How to Unclog a Washing Machine Drain

Unclogging a washing machine drain is an easy task which can save you both time and money, and it can be carried out by anyone. It is an easy task, which requires only a few tools. However, it is important to make sure that it is the washing machine drain pipe which has been clogged to avoid running into extra work.

Step 1 - Preparation

The first thing you should do is to locate the metallic cylinder that connects the pipe or hose to the washing machine. This is generally located at the back of the washer. Keep in mind that you will probably have three pipes or hoses attached to the machine, so choose the correct one. Now get the pliers and place them over the cylinder and turn them counter clockwise to loosen the cylinder. Once you start exerting force on the pliers, the pipe or hose should come loose and you will be able to remove it from the washing machine by pulling it out without any trouble.

Step 2 – Locating the Clog

Now. turn the pipe towards the light and locate the clog in it. Once located, pour hot water into the pipe and onto the clogged area. This will help soften the clog for easy removal. Now, get the coat hanger and slide it down the pipe. The straightened out coat hanger should be enough to reach the length of the pipe even if it is 2 feet in length.

Step 3 – Removing the Clog

Once the hanger is inserted, wiggle it inside the pipe to loosen the clogged area. Keep on wiggling until the clog is loosened from the pipe and is pushed out.

Step 4 – Cleaning the Pipe

At this point, after succeeding in dislodging  the clog, you can connect the pipe or hose to a water source so that you can rinse it. Turn on the water and let the pipe be rinsed. If water flows easily, then you are done, but if the water is pushed back out, it means that the pipe is still clogged. If this is the case, remove the pipe from the water source and locate the clog. Repeat steps 2 and 3 as necessary. Remember to recheck the water flow again by reattaching the pipe to a water source. If this doesn’t work once again, you can use a chemical cleaner. Make sure that once you pour the chemical cleaner to let it seep in for at least 10 minutes. This might soften the clog.

Step 5 – Finishing Up

You are now ready to reattach the pipe or hose to the washer. All you have to do is place the hose to the metallic cylinder and exert clockwise force with your pliers to attach it.

These are the basic steps to solve clog problems. However, if you still have water overflows when using your washing machines, it may indicate another clog in the sewers, so you might have to call in a professional.