Samsung Top Load Washer Filter Location [Guide 2024]

Finding the filter in your Samsung washing machine is important. But those filters can be tricky to locate in Samsung top load models. Don’t worry, I can walk you through finding it step-by-step! First, let me explain why cleaning this filter matters in the first place. Basically, over time gunk builds up there from lint, dirt, and debris washing off your clothes.

If enough builds up, it can clog. That eventually causes all sorts of problems – reduced water flow, stinky smells, leaking, or damage elsewhere from the strain. So keeping that filter clear keeps your machine running smoothly! Now where do you find this crucial filter? Well in Samsung top loaders, it’s not hiding behind a door like in front load washers.

Nope – it’s secretly tucked away under the center part that spins and moves water through clothes! Yes, I mean under the agitator or impeller fins smack dab in the middle that sticks up.

So here’s the thing – first you have to remove those fins so you can access underneath them for the filter. Don’t worry, it just pulls straight up and off once you get the cap in the middle off! Then you’ll see the filter right on the floor of the drum.

From there, pop the filter out and give it a good scrub! Clear away any gunk like lint that is built up so water can flow freely again. Then simply put it back as it was and replace the fin apparatus in the middle. Running a wash cycle confirms it’s working right again! As you can see, Samsung sneakily hides the filter but it’s easy enough to find if you know where to look in top load models!

Samsung Top Load Washer Filter Location

Samsung top load washers, also known as vertical axis washers, are extremely popular washing machines found in many homes. While they effectively clean clothes, over time lint and other debris can accumulate in the filter which can reduce washing performance.

Knowing where the filter is located and how to access it for cleaning is important to keep your Samsung top loader running optimally.

Quick Answer:

Question: Samsung Top Load Washer Filter Location
Answer: The filter is located inside the top panel of Samsung top load washers. Open the lid and tilt back the top panel to access the filter to clean it.

Key Features and Benefits of Samsung Top Load Washers

Samsung top load washers offer useful features and benefits, including:

Large Capacity Drums: Fit more clothes per wash, saving time and water. Many models fit over 5 cubic feet.
Durable Stainless Steel Drum: Stands up to frequent use without corroding or scratching.
Powerful Impeller Wash System: Rotating fins or impellers force water through clothes to remove dirt.
Speedy Cycles: Quick wash cycles finish in as little as 36 minutes while still delivering quality cleaning.
AddWash Door: Allows adding clothes mid-cycle so you don’t have to restart a whole wash.
Sanitize Cycles: Special cycles use hot water and steam to kill over 99% of bacteria on laundry.
Noise Reduction Technology: Significantly cuts down on operational sounds for quiet performance.
Smart Features: WiFi enabled models can be monitored and controlled by a smartphone.
Built-in Water Heater: Many models heat water internally, allowing for hot washes at any time.
Child Lock Mode: Locks the controls to prevent accidental setting changes.
Overflow Protection: Shutoff sensors prevent overfilling and leakage issues.
Self-Clean Filtration: Some models have filters that flush out debris on their own.
Efficient ENERGY STAR Certification: Meets regulatory guidelines for energy and water conservation.
Stackable Configuration: Allows installing units atop each other to maximize space.
Reversible Door Swing: Door is not unit-specific, allowing customized opening direction.
1 Year Manufacturer Warranty: Protects against defects in materials and workmanship.

With advantages like these, Samsung vertically oriented top loading washers combine innovative design with everyday practicality and reliability that buyers appreciate.

The Important Role of the Filter

The filter in a Samsung top load washer plays a crucial role. As the washer runs, lint and other debris are shed off clothing during the wash and rinse cycles. Over time, these can accumulate in various areas and components of the machine, including the filter. If the filter becomes clogged with debris it can:

Reduce water flow needed for efficient washing.
Allow lint and particles to be redeposited on clean clothes.
Lead to foul odors inside the washer drum.
Cause higher water usage if the flow is restricted.
Create leaks due to water backups around the drum.
Increase mechanical wear from pump strain.
Allow debris passage that can jam in other areas.

Therefore, regularly checking and cleaning the filter is recommended every 6 months to ensure optimal performance.

What is the Samsung Top Load Washer Filter Location?

For most Samsung top load models, the filter will be located at the very bottom of the unit’s center cylinder, under the agitator or impeller apparatus.

To access it, you will need to remove the agitator cap in the middle of the wash drum. The cap may pull directly up and off. Or, it may require pressing down and turning counterclockwise to unlock before lifting off.

Depending on your specific model, the filter may resemble either a screen, grate, or perforated round disk. Some may also have a small cup or catch tray incorporated around the intake.

Step-By-Step Filter Removal and Cleaning

Follow these key steps to remove and clean the filter in your Samsung top loader:

Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet before servicing to avoid a shock hazard.
Remove laundry and drain any standing water from the wash drum.
Open the AddWash door if your model is equipped with one.
Remove the agitator cap from the middle of the wash drum. You may need to press down before twisting left to unlock the cap.
Lift out the agitator directly upwards once the cap is removed.
Locate the filter in the exposed floor of the wash drum housing.
Twist or unthread the filter counterclockwise if threaded. A large coin can help if it’s difficult to grip and turn by hand.
Lift out the filter. A small catch cup may come out attached.
Clean away any debris. Use running water and a small brush if needed. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Make sure the filter screen is fully cleared of all lint and dirt particles.
Replace the filter and any catch cup in their original positions.
Thread or twist the filter clockwise to reinstall if needed.
Return the agitator and cap to the opening. Press down while twisting right to lock the cap.
Plug the washing machine back in once fully reassembled.
Run a test cycle to confirm normal functioning.

