GE Top Load Washer Filter Location (How to Find and Clean It)

If your GE top load washer isn’t draining properly, leaving lint on clothes, or developing a musty odor, you may need to clean the filter. Unlike older washing machines that had visible lint traps, many modern GE top load washers use self-cleaning drain filters, while others have removable filters near the drain pump.

This guide will walk you through how to find the filter on your GE top load washer, how to clean it, and what to do if your washer doesn’t have a removable filter.

Do GE Top Load Washers Have a Filter?

GE Top Load Washers Have a Filter, but the type and location of the filter depend on the model. Some GE top load washers have a removable drain pump filter, while others have a self-cleaning system that does not require manual cleaning.

GE washers typically use two types of filters:

1. Drain Pump Filter (Lint Filter) – Traps lint, coins, hair, and small debris. Found in some models near the bottom or back of the washer.
2. Self-Cleaning Filter – Many newer GE top load washers use a built-in self-cleaning pump filter that flushes lint and debris automatically.

How to Check If Your GE Top Load Washer Has a Filter

• Check the user manual – The best way to confirm if your washer has a removable filter is by looking at the owner’s manual. If you don’t have it, search for your washer’s model number on the GE Appliances website.
• Look inside the agitator – Some older GE top load washers have a lint trap inside the center agitator.
• Check near the drain pump – Some models have a filter near the base of the washer.
• Observe if your washer is not draining properly – If water is slow to drain, it may indicate a clogged filter.

Where to Find the Filter on a GE Top Load Washer

The location of the filter varies based on the washer model.

Below are the most common places to check:

1. Inside the Agitator (Older GE Top Load Washers)

• If your GE washer has a tall center agitator, the lint filter may be inside or beneath the agitator cap.
• To check, lift or unscrew the top of the agitator and look for a removable lint trap.
• If found, rinse it under running water and remove any lint buildup.

2. Near the Drain Pump (Some GE Models)

• Some GE top load washers have a drain pump filter at the bottom of the washer, near the back panel.
• This filter catches small debris, lint, and foreign objects that could clog the pump.
• If your washer has a removable filter, you may need to unscrew a small access panel to reach it.

3. Behind the Washer Panel (Less Common)

• Some GE washers have an internal lint trap inside the drain pump housing.
• If your washer drains slowly or leaves lint on clothes, it may be necessary to remove the back panel and check for a hidden filter.
• This is less common but still possible in certain GE top load models.

4. Self-Cleaning Filter (No Maintenance Required)

• Many modern GE top load washers have a self-cleaning lint filter that does not need manual cleaning.
• Lint and debris are flushed out automatically during the rinse cycle.
• If your washer does not have a removable filter, you may simply need to run a self-cleaning cycle or use hot water with vinegar periodically to prevent buildup.

How to Clean the Filter in a GE Top Load Washer

If your GE washer has a removable filter, follow these steps to clean it properly:

Step 1: Turn Off the Washer

• Unplug the washer or turn off power at the breaker.
• If your washer has a drain pump filter, turn off the water supply as well.

Step 2: Locate and Remove the Filter

• If the filter is inside the agitator, lift the cap and pull out the lint trap.
• If the filter is near the drain pump, open the access panel and carefully remove it.
• If behind the washer panel, you may need a screwdriver to access it.

Step 3: Clean the Filter

• Rinse the filter under warm running water to remove lint and residue.
• Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away stubborn debris.
• If the filter is clogged with detergent buildup, soak it in a solution of warm water and vinegar for 15-30 minutes.

Step 4: Reinstall the Filter

• After cleaning, securely place the filter back in its original position.
• If you removed an access panel, tighten all screws properly before using the washer.

Step 5: Run a Cleaning Cycle

• To keep your washer running efficiently, run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner at least once a month.
• This helps clear any remaining lint or detergent buildup from the drum and drainage system.

What If Your GE Washer Doesn’t Have a Removable Filter?

If your GE top load washer has a self-cleaning filter, there are still ways to maintain it:

• Run an empty wash cycle with hot water and white vinegar once a month to break down residue.
• Check the drain hose for blockages if your washer is draining slowly.
• Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent to prevent excessive lint buildup.

Signs That Your Washer Filter Needs Cleaning

Even if your washer has a self-cleaning system, you should still monitor it for signs of a clogged filter:

• Washer is not draining properly or leaves water in the drum.
• Clothes come out covered in lint or debris after washing.
• Washer has a musty smell, indicating detergent or lint buildup.
• The machine takes longer to complete cycles than usual.

How Often Should You Clean the Filter?

The frequency of cleaning depends on your washer model and usage:

• If your GE washer has a removable filter, clean it every 1-2 months.
• If you wash pet bedding, lint-heavy fabrics, or baby clothes, check the filter more frequently.
• For washers with self-cleaning filters, running a monthly cleaning cycle with vinegar or a machine cleaner can help maintain performance.

Conclusion

Finding and cleaning the filter in your GE top load washer is essential for maintaining efficiency and preventing drainage issues. While some models have a removable drain pump filter or an agitator lint trap, many newer GE washers feature self-cleaning filters that require minimal maintenance.

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