If you are storing your washing machine and dryer in an unheated location like a basement or garage or you are relocating from your summer home for the winter season, you want to protect your appliances to ensure they are not exposed to below freezing temperatures.
Washing machines have residual water in the pump and hoses that may freeze and damage your pipes in cold weather. As water freezes it expands, damaging the pipes in your home and unit. Keep in mind your warranty is invalidated if your washer is exposed to below freezing temperatures without protecting your unit.
Taking some precautions to winterize your washing machine will prevent damage and optimize performance.
Supplies Needed
Screwdriver
Antifreeze
Shallow Pan
8 steps to winterize your washing machine.
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Water supply.
Begin by shutting off the water supply to the home.
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Disconnect power Cord.
Unplug the unit and disconnect the inlet hoses from the water supply.
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Drain water out.
Drain the water into a shallow pan. Watch this video about how to drain out water from your pump filter and winterize your washer.
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Tilt Washer.
Once all water is cleared from the hoses, tilt your washing machine 6 inches to drain any extra water from the pump.
NOTE: : It is advised to use 2 people when tilting the washing machine.
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Add antifreeze.
Before moving the washer, plug the unit back in and add 1 gallon of non-toxic recreational vehicle (RV) antifreeze to the empty wash drum and close the door.
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Spin cycle.
Set the unit for a spin only cycle and let the cycle run for 1 minute before powering off the unit.
NOTE: Not all of the antifreeze will be removed during this phase.
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Remove residual antifreeze.
Before using your washing machine again, you will want to run water through the hoses and run the unit through a full cycle to remove any residual antifreeze.
NOTE: No laundry should be added during this cycle, but HE laundry detergent should be used.
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Unplug Unit.
(Optional) If leaving your home for the winter season, keep the inlet hoses disconnected, power cord unplugged and turn off the circuit breaker until you return.