Regularly repeating these steps every 6 months or so will help keep your Samsung washer’s filter clear of clogs for optimal performance.

Key Samsung Washer Models and Filter Locations:

While accessing the filter by removing the central agitator is the standard for most Samsung models, their different top loader lines have some variances:

Samsung WA50R5200AW/US: Bulky item filter attached to the side of the drum lid.
Samsung WA45H7000AW: Filter behind the small access door on the lower front panel.
Samsung WA50R5400AV/US: Filter under agitator with hybrid impeller plate.
Samsung WA48H7400AW/A2: Filter inside mesh drum underneath impeller fins.
Samsung WA48J7770AW/A4: Self clean filter positioned under steel wash plate.
Samsung WA45M7050AW/A4: Filter attached to bottom of porous wash drum.
Samsung WA52M7750AV/A4: Self cleaning filter within Accelerator wash drum.
Samsung WA48A5000AW/US: Round disk filter underneath triple action impeller.
Samsung WA50R5000AW/US: Circular self cleaning filter with built-in debris tray.
Samsung WA50R5200AW/US: Access via sliding out detergent drawer to clean the rear filter.
Samsung WA48A5500AW/US: Disk filter with flow ring located under soft-mounted impeller plate.
Samsung WA45T3200AW/US: Mesh filter cup affixed around the base of the diamond drum interior.

As shown by the variety of designs, Samsung incorporates filters into their top loaders in different ways depending on drum configuration and wash technology. However, the cleaning process remains similarly straightforward on most models.

The Pros and Cons of Samsung Top Loader Design

Samsung top load washers have advantages that make them a popular choice among buyers:

Pros:

Tend to be more affordable than front load models
Simple interface and controls
Large integrated lint filters are easy to clean
It doesn’t require stooping to load and unload
Gently tumble clothes requiring less detergent
Shorter wash times with various quick cycles
Can handle larger load sizes and fabric types
Stackable to maximize laundry space if needed
AddWash allows adding missed items mid-cycle

However, there are some drawbacks to the vertical axis design as well:

Cons:

Shorter wash times can be less effective at removing soils
Materials can tangle without horizontal drum rotation
Center agitators sometimes damage fabrics
Small door openings restrict bulky items
High water levels use more water and energy
Subject to early bearing and motor failures
Vibration and noise if not properly leveled
Can lack certain smart diagnostics of front loaders

Overall Samsung helps compensate for some disadvantages through innovative features and technology. But regular filter cleaning is still essential no matter how advanced your top loader model is.

Alternative Places to Check for Clogs

While the filter is the most common place for blockages to occur in Samsung top load washers, lint and debris can sometimes become trapped in other areas of your machine.

If your washer isn’t draining or filling properly, also inspect these locations:

Drain hose to wall or standpipe
Drain pump filter housing
Water inlet screens and solenoids
Detergent dispenser tray or drawer
Bleach and fabric softener compartments
Internal vent and condensation hoses
Door seals and gaskets
Motor coupling, drive belt, and pulley
Pressure switches and water level sensors

Checking all these spots in addition to the main wash filter provides thorough coverage to diagnose and address drainage problems. Utilizing drain cleaning agents monthly can also help keep internal pipes clear.

Samsung Top Load Washer Filter Cleaning Process:

FAQs About Samsung Washer Filters:

Q: Where is the filter on Samsung front load washers?

A: Like other front loaders, Samsung models have filters behind a small access door along the bottom front panel or trim.

Q: Do all Samsung washers have filters?

A: Nearly every conventional top and front load Samsung washer contains either a standard lint filter, self-clean filter, or internal mesh drum. However, a few innovative models utilize other debris-catching methods.

Q: Does my model have an impeller or agitator?

A: Samsung top loaders labeled as having “VRT”, “EcoBubble”, “Center Jet”, or “PowerFoam” technology utilize an impeller plate instead of a central agitator that needs removal.

Q: How often should the filter be cleaned?

A: Samsung recommends checking and clearing your washing machine’s filter every 2 months at a minimum. But for homes with more frequent laundry use or shedding fabrics, monthly may be better.

Q: Why does my washer smell bad?

A: Foul odors coming from your washer are likely due to built up residue caught below the filter decomposing from moisture exposure. Give the filter housing area an extra good scrub when cleaning.

Q: Why is there smoke coming from my Samsung washer?

A: If you notice any smoke or steam rising from vents, immediately power off and unplug the unit. Possible causes include motor overheating, friction on belts/pulleys, electrical shorts, or component failures. Call for service before attempting any troubleshooting on smoking washers.

Q: How can I find my Samsung washer filter replacement part?

A: Search for your specific model number on Samsung Parts to look up the part name and number. Then check sites like Repair Clinic, Part Select, or Appliance Parts Pros to order your filter, often with free shipping. Installation is easy following filter access steps.

Also Check:

Conclusion:

Keeping lint and debris from accumulating in internal components through regular filter maintenance is essential to extending the lifespan of your Samsung top loading washing machine. Following the model-specific steps covered to locate, remove, and brush clean the filter every 2-6 months will greatly reduce problems from clogged intakes which compromise performance.

Be sure to inspect all other connections and pathways water follows as well when troubleshooting washing issues. But focus attention on taking good care of that filter whenever doing washer upkeep for best results.

Stay on top of giving your machine a checkup and tuneup routinely, and your Samsung top loader can continue delivering spotless, fresh-smelling laundry for years to come.