Changing a Front Load Washing Machine Pump

In this instructable, I will be showing you how to efficiently replace the pump on a washing machine. This particular washing machine is a Speed Queen, but most High Efficiency front load machines will follow similar procedures. The first step is of course diagnosis. We knew the pump was out because when the washer would finish the cycle and the drum was still full of water. It would run, agitate, and spin but the water stayed put. Because of the water weight, the spin would not reach full speed. I am only 13 but I have been helping my Dad fix and repair things since I could walk. I'm excited to help you fix your washer today!

All you will need to replace your pump and fix your washer is a new pump, a 5/16 (or similar size depending on the washer) nut driver and a 9x13 baking pan to act as a drip catcher. In order to choose the correct pump, locate your machines model number and search for that machine's pump online. I found my pump quickly through a google search that led me to Amazon. There were other options but it had the fastest shipping and the best price for my pump.

Before you start your repair, make sure you have drained as much water from the machine as possible. Do this by removing the drain hose from the drain on the wall and bringing it below the water level of the washer. Make sure you have a bucket to catch the water in. If you haven't already, make sure you unplug the washer for safety. You will plug it back in once the repair is complete to test the pump.

Locate the access panel on your washer. It is usually on the front or back of the machine, sometimes both. Remove the screws from the panel and put them in a safe place. Once inside, locate the pump. Pumps come in a wide variety of styles. To find it, look for the two hoses and a white pump body. The pump body may look different, but it will be similar to the one shown above.

Underneath your pump take out the screws holding the pump in place. Put the screws in a safe location. Insert your drip pan under your pump. You may have some residual water in your pump. With your nut driver loosen the hose clamps and remove the hoses from the pump.

Locate the electrical connectors on your pump. there should be two connectors. With a marker, indicate which wire connects to which connector, so when reassembling wires can be connected properly. You can now remove the pump from the washer. Remove the drip pan from below the pump.

As you put the new pump in, basically work backwards through the steps for disconnection. Begin by attaching the electrical wires to the correct terminals (hopefully you labeled them). Before reattaching the hoses, make sure your hose clamps are still in place. If they are not, put them back on the hoses loosely. Then put each hose back into position on the pump. First, tighten the discharge (drain) hose clamp. Then tighten the intake hose clamp. You need them tight, but it should not require all your strength to tighten or you may strip the threads. The screw the pump back down to the base of the washer.

Plug your washer back into the wall outlet. Put your washer on a short cycle (rinse and spin is my shortest) and run a test. Be sure to check for leaks as it is running, and that your pump has properly drained your washer. If it does not, go back through and assess where your problem was before reassembling the washer. Once the washer is working correctly, you can reinstall your access panel. Your washer is now fixed and ready for use.