How to Winterize a Washing Machine

Winterizing a washing machine is necessary to protect it from expansion damage caused by freezing water. This is a simple process which doesn't take long and costs very little. By doing so, your machine will survive the winter by escaping the power of ice expansion.

Things You'll Need

• 2 gallons of RV antifreeze Appliance polish

Instructions

1. Disconnect the water inlet hoses from your washing machine and drain them. Blow air through the hoses to remove water from the lines and the fill valve.

2. Set the machine's controls to "Fill" and "Wash Warm." Allow the machine to run for a few seconds to clear the water valve.

3. Set the washing machine to "Spin" and allow it to complete the cycle. This will clear even more water from the water valve.

4. Pour both gallons of the RV antifreeze into the washer's tub.

5. Store the hoses in the tub of the washing machine, and disconnect the power supply.

6. Clean the outside surfaces of the washing machine. Then use appliance polish to protect the finish.

7. Reconnect the washing machine's hoses and power supply. Fill the tub with warm water and run the machine through a complete wash and spin cycle to rinse the antifreeze.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are on a septic system, don't worry about the antifreeze. The type used for recreational vehicles is safe for septic. Don't be concerned about the fill valve freezing, it will be open where you disconnect the hoses.