The rubber door seal on front loading washing machines can mold, wear out or crumble over time. Buy a new gasket made exactly for your washing machine model and replace it. This is a pretty straightforward job for some models, while for others, especially those that don't have the detachable front panel, it can take several frustrating hours of work.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Remove the Old Seal
Step 1. Unplug the washing machine
Unplug it so that there is no risk of injury if the washing machine is accidentally started.
Step 2. If possible, unscrew the front panel
This is not possible for all models of washing machines and can be a complex procedure in some cases. Search for your model online with the question "remove the front panel" to save yourself the frustration of discovering it yourself, or look for screws in the following places (continuing with the list if the front panel still does not come off, even by pulling hard):
- The front panel itself or the sides and base of the washing machine near the front panel.
- Remove the detergent drawer and look for a screw located behind it.
- Detach the bottom panel (located under the large front panel) and any other smaller panel in the front of the washing machine. Some bottom panels can only be detached after opening the filter with a flathead screwdriver and then disconnecting the drain hose.
- Unscrew the cover and look for the screws underneath that secure the front panel.
Step 3. Deal with a washing machine with no removable front panel
If your washing machine model does not have a removable front panel, you must perform the work through the front opening. With a few small tricks you can create more space to work:
- Unscrew and remove the lid.
- Unscrew the hinge of the washing machine door, if possible.
- Place the washing machine on the back side carefully, so that the drum lowers slightly, moving away from the door.
Step 4. Remove the outer clamp securing the gasket
Most washing machines are equipped with a strap positioned flush with the outer edge of the rubber door seal. Pry it up with a flathead screwdriver, then pull it completely out of the seal.
Step 5. Fold the gasket inside the washing machine
Lift the rubber door seal from the edge of the basket using your hands or a flat head screwdriver. Detach it from the edge by folding it inside the basket to have access to the internal strap located below. If you feel resistance, stop and locate any hooks holding the clamp in place. Usually the hooks can be removed with a screwdriver, removing the screws that secure them or prying them up with a flat head screwdriver.
Step 6. Remove the clamp or spring securing the gasket
This element presses on the rubber seal holding it in place. Locate the nut or screw that holds the clamp in place and loosen it so you can release and remove the gasket. You may need to use one of the following techniques to access the vine:
- Unscrew the lid of the washing machine and intervene from above.
- Remove the front panel of the washing machine, then unbolt the large rounded counterweight that surrounds the drum.
- In rare cases, the fastening strap does not have a tension adjustment and can be removed with a flat head screwdriver or with your fingers. Start at the bottom and work your way around the basket in both directions.
Step 7. Observe the position of the drain holes
Look for small holes near the bottom of the gasket. The new gasket should have the drain holes in a similar position, to allow the water to drain properly.
Step 8. Remove the gasket
Detach it from the edge of the basket to take it out. Some seals are glued, but can be removed in any case with a forceful tear.
In some models, the door lock must be unscrewed before the gasket can be removed. Note the position of the lock before removing it, as you will need to orient it in the same position after installing the new gasket
Part 2 of 2: Insert the New Gasket
Step 1. Rub the exposed surface with a damp cloth
Before placing the new gasket, remove all dirt and mold from the fixing area with a damp cloth.
Step 2. Decide whether to use a lubricant or sealant
If the gasket isn't already greased, you can scrub the edges with a small amount of dish soap to make it easier to insert. Also, if it's not lubricated, you have the option of attaching it more firmly using a special adhesive for the rubber seals. This is usually not necessary, unless the gasket is to be glued to a drain pipe.
Step 3. Line up the gasket on the basket
Insert the gasket by fixing the inner edge to the basket. Make sure you line it up so that the drain holes are at the bottom, roughly where the old gasket's were. You will often find a mark, such as a triangle, on both the gasket and the washing machine. Line them up when you attach the gasket.
Step 4. Replace the spring or inner clamp
Fold the new gasket inside the basket again. Re-attach the spring or clamp, then stretch it over the gasket. Tighten it again using a screwdriver or wrench.
Step 5. Adhere the outer flap and tie to the outer edge
If you removed the counterweight or front panel, put it back first. Then pull out the gasket again and hook the outer flap to the outer groove. If there was an external clamp to secure the gasket, insert it on the outer edge and press firmly to secure it again.
Step 6. Reattach all the other pieces
Screw the front panel, the door, the lid and any other element that you had to remove to reach the gasket. Plug in the washing machine plug.
