Cleaning your washing machine filter is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do — and one of the most frequently neglected. This 5-minute job prevents drainage problems, eliminates odors, and protects your pump from unnecessary wear. Here’s how to do it right.
Why the Filter Matters
The pump filter (also called the coin trap or lint filter) catches:
- Lint and fibres from clothing
- Coins, buttons, and small objects
- Hair (including pet hair)
- Tissue paper and small debris
Without regular cleaning, this debris accumulates into a plug that restricts water flow. Your washer strains to drain, odors develop, and in worst cases, the pump burns out.
Finding the Filter on Your Washer
Front-Load Washers
Look for a small square or rectangular panel at the bottom front of the machine. It usually opens by pressing a tab or prying gently.
Behind it, you’ll find a small round cap — that’s the filter.
Top-Load Washers
Many modern top-loaders have self-cleaning filters. However, some have:
- A lint filter inside the drum (often on the agitator)
- An accessible pump filter similar to front-loaders
Check your owner’s manual for your specific model.
Step-by-Step Filter Cleaning
What You Need
- Towels or old rags
- A shallow dish or baking tray
- A coin or flathead screwdriver (for some caps)
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Place towels on the floor in front of the machine. Have your shallow dish ready.
Step 2: Open the Access Panel
Press the release tab or gently pry open the panel door.
Step 3: Position the Dish
Place the shallow dish directly under the filter cap to catch water.
Step 4: Slowly Unscrew the Filter Cap
Turn counterclockwise. Go slowly — water will start flowing as the seal breaks. Let it drain into the dish.
Step 5: Remove and Inspect the Filter
Pull the filter out fully. You’ll likely find a collection of lint, hair, and possibly coins or small items.
Step 6: Clean the Filter
- Remove all debris by hand
- Rinse under warm running water
- Use an old toothbrush on stubborn buildup
- Check the filter housing inside the machine too
Step 7: Reinstall
Insert the filter, screw the cap back on clockwise firmly (don’t overtighten), and close the panel.
Step 8: Run a Short Test Cycle
Start a quick cycle to confirm drainage is working properly.
What to Do if You Find These Items
| Item Found | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Coins | Remove — they can damage the pump |
| Bra wires | Remove — wires can puncture the pump |
| Socks | Remove — check the drum seal area too |
| Black slime | Clean thoroughly — this is mold |
| Coloured residue | May be dye from clothes or buildup |
Signs Your Filter Needs Cleaning Now
- Water draining slowly or not at all
- Musty smell from the machine
- Error codes for drainage (E2, OE, F21)
- Machine making unusual noises during drain phase
- It’s been more than 3 months since the last clean
Winnipeg Tip: Pet Owners
Winnipeg pet owners should clean filters more frequently — pet hair accumulates quickly and can form dense clogs that restrict flow much faster than regular laundry lint.
When Filter Cleaning Isn’t Enough
If you’ve cleaned the filter and drainage problems persist, the pump itself may be damaged or the drain hose may be blocked. These situations require professional washing machine repair in Winnipeg.
Keep Your Washer Running Smoothly
Our Winnipeg washing machine repair team handles everything from filter cleaning guidance to complete drain system repairs. Schedule maintenance before problems start.
Contact us today for professional washing machine service in Winnipeg.