If the conditioner in your washing machine isn't emptying, or you've got mould building up in the dispenser drawer, your washing machine won't be performing to its full ability.
There are a number of common problems that can occur with the detergent dispenser in your washing machine - but most of these can be avoided with a little regular maintenance!
In this video, eSpares explain how to identify the problem so you are able to keep your soap drawer in good condition. However if it turns out that you actually do need to replace the soap dispenser, you will be pleased to know that you have come to the right place!
This video shows an example on how to remove or replace the part on a typical machine, some models may be different but the procedure should be similar.
What You Will Need:
Step 1 - Switch Off Your Appliance
Safety First! Please ensure that you have disconnected the appliance from the mains before starting any repair.
Step 2 - Remove The Top Panel
Unscrew the top of the appliance, so that you can give yourself easier access to the detergent dispenser and soap drawer.
The Soap Dispenser - Explained
The soap drawer is split into three compartments. There is the pre-wash compartment (that has its own solenoid valve), the main wash compartment (which is also fed by a valve), and finally there is the condition or fabric softener compartment (which is only fed when both valves are on).
Issue - Condition Not Siphoning Away
This is one of the most common problems related to the soap drawer and conditioner compartment. Over time old condition or 'gunk' can find itself stuck in the siphon (like the one in this video)
However, it is not the end of the world - as it is very easy to clean! just give this is a wash in the sink and a good way to test it is to put it together and fill it up with water - it should then naturally drain from underneath.
If you've given it a good wash and it's still not siphoning away, it could be that there's a problem with the jets inside the detergent drawer housing.
Soap Dispenser Jets
We’ll now use a new detergent drawer cover, and just flip it over so that you can see the jets that feed the pre-wash compartment, the main wash compartment and just the one jet that feeds the conditioner compartment.
The conditioner compartment is only fed when both valves are filling both the pre-wash and the main wash compartments - so the water pressure going to the condition jet is much less.
You can give it a good clean using a brush on the inside of the detergent drawer housing, but if that doesn't work it's likely you're going to have to change the top dispenser drawer
Replacing The Soap Dispenser Drawer Top
Step 1 - Remove The Control Panel
You need to undo the screws that are located at the top and the front of the soap drawer. Once the screws are out you just need to release the two clips at the back to free the whole control panel.
Step 2 - Release The Soap Dispenser Drawer
Now that the control panel is free, you just need to release the two electrical connectors to the valves. With these electrical connectors now out of place, proceed to undo the screw at the back (which holds the valves to the body of the machine).
Next thing to do is to release the dispenser drawer from the tub fill hose. This is just connected by an elasticated loop, so all you have to do is undo that and then feed the hose off the pipe.
You can then spin the dispenser drawer, which frees it from the machine, and then once the dispenser assembly is out you can unclip the soap dispenser body.
Step 3 - Fit The New Dispenser Drawer Top
In this video you can clearly see the difference between the old and new dispenser drawer tops, and that the effectiveness of these jets on the old one is affected by mould.
You can fit the soap drawer housing and the valves onto the new dispenser drawer top. When you put the valves on the new dispenser housing do remember to take the seals with it. You can then put the dispenser housing back into the machine.
Step 4 - Attach Everything Back Together Again
Reconnect the tub filler hose, screwing the valves back to the body of the machine - and then reconnect the electrical connectors. Reattach the control panel while making sure that the soap drawer locks into place nicely.
Finally finish off by just screwing everything back together.
Well done so far in everything you have done...all you need to do now is to make your washing machine look like a washing machine again.
Fancy Giving Your Washing Machine Some Loving Care & Attention?
Your washing machine no doubt works hard for you in getting your clothes nice and clean. If you want to show it some TLC, then it is a great idea to protect it from the build-up of limescale & detergent that can happen over time in your machine. Introducing the eSpares Limescale & Detergent Remover - where by using this you can help protect from this, as well as removing bad odours and bacteria build-up.
*Not suitable for top loading appliances
Need To Locate The Correct Dispenser For Your Washing Machine?
Here at eSpares, we have a wide-range of replacement washing machine dispensers for you to select from - so you can soon be on your way to repairing it yourself.
If you need any advice regarding repairs to your appliances at home, eSpares provide many helpful advice articles in our advice centre.
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