Is filter necessary for washing machine?

Having a filter in a washing machine is an important part of maintaining the appliance and ensuring it operates efficiently for many years. The filter catches lint, dirt, soap residue and other debris that can build up during the wash cycle. Over time, these particles can clog hoses, jam moving parts and lead to problems if the filter is not cleaned out regularly. Here are some key reasons why a washing machine filter is necessary and tips for maintaining it.

Traps Lint and Debris

The main job of a washing machine filter is to catch lint and other debris. Each time you do a load of laundry, tiny particles of lint and fabric fibers get washed off the clothes. Without a filter, this lint would simply recirculate in the water. Over time, it would continue building up inside the machine’s pipes and hoses until it clogged them. The filter catches the lint so that it doesn’t cause blockages.

In addition to lint, the filter traps all kinds of dirt, sand, soap scum, hair and other debris. These particles inevitably get picked up in the wash water as your clothes are agitated in the basin. The filter prevents them from getting into the internal workings of the machine where they could cause abrasion and wear. By trapping all these particles, the filter helps protect the pipes, pump, valves and other components.

Improves Drainage

When the filter gets clogged with lint and debris, it can negatively impact drainage performance. The water needs to be able to drain out freely after the wash and rinse cycles. With a clogged filter, drainage will slow to a trickle. The washer may fail to adequately drain the basin or take a much longer time to drain it. As a result, the clothes will sit sopping wet for too long. This gives mold, mildew and bacteria a chance to grow, causing unpleasant odors in your washer.

By keeping the filter clean, drainage remains quick and efficient. The basin will empty completely so the clothes won’t sit in standing water. Faster drainage also helps your clothes dry better. With less water retained, they’ll require less drying time once you move them to the clothes dryer.

Protects Pump from Damage

The pump is what gives your washing machine the ability to agitate and spray the clothes with water. It’s a precisely engineered mechanical component. If debris makes its way into the pump, it can easily damage the impeller and other moving parts. The repair or replacement of a washing machine pump is expensive. By preventing lint and debris from reaching the pump, the filter protects it from premature wear and damage.

Pump failure is one of the most common mechanical problems in washing machines. Clogged filters greatly contribute to this issue over time as more and more debris makes its way past the filter and into the pump. Make sure you clean the filter regularly to get all the built-up lint and grit out of the machine so your pump lasts for years.

Extends Life of Hoses

The hoses that carry water in and out of the washing machine also benefit from a clean filter. With no filter, sediment and minerals in the water can slowly build up inside the supply hoses. Soap scum and other gunk can coat the inside of the drainage hose. This buildup narrows the opening for water to flow through.

By trapping debris before it reaches the hoses, the filter helps keep the inside of the hoses clear. This allows water to flow freely at optimal pressure and volume. Unobstructed hoses will have a much longer functional lifespan before needing replacement.

Cleans Out Detergent Residue

Laundry detergent and fabric softener get flushed through your washer with every load. A small amount of residue inevitably gets left behind. Over time, this builds up inside the machine’s pipes and hoses. The gunky residue can make your washer smelly and provide an ideal environment for mold and bacteria.

Fortunately, the filter collects a lot of this sticky residue so that it doesn’t coat the interior of your washer. When you periodically clean the filter, all that built-up gunk gets removed from the machine. This keeps the inside fresh and clean.

Prevents Leaks

A blocked filter can increase the risk of leaks. When drainage flow is obstructed, water can back up within the machine. The excess water pressure puts strain on pipes, joints and seals. If debris works its way into drainage components, it can prevent them from sealing properly. Leaks most often occur around the door and along hoses.

By maintaining free flow through the filter, you lower the chances of the washer overflowing or spilling out water where it’s not supposed to. This safeguards your home from water damage and the hassle of cleanup.

Saves Money

Taking good care of your washing machine filter adds up to big savings in the long run. Preventing clogs, damage and leaks avoids expensive repairs. Your appliance will have a much longer useful lifespan before replacement is needed. Replacing a washer costs over $500 on average for a basic model. Investing a few minutes periodically to clean the filter is minimal effort compared to the hundreds of dollars you’ll save.

Improves Wash Performance

When the filter gets overloaded with particles, it negatively affects the performance of your washer. All that built-up lint and debris take up space in the filter basket that water needs to flow through freely. The reduced water flow hampers the machine’s ability to properly fill, wash, rinse and drain.

Clothes may not get sufficiently rinsed, leaving behind detergent residue. The washer may struggle to properly distribute clothes in the basin due to lower water pressure. Cleaning the filter improves wash performance by allowing water to flow unrestricted.

Extends Life of Clothes

Trapping lint, pet hair and other debris protects your clothes from re-depositing. Lint and hair will ball up on clothes and make fabrics pill. Sand, gravel and other hard particles act like abrasives that wear down fabrics over time. Repeated abrasion causes clothes to look old and faded more quickly.

