How to disassemble a washing machine: nuances of disassembling models of different brands

A washing machine breakdown is an unpleasant problem that requires an immediate solution.If the equipment is under warranty at the service center, there is no point in troubleshooting it yourself. When the warranty period has expired, you can try to set up the unit yourself.

To do this, you will need a basic set of tools and a manual that tells you how to disassemble the washing machine. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the detailed instructions. With such an arsenal, even an ordinary home mechanic can restore the device.

Potential problems and breakdowns

In order not to make unnecessary efforts, it is advisable to observe the equipment and understand what exactly is the deterioration in performance. If the overall quality of the wash has dropped, an uncharacteristic noise appears during the spin cycle, and the laundry remains wet after the spin procedure, the problem most likely should be looked for in the pump.

The same unpleasant phenomena are caused by clogged communication hoses. It is better to approach all these components from the front of the unit or from below. If foam comes out of the machine during operation, you need to stop washing, set the “Drain without spin” program and wait until the device completes all the necessary actions and opens the door.

Then you should remove the laundry, manually clear the foam from the inside and start the wash again without spinning. If this is not done, foam will penetrate into the engine or onto the control board, and repairing these components will cost the owners a substantial amount.

Foam came out of the washing machine
The reason for the appearance of abundant foam in the washing machine may not be a breakdown or malfunction of the unit itself, but the use of hand washing powder (it does not contain defoamers) or a significant excess of the standard dose of detergent

If the device does not gain temperature and does not warm up the water, it is most likely that the working heating element has failed. Its location is indicated in the accompanying technical documentation. It is usually located at the rear, but in some models, depending on the manufacturer and internal design features, it may be located in the front.

It may have built up scale as a result of using hard water and will need to be cleaned. Or, if the element burns out, you will need replace it with a new heating element. The replacement process is described in detail in our recommended article.

Laundry in the washing machine
If the machine takes a long time to wash, you should look for a fault in the electronics. It would be a good idea to check the functionality of the water temperature sensor and other controls. The same problem can occur due to an incorrectly placed drain hose.

A pressure switch or pump is responsible for uniform and rapid drainage of liquid from the washing container. Slowly pouring water clearly indicates that these elements have lost their functionality due to breakdown or operational wear.

To repair them or replace them with new ones, you will have to dismantle the side wall and penetrate into the upper part located behind the rear panel.

Washing machine drum
When failures occur in the drum or bearings, you will have to completely disassemble the device, identify the problem, carry out repairs, and then assemble the machine and start it up. If washing proceeds as usual, then operation can be continued.

This is just a short list of the main breakdowns identified in the machines. It is relevant for all household washing equipment, regardless of the brand and design features of each individual device.

Problems with electronics and software control are more complex problems and require professional intervention. To eliminate breakdowns of this level, regardless of whether the equipment is still under warranty or not, it is better to contact a specialized service center.

The certified technicians working there will carry out diagnostics, quickly identify the source of the malfunction and repair the damaged electronic unit or replace it with a new one.

Nuances of the preparatory process

Before you begin disassembling the washing machine, you must carefully study the accompanying documents included with the equipment, study the electrical diagram and become familiar with the structural design of the unit.

The next step is to do the following:

  • carefully disconnect the device from the electrical network and water supply system;
  • disconnect the drain hose from the sewer outlet;
  • select a set of tools required for the work ahead.

Only after such thorough preparation can you proceed directly to disassembling the washing unit.

Disassembling a front washing machine
Dismantling of the housing and internal parts must be carried out in a strictly established order, otherwise there is a risk of damaging individual serviceable elements. As a result, you will have to replace not only broken parts, but also those that were damaged during improper assembly.

It is advisable that the craftsman have a sufficient amount of time at his disposal, since the disassembly/assembly process does not tolerate haste and fuss. In addition, all repairs must be carried out carefully and delicately, without causing harm to other internal and external parts of the unit.

List of required tools

To correctly disassemble the washing machine, a home craftsman will need the following tools:

  • wrenches (size 8, 9, 19);
  • service hook;
  • screwdrivers (classic flat and Phillips);
  • pliers and wire cutters used for self-clamping clamps;
  • ordinary wire cutters;
  • pliers with an insulated rubberized handle;
  • bent long pliers.

Almost all of these items will definitely be found in your home arsenal, and the missing items will simply need to be purchased at a hardware store or borrowed from friends or neighbors.

Liquid WD-40
If the machine runs for a long time, some screws may “stick” to the cells. Unscrewing them will be problematic, so it makes sense to use WD-40. A few drops will soften the joints and facilitate correct unscrewing of the connecting parts.

In addition to all the items listed above, it is worth stocking up on a medium-sized basin, where it is convenient to drain the remaining water in the hoses, and several microfiber cloths. They can be used to wet your hands, wipe the internal parts and collect the remaining working fluid that has spilled from the tubes from the floor.

Instructions for disassembling washing machines

Structurally, washing machines, even those produced by different manufacturers, are very similar to each other. They have the same basic “filling” and work on the same principle. The main difference that matters during disassembly is the loading method - frontal or vertical.

All other criteria relate to external decorative fragments, small internal parts, fasteners and are not of significant importance.

Detailed description of disassembling the front washing machine

Front-type machines differ from their analogues in that they load laundry through a round door located on the front part. On the one hand, this is convenient and practical, on the other hand, it requires special attention and caution when removing the glass loading hatch during disassembly and repair.

Washing machine repair
When disassembling the machine and making repairs, you need to act carefully and carefully. Most of the body fragments are made of plastic and are vulnerable to mechanical stress. If impacted or overloaded, they may crack and the appearance of the unit will lose its aesthetics.

Equipment does not always need to be completely disassembled, as they say, down to the screw. Knowing how the device works and understanding the nature of the problems that appear, you can at least roughly determine the area where the problem is located.

This will help to start disassembly exactly where it is easiest to get to the failed element without touching normally functioning parts.

Foreman inspects washing machines
When the power button does not work, you need to check the electrical connection. If the connection is OK, then activation is blocked by an internal fault. It is unlikely that you will be able to diagnose it yourself.It is better to invite a specialist and instruct him to find the problem

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the step-by-step instructions that will help you cope with the volume of work yourself.

To disassemble a front-type machine, you must proceed in the following order:

  1. Remove the top panel. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, carefully unscrew all fasteners holding the top panel of the device. Gently pull the cover towards you and remove it, being careful not to damage the fragile internal elements.
  2. Remove the detergent container. Empty the container responsible for distributing detergents. To do this, gently press the special zone located in the central compartment of the tray with your fingers. After all these manipulations, the container can be removed without any problems.
  3. Remove the control unit. To do this, you need to unscrew the screws in the upper area of ​​the front panel, carefully unscrew the block 90 degrees and carefully remove it from the fasteners. Using the service hook, securely secure the panel to the side of the unit.
  4. Disconnect the connectors with wires, simply pulling them out of the corresponding slots located in the control unit. This point is relevant if the design of the washing machine requires it.
  5. Remove the service panel, carefully prying it off with a flat-head screwdriver. To get to it, you have to unscrew the screws facing the sides at the bottom, on the front side of the device.
  6. Separate the rubber sealing collar from the central panel. To do this, use a screwdriver to release the clamp from the grooves holding it.
  7. Unscrew the screws holding the central panel to the case, and dismantle the entire element.
  8. Disconnect the front hatch locking connector.
  9. Carefully remove the rear outer panel and set it aside. If necessary, unscrew the mounting screws and the tightening bolt of the drum assembly.
  10. Remove the fixing clamp using pliers and carefully remove the inlet hose that goes to the tank. Using the same principle, disconnect the hose going to the pressure switch.
  11. Remove counterweight blockslocated in front or behind (depending on the model) to ensure a stable position of the unit on the floor during operation and spinning, after unscrewing the long mounting bolts.
  12. Remove the heating element. In most models it is located on the back side in the lower compartment of the case. Some manufacturers also place it low, but in the front area of ​​the tank. To disconnect correctly, you need to unscrew the fixing nut located in the center. Then press on the protruding pin and push it inside. Pry off the heating element with a flat screwdriver and carefully remove it.
  13. Take out the tank. To remove the tank, you will need to twist the lower shock absorbers, remove the springs, and only then will you be able to remove it.
  14. Disassemble the tank itself. If there is a need for this, then first twist the bolt securing the pulley, press the shaft inside the tank, remove the clamp and divide the tank shell into two halves.

After the machine is disassembled, you can begin repairing and replacing failed working elements.

Sawing a solid drum
Some washing machines are equipped with a one-piece disposable tank that does not require disassembly. Home craftsmen, if necessary, cut this part with a hand saw, and then assemble it together, fastening it with elongated bolts and waterproof, durable sealant

When all the necessary activities are completed, you will need to reassemble the unit, install it in its original location, correctly connect it to the central communications and test it for functionality. If everything is done correctly, the machine will function as usual and will not cause any more trouble to the owners.

Disassembling a top-loading washing machine

For vertical washing machines The most typical negative phenomena are spontaneous opening of the working drum, corrosion of the metal block, imbalance of the central driving unit during washing and bearing failure.

Top loading washing machine
In vertical units, the upper door seal loses elasticity over time and becomes deformed. As a result, puddles appear under the machine, and rust forms on the body. To fix it, you need to remove the control panel, remove the seal and install a new one.

To troubleshoot such problems, the equipment will definitely have to be disassembled. This process is labor-intensive and requires a lot of attention and concentration.

But this does not mean that it is impossible to repair a vertical unit at home. You just need to strictly follow the instructions and be careful. Then everything will go smoothly and getting to the problem node will not be difficult.

We offer a step-by-step description of the process for independent craftsmen. Before you begin disassembling a washing machine with a vertical type of loading laundry, you need to disconnect it from the central communications.

Then place the machine in a convenient place so that it does not disturb anyone living in the room.Next, you need to prepare specialized tools and stock up on a basin and a rag to immediately wipe away any remaining water that has spilled onto the floor from the communication hoses.

Now you can start disassembling the equipment and take the following steps:

  • unscrew the fixing screws located on the sides of the device;
  • carefully move the base working unit towards you and disconnect the electrical wires;
  • remove the control panel;
  • remove the dispenser for powder and other detergents;
  • remove the side and top panels;
  • remove the fastening clamp;
  • carefully remove the plastic casing, being very careful not to damage it in any way;
  • start repairing equipment.

When disassembling a washing machine, you need to remember exactly the order of the wires and internal elements.

To guarantee, it is appropriate to photograph all the components so that you can then assemble the unit correctly and strictly in the same sequence as it was originally.

Front loading washing machine
A washing machine that is not assembled correctly after repairs will not work properly. The use of such a unit may result in a short circuit, spontaneous combustion and other negative phenomena.

At the end washing machine repair All that remains is to return the equipment to its original place, connect it to the main communication nodes and activate the washing mode. If the work goes as usual, and the device does not malfunction, it means that the home technician did an excellent job and did everything absolutely correctly.

Subtleties of disassembling cars of different brands

Washing machines made by different manufacturers are generally similar and perform the same set of basic functions. However, there are significant differences in the design of the units and the arrangement of internal working parts.

Heating element in the washing machine
For many popular washing machine models, the heating element is located in front. To get to it, you just need to remove the front cover and carefully remove the part for subsequent repair, replacement or cleaning.

For correct disassembly, it is very important to know the specific unique features of the model to be repaired. Then the work will be easy and you will be able to penetrate the fault zone without any problems.

Steps to disassemble Samsung machines

Samsung household washing machines are quite easy to disassemble. The container for loading powder is located conveniently and is held on by only two screws. The working heating element is located at the bottom of the tank directly under the front cover and getting to it is not difficult.

Repairing the control module
If the door of a Samsung washing machine does not open, the problem should be looked for in the control module. It is quite difficult to cope with such a plan on your own. It is better to transfer this work to specialists from the service center

He will introduce you in detail to the repair of Samsung washing machines. step by step guide, which is given in the article we recommend.

The nuances of repairing models from Ariston

In Ariston products, bearings and tank seals most often fail. The design of the model is thought out in such a way that this unit cannot be repaired. But for skilled and experienced home craftsmen there are no barriers.

To replace the seal, the solid tank is flared or sawed with a handsaw. There is no other way to restore parts, except, of course, by purchasing a new tank and installing it at the company’s service center.

Disassembling the washing machine
A bad engine in Ariston equipment is a common occurrence. To repair, you need to unscrew the bolts, remove the back of the housing, and then remove the assembly.If after diagnostics it turns out that the element cannot be repaired, you will have to buy a new one and install it in place of the old one

The latest generation Ariston washing machine models are equipped with self-diagnosis devices, which significantly speeds up the process of troubleshooting. Fault and error codes in operation are displayed on the display, notifying about an emerging or impending problem. Decoding them will help you understand what should be repaired and how.

