If you have an Amana washing machine, and researching on “how-to” information for cleaning the Amana top load Washing Machine filter, there is a high probability that you won’t get much information online and I assume that’s the reason why you are here.
Well, we have covered that 🙂
A dirty filter can cause your washing machine to run less efficiently and can lead to problems like leaks.
The most common challenge people have when trying to clean the Amana top load washing machine filter is figuring out how to locate and remove it.
The main reason for this confusion is the washing machine type.
Not all Amana washers are the same.
Some are High Efficiency and some may be Non-HE variants (Currently the official site has 2 models available).
The make of the filter and its location for the front load Amana washer may be completely different as compared to Top Load variants, that’s why the whole confusion on the filter part.
Anyways, In this article we will cover below points:
- How to identify the filter type?
- How to locate the filter in the Amana washing machine?
- How clean filter in the Amana top load washing machine?
- Commonly Asked Questions.
- And More…
Let’s get started.
Identify the filter type
While researching the types of top loaders that Amana makes, we were able to find only 1 Top-Load model on their official site.
The top-loader that we checked has the filter located between the outer and inner tub.
This means we don’t have any detachable filters in Amana. Instead, it relies on the self-cleaning function.
Having said that, as a general rule of thumb, the very first step is to always identify the filter type in any washers before deciding to wash the filter as there are chances that you may be using older models that run on agitators.
The easiest way to identify the filter is to look for the ‘HE’ sign on your washing machine.
If your washer has a ‘HE’ sign it means, it’s a High-Efficiency washer, therefore the filter may not be detachable and it most likely relies on a self-cleaning function.
Another best way to identify if your Amana washer is a High-Efficiency model is to check the model number on the official Amana Website.
On the other hand, if there is no ‘HE’ sign, or if the product manual explicitly mentions that it’s a Non-HE washer, it means the filter is accessible and may be detachable depending on the model and make.
In most cases, a Non-HE washer will have a detachable filter.
Currently, the official Amana website has only two types of washers.
- Top Loader (NTW4516FW)
- Front Loader (NFW5800HW)
The Amana Top Loader (NTW4516FW) does not have any detachable filter based on the information available in the instruction manual. This means you will need to use its self-cleaning function.
Also Read: Front Load VS Top Load Detergents
Locate the filter on your Amana washing machine
The filter in almost all top load washing machines (Non-HE variants) is usually located beneath the agitator if it uses an agitator.
Some washers may have a side-mounted filter, usually located along the top rim of the drum. And some may have the filters located at the end of the drain hose.
If you are confused, refer to the instruction manual.
If it’s an agitator-based model (Older models), you may have to unscrew the agitator and turn it to detach from the base.
Once the agitator is detached, you should be able to find a small or medium-sized plastic mesh.
All you need to do is remove the plastic mesh filter and then start the cleaning process.
The above steps are only applicable if your washer has a detachable filter (mostly found in older models that use agitators).
Since the current model of Amana top loader has the self-cleaning function and does not have a detachable filter, it’s a wise idea not to detach anything.
Also Read: How to wash converse shoes in the washing machine?
How to clean Amana washing machine filter top loader?
Let’s look into the steps required to clean the Amana washing machine’s top load filter.
What you will need
In order to clean Amana washing machine top load filter, you will need:
- Brush, sponge, or rag
- Non-abrasive cleaning solution OR Vinegar OR Baking Soda (Any One)
- Water
- Gloves (optional)
Also Read: How to clean whirlpool top load washing machine with care?
Instructions to clean the filter
1. Locate the top load filter on your washer. If it’s an old agitator-based model, remove the agitator as required.
2. Now that you have located the filter, it’s time to clean it. Take a bowl, pour the cleaning solution into it, dip the brush, sponge, or rag in the solution and then start scrubbing the filter. Just be gentle and make sure to avoid over-scratching the filter unit.
3. Once the filter is thoroughly cleaned, you can rinse it under running water.
4. If your Amana washing machine has a self-cleaning function (In most cases it has), simply run the self-cleaning function by using washing machine cleaners like Affresh OR by simply using homemade solutions like vinegar or baking soda. This will remove any remaining residue or dirt particles from the filter.
5. After cleaning, put the filter unit back in place and reattach the agitator if applicable.
6. You can skip step 5 if you are using a High-Efficiency washer.
7. Now it’s time to run a test. Turn on your washing machine and observe the performance.
Also Read: Can Baking Soda Damage Washing Machine?
Final Thoughts
Cleaning the filter on a regular basis will help extend the life of your Amana washing machine and also improve its performance.
Remember to follow the instruction manual when cleaning the filter.
Lastly, if you notice performance degradation even after cleaning the filter, it’s best to consult a professional instead of troubleshooting issues on your own, unless you are absolutely sure how to fix it.
Related Articles:
- How to clean Kenmore washing machine filter top loader?
- How to clean Samsung washing machine filter top loader?
- How to Clean LG Washing Machine Filter top loaders?
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions that are asked frequently.
Does my Amana top load washer have a filter?
If it’s a top load Non-HE washer, then yes it will have a lint filter. If it’s a High-Efficiency washer, then it won’t have a lint filter. The High-Efficiency variants make use of a self-cleaning pump filter to remove lint.
Can I use normal detergent in a High-Efficiency Amana washing machine?
No, High-Efficiency washers should only make use of HE detergent. Using regular detergent may damage the machine and can also affect performance.
How often should I clean the Amana washing machine filter?
You should clean the Amana washing machine filter at least once every month or two. If you live in an area with hard water, then it’s recommended to clean the filter more frequently. Also, make sure to check for any visible signs of lint or other debris that may have accumulated on the filter.
How do I know if my Amana washing machine is a High-Efficiency model?
The best way to find out is by checking the model number. Amana High-Efficiency washers will have a ‘HE’ symbol on the manual.
Can I use Vinegar or Baking Soda to clean my Amana washing machine filter?
Yes, you can use either vinegar or baking soda to clean the filter on an Amana top load washing machine. Both solutions are effective at removing dirt, lint, and other debris from the filter without causing any damage to the machine.
How do I know if the filter is clogged?
To check if the filter is clogged, you can turn on a cycle and observe the performance. If you notice that the machine is taking longer to finish a cycle or that the clothes are not getting as clean as they used to, then it’s likely that the filter is clogged and needs to be cleaned.
What are some common causes of a clogged Amana washing machine filter?
Some common causes of a clogged Amana washing machine filter include using the wrong detergent, too much laundry at once, and not cleaning lint or debris out of the filter regularly. To avoid clogging, make sure to follow the instructions in your user manual and also try to use only high-quality detergent for your laundry.