By catching all these particles, the filter keeps them from constantly recirculating onto your garments. This extends the life of everything you wash. Clothes will look better for longer when protected from lint clutter and abrasive debris.

Eliminates Musty Odors

If debris builds up excessively due to an overlooked filter, it can create foul odors inside your washing machine. Dirt, grime and detergent scum make the interior of the machine dirty. This provides an ideal breeding ground for mold, bacteria and mildew. As these microbes multiply, they release stinky metabolic byproducts.

Regularly cleaning out all the gunk prevents smelly biofilms from taking hold inside your washer. Keeping the interior fresh and clean with a well-maintained filter means you’ll never open it up to a facefull of musty odor.

Easy Maintenance

While the filter is crucial, keeping it clean is easy. Most washing machines have a filter behind a small access door at the bottom front of the unit. To clean it, simply pull out the filter and rinse off any lint or debris under running water. It helps to periodically soak it in warm water and detergent to dissolve any built-up residue.

The filter may need cleaning every few months. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations in your washer’s owner manual. Some have a self-cleaning cycle that flushes water backwards through the filter to clear debris. Just be sure to confirm the filter is free of lint before running a load to maximize effectiveness.

Warning Signs of a Clogged Filter

In addition to cleaning the filter on a routine basis, also watch for these signs that indicate it needs to be cleaned:

• Water drains very slowly
• Musty, mildewy odor in the washer
• Excess moisture left in clothes after a cycle
• Leaking water
• Clothes feeling stiff and gritty
• Reduced basin water volume
• Spinning/agitation problems
• Excess noise or rattling sounds
• Sudsy residue left on clothes
• Washer not filling fully

As soon as you notice these issues, clean the filter. Removing all the trapped debris should resolve any drainage, performance or mechanical problems if the filter is the cause.

Filter Cleaning Tips

Follow these tips and best practices whenever you clean your washing machine’s filter:

• Check the filter every 3-6 months as preventive maintenance.
• Wear gloves to avoid touching debris with bare hands.
• Rinse the filter until the water runs clear.
• Use an old toothbrush to scrub off sticky residue.
• Lay filter flat so debris doesn’t fall back into washer when removing.
• Check hoses, drum and gaskets for any debris while cleaning filter.
• Re-install filter properly before running machine again.
• Run an empty rinse cycle after to flush any remaining particles.
• Consider periodic washer cleaning treatments to dissolve residue.
• Invest in washer cleaning tablets to use monthly.

Replacing a Damaged Filter

In most cases, the washing machine filter will last the life of the machine. But if you happen to damage or lose the filter, you’ll need to purchase a replacement. Filter designs and prices vary by specific model. However, most replacement filters cost $15-30 and take just minutes to swap out.

Match the replacement filter to your make and model for proper fit. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to remove the old filter and install the new one. Make sure the opening is facing out and the filter is fully seated in place. Test for leaks and adequate drainage before resuming normal use of your washing machine.

Using a Washer Without a Filter

It’s always recommended to use your washing machine only with a functioning filter properly installed. However, if you find yourself without a filter, you have a couple options:

• Purchase a compatible replacement filter as soon as possible to avoid damage.
• Run the washer on its gentlest, shortest cycle to minimize debris buildup.
• Inspect inside the washer for debris after each use.
• Alternatively, take clothes to a laundromat until you can replace the filter.

The filter plays such a vital role that the washer really shouldn’t be used for long without one. Make sure to order a replacement part promptly.

DIY Filter Cleaning vs Professional Service

Cleaning your washing machine filter is typically a very straightforward DIY task you can easily do yourself. However, if you notice the filter needs very frequent cleaning or has a persistent odor, it may be worth calling in a professional.

An appliance repair technician can diagnose issues beyond just a clogged filter and properly clean all components. They have specialized tools and equipment to flush hoses, treat odors and sanitize all parts of the machine. The pros can also assess if problems indicate other repairs or part replacements may be needed.

DIY is fine for basic filter maintenance. But call for professional help if you encounter any of the following:

• Damaged or very dirty filter
• Difficulty removing the filter
• Leaking water
• Foul, lingering odors
• Drainage issues persist after cleaning filter
• Suspect hoses, pump or other parts need cleaning

Experienced appliance techs have advanced techniques to thoroughly clean all washing machine components and kill odor-causing bacteria.

Conclusion

The humble filter plays a crucial role in the operation and lifespan of your washing machine. By trapping lint, dirt, residue and debris, the filter protects all the internal parts from wear and clogging. It allows water to drain fully for cleaner clothes. Routine filter cleaning improves performance and avoids costly repairs. While basic maintenance is easy enough for DIY, call the pros if you experience any persistent issues.