Do-it-yourself recommendations from specialists for repairing the Whirlpool washing machine pump

With a broken pump, the Whirlpool washing machine will not be able to function normally. This structural element is activated during each washing cycle.

Over time, its components wear out, which leads to breakdown. This process can be accelerated by non-compliance with operating techniques.

To learn how to repair the pump of a Whirlpool washing machine yourself, read the article.

What is this part, why is it needed?

The drain pump is designed to pump waste water out of the tank. During the washing process, it turns on several times, this happens at the command of the control module.

The pump is a single mechanism that consists of several structural elements:

• motor with magnetic rotor and stator;
• shaft and bushing;
• impeller;
• seal.

It is through them that water enters the pump and is discharged first into the drain hose and then into the sewer pipe. An impeller is responsible for its movement, the rotation of which creates a vortex flow.

Principle of operation

Whirlpool washing machine pump is working in the following way:

1. The control module signals the pump that it needs to start working. The signal is transmitted through wires.
2. The pump is activated, starting the rotation of the impeller, due to which water begins to be pumped out of the tank.
3. The liquid flows through the inlet pipe into the filter, after which it enters the impeller, and then into the drain pipe and hose. It is discharged into the sewer pipe.
4. The pump continues to operate until it receives a “Stop” signal from the control module. This will happen at the moment when there is no water left in the tank.

The whole process is interconnected. If one of the elements fails, the system as a whole ceases to function. Special attention must be paid to the filter, which must be kept clean.

If it becomes clogged, it will negatively affect the functionality of the pump. The motor will work at the limit of its capabilities, which is why it may burn out.

Where is it located?

Whirlpool washing machine pump located inside the housing, at the bottom, directly under the tank. You can see it if you twist the back wall. However, to remove the part, you will have to turn the device on its side, since it is most convenient to get to the pump from the bottom of the SMA.

If it is necessary to remove the pump, first loosen the clamps securing the pipes, and then disconnect the wires leading to the control board. Screws that need to be tightened are responsible for fixing the part inside the device.

Whirlpool washing machine pump malfunctions

Possible malfunctions of the Whirlpool washing machine pump:

1. Foreign object entering the housing. If debris leaks through the filter, it can block the impeller. It will stop rotating, which will cause the motor to stop.Sometimes the impeller is not completely blocked, pumping water continues, but the part operates at the limit of its capabilities. Therefore, it is necessary to remove the blockage as quickly as possible.
2. Broken impeller blades. This occurs when hard objects, such as coins or buttons, get inside. If the housing is not removable, then the pump will have to be replaced completely. In other cases, you can get by with repairing the impeller.
3. Worn elements. Over time, any parts fail, and with overloads and increased vibrations, this process accelerates. Thus, a loose bushing and shaft will cause the impeller to touch the walls of the housing when rotating. Over time, it may completely fly off or break. In this case, repairing spare parts will not be possible; the pump will have to be replaced completely.
4. Broken motor. It fails due to power surges, when the machine is turned off and on incorrectly, during overloads and blockages. If you have experience, the motor can be repaired. Although most users prefer to replace the entire pump.

The main sign of pump failure is the lack of drainage. Sometimes you can find a puddle next to the device (most often it appears due to a blockage). The electronic display of the washing machine may display code FP or F03.

How to repair?

Repairing the pump is only possible if it is dismountable. Then its components can be removed and replaced, or cleaned:

1. If the impeller is clogged, remove the pump, open the housing and remove objects that interfere with its normal rotation. If the blade breaks, the impeller is replaced completely.
2. If the filter is clogged, there is no need to remove the pump. It is enough to move the false panel, take out the snail and rinse it under running water.You can use a toothpick to remove small dirt and hair.
3. If the motor breaks, it is twisted and a new part is installed.

Removal and replacement

To remove and replace the pump in a Whirlpool washing machine, perform the following actions:

• the device is disconnected from communications and moved away from the wall;
• twist the top panel and back wall;
• turn the device on its side - it is better to do this together with an assistant, since the weight of the machine exceeds 60 kg;
• unscrew the screw holding the pump;
• disconnect it from the pipes and wires, inspect them for the presence of oxides;
• remove the pump, disconnect the volute;
• inspect the impeller;
• if the pump cannot be repaired, purchase a new part and install it, connect the pipes and wires;
• assemble the washing machine body and install communications.

After replacing the pump, you should check its functionality without loading laundry into the drum. To do this, select a short washing program and monitor its correct execution. If the machine drains water and does not leak, you can continue to operate it as before.

Where can I buy a new one and at what price?

You can buy a new pump in stores that sell original spare parts for washing machines. Another option is to order the part online.

Its cost depends on a number of parameters:

• power;
• year of manufacture of the washing machine.
• method of fastening and number of fasteners;
• prefabricated or cast housing;
• pump configuration - with or without volute.

The cost of the pump varies between 500-2100 rubles. The more modern the device, the more expensive the parts.

How much do the services of a master cost?

If you cannot replace the pump on your own, you must seek help from a specialist. The services of a master cost about 1,800 rubles. The final price depends on the complexity of the work, as well as the model of the washing machine. You will have to pay for the new part separately.

You can find a specialist by looking at an ad on the Internet or in a newspaper.. If the device is under warranty and the breakdown was not due to the user’s fault, repairs will be performed free of charge.

Video on the topic of the article

About repairing a washing machine pump - video:

Conclusion

Repairing the Whirlpool washing machine pump is not difficult if you follow the instructions. The new part will last a long time, provided that the operating rules are followed. If you lack knowledge about the device’s design, it is better to entrust the work to a professional.