Procedure for disassembling Atlant washing machines

Atlant brand devices are practically designed and can be repaired. At the very beginning of disassembly, it is necessary to remove the counterweight, and then remove the external control panel. The drum in these models consists of two halves, secured with bolts, so any working parts can be replaced in no time.

Washing machine display
Models from the Atlant company have a built-in self-diagnosis system. In the event of a malfunction, the electronics displays relevant information on the display. Owners can read the message, consult documentation and determine how to fix the problem

Specifics of Electrolux brand machines

Electrolux machines are very reliable and rarely break down. With ten leading sales Electrolux washing machines will introduce the rating we compiled. The front panel can be easily removed and immediately provides access to all the main components and parts.

Working bearings and oil seals are placed on separate removable supports. To replace them, you do not need to completely disassemble the drum.

Working unit of the washing machine
If the working drum in the Electrolux washing machine does not spin, most likely the brushes, drive belt, motor or control board are damaged.You can look for the problem yourself, but the technicians from the service center will do it faster and at the highest professional level

Features of LG washing equipment

Household LG washing equipment has a complex design. To remove the front panel, you will first have to use a screwdriver to unscrew the nuts that securely fix the hatch cover. Then you have to carefully remove the screw that tightly tightens the clamp to hold the cuff.

Design features of the washing machine
To make it easier to deal with disassembling washing equipment, you can visually study the design features of the unit by looking at this diagram

Then you will need to remove the weighting material located on top and only then carefully remove the tank to be repaired or replaced.

The South Korean manufacturer equips its new models with a self-diagnosis system. Decoding error codes will help you quickly and accurately determine what needs to be changed and where to repair. Allows you to immediately decide whether to produce DIY repair Or it’s better to contact a workshop.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

A detailed description of how to independently disassemble a Samsung washing machine with a front-loading type of laundry. Interesting design features of the model and curious nuances that arise during disassembly:

How to properly disassemble an LG washing machine at home. Detailed execution of all processes step by step:

Disassembling a washing machine is a meticulous process that requires attention. If the breakdown concerns only a separate part of the system, there is no need to completely disassemble the unit. If malfunctions are observed in the main components, efforts will have to be made to fix the problem.

Our step-by-step instructions will help with this, clearly describing the process. Having such a cheat sheet at hand, even a person with minimal experience can handle repairing a washing machine. If you still have questions, ask them in the comments and we will try to help you.

Tell us about how you disassembled the washing machine for repairs with your own hands. Share what difficulties you encountered and how you solved the problems. Please leave comments in the block form below, ask questions and post photos on the topic of the article.

Visitor comments
  1. Natalia

    Out of stupidity, I washed a swimsuit with underwires without a special bag... One of the underwires jumped out and somehow mysteriously ended up behind the washing machine tank. It's rumbling there, you can hear it. Which part of the machine should I disassemble? Where to begin? I can't imagine. Advise, experts! The machine is Bosch, front loading, model WLG 20060, without any special features.

    • Ignat

      If I were you, I would turn to a specialist, otherwise you screw up too much and the machine will stop washing altogether. It will be more expensive. Here, as if it were not necessary to remove the drum, disassembling the washing machine completely.

    • Expert
      Evgenia Kravchenko
      Expert

      Hello. First of all, before removing the foreign object, do not use the washing machine under any circumstances.

      Then, using a flashlight, carefully inspect the tank, if you see an object in the holes of the tank, try to very carefully remove it using thin knitting needles with hooks or a clamping loop (like those used to remove ticks from the skin), that is, pull it to the hole, and then pick it up with tweezers.

      But, as a rule, such manipulations rarely end in success; a “successfully” stuck “bone” is very rare, and even more rarely, it can be carefully removed. Since you do not have the skills to disassemble washing machines, then, as Ignat advised, call a technician - the procedure is very simple and quick, and the technician cannot charge a lot for it. And at the same time, he will inspect the damage that the ill-fated “bone” managed to cause to the internal parts of the washing machine.

  2. Valery

    Our heating element on our Zanussi easyiron washing machine failed. I decided to change it myself, the machine was old, and the repairmen wanted half the cost of the machine. To disassemble it you need to: remove the bolts that secure the rear part of the casing, then disconnect the heating element terminals. I took photographs first so as not to forget how everything originally looked, then I took pictures at each stage so that I knew how to put it back together. Unscrew the 2 clamping nuts and, carefully prying up the heating element with a flat screwdriver, remove it, loosening it from the socket. Install a new one. Reassemble in reverse order. In general, everything is simple.

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