The unsung hero of your laundry room, the coin trap on washer units plays a vital role in protecting your appliance and preventing costly repairs. Often overlooked until a problem arises, this small but mighty component acts as a crucial barrier, safeguarding your washing machine’s delicate internal mechanisms from foreign objects that inevitably find their way into your laundry. Understanding its function, knowing where to find it, and performing regular maintenance are key to ensuring your washer operates efficiently and lasts for years to come.
What is a Coin Trap on a Washer and Why is it Important?
At its core, a coin trap on washer units is a filter designed to catch small items like coins, jewelry, buttons, hairpins, lint, and other debris. These seemingly innocuous objects, if allowed to pass into the washing machine’s drainage system, can cause significant damage. The primary concern is protecting the drain pump, a critical component responsible for expelling water from the wash tub.
Imagine a quarter or a bobby pin getting lodged in the drain pump’s impeller – a spinning component that propels water out. Such an obstruction can cause the impeller to jam, leading to pump failure, overheating, and ultimately, a costly replacement. Beyond the pump, debris can also clog drain hoses, leading to poor drainage, water backing up into the tub, or even leaks. The coin trap on washer acts as the first line of defense, intercepting these items before they can wreak havoc. It’s essentially a pre-filter for your drainage system, ensuring only water and fine, harmless particles pass through.
Understanding the Function of the Coin Trap
The coin trap on washer is more than just a simple mesh screen; it’s a strategically designed part of the washing machine’s drainage system. It’s typically a small chamber or cylinder with a removable filter or cover. Water from the wash tub flows through this chamber on its way to the drain pump. The design incorporates holes or a fine mesh that allows water to pass freely while trapping larger objects.
This ingenious design prevents damage to several key components:
- Drain Pump Impeller: As mentioned, this is the most vulnerable part. The impeller’s delicate blades can be bent, broken, or jammed by hard objects, rendering the pump useless.
- Drain Hoses: Larger debris can accumulate in the drain hoses, creating blockages that restrict water flow and lead to drainage issues.
- Sump Area: Before reaching the pump, water often collects in a sump area. The coin trap prevents debris from settling here and obstructing the flow or becoming a breeding ground for mold and odors.
In essence, the coin trap on washer ensures a smooth and unobstructed pathway for water to exit the machine, maintaining optimal drainage performance and extending the lifespan of your appliance.
Locating the Coin Trap on Your Washer
Finding the coin trap on washer can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, as its location varies significantly depending on the washing machine’s brand, model, and age. However, there are common areas to check.
Common Locations for Front-Loading Washers
Front-loading washing machines are generally more consistent in their coin trap placement:
- Bottom Front Access Panel: On many front-loading washers, the coin trap on washer is conveniently located behind a small access panel or hatch at the very bottom front of the machine, usually on the right or left side. This panel is often designed to pop open or can be gently pried open with a flathead screwdriver. Look for a small, rectangular or square door near the floor.
- Removable Lower Panel: Some models may feature a larger, removable lower panel that spans the entire width of the machine. This panel might be held in place by screws, clips, or a combination of both. Once removed, the coin trap (often referred to as a “drain pump filter” or “debris filter”) will be visible.
Locations for Top-Loading Washers
Top-loading washers can be a bit trickier, as the coin trap isn’t always as readily accessible from the exterior:
- Near the Drain Pump (Internal Access): On certain models, particularly older top-loading machines or some recent Whirlpool models, the coin trap on washer might be located deeper within the drainage system, often directly attached to or very close to the drain pump itself. Accessing this might require more involved disassembly, such as removing the back or front panel of the washer. This is less common for user-serviceable traps but can be the case.
- Self-Cleaning or No User-Serviceable Trap: Some older top-loaders and even some newer high-efficiency (HE) top-loaders are designed with “self-cleaning” drain systems that theoretically don’t require manual coin trap cleaning, or they integrate the filtration into the pump in a way that isn’t user-accessible. In these cases, major clogs would typically require professional service. Always consult your owner’s manual if you cannot locate a user-serviceable trap.
The Importance of Your Owner’s Manual
Regardless of your washer type, the absolute best resource for pinpointing the exact location of the coin trap on washer for your specific model is your owner’s manual. It will provide diagrams and step-by-step instructions for access and cleaning. If you’ve misplaced your manual, most manufacturers offer digital versions for download on their official websites.
