How to Clean Out Your Washing Machine Drain in Cumbria

At Drainage Cumbria, we are a trusted and unbiased independent drain cleaning company serving the North West of England, including Cumbria. We understand how frustrating it can be when your washing machine drain becomes clogged, preventing your machine from working properly. This article aims to provide you with useful information on how to clean out your washing machine drain in Cumbria.

The Importance of a Clear Drain

A clogged washing machine drain can cause a variety of problems. Firstly, it can prevent your machine from draining water properly, which can result in water overflowing and causing damage to your home. Secondly, it can result in your washing machine not working effectively, leaving your clothes unclean and potentially causing damage to the machine itself. Therefore, it is important to keep your washing machine drain clear to prevent these issues.

Signs that Your Washing Machine Drain is Clogged

If you notice any of the following signs, it is likely that your washing machine drain is clogged:

• Water does not drain properly from the machine
• Your machine makes unusual noises while running
• Water overflows from the machine
• Your clothes are not washing properly

How to Clean Out Your Washing Machine Drain

Now that you know the importance of a clear drain and the signs to look out for, let's explore how to clean out your washing machine drain.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Before you start cleaning your washing machine drain, you must first turn off the power to the machine. This can be done by unplugging the machine from the wall or turning off the circuit breaker that the machine is connected to.

Step 2: Locate the Drain

Once the power is off, the next step is to locate the washing machine drain. The drain is usually located at the back of the machine, attached to a discharge hose or pipeline.

Step 3: Inspect the Drain Pipe

After locating the drain, you should inspect the drainpipe for any debris or build-up. You can do this by removing the discharge hose from the pipe and checking for any blockages.

Step 4: Clean the Drainpipe

If you notice any debris or build-up, you can use a plunger to dislodge the blockage. First, fill the washing machine with hot water and detergent, then insert the plunger into the drainpipe and pump it up and down vigorously. This should dislodge any blockages and allow the water to drain properly.

Step 5: Alternative Methods

If the plunger method is unsuccessful or you have a particularly stubborn blockage, you can try using a drain snake to clear the drain. This is a flexible cable that can be inserted into the drainpipe and rotated to dislodge any blockages. Alternatively, you can use a wet-dry vacuum to suck out any debris from the drainpipe.

Step 6: Reconnect the Drain

After cleaning the drainpipe, you should reconnect the discharge hose to the pipe and ensure it is securely fastened.

Step 7: Test the Machine

Once you have reconnected the drain, you can turn on the power and test the machine to ensure it is draining properly. If the machine is still not draining properly, you may have a more complex issue that requires a professional plumber to address.

Prevention is Key

Prevention is always better than cure, and there are steps you can take to prevent your washing machine drain from becoming clogged in the first place. This includes:

• Regularly cleaning the lint trap in your washing machine
• Using a washing machine cleaner to remove any build-up in the machine
• Only using detergents that are designed for use in a washing machine
• Avoiding overloading the machine with clothes
• Using a mesh laundry bag for small items like socks and underwear

Choose Drainage Cumbria

At Drainage Cumbria, we are dedicated to providing a reliable and professional drain cleaning service to our customers. With over 15 years of experience, we are trusted and unbiased independent drain cleaning company in the North West of England. For all your drain cleaning needs, contact us today on 01228 734162 or visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk.