If your washing machine is older than a few years, it likely has an agitator. These tall posts, located in the center of the washer tub, help to swirl and move the clothes during the wash cycle. Unfortunately, agitators can become worn out and damaged over time. This can lead to your washer unable to properly clean your clothes. If this happens, you will need to remove the agitator and either clean it or replace it. Luckily, this is a relatively easy task.
To begin, it is important to ensure that your washer is unplugged from the power source. This will prevent any potential electrical mishaps while you work. Next, it is a good idea to empty the washer so that there are no clothes inside of the drum. This will allow you to work more easily and avoid any potential damage to your clothes. Finally, you should also remove the fabric softener dispenser cup, if your model has one.
Depending on your washer model, the agitator may be secured in place by a bolt or a locking mechanism. To release the agitator, you will need to unscrew the bolt or unlock the mechanism using an appropriate tool. Once the agitator is loose, you can use a wiggle and lift motion to disconnect it from the shaft.
If you are cleaning the agitator, you will need to prepare a cleaning solution and a cleaning brush. Then, you will need to inspect the agitator for any areas with built-up dirt or grime. Once the agitator is completely clean, you can rinse it thoroughly under running water to ensure that all of the soap residue is removed.
