Washer Lint Trap Troubleshooting (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

To troubleshoot your washer lint trap, first unplug the washer and turn off the water supply. Locate the lint trap, usually near the agitator or in the pump filter. Clean it thoroughly to remove any lint or debris. Check the pump and hoses for clogs and ensure proper water flow. If issues persist, consult a professional.

Confirm the symptom

Washer not draining properly
Clothes still wet after cycle
Unusual noises during spin cycle
Water leaking from the washer
Musty odor coming from the washer

Tools and prep

Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead)
Bucket
Towel
Gloves
Unplug the washer and turn off water supply
Wear protective gloves
Have a flashlight ready for better visibility
Prepare a small brush or toothbrush for cleaning

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Locate the Lint Trap
Do: For top-loaders, check around the agitator or under the lid. For front-loaders, look for a small door or panel at the bottom front of the machine.
Observe: Identify the lint trap cover or access panel.
Means: You should see a small filter or screen.
Next: Clean the Lint Trap
Clean the Lint Trap
Do: Remove the lint trap cover and pull out the filter. Clean it thoroughly with a brush or toothbrush to remove lint and debris.
Observe: Check for any visible clogs or blockages.
Means: The filter should be clear of lint and debris.
Next: Check the Pump and Hoses
Check the Pump and Hoses
Do: Locate the pump, usually at the bottom of the washer. Disconnect the hoses and check for clogs. Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the hoses.
Observe: Look for any blockages or debris.
Means: The hoses should be clear and free of obstructions.
Next: Reassemble the Washer
Reassemble the Washer
Do: Replace the lint trap filter and cover. Reconnect the hoses to the pump and secure them.
Observe: Ensure all parts are properly secured.
Means: The washer should be ready for testing.
Next: Test the Washer
Test the Washer
Do: Plug in the washer and turn on the water supply. Run a test cycle to ensure the washer is draining properly.
Observe: Check for any leaks or unusual noises.
Means: The washer should complete the cycle without issues.
Next: Monitor Performance
Monitor Performance
Do: Run a few cycles to ensure the issue is resolved.
Observe: Check for any recurring problems.
Means: The washer should operate normally.
Next: N/A

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Clogged Lint Trap Lint and debris accumulate over time, blocking water flow.	Common	Easy	Lint trap filter
Blocked Pump Debris can clog the pump, preventing proper drainage.	Sometimes	Medium	Pump
Kinked or Damaged Hoses Hoses can become kinked or damaged, restricting water flow.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain hose
Faulty Lid Switch If the lid switch is broken, the washer may not spin or drain.	Rare	Medium	Lid switch
Worn Out Drive Belt A worn or broken drive belt can cause the washer to malfunction.	Rare	Hard	Drive belt
Faulty Control Board Electrical issues can prevent the washer from functioning correctly.	Rare	Hard	Control board
Faulty Water Pump The pump may fail due to wear and tear, preventing proper drainage.	Sometimes	Medium	Water pump

Parts matching

Ensure you have the correct parts before starting the repair. Here are some common parts you might need:

Lint trap filter
Drain hose
Pump
Lid switch
Drive belt
Control board
Water pump

Always check the manufacturer's guidelines for the exact part numbers and specifications for your washer model.

When to call a professional

If the washer still doesn't drain after cleaning the lint trap
If you hear unusual noises during operation
If there are signs of water leakage that you can't fix
If the washer shows error codes you don't understand
If you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself

FAQ

How often should I clean the lint trap?

It's a good practice to clean the lint trap every 3-6 months to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance.

Can I use any brush to clean the lint trap?

Yes, a small brush or even an old toothbrush can be effective for cleaning the lint trap. Just ensure it's clean before use.

What if the lint trap is not the issue?

If cleaning the lint trap doesn't resolve the problem, check the pump and hoses for clogs or damage. If issues persist, consult a professional.