No one wants to imagine something like a clogged drain pump is putting a halt to their business operations. That’s why you always want to make sure your commercial washer’s drain pump is properly flushed and ready for action when the time comes. With the right equipment and tools, you can replace a commercial washer drain pump with little to no issues.
However, when it becomes too big an issue (for example, the machine not draining even after replacement), it’s best to call your local commercial washing machine repair technicians to guarantee the job is done safely and as quickly as possible, so your business can get back on track. In the meantime, here’s a step-by-step guide on what a drain pump is and what to do when you notice your drain pump in a commercial washer needs to be changed.
Why the Drain Pump is So Important
The drain pump acts like the heart of your washer’s drainage system. If it fails, water can back up, sit in the drum, leak onto the floor, or completely stop your commercial washing machine. Here are the signals that your business’s washer needs some love:
- A puddle of water was left in the machine
- Loud grinding or humming sounds while draining
- Error codes pointing to a drain issue
- Leaks near the base of the washer
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Commercial Washer Drain Pump
Step 1: Prepare Safely Before Replacing a Commercial Drain Pump
You shouldn’t dive into a pump replacement without preparation. Safety always comes first! Prepare these elements before starting:
- Unplug the washer so there’s no electrical hazard.
- Turn off the water supply to avoid leaks.
- Wear gloves since some edges inside the machine can be sharp.
- Clear the area around the washer so you have space to move.
If you’re already feeling unsure at this stage, that’s already a good time to consider calling us for affordable appliance repair in Charlotte, especially if dealing with electrical hazards or wiring work in Charlotte makes you nervous.
Step 2: Get the Right Tools, Equipment, and Parts
While each washing machine model is different, here is a general list of items you’ll need to be successful when replacing a commercial washer drain pump.
- A compatible replacement drain pump (matched to your washer model)
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Socket wrench set
- Pliers
- Towels or a shallow tray to catch excess water left in the drain pump
- Flashlight for tight spaces
Next, you’ll want to:
- Look up the exact model number (usually found on a label inside the door or back panel).
- Check the manufacturer’s website or trusted parts suppliers for compatible pumps. They usually put compatible models in the descriptions.
- Check reviews from other commercial washing machine owners to confirm the part works well and is compatible with your machine.
If you’re doing this on your own, spend a little extra time here to save your time (and a dime) later.
Step 3: Locate the Drain Pump on Your Washer
The pump is usually located near the bottom of the commercial washer. Depending on the design, you may need to remove the front, back, or bottom panel. If you can’t find it, check the model’s manual. Since different models may have different drain pump locations, this is a general guide on how to access your commercial washing machine’s drain pump.
- Use your screwdriver or socket wrench to remove screws.
- Keep the screws in a small container so they don’t get lost.
- Gently take off the panel and set it aside.
If you encounter heavy panels or complex brackets, and you’re not comfortable lifting or maneuvering them, this might be another spot where calling us is a wise choice.
Step 4: Disconnect the Washer’s Old Drain Pump
With the panel off, you should see the pump connected to two hoses and a set of wires. Again, since all models are different, we highly recommend calling us or looking up your exact model’s process.
- Place towels or a tray underneath to catch water.
- Use pliers to loosen hose clamps and remove the hoses.
- Disconnect the electrical wires (they usually have clips or plugs).
Don’t tug too hard if you notice it’s not coming out smoothly. Sometimes the drain pump hoses get stuck after years of use. Wiggle gently to help loosen it without damage to the other parts of your washer.
Step 5: Remove the Washer’s Drain Pump Assembly
Once the hoses and wires are disconnected:
- Use your wrench or screwdriver to remove the bolts holding the pump in place.
- Carefully slide the pump out.
This part is usually straightforward, but if the pump feels stuck or rusted, don’t force it too hard. Forcing can break surrounding components. At that point, it may be safer to have a professional appliance repair technician step in.
Step 6: Install the New Pump
Now it’s time to start to replace a commercial washer drain pump:
- Position the new pump in the same spot as the old one.
- Secure it with screws or bolts.
- Reattach the hoses, making sure the clamps are tight to prevent leaks.
- Connect the electrical wires back in their original spots.
Step 7: Reassemble and Test
- Put the access panel back on and secure all screws.
- Plug the washer back in.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Run a quick test cycle to confirm everything drains properly.
- Watch for leaks, listen for unusual sounds, and make sure water flows out as expected.
Troubleshooting Your Commercial Washer After Replacement
Even with careful work, small issues can happen:
- Still not draining? Check if the drain hose is clogged or kinked.
- Leaks around hoses? Tighten the clamps or reposition the hoses.
- Unusual noises? Something may be loose; double-check mounting screws.
If you’ve checked all of these and the washer still won’t drain, the issue might be beyond the pump. That’s the right time to call us!
Unclogged Drain Pump, Happy Business
A stuck drain pump doesn’t have to throw your whole work day off. Prep the right tools and you can replace a commercial washer drain pump to keep things moving! If it feels like too much, Just Call is only a call away! Let us get your business up and running with our top-rated commercial appliance repair services.