Why Does My Laundry Sanitizer Pour Out After Closing the Dispenser Drawer?

When using a top load GE washer, it is not uncommon to experience issues with laundry sanitizer and fabric softener leaking out immediately after closing the dispenser drawer. This problem is commonly associated with a buildup around the siphon junction in the reservoir. This article will guide you through the troubleshooting process and offer steps to prevent this issue from recurring.

Identifying the Problem

The siphon junction is a crucial component in your washing machine that affects the proper flow of detergents, fabric softeners, and sanitizers. Here’s how to identify if the problem lies with the buildup around the siphon junction: Remove the tray that you pour the fabric softener into. Locate the cap on top of the siphon tube. Observe if there is any buildup around the inside of the cap or inside the tube. If present, it indicates that the siphon junction is clogged with residue, preventing proper drainage.

Cleaning the Siphon Junction

To resolve the issue, you need to clean and dry the affected area thoroughly:

Remove the tray and the small cap on top of the siphon tube. Thoroughly clean the inside of the cap and the tube, ensuring all residue is removed. Allow the tray and the cap to dry completely before reassembling them in the washing machine.

Precautionary Measures and Maintenance

To prevent this issue from recurring, we recommend the following steps: Periodically clean your washing machine: Run the machine with an empty drum, filled with one cup of white vinegar and a hot water cycle. White vinegar is a natural cleaner and descaler and can help remove mineral buildup and residue. Alternatively, you can use the AFRESH cleaner recommended by your manual. If you encounter the same issue with fabric softener, it might be helpful to establish the habit of placing a bowl under the dispenser drawer when closing it to catch any overflow. If it happens again, pour the overflow back in and close the drawer a second time. This manual step can help mitigate the issue.

Conclusion

By addressing the buildup around the siphon junction and implementing regular cleaning routines, you can ensure that your GE washer operates efficiently and prevents the leakage of laundry sanitizer and fabric softener. Follow these steps to maintain the performance of your washing machine and avoid frustration during laundry day.