If your Zanussi washing machine is leaking from the front, it could be due to a faulty door seal (sometimes called a door gasket). Inspect the seal for any rips or damages and if there is a build-up of mould. If so, you'll need to replace the seal to get your washing machine working properly again. Fortunately, this is a repair you can carry out for yourself, so you don't need to worry about replacing your appliance or calling in the repairman! Read on to learn how to replace a Zanussi washing machine door seal step by step. This door seal replacement will also be the same for Electrolux, AEG and Frigidaire washing machine models too.
What you will need
Finding your model number
To make sure you buy the correct replacement door seal for your particular washing machine, you'll first need to know your appliance's model number. This can be found on a sticker or data plate, usually behind the door frame or the removable kickplate panel at the bottom of the appliance. The number may be a combination of letters and numbers and it could also include other characters such as a dash (-) or a slash (/).
How to replace a Zanussi washing machine door seal
Once you've got hold of the correct part and tools, you can go ahead and get started on the replacement. To learn how to replace a Zanussi washing machine door seal, either watch the video below or follow our step-by-step guide beneath.
Safety first
Remember, you should always switch off your appliance and unplug it from the mains before carrying out any repairs or replacements.
Step 1: Remove the door and hinge
First, you'll need to remove the door and its hinge. Removing these parts isn't actually necessary, but doing so will give you easier access to the door seal. To remove the door and hinge, simply unscrew the two screws that hold the door hinge in place, then place the door and hinge aside.
Step 2: Remove the door seal's outer retaining band
The door seal is held in place on the outside of the machine by a plastic outer retaining band. To remove this, find the connection on the band and then pull the band away from the seal and door frame.
You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to separate the two sets of teeth on the connection.
Step 3: Remove the door seal
To remove the door seal, first loosen it from the outside by pulling the seal off the outer door frame.
You can then work your hand under the door seal and pull it away from the machine. The seal will be held in place from the inside by a sprung retaining band, but this should come away when you pull the seal towards you.
Step 4: Lubricate the door seal
Fitting the new door seal can be a little tricky, as you will need to work the seal's lip onto the rim of the tub. Because of this, we recommend rubbing some washing-up liquid under the lip to lubricate the seal and make it easier to fit. Simply put some washing-up liquid on your fingers and rub it beneath the seal's lip, working your way all the way around.
Step 5: Fit the new door seal
When getting ready to fit the new door seal, you will notice two triangles protruding from the seal. These indicate the top of the seal, so make sure they remain at the top when you go to fit the seal.
With the seal lubricated, you can now fit it onto the rim of the washing machine's tub. To do this, lift up the seal's lip and wrap it around the rim. This can take a little bit of time, so please be patient as you fit the new seal into place.
Step 6: Refit the inner retaining band
Once the door seal is fitted into place on the tub, you can refit the inner retaining band. If your door seal isn't securely in place, the inner band will simply take the door seal back off again, so first make sure the seal is securely fitted. You may also need an extra pair of hands to help here, as it takes a lot of strength to stretch the inner band enough to fit it around the seal.
To fit the inner retaining band, push back the front of the door seal. Then stretch the band around it until it is in position all the way around the seal.
Step 7: Position the door seal
With the inner retaining band securely in place, you can pull the door seal back out and fit the outer lip into place around the outside of the door frame.
Step 8: Refit the outer retaining band
Once the door seal is fully in place, you can refit the outer retaining band by working it back around the seal.
Then secure the outer retaining band into place around the seal by clipping the two connections together. Push the connections together as hard as you can to make sure the teeth are locked into place.
Step 9: Refit the door and door hinge
Finally, you can refit the door and hinge by screwing the hinge back in place with the two screws you removed earlier. Once the door has been refitted, you should also close it to make sure that it locks into place and is fitted correctly.
And there you have it! How to replace a Zanussi washing machine door seal step by step. Your washing machine should now be leak-free and working properly once more.
Now that your appliance is back in working order, why not make sure you're using it as efficiently as possible too? Our article on energy-saving tips for your washing machine will teach you all you need to know about saving money and energy with your washer whilst getting the best performance.
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