When to Check and Clean the Coin Trap
Proactive maintenance is always better than reactive repairs. Knowing when to check and clean the coin trap on washer can prevent significant headaches and extend the life of your appliance.
Recommended Cleaning Frequency
- Periodically (Every 3-6 Months): As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to check and clean the coin trap on washer every three to six months, even if you haven’t noticed any immediate problems. This preventative measure ensures there’s no buildup that could eventually lead to a clog.
- After Washing Heavily Soiled Items: If you frequently wash items that shed a lot of lint (e.g., new towels, pet bedding) or items that might contain small objects (e.g., work clothes with loose change, children’s clothing), consider checking it more often.
Signs of a Clogged Coin Trap
The most obvious indicators that your coin trap on washer needs attention are related to drainage issues:
- Water Remaining in the Tub: After a wash cycle, if there’s still standing water in the bottom of the wash tub, it’s a strong sign of a drainage obstruction, and the coin trap is a prime suspect.
- Excessively Wet Clothes After Spin Cycle: If your clothes are still dripping wet or significantly damper than usual after the final spin cycle, it indicates that the machine couldn’t properly drain all the water, preventing an effective spin.
- Longer Cycle Times: The machine might take an unusually long time to complete a cycle, particularly during the drain phases, as it struggles to pump water out.
- Unusual Noises During Drainage: A struggling drain pump might make grinding, humming, or whirring noises as it tries to force water past an obstruction.
- Error Codes: Many modern washers have diagnostic systems that display error codes related to drainage issues (e.g., “ND” for no drain, “OE” for overflow error, specific numerical codes). Consult your manual for the meaning of these codes.
- Foul Odors: Over time, trapped lint, hair, and stagnant water in the coin trap can develop a foul, musty odor that can transfer to your laundry.
If you observe any of these symptoms, the coin trap on washer should be the very first thing you check.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Washer’s Coin Trap
Cleaning the coin trap on washer is a relatively straightforward DIY task that can save you a service call. Always prioritize safety.
1. Safety First: Disconnect Power
- Unplug the Machine: Before attempting any maintenance or reaching into your washing machine, always, always unplug it from the power outlet. This is non-negotiable and prevents accidental electrocution.
- Turn Off Water Supply (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary for coin trap cleaning, turning off the hot and cold water supply valves to the washer can be a good habit for any internal maintenance, preventing accidental leaks.
2. Locate and Access the Coin Trap
- Refer to Your Manual: Use your owner’s manual to pinpoint the exact location of the coin trap on washer for your model.
- Open the Access Panel: Gently open or remove the access panel at the bottom front of the machine. This might involve pressing a latch, prying with a flathead screwdriver, or unscrewing a few screws. Keep any screws in a safe place.
3. Prepare for Water Drainage
- Expect Residual Water: Even if your machine drained properly, there will almost certainly be residual water trapped in the coin trap chamber and drain hose leading to it. Have towels and a shallow pan or bucket ready.
- Use the Drain Tube (If Available): Many front-load washers have a small, thin drain tube next to the coin trap. Pull this tube out, remove its cap (if present), and direct it into your pan or bucket. Allow all the water to drain out. This is the cleanest way to empty the system.
- Slowly Unscrew (No Drain Tube): If there’s no dedicated drain tube, place your pan and towels directly under the coin trap cover. Slowly and carefully begin to unscrew the coin trap cover or filter by turning it counterclockwise. As you loosen it, water will start to dribble out. Allow it to drain completely into your receptacle. This method can be messier, so have plenty of towels ready.
4. Remove the Trap and Debris
- Fully Unscrew the Cover: Once the water has drained, fully unscrew the coin trap cover or filter by continuing to turn it counterclockwise. It will often pull straight out.
- Carefully Remove Trapped Items: You’ll likely find a collection of coins, hair, lint, buttons, and other debris. Carefully pull out all trapped items. You might need gloves for this.
- Inspect the Housing: Use a flashlight to look inside the housing where the coin trap sits. Check for any remaining debris, especially hair or lint that might be clinging to the sides or deeper in the drain assembly.
