How Do I Know If My Washer Impeller Is Bad?

Washing machines are one of the most essential household appliances. They help to keep our clothes clean and fresh. The washer impeller is a crucial part of a washing machine that helps in cleaning the clothes. It is a plastic device that rotates and creates a water flow to clean the clothes. However, if the impeller is damaged or faulty, it can cause several issues that can affect the washing machine’s performance. So, how do you know if your washer impeller is bad?

Signs of a Bad Washer Impeller

If your washing machine is showing any of the following signs, it could indicate a bad washer impeller:

Noisy operation: A damaged impeller can cause the washing machine to make strange noises during the wash cycle.

Poor cleaning: The impeller helps in creating a water flow to clean the clothes. If it is damaged, the cleaning performance of the washing machine can be affected.
Leaking water: A bad impeller can cause water to leak from the washing machine, which can damage the floors and walls.
Washing machine not spinning: If the impeller is damaged, it can cause the washing machine not to spin properly, leading to wet clothes after the wash cycle.

Shaking or vibrating: A faulty impeller can cause the washing machine to shake or vibrate excessively during the wash cycle.

How to Check If the Washer Impeller is Bad?

If you are experiencing any of the above signs, you should check if the washer impeller is bad. Here are the steps to check it:

Unplug the washing machine: Before checking the impeller, you should always unplug the washing machine from the power source to avoid any electrical shock.

Remove the agitator: The impeller is usually located under the agitator. You need to remove the agitator to access the impeller. You can remove it by unscrewing the bolt or pulling it upwards.
Inspect the impeller: Once you have removed the agitator, you can inspect the impeller for any damage. Look for any cracks, chips, or missing blades. If you find any damage, the impeller needs to be replaced.
Reassemble the washing machine: After inspecting the impeller, reassemble the washing machine by placing the agitator back and screwing it in place.

When to Replace the Washer Impeller?

If you have determined that the washer impeller is bad, you need to replace it. Here are some signs that indicate the impeller needs to be replaced:

The impeller is cracked or chipped.
The impeller is missing blades.

The impeller is worn out or damaged.
The washing machine is not cleaning the clothes properly.
The washing machine is making strange noises during the wash cycle.

Conclusion

A washer impeller is a vital component of a washing machine that helps in cleaning the clothes. If the impeller is damaged or faulty, it can cause several issues that can affect the washing machine’s performance. Therefore, it is essential to know the signs of a bad washer impeller and check it regularly. If you find any damage, you should replace the impeller to avoid further damage to the washing machine.

Frequently Asked Questions about How Do I Know If My Washer Impeller Is Bad?

1. What is a washer impeller?

A washer impeller is a device in the washing machine that is responsible for creating a water flow that washes the clothes. It looks like a propeller and is usually located at the bottom of the washing machine.

2. What are the signs of a bad washer impeller?

The most common sign of a bad washer impeller is that your clothes are not getting clean. Other signs include the washing machine making strange noises, the impeller being visibly damaged, and the washing machine not filling up with enough water.

3. Can I fix a bad washer impeller myself?

It is not recommended to fix a bad washer impeller yourself unless you have experience with repairing washing machines. It is best to call a professional to fix the issue to avoid causing further damage to the machine.

4. How much does it cost to replace a bad washer impeller?

The cost of replacing a bad washer impeller depends on the make and model of your washing machine and the cost of the impeller itself. It can range from $50 to $200 or more. It’s best to contact a professional to get an accurate estimate.