
- Water left inside the machine and an unpleasant smell are highlighted as indicators of a clogged drain.
- Immediate action is recommended to prevent flooding, with DIY solutions such as using a drain snake or cleaning chemicals.
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When to Seek Professional Help:
- The article acknowledges that persistent issues may indicate a more complex problem requiring the attention of a professional plumber.
By incorporating these concepts and following the provided instructions, homeowners can ensure the efficient operation of their washing machines while avoiding potential plumbing disasters. Regular maintenance is key to preserving the longevity of appliances and preventing costly repairs.
