Washer Drain Pan Cleaning: A Step-By-Step Guide

A washer drain pan is an effective way to prevent water damage from a leaking washing machine. It is a container that fits under the washer to catch water leaks and prevent water damage to the floor. To clean a washer drain pan, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any standing water. If a wet/dry vacuum is unavailable, thick towels or old clothes can be used to soak up the water. Afterwards, spray the pan with a household cleaner, preferably a non-toxic, eco-friendly product. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the washer drain pan can help extend its longevity and ensure it functions correctly when needed.

Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water

To clean a washer drain pan, you can use a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Ensure the Wet/Dry Vacuum is Empty

Before starting, check that the vacuum drum is completely empty. If there is any water left inside, use a rag to wipe it out. Also, remove any dry scraps and dump them into the trash.

Step 2: Check the Filter

If you are using the wet/dry vacuum to remove water, you need to remove the filter entirely. Filters are designed to prevent dust from blowing out, but they will be damaged by liquids. Forgetting to remove the filter before vacuuming water could potentially ruin your vacuum.

Step 3: Choose the Right Attachment

Different attachments are suitable for different tasks. For wet surfaces, use an attachment that lays flat on the ground. This type of attachment is often designated as a ''wet nozzle'. It is designed to work well on flat surfaces.

Step 4: Plug into a GFCI Outlet

As you will be mixing water and electricity, it is recommended to plug the vacuum into a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet. This type of outlet can detect current leaks and immediately shut down the circuit, helping to prevent electric shocks and fires.

Step 5: Turn on the Vacuum and Remove the Water

Turn on the vacuum and place the nozzle on top of the standing water. Hold it in place until the water under and around the nozzle is depleted, then move on to the next section. Repeat this process until all the water is gone. Remember, the more extensions you add to the hose, the harder it will be to pick up water.

Step 6: Empty the Vacuum

Once you have removed all the water, open the vacuum canister and dispose of the water properly. Before pouring out the water, remove any large pieces of debris. Then, clean and disinfect the canister and accessories to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.

Soak up excess water with thick towels or old clothes

If you don't have a wet/dry vacuum to hand, you can use thick towels or old clothes to soak up excess water from your washer drain pan. First, locate the drain pan underneath your washing machine. Pull the machine away from the wall and locate the drain pan beneath it. Next, gather several thick towels or old items of clothing. Old t-shirts are ideal for this purpose. Lay the towels or clothing on the floor beside the drain pan. Then, carefully tilt the drain pan towards the towels/clothing and allow the excess water to run out. The absorbent fabric will soak up the water. You may need to repeat this process several times, using fresh towels or clothing each time, until all the water has been soaked up. Once the water has been removed, you can spray the drain pan with a household cleaner to prevent future washer leaks and increase the longevity of your machine.

Use mild detergent and water to wipe down the pan

To clean a washer drain pan, you should first lift the washing machine slightly to access the pan. Then, fill a bucket or large bowl with warm water and add a mild detergent. You could use a hand dishwashing soap, such as Joy, Ivory, Dawn, Seventh Generation, Ecover, or Dishmate. Avoid using bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the pan. Soak a sponge or cloth in the detergent solution and wring it out so it's not dripping. Then, wipe down the pan, paying special attention to any dirty or greasy areas. You may need to use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any stubborn dirt or stains. Finally, rinse the pan with clean water to remove any soapy residue. Ensure you dry the pan thoroughly before replacing the washing machine.

By cleaning your washer drain pan regularly, you can prevent the buildup of dirt, detergent residue, and other debris that can cause clogs and unpleasant odours. This simple maintenance task will help keep your washer drain pan in good condition and protect your home from water damage and mould or mildew growth caused by leaks.

Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing tools

To clean a washer drain pan, it's important to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing tools that could damage the pan. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive tips to effectively clean your washer drain pan without causing any harm to the surface:

Use Mild Detergent and Water

It is recommended to clean your washer drain pan regularly by lifting the washing machine slightly and wiping down the pan with a mild detergent and water solution. This will help remove any dirt, detergent residue, and grime that may have accumulated. Regular cleaning will also help prevent the buildup of these substances, reducing the risk of clogs and unpleasant odours.

Avoid Abrasive Scrubbing Tools

Abrasive scrubbing tools can scratch and damage the surface of your washer drain pan, leading to potential rust and corrosion. Instead, opt for soft cloths or sponges when wiping down the pan. If there are stubborn stains or stuck-on residue, try soaking the affected area with the detergent and water solution for a few minutes before gently wiping it away.

Natural Cleaning Agents: Baking Soda and Vinegar

For a more intensive cleaning, you can use natural cleaning agents like baking soda and vinegar. Start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain with a plug or cloth to prevent the mixture from bubbling out. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, and then flush it out with hot water. This combination helps dissolve organic material and neutralise odours, leaving your drain pan fresh and clean.

Boiling Water

Another effective method to clean your washer drain pan is to use boiling water. Carefully pour a pot of boiling water down the drain in two to three stages, allowing each pour to work its way through the pipe. The hot water will help break down any grease or buildup, clearing potential clogs and keeping your drain pan functioning optimally.

Regular Maintenance

To summarise, regular maintenance is key to keeping your washer drain pan in good condition. Incorporate quarterly maintenance checks into your routine, and address any signs of wear and tear promptly. By following these steps and avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing tools, you can effectively clean your washer drain pan and prolong its lifespan.

Regular cleaning prevents dirt, detergent residue, and debris buildup

Regular cleaning of your washer drain pan is essential to prevent the buildup of dirt, detergent residue, and other debris that can lead to clogs and unpleasant odours. A clogged drain pan can result in overflow and water damage, defeating the purpose of having a drain pan in the first place.

To effectively clean your washer drain pan, start by lifting your washing machine slightly to access the pan. Avoid lifting the appliance by yourself, as it may be heavy and cause strain or injury. Use mild detergent and water to wipe down the pan, removing any dirt, residue, or debris that has accumulated. Ensure you clean the entire surface of the pan, including the edges and bottom, where water can pool and cause stagnation.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing tools when cleaning the drain pan, as these can damage the pan's surface. Instead, opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products. Baking soda is an excellent option, as it neutralises odours and absorbs them from the air, leaving your drain pan fresh and odour-free.

It is recommended to perform this cleaning as part of your quarterly maintenance routine. Regular cleaning not only prevents clogs and odours but also extends the lifespan of your drain pan, ensuring it remains in good condition to protect your home from water damage.

In addition to cleaning, it is important to inspect your drain pan and drainage system periodically. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as visible cracks, rust on metal pans, or improper water drainage. If you notice any issues, replace the drain pan promptly to maintain its effectiveness.

Frequently asked questions