Got a Front-Load Washer? Have you checked your pump filter lately?

They're flashy. They're shiny. They come in all these pretty colors, with pretty buttons, and the salesman doesn't even have to say anything before you're at the register ringing it up with thoughts of freshly steamed, clean clothes emerging from your beautiful, brand-new, front-load washer.

BUT ... There is one thing you need to know about. The pump filter. NOT EVERY front-loader has one, but most of them do. Some newer front-loaders have a small access door located on the front panel near the floor. If you don't see it...it's not there. :) If it is, read your manual. It should instruct you how and when to clean your pump filter. Different brands and models have different pump filters and, as I said before, some DO NOT have them.

"Why do I need to clean it?"

Because all those little things that get left in your pockets, they wiggle out and find themselves lodged in the pump filter. "So?" All these little things obstruct the water from draining...and then MORE little things start to add up, causing a snow-ball effect. Several things may happen after this occurs.

Your washer may not complete its cycles, or it may lock the door, or it may not even come on at all. That's usually when you call us. If we show up and it turns out to be a clogged pump filter, there are two possible outcomes. The first being...just a clogged pump filter. We would clean it and check for any other foreign debris in the drain line. Usually, an inexpensive repair. However, a clogged pump filter can ruin a drain pump very quickly. Either a small item gets through the filter and wedges itself in the drain pump impeller, or the lack of water causes the pump to run dry and overheat. This repair can be expensive. It can also be avoided.

Check your pump filter once a year. Look online for information to determine if your front-load washer has a pump filter. Ask friends if they've ever had their pump filter cleaned, so they can show you. Or you can call MARS. We service all of Rutherford County and can be reached at 615.890.4334.