A flooding washing machine is always a cause of concern. Just consider the fact that most average washing machines use up over 30 gallons of water each load. Even modern energy-efficient models can use up 10 to 20 gallons. If your washing machine floods, it should be immediately addressed. Here are some of the things that you can do to solve this problem:
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Think of Safety First
A flooding washing machine can have multiple possible sources underneath and surrounding the base of the washer. In some cases, water can come from the back of the machine and move forward or along the floor, depending on the slope of your laundry area. When this happens, make sure that you turn off the power supply of the washing machine.
Remember not to press the “Cancel” button on your washing machine as this can cause the appliance to immediately drain water and exacerbate the flooding. Similarly, don’t pull the plug because the cord could have been exposed to water and may cause electric shock. Make sure that you have firm footing as water from a washer is usually mixed with detergent. After cutting off the power supply, remove the water and mop the floor thoroughly.
Remove Clothes from the Washer
Once you’ve established a safe environment, remove your wet laundry from the washer. If you’re using a high-efficiency front-loader or top loader, you’d have to check your manual on how to turn the timer knob to a position that will allow you to unlock the airtight door.
If you’re going to deal with hot water in the washer drum, make sure to wear rubber gloves. Remove the clothes and wring them to remove water and hang them in a drying rack. This process may be tedious, but it will ensure that your clothes can dry out while you’re assessing the problem.
Inspect Washing Machine Hoses
Most washing machine units have the same draining principle. When inspecting the washer hoses, pull the washer away from the back wall. Inspect for any leaks or dripping water present on the hose. Make sure that the single drain hose is properly secured on both ends.
Do a Washer Test
If you think you’ve resolved the issue, do a test. During the test, do not put in any clothes or laundry detergent. Do a rinse-only cycle and check whether there are still leaks on the hoses. If there are no more leaks, you may proceed with the laundry. If the leaks persist, check the drain lines of your washing machine. Often, drains from the washing machine can get clogged up from lint or other debris coming from the laundered clothes.
In some cases, the clog may seem benign. But, it can also be too problematic for you to handle. Santos Water Service & Drain advises people to have their drains undergo periodic cleaning to reduce drain issues. Frequently, the problem of flooding comes from blocked drainage. It is best to have your pipes serviced regularly, as simple clogs can get worse over time.
Check the Drain Pump
It would also be wise to check the drain pump. If your washing machine is a few years old already, its drain seals may be weak and prone to breaking. Check if they are still in place.
Call a Repair Service
If you cannot identify the problem, call your washing machine repair service. While you’re on it, ask whether the machine is part of a product recall or not.
Having a washing machine makes life a lot easier. But, when it shows signs of issues, don’t be scared to address the problem immediately. A flooding washing machine, if left unresolved, can cause other significant issues in your home.
