How to Use a Washing Machine Pump
- 1). Turn off the washer and shut off the power on the fuse box or control panel, prior to checking the water pump. Also shut off the water supply so water does not leak into the washer from the valves while you are working.
- 2). Locate the pump at the bottom of the washer. It will be connected to two or as many as four hoses. Inspect the connection of each hose attached to the pump. Each hose should be connected with a wire or hose camp and screw.
- 3). Pinch the wire tabs with a pair of pliers to loosen up the clamp on the hose. If it's a screw-style hose clamp, simply use your hands to manually loosen the screws. If it is a direct drive pump, use a screwdriver to unscrew the clips and pull the cover off the pump's housing. Remove the hose from the pump housing in the washing machine.
- 4). Inspect the water pump and remove any debris or blockages that may be causing it to malfunction. Wash away the debris or pick it out with your hand. Sometimes, a sock can clog up the pump and removing it will fix the water pump right away.
- 5). Inspect the drain hoses for debris. Remove any debris or particles located in the hoses.
- 6). Reconnect the hoses and the pump. Loosen the clamps or screws on the hoses to connect them to the pump housing. Turn on the water supply and breaker panel and power on the washing machine to test the water pump.
- 7). Set up your dirty clothes in the washer and select a cycle and press "OK" to engage the water pump. You should hear the sound of the water being released from the hose. The re-circulation of the water during the cycle will confirm that the pump is working properly.