Home Garden

How Do I Remove the Drain Boot From the Pump in a Whirlpool?

Whirlpool washers rely on a water pump to remove the water from the main housing after the wash cycle is completed. The pump typically has a rubber "boot" at the base of it that helps keep it secure, while preventing leaking. If you need to remove the boot from the pump due to leaking or other problems, you'll need a few basic tools to gain access to the pump so the washer isn't damaged in the process.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Towel
  • Shop vacuum
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug the washer to ensure it is not getting power while you work on it.

    • 2

      Remove the main housing from the washing machine. The method for this varies depending on what model of Whirlpool you have, but there are usually several screws holding the cabinet in place, as well as clips in the back that need undoing. Pull the housing off after it's disconnected and set it aside. The pump on the washer will be at the front of the washer near the bottom.

    • 3

      Place a towel to help soak up any extraneous water still in the pump. Hook up a shop vacuum to the washer's drain hose and run it to suck out as much water from the pump as possible.

    • 4

      Pull the hoses off the pump as gently as possible, then undo the two retaining clips holding the pump to the motor. Pull the pump off.

    • 5

      Pry the boot off the pump. It should pull off, but you may need to pry it off with a screwdriver.