Washing Machine Not Draining or Spinning? How to Clean the Filter

If your washing machine is not working properly, not draining, not spinning, or showing an error, one of the most common causes is a blocked filter. This can happen when coins, hair clips, tissues, fluff, or other small items get trapped in the debris filter.

Tenants are responsible for using the appliance correctly and following the basic troubleshooting steps below before an appliance engineer is booked. In many cases, cleaning the filter will resolve the issue without the need for a contractor visit.

Once the troubleshooting steps have been completed, if the washing machine is still not working, please open a maintenance task and upload the required photos. This allows us to book an appliance engineer without unnecessary delays.

Video Guide

The video below shows how to check and clean a washing machine filter.

How to Clean the Washing Machine Filter

1. Switch off the washing machine

Before cleaning the filter, switch off the washing machine. If possible, also switch it off at the wall socket. Do not remove the debris filter while the washing machine is running, as hot water may come out.

2. Prepare towels and a bowl

Place a large towel on the floor in front of the washing machine to protect the flooring. You should also place a bowl, tray, or container near the filter area, as more water may come out than expected.

3. Open the filter cover

The filter cover is usually located at the bottom front of the washing machine, often on the right-hand side. Open the small cover carefully.

4. Drain the water slowly

Some washing machines have a small drain hose next to the filter. If yours has one, use it to drain the water slowly into a bowl. If there is no hose, carefully loosen the filter slightly and allow the water to drain gradually.

5. Remove and clean the filter

Once the water has drained, remove the filter and clean out any dirt, fluff, coins, hair clips, tissues, or other objects. Also check that the drain pump propeller, also known as the impeller, behind the filter is not blocked.

6. Take photos after cleaning

Once the filter has been cleaned, please take clear photos showing:

• The filter removed and cleaned
• The filter compartment after cleaning
• The drain pump propeller/impeller area showing it is clear from obstruction

These photos must be uploaded to the maintenance task if the washing machine is still not working. This confirms that the troubleshooting steps have been completed and helps us book an engineer more quickly.

7. Refit the filter securely

Once the filter is clean, place it back into position and tighten it properly. Make sure it is fitted securely before closing the filter cover.

8. Test the washing machine

Run a short rinse or drain cycle to check whether the washing machine is now draining correctly. Check the filter area carefully to make sure there are no leaks.

When to Report the Issue

If the washing machine still does not work after completing the troubleshooting steps above, please open a maintenance task in the system. We can then review the information and arrange an appliance engineer where required.

Please note that an engineer cannot usually be booked until the basic troubleshooting has been completed and the required information has been provided. This avoids unnecessary contractor visits and helps prevent delays.

When opening the task, please include the following information:

• The make and model number of the washing machine
• A photo of the front of the appliance
• A photo of the model label, usually found inside the door or around the door frame
• A photo or video showing the issue
• Any error code shown on the display
• A clear photo of the cleaned filter
• A clear photo of the cleaned filter compartment
• A clear photo showing the pump propeller/impeller is free from obstruction
• Confirmation that the filter has been checked and cleaned

Possible Contractor Charges

If an appliance engineer attends and the issue is found to have been caused by a blocked filter, misuse, or items left in clothing pockets, the cost of the call-out and repair may be charged to the tenant.

If the appliance is faulty due to a mechanical or electrical fault not caused by tenant use, the landlord will normally be responsible for arranging the repair.

How to Open a Maintenance Task

Please log in to the tenant portal or app and open a maintenance task under the relevant property. Select the washing machine as the issue category and upload the photos, video, model number, and any error code.

Providing full information at the beginning helps us arrange the correct appliance engineer and avoid delays.

Contact Apartment Wharf, letting agency in London