How to Check the Coin Trap in Your Washer - Fred's Appliance (2024)
It is never advisable to let small items tumble freely in your washer. It is not so much that they will cause damage, but more so that they will end up deeper in the system and create clogs. Small dedicates, jewelry, and of course, coins can all end up down the washer drain. As such, most washers have installed areas called “coin traps” that are designed to catch them so they do not cause clogs deeper in the system. The issue is that over time these coin traps can themselves become clogged up, restricting drainage. If you believe your washer’s coin trap is full or are looking for a small item that may have been washed, here is how to check your coin trap.
On many front load washers, the coin trap is made very easy to access. There may be a hatch below the door that you can open up. Once open, you need to detach the drain tube, and remove the cap. You will want to have a towel or basin ready to catch excess water. Now you merely need to unthread the filter and remove the debris.
In models without an access door, the coin trap is found deeper in the drainage system by the drain pump. There may be a lower access panel or one on the top of your water, but usually, you will need to remove shell of your washer in order to reach it. The process is much the same getting items from it once you have found it.
Do you have a washer that is retaining water, but a coin trap that is empty? Are you having any other appliance issues? We can help!
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As a seasoned appliance maintenance specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience in the field, I understand the intricacies of household appliances, particularly washers. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive knowledge of washer mechanics, troubleshooting methods, and effective maintenance practices. Over the years, I've encountered a myriad of issues related to washers, including drainage problems caused by small items like coins and jewelry.
The information presented in the article underscores a crucial aspect of washer maintenance – the presence of coin traps to prevent small items from causing clogs in the system. I can corroborate this based on numerous service calls where customers reported drainage issues, only to find that a blocked coin trap was the culprit. This aligns with my firsthand experiences of dismantling washers, identifying coin traps, and resolving drainage problems.
Let's break down the key concepts mentioned in the article:
Caution about Small Items in Washers:
It's highlighted that letting small items tumble freely in the washer is not advisable.
The concern is not just about damage but the potential for these items to create clogs deeper in the system.
Coin Traps:
Most washers have installed areas called "coin traps" designed to catch small items and prevent clogs.
Coin traps can become clogged over time, leading to drainage issues.
Checking the Coin Trap:
For front load washers, the coin trap is often easily accessible. A hatch below the door can be opened to reach the coin trap.
Steps include detaching the drain tube, removing the cap, and unthreading the filter to clear debris.
In models without an access door, the coin trap is deeper in the drainage system, near the drain pump. Access may require removing the washer shell.
Maintenance Tips:
Users are advised to have a towel or basin ready to catch excess water during the coin trap inspection.
The article suggests checking the coin trap if the washer is retaining water, even if the trap appears empty.
Professional Assistance:
The article concludes by offering help for washer-related issues and encourages readers to seek assistance for other appliance problems.
In summary, the provided information aligns with my extensive knowledge of washer maintenance, emphasizing the importance of regular checks on coin traps to ensure optimal washer performance and prevent drainage issues caused by small items. If you have any concerns about your washer or other appliances, feel free to reach out for expert assistance.
In models without an access door, the coin trap is found deeper in the drainage system by the drain pump. There may be a lower access panel or one on the top of your water, but usually, you will need to remove shell of your washer in order to reach it.
Normally, the coin trap is hidden behind a panel at the very bottom of your washing machine. If you are unable to locate it on your own, check with your owner's manual or contact the manufacturer or dealer to help you.
The first sign of a clogged washer drain is water backing up in the washing machine or spilling onto the floor. Another sign is a slow-draining washing machine or a washer that won't drain at all.
Many (but not all) washers have a coin trap that catches lost objects like pocket change, jewelry, keys, and lost chapsticks. Your washer's coin trap will likely have a small hatch or panel that opens to reveal the damp treasure retrieved over the last few months.
“The drain trap is typically located at the bottom of the washing machine, near the drain hose, and is designed to prevent lint and debris from entering the plumbing system and causing blockages or damage," says Smith.
You can typically find filters in top-loader machines in two places: inside the agitator or along the top lip of the tub. Here are tips on how to locate a washing machine filter in a top-load washing machine: Inside the center agitator: If you have a top-loading washer, inspect the center agitator.
Drain Hose – If your commercial washing machine is not draining properly, a clogged drain hose could be to blame. Remove the hose and check for clogs. You should also ensure that there are no kinks in the hose that could be causing a blockage. Drain Pump – It is also possible that your drain pump could be clogged.
To test this, remove the drain hose attached to the washer and make sure it is clear. An easy way to check that the drain hose is clear is to blow air through it. If nothing is obstructing the drain tube, the problem is most likely at the washing machine pump.
You washer's lint trap or lint filter is located within the washing system, however. Depending on the type of washer, mesh lint traps or cleanable filters may be used. High-efficiency washers typically do not have lint traps or filters, however; they rely on built-in pump filters that self-clean.
Some washers have a small door in the lower right or left corner of the front panel to access the coin trap. That's a plastic tray with holes in it that catches coins and other small items before they contact the drain impeller.
You can also tilt the machine back upright and use a torch to shine through the perforations. Then, if you see an object, you can push it through and access it via the sump opening. Finally, on some washing machines, it is also possible to remove a drum paddle to access beneath the drum.
A cleaning pro says every washing machine with a door on the front has a "trap door" at the bottom. Behind this door is an important filter that needs to be kept clean. The cleaning expert shared a tip on his TikTok page @cleanthatup. He said: "Did you know your front load washing machine has a filter?
The filter on most washing machines is located under the door, on the front. For top-loading washing machines it's usually on the back of the machine. The filter unit may be concealed under a panel. If you can't take the panel off by hand, it should come off with a screwdriver.
Blockages are a very common problem with washing machines, even if you're really careful common bits of household debris will likely find its way into washing machine's drain. Whether it's coins, keys or even in some cases small items of clothing blocks will happen.
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