How to Clean a Front-Load Washer Drain Pump Filter

If your washer shows a drain code (Samsung 5C, LG OE, Frigidaire E21), a clogged drain pump filter is the most common culprit. Here's how to clean it without flooding the laundry room.

Safety first: Unplug the appliance (or switch off its breaker) before you remove panels, filters or hoses. Turn off the water supply valves before you disconnect any hose, and keep a towel and shallow pan handy. Never work on wiring, gas lines or sealed refrigerator systems yourself.

Check your model: Filter and hose locations vary. Follow your manual where it differs.

Steps

Unplug the washer.
Lay down towels and slide a shallow baking pan under the bottom-front access panel.
Open the panel. Many models have a small emergency drain tube. Pull it out, uncap it, and let the water run into the pan, emptying it as needed.
Once it's drained, slowly unscrew the filter counterclockwise. More water will come out.
Pull out lint, coins, hair ties, and whatever else is in there. Rinse the filter.
Screw it back in tight, cap the drain tube, close the panel.
Plug in and run Rinse + Spin, watching for leaks.

Tips

Do this every month or two if you have pets or kids.
The filter location varies, so check your model's manual.

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