Frigidaire Washing Machine: bleach compartment not draining

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Frigidaire washing machine's bleach compartment not draining? You may notice bleach pooling in the dispenser after a wash cycle. This issue often stems from a clogged siphon tube, residue buildup, or a faulty actuator. Understanding the causes can help you resolve the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Frigidaire Models

  • Some Frigidaire washers use a siphon break/tube in the dispenser system that can become clogged, leading to residual bleach remaining in the tray if not properly cleaned.

Possible Causes

Clogged or obstructed dispenser siphon tube or tubing

How to Identify: Bleach remains in compartment; physical inspection shows debris or residue blocking small tubes from the dispenser to the washer tub.

Part: Dispenser siphon tube / internal tubing

Dispenser drawer or compartment blocked by residue buildup

How to Identify: Visible buildup of detergent/bleach residue around the dispenser tray; compartment does not fully empty during cycles.

Part: Bleach dispenser drawer / compartment

Faulty dispenser diverter or actuator

How to Identify: Bleach not dispensed despite clear tubing; electrical testing shows no activation of diverter.

Part: Dispenser actuator/diverter

Control board not activating dispenser valves

How to Identify: Multiple electrical components not functioning; no voltage to dispenser valves when expected.

Part: Main control board

DIY Solutions

Clean the bleach dispenser and siphon tubes

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: warm water, small brush/toothbrush, towel
  1. Remove the bleach dispenser tray/drawer per your model’s removal method.
  2. Inspect and rinse the tray thoroughly in warm water to remove residue buildup.
  3. Use a small brush or toothbrush to clean inside the siphon tubes and openings.
  4. Wipe the dispenser cavity inside the machine to clear any debris.
  5. Reinstall the tray and run a rinse cycle to test.

Check and improve water flow/pressure

Easy 10-15 minutes
Tools Needed: none or basic gauge
  1. Check household water pressure at a nearby faucet to ensure adequate flow.
  2. Ensure water supply valves to the washer are fully open.
  3. Run a cycle with only bleach dispenser filled to see if flushing improves.

Professional Repairs

Replace clogged or damaged dispenser tubing/siphon

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60

Replace dispenser actuator or control board

Estimated Cost: $50 - $300+

When to Call a Professional

After unsuccessful DIY cleaning when blockages persist
If electrical testing indicates the actuator or control board is faulty
If internal components are damaged or inaccessible

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean dispenser compartments and tubes: Build-up of residue that can block bleach and detergent flow
    Frequency: Monthly
  • Use adequate water pressure and correct products: Incomplete flushing of dispenser contents
    Frequency: Ongoing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Frigidaire Washing Machine Bleach compartment not draining?
The top causes include clogged siphon tubes, residue buildup in the dispenser, or a faulty actuator.
How do I fix Frigidaire Washing Machine Bleach compartment not draining myself?
You can clean the dispenser and siphon tubes or check the water flow to improve drainage.
How much does it cost to fix Bleach compartment not draining?
Professional repairs can range from $20 to $300+, depending on whether tubing or components need replacing.
When should I call a technician for Bleach compartment not draining?
If DIY solutions fail or if the issue involves complex components like the control board, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged detergent drawer or bleach compartment
  • Faulty water inlet valve
  • Improper installation or leveling of the washing machine

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Remove the detergent drawer and clean it thoroughly with warm water. Ensure that all compartments, especially the bleach compartment, are free from residue and clogs. Reassemble and test the machine.

  2. Inspect the water inlet valve for blockages or malfunctions. If the valve is clogged, clean it. If it's faulty, replace it with a new one.

  3. Check the installation level of the washing machine. Adjust the feet to ensure it is level. This can prevent improper drainage.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Bleach not draining in washing machine

Community Discussions

bleach compartment does not drain

Clean the detergent drawer and check for water valve issues.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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