How to Service My Top-Load Whirlpool Washer

A few actions can help keep your Whirlpool top-loading washer in top condition.

Your Whirlpool top-loading washer was a major purchase so it's important to keep it in good working order. A little time spent servicing it on a regular basis will ensure it works efficiently. The best way to do this is to keep the interior and exterior clean, and regularly check the water inlet hoses for any signs of deterioration. If you have to move your washing machine during freezing weather, there are a few steps you can take to ensure it functions perfectly at its new home.

Things You'll Need

• Soft cloth
• Chlorine bleach
• "Washer safe" hard water deposit cleaner
• RV type antifreeze

Instructions

Keeping Your Washer Clean

1. Wipe down the exterior of your washer regularly with a soft cloth wrung out in warm water. Remove any spills of detergent, bleach or fabric conditioner from the exterior as soon as they occur.

2. Clean the interior of your washer on a frequent basis. Use 1 cup of chlorine bleach and twice the amount of detergent recommended for a wash load by the manufacturer. Mix the two together and pour them into the washer before running a complete hot water cycle.

3. Remove hard water deposits from the machine's interior as soon as you notice them, but make sure the cleaner you use is marked "washer safe."

4. Clean the liquid fabric softener dispenser often. To remove the dispenser, grasp the top with both hands. Squeeze and while doing so, push in an upward direction with your thumbs. Rinse the dispenser thoroughly under warm running water before replacing it in the washer.

Maintaining Your Washer's Inlet Hoses

1. Inspect the water inlet hoses attached to your washer on a regular basis to ensure they remain serviceable.

2. Replace the hoses as soon as you notice a defect of any kind, such as bulges, cuts, leaks or kinks.

3. Mark the date on which you replace inlet hoses on the hose label using a permanent marker.

Preparing Your Washer For a Winter Move

1. Close the water supply to the washer before disconnecting and draining the two inlet hoses.

2. Pour a liter of RV type antifreeze in the washing machine's basket before running it on a drain and spin setting for about 30 seconds. This will ensure the antifreeze mixes with any remaining water in the machine's system.

3. Disconnect the washer from your power supply.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only factory specified inlet hoses that have been designed to meet Whirlpool's specifications.

• Change the inlet hoses at least every five years.

• Never wash clothes without the liquid fabric softener dispenser in position. Its absence could cause damage to both the washer and the load being washed.

References

• Whirlpool: Owners guide to a top loading washer including care of the machine.