How to Fix a New Door Seal On a Washing Machine

You replaced your door seal and started to use your washing machine only to find out you have a leak. The most common area for leaks in a new door seal is around the drain tube. To fix a new door seal on a washing machine will require that the seal be removed and reinstalled. The leak is probably caused by one spot of the seal having a crease in it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• High temperature water sealant

1. Unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet. Turn off the water supply to the washer at this time also.

2. Pull the washing machine away from the wall so that you have access to the rear of the unit.

3. Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws on the back of the top cover. You will see these screws from behind the washing machine.

4. Lift the rear of the top cover and unhook it from the front panel. Lift the top cover away from the work area.

5. Open the washing machine door and use a screwdriver to remove the spring clamp band from around the door seal. Be careful when prying the band off so that you do not damage the door seal.

6. Use your fingers to pull the front of the door seal off of the front flange. Loosen the screw on the rear clamp band behind the door using a screwdriver. Do not remove the screw, just loosen it enough to remove the door seal.

7. Use your fingers to pull the door seal and the rear clamp off from inside the door. Once the door seal is off the perimeter of the door, grab the drain tube at the bottom of the door seal with both hands. Pull the drain tube portion out and remove the door seal.

8. Inspect the door seal for creases or damage. A damaged seal will have to be replaced. If there are creases where you did not install it correctly, roll the door seal in your hand until the crease is barely visible.

9. Apply high temperature water sealant under the inside lip of the door seal drain tube. Carefully insert the drain tube into the hole at the bottom of the door. Do not use a screwdriver to insert the tube, you have to work it in with your fingers.

10. Install the door seal and the rear clamp from behind the door. Insert the front first and work the door seal until sets in place. Tighten the rear clamp screw with a screwdriver.

11. Push the front of the door seal back over the front door flange. Install the front spring clamp around the front door seal and close the washing machine door.

12. Slide the top panel into place and secure it by attaching the rear retaining screws. Slide the washing machine back into its permanent position.

13. Turn the water supply on to the washing machine and plug the unit back into the wall outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• Although it is tempting, do not use a screwdriver to "poke" the drain tube part of the door seal into the opening. It will only damage or weaken the seal. Use your thumb to carefully rock the tube into the hole.
• Always disconnect power to appliances before working on them.

References

• Whirlpool technical guide
• Maytag service guide