How To Clean Your Washing Machine Drain In Cumbria

Are you tired of your washing machine emitting an unpleasant odor or leaving your clothes less clean than usual? If so, it might be time to clean your washing machine drain. Drainage Cumbria is a trusted drain cleaning company in Cumbria, North West England, that can help you with this task. In this article, we will show you how to clear the drain of your washing machine without having to call a plumber.

Why is Cleaning Your Washing Machine Drain important?

The drain of your washing machine plays a crucial role in the machine's performance. Every time you put your clothes in the washing machine, the wastewater flows through the drain and into the pipes of your house. Over time, this wastewater leaves traces of dirt, detergent, and fabric softener that can accumulate and clog the drain, leading to unpleasant smells and even to water flooding your floor. Therefore, it is important to clean your washing machine drain at least once a year to prevent blockages and keep your machine working efficiently.

How To Clean Your Washing Machine Drain

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools and cleaning products. You will need:

• A bucket
• A pair of gloves
• White vinegar
• Hot water
• Baking soda
• A half-inch long plumbing snake

Preliminary Step

First, unplug your washing machine and turn off the water supply valve. This will ensure your safety and prevent any water from flowing into the machine while you work on the drain.

1. Locate the Drain

The drain of your washing machine is usually located at the back of the machine, under the discharge hose. This hose is connected to the pipeline that carries wastewater outside your house.

2. Remove the Discharge Hose

Once you have located the drain, detach the discharge hose from the pipeline using a pair of pliers. Make sure to place a bucket under the hose to catch any water that might drip out.

3. Clear the Drainpipe

Insert the plumbing snake into the drainpipe and rotate it clockwise. This will dislodge any debris that has accumulated in the drain. Make sure to move the snake gently to avoid damaging the pipes.

4. Clean the Hose

Next, clean the discharge hose using hot water and vinegar. Mix a solution of equal parts of white vinegar and hot water and pour it into the hose. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it with hot water. This will clean the hose and remove any stubborn dirt.

5. Clean the Washing Machine Drum

Now that you have cleaned the drain and hose, it's time to clean the washing machine drum. Pour a cup of baking soda into the drum and run a hot water cycle. This will remove any remaining dirt inside the drum and deodorize your machine.

6. Reattach the Hose

Once you have completed all the previous steps, it's time to reattach the discharge hose to the pipeline. Make sure to tighten the hose clamps and turn on the water supply valve.

Tips to Keep Your Washing Machine Drain Clean

Cleaning the washing machine drain is not a task you want to do frequently. Here are some tips to keep your drain clean and prevent blockages:

• Use the right amount of detergent: Using too much or too little detergent can leave residues in the machine that can accumulate in the drain over time. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to use the right amount of detergent for each load.
• Run hot water cycles regularly: Running a hot water cycle once a month will help remove any dirt or gunk that might have accumulated in the machine.
• Remove debris from clothes: Always check your pockets for coins, hairs, and small items that might end up in the machine and clog the drain.

Conclusion

Cleaning your washing machine drain is not rocket science, but it can be time-consuming and messy. If you prefer to have a professional handle this task for you, Drainage Cumbria is always here to help. Our experienced team of drain cleaning specialists in Cumbria, North West England, can quickly and efficiently identify and solve drainage issues in your home or business. Contact us today on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a consultation. Alternatively, you can visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk to learn more about our services.