How to Remove a Washing Machine Agitator Safely?

An agitator is one of the most essential parts of the top-load washing machine, without which it cannot function. Most homeowners think removing agitators is a huge task, but in reality, it is an easy task and can be done without professional help.

However, it is advised to remove the agitator only when it is recommended in the manual. If you are wondering how to remove washing machine agitators, this guide will help you do so.

What is a Washing Machine Agitator?

The agitator is located at the center of the machine drum, which helps in agitating and moving the clothes in the drum. You can identify it by its screw or auger-like shape that moves clockwise and then counterclockwise, while cleaning the clothes thoroughly. During the spin cycle, the agitator stays in place and moves cyclically with the drum.

When Should You Remove the Agitator of the Washing Machine?

The agitator is made of two pieces of solid plastic, which are durable and do not break easily. But due to some reasons, they need to be removed at times. For example, when clothes get stuck under the agitator base and do not get out easily, then you will have to remove the agitator to free the clothes. The real challenge is to remove the agitator from the washing machine, but when it is removed, cleaning is easy.

The other situation when you may have to remove agitators is during the DIY washer repair. It’s a simple process of replacing the plastic dogs or ratcheting teeth to rectify the spinning problem of the agitator. However, it is important to note that you must always unplug the washing machine before removing the agitator. This prevents it from spinning automatically, which may cause damage.

How to Remove a Washing Machine Agitator?

Here’s a detailed guide to remove the agitator from the washing machine drum -

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Tools Materials

• Socket wrench set

• Wrench extension

• Screwdriver

• Pliers

• Replacement agitator (if it needs to be replaced)

Step-by-Step Process of Removing a Washing Machine Agitator

Step 1: The first and most important step is to unplug the machine’s cord from the outlet.

Step 2: An agitator has 2 solid plastic parts. Remove the top cap, which contains the laundry detergent or fabric softener. Depending on the model of the machine, you may need to pry it off with a screwdriver. Some machines have a slot for the screwdriver, or the cap may have a small gap.

Step 3: Now, remove the lower cap that prevents water and detergent from entering the agitator. You can remove them by hand or with the help of a screwdriver.

Step 4: Attach the extension bar to the socket wrench, then secure the 7/16 inch socket (or any size that is appropriate for your machine) onto the extension. Steady the agitator by holding the base with one hand. Next, using the other hand, guide the socket down to the bolt positioned deep inside the center of the agitator and rotate it counterclockwise to loosen and remove the bolt.

Step 5: Now reach down to the bottom of the washer drum and hook your fingers under the edge of the agitator base. Pull upward firmly and straight to pull up the agitator. If you want to separate the upper agitator cloth mover from the base, ask someone to hold the base firmly while you pull the clothes mover up.

Step 6: To replace or reinstall the agitator, follow the reversal method of removal. All you need to do is reattach the agitator top and base and push the parts back into the machine. Ensure to screw the bolt by turning it clockwise, and lastly, add two caps (as mentioned at the start of the step).

How to Clean the Agitator?

Cleaning the agitator prevents soil and detergent accumulation in the machine. For this, you’ll need liquid chlorine bleach or washing machine cleaner, and washing machine rags, along with some mild soap.

To clean, follow the steps below -

• Remove all the items from the machine and add a cleaner to the tub. Do not add the cleaner to the dispenser. Also, if you don’t have a cleaner, consider using 1 cup of chlorine bleach.

• Run the self-cleaning cycle, and if one cycle does not clean the agitator, run a normal cycle and fill the tub with extra water. When the cycle is done, run a rinse and spin cycle to get rid of the excess cleaning agent.

• Lastly, open the machine and check the agitator, and if required, wipe down its external area with a damp cloth and mild soap. If your machine has a removable agitator, open the top part and clean its insides, too.