When the cold season approaches, it’s important to winterize your washing machine, especially if it’s located in an area prone to freezing temperatures, such as a garage or a vacation home that won’t be in use. Winterizing your washing machine can help prevent damage to the appliance from freezing water inside the hoses or pump. Here’s a step-by-step approach to winterize your washing machine effectively.
Step 1: Gather Necessary Supplies
Before you begin, you’ll need the following supplies:
- Non-toxic antifreeze: This is often used in RVs and boats.
- Bucket: To catch water during the draining process.
- Towels or rags: To clean up any spills.
- Wrench or pliers: To disconnect hoses if necessary.
Step 2: Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the water supply valves behind the washing machine. Turn off both hot and cold water valves by rotating them clockwise. This will prevent more water from entering the washing machine.
Step 3: Disconnect and Drain Hoses
Disconnect the hoses from the back of the washer and allow any water to drain into the bucket. Make sure you have towels ready to catch any spillage. If the hoses are stiff or hard to reach, use a wrench or pliers to assist you.
Step 4: Drain the Washing Machine
Set the washing machine to the spin cycle and run it for a minute to help drain out any water that may still be in the machine. If your washer has a “drain” setting, use this instead.
Step 5: Clean the Washer
Clean the interior of the washing machine by running a cycle with a washer cleaner or with a mixture of hot water and vinegar. This will help prevent mildew and odors while the machine is not in use.
Step 6: Add Antifreeze
Once the machine is empty and hoses are drained, add a quart of non-toxic antifreeze to the drum. Run the washer for a few seconds to mix the antifreeze with any leftover water and distribute it through the pump and hoses. Ensure you use a non-toxic antifreeze that is safe for septic systems and pipes.
Step 7: Disconnect Power
Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet to ensure there’s no electrical current running to it. This is not only a safety measure but also conserves energy.
Step 8: Leave the Doors Open
Leave the washing machine door, as well as the detergent, bleach, and fabric softener compartments open to allow air circulation. This helps prevent mold and mildew from forming inside the machine.
Final Thoughts
Before using the washer again, make sure to remove the antifreeze by running a full wash cycle thoroughly with detergent. This should clear the system of antifreeze. Reconnect all the hoses and turn on the water supply before this initial cleaning cycle. Remember to winterize every year without fail to maintain the longevity of your washing machine.
Additional Tips
Consider insulating any exposed pipes in the area to reduce the risk of freezing. Additionally, if you know you won’t be using the machine for an extended period, it’s worth considering investing in a space heater or improving the insulation of the room itself to prevent freezing temperatures.
Winterizing your washing machine is a crucial maintenance step in ensuring your appliance remains in good working condition, especially in environments that experience severe winter conditions. With the right precautions and steps, you can protect your washing machine from the harsh effects of winter.