One of the most common maintenance issues with a front load washer-extractor is debris getting trapped in the drain valve. The professionals at T & L have found all types of items in drain valves. From scissors and scalpels in veterinary clinics to drivers' licenses and more, we've seen it all. One of the most common items we find are wires from undergarments that break loose and obstruct laundromat drain valves. Small, relatively flat items can fall out of pockets and work their way to the drain valve when water drains out of the tub, as well. Below we are going to take a closer look. If you're ready to buy new laundromat equipment in Raleigh, NC, call T & L. We can help you every step of the way, including in-house financing. Keep reading to learn more.
The Problems from Obstructed Drain Valves
An obstructed drain can cause a variety of issues. Some problems are obvious, some are not. Sometimes the machine may continue to function for quite awhile with foreign objects caught in the drain. Other times, the machine comes to a stop with an error code on its display.
If the machine continues to function with an obstruction, you may see an increase in your utility bills. Often, when obstructed machines continue to work, there is a leak which can cause a slow, steady but unnoticed loss of water. This can result in higher water bills.
Speed Queen equipment has a feature that works to detect leaks in the drain valve. This is a great benefit to purchasing new equipment from Speed Queen. With their high quality, long lasting washers and dryers and these money-saving features, it's a great investment.
If you aren't sure what to do about a potential drain obstruction, it's important to do a quick inspection first. It's easy to check the drain valve on most machines. With Speed Queen machines, it's much easier to do this quick inspection. Why? With the frame enhancements that come with these machines, it's an overall easier unit to install, service, and inspect.
Checking the drain valve is a great way to determine if the problem you're having is coming from an obstruction. It's also a great way to see if there are any leaks. If you need repair help for your laundromat equipment in Raleigh, NC, T & L can help with these problems. Call us today to learn more.
The drain valve is not a strong valve. It has a small motor that closes the valve when power is applied. This means it is easily obstructed. If the motor was stronger, it could damage itself by forcibly opening and closing when debris gets in the way. The default position of the drain valve is open. It opens when power is not applied to close it. This is good to know because if water is in the tub when the washer is not in operation, that means the drain valve is stuck closed.
If the drain cannot close, the washer will not reach the water level needed to advance the cycle. Sometimes it will fill completely and then shut down. It could also add water as the cycle continues, resulting in increased water expenses.
In the event that the drain cannot open, the washer will not be able to spin because the water did not drain out. This could result in clothes not being properly washed or clothes that come out dripping wet. This will happen because the extraction or spin at the end could not occur. If the drain is completely stuck closed and the door is opened, water will run out onto the floor.
The drain can be found and checked by removing the front panel of the washer. Once the panel is removed, the drain valve can be seen under the wash tub of the washer. Washer extractors have “gravity drains” rather than a pump like most residential washers have. This means the water drains out by gravity. It flows downhill and out of the washer. Many times, it is easiest to loosen the two hose clamps.
Then, take the drain hose off, towards the bottom of the tub. You will then be able to see into the drain valve area. If there is any debris it will be obvious. It can be removed by hand or with pliers. A light may be helpful to look for other debris inside the valve area.
It is always best to disconnect power to the machine prior to working on it because there are exposed wires on the drain valve. It is no picnic to touch those wires while trying to loosen the clamps. Electricity is present even if the washer is not in the middle of a cycle. When reaching into the drain valve, use caution. It can be potentially dangerous. There could be anything in there, even items like a razor blade or a needle. You can use pliers to grab items and a light to help you see. You can also contact our service tech department. You don't have to repair your machines alone. We can help!
Once the drain valve is clear, you can move forward. It is then best to start a wash cycle to make sure it is functioning properly. You will see the tub fill up with water and drain if the valve is functioning properly. You may even be able to hear the drain valve actuating once the cycle starts.
If you've done all of the above and still have an issue, the drain valve may have gone bad and need replacement. This can happen, but don't worry. The parts are readily available and easy to find. Again, our service techs can help with this!
We hope this information helps you with your drain valve issues in case something is obstructing them! If you have any questions about the info you find here, contact us.
Financing for Laundromat Equipment in Raleigh, NC
Looking for new machines or help with opening a laundromat? Call us now. We can help you with all your vended laundry equipment needs, no matter what it is. T & L takes the time to seek what's best for our customers. That means finding a longer warranty for machines, going above and beyond in helping out with troubleshooting, repairing, and even researching problems that need a fix. We work to save consumers time, effort, and money. Our hands-on approach allows us to provide a turnkey laundromat solution and help install, maintain, repair, and teach you to use the laundromat equipment in Raleigh, NC. If you’re ready to start a new venture opening a laundromat, contact us.