5. Clean and Inspect
- Rinse the Coin Trap: Take the removed coin trap/filter to a sink and thoroughly rinse it under warm running water. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to scrub away any stubborn lint, grime, or soap residue. Ensure all the holes or mesh are clear.
- Clean the Housing: Use a damp cloth or paper towels to wipe out the inside of the coin trap housing. Remove any sludge, mold, or debris.
- Check for Damage: While cleaning, inspect the coin trap and its rubber gasket (if present) for any cracks, tears, or signs of wear. A damaged gasket can lead to leaks.
6. Reassemble
- Reinsert the Trap: Carefully reinsert the clean coin trap or filter into its housing.
- Tighten Securely: Twist it clockwise until it is hand-tight. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the threads or the plastic. Ensure it feels snug and secure.
- Replace Drain Tube Cap: If you used the drain tube, replace its cap and tuck the tube back into its holder.
- Close Access Panel: Replace the access panel or lower panel, securing it with any clips or screws.
7. Test for Leaks
- Plug In the Washer: Plug the washing machine back into the power outlet.
- Run a Short Cycle: Run a quick rinse and spin cycle, or a drain cycle, on your washer.
- Monitor for Leaks: While the cycle is running, carefully observe the area around the coin trap. Check for any drips or puddles. If you notice any leaks, immediately stop the cycle, unplug the machine, and re-tighten the coin trap cover. The most common cause of leaks after cleaning is an improperly seated or insufficiently tightened coin trap.
Beyond the Coin Trap: Maintaining Your Washer’s Drainage System
While the coin trap on washer is a critical component, holistic maintenance of your washer’s drainage system involves a few other considerations:
- Check Hoses Regularly: Periodically inspect the drain hose at the back of your washer for kinks, cracks, or blockages. Ensure it’s not pushed too far down into the standpipe, which can create a siphoning effect.
- Use Proper Detergent: Using too much detergent, especially with HE washers, can lead to excessive suds that don’t rinse away completely, leaving behind residue that can contribute to clogs and odors in the drainage system.
- Run Hot Water Cycles: Occasionally running a hot water wash cycle with a cup of white vinegar or a washer cleaning tablet can help flush out soap scum and mineral deposits from the hoses and internal components.
- Pre-Check Pockets: The simplest preventative measure is to always check pockets before loading clothes into the washer. This reduces the number of foreign objects that even reach the coin trap on washer.
When to Seek Professional Assistance
While cleaning the coin trap on washer is a straightforward DIY task, there are times when professional assistance is warranted:
- Inability to Locate/Access: If you’ve consulted your manual and still cannot locate or safely access the coin trap, it’s best to call a technician.
- Persistent Drainage Issues: If you’ve cleaned the coin trap thoroughly and are still experiencing drainage problems, the issue might lie deeper within the drain pump, drain hose, or the machine’s control system.
- Damage During Cleaning: If you accidentally damage the coin trap, its gasket, or any other part during the cleaning process, it’s safer to have a professional repair or replace it.
- Unusual Noises After Cleaning: If strange noises persist after cleaning, it could indicate a failing drain pump or another mechanical issue.
In conclusion, the coin trap on washer is a small but mighty guardian of your washing machine’s health. Regular cleaning is a simple act of preventative maintenance that can save you from inconvenient breakdowns and expensive repairs. By understanding its role, knowing where to find it, and following the proper cleaning steps, you can ensure your laundry routine remains smooth and your appliance continues to perform optimally for years to come.
Where is the coin trap on my washer?
And drain out any excess water. And as you can see there was a little bit of nasty stuff that came out of there.
What to do if a coin is stuck in the washing machine?
I can help with that. If you like. And if there’s anything in there you’ll see it. And uh you should be able to reef it out then um you Place the coin trap.
Where is the coin trap on a whirlpool front load washer?
And uh it just catches coins and things over time. So I started the cycle.
How do you fix a stuck coin slot on a washing machine?
To fix a stuck coin slide, first unplug the washer. Remove the coin slide assembly by unscrewing its housing. Clean all moving parts with a mild detergent and lubricate the spring and sliding components with silicone spray. Check for bent or broken springs and replace if needed.