We traditionally expect clean laundry from a washing machine, fragrant with freshness... We choose aromatic powders and rinse aids that are pleasant to our sense of smell... but sometimes it all turns out to be in vain: the washing machine suddenly begins to emit an unpleasant odor.
Sometimes it can only be felt from the unit itself, but in particularly advanced cases, freshly washed items also begin to smell musty. What happened to your faithful assistant and what to do now? Unfortunately, if the smell has spread to the laundry, you will have to work on it manually: rinse it in a bathtub with air conditioning. But to deal with the machine that put you in such an unpleasant situation. There can be many reasons for a bad smell in a washing machine.
Why does the smell appear?
The stench from the machine permeates the laundry.
Do not use fragrances or rinse aids in an attempt to quickly kill the stench. Random remedies will only temporarily drown out the smell. If you do not destroy the source of the stench, the problem will constantly remind you of itself. Therefore, before you start getting rid of the unpleasant odor in the washing machine, determine the reason why this “aroma” appeared.
Poor quality detergents
Expired conditioner or low-quality powder does not completely dissolve, is poorly washed out and sticks to the walls of the drum, causing a musty smell.
There should not be too much detergent or past its expiration date.
Dirty tray
Sometimes the machine smells due to residues of detergents and limescale deposited on the walls of the plastic powder receptacle. To clean the washing machine tray from foreign odors, use a soap solution.
The container is removed and warm foam is applied to the surface with an old toothbrush. After 10 – 15 minutes, wipe off and rinse with warm running water. Wipe thoroughly. After airing, put it back in place. If the soap does not work, soak the container in a cleaner containing chlorine. After 1.5 hours, the foul-smelling coating will dissolve.
Reference! The powder receptacle is washed and ventilated every 2 - 3 washes to prevent the appearance of odor.
Dirt on parts causes a strong stench
Channel contamination
If the tray is rarely washed, smelly deposits will form on the surfaces of the outlet that carries gels and powders into the drum. To make sure that the stench is coming from the channel, remove the powder receptacle and, using a flashlight, look inside. With additional lighting, traces of dirt and moldy spots are clearly visible.
To deal with the problem without damaging the mechanism, they call a technician from the service center. But sometimes housewives carefully clean this part with a narrow brush used to wash dishes.
Periodically keeping the insides of your machine clean will improve its performance.
Drain filter clogged
Small debris, hair, grains of sand, and animal hair do not fall into the sewer because they are retained on the filter. An unbearable smell will indicate that the device is full of dirt. A symbol will appear on the machine's dashboard indicating the problem.
To restore the operation of the unit and remove the stench, remove the blockage. The filter is located at the bottom of the housing. Place a low container under the compartment or place a cloth loosely. Open the lid and carefully remove the part. Remove clumps of grease-soaked hair and wool. Wash with gel. Wipe dry and ventilate.
Clean elements are collected and installed in a permanent place. The filter is cleaned of debris regularly, at least once every 2–4 months (if there are animals, this is done more often).
To clean the filter, it is better for the housewife to call a specialist
Old hose
Traces of dirt, lint, and powder granules settle inside the hose and cause an unpleasant odor from the machine. Therefore, the hose needs to be cleaned regularly. To do this, run a service wash once every 4-5 weeks - at maximum temperature, without detergents and clothes (sometimes baking soda is added). A dry wash cleans the hose and drum and destroys bacteria that cause stench.
Scale
When water is heated, dissolved mineral salts are retained on the heating element in the form of a white coating. Here, greasy dirt periodically accumulates, and when heated, a foul smell is felt. To clean the electric heater, pour 4 tablespoons into the detergent tray. l. citric acid. Having set the boiling mode, start an empty wash. At the end, turn on the rinse to wash away any remaining granules.
Dirty build-up on the heating element accelerates engine wear
Additional Information! When the heating element is fouled with plaque, the energy consumption and heating time increase. Regular cleaning of the heater saves energy and extends the life of the device.
Clogged sewer lines
Sometimes the washing machine stinks, but the machine is regularly cleaned and ventilated. If a rotten smell also comes from the bathtub or sinks, then the drains are clogged. To change the pipes, they call plumbers. When connecting the hose to the drain, make sure that the flexible tube takes the shape of an arc and does not rise above 0.5 m from the floor. If the hose is connected to the drain correctly, the stench will not penetrate from the machine into the apartment.
Mold
Frequent washing in cool (+30 – 35 ℃) water with quick rinsing causes intensive growth of fungi. Room temperature and moisture are comfortable conditions for the life of microorganisms. Storing dirty clothes soaked in sweat for a long time in a drum also causes fungus to appear. Excess gels and conditioners that are not completely removed from the fabric fibers stimulate the development of microbes.
Mold grows easily on damp surfaces
Abuse of detergents
When adding powder before washing, consider:
- degree of contamination of clothing;
- instructions on the packaging of the detergent;
- hardness of water;
- drum load;
- divisions marked on the compartment.
Excess undissolved granules and traces of gels are not completely rinsed out of the fabric and remain on the hose and filter, causing an odor.
Reference! On average, to wash 5 kg of laundry, 125 g of powder is required (heavily soiled laundry is pre-soaked and washed by adding 150 g of dry granules). The consumption of concentrated drugs is reduced (the dosage is determined according to the instructions). To wash clothes in soft water, less detergent is used.
It is better not to exceed the amount of detergents according to the stated norm
Important Takeaways
A washing machine of any brand - Miele (Miele), Electrolux (Electrolux), Candy (Candy) or another, can easily smell musty and rotten if you leave the door closed and do not take care of the drum.
You need to get rid of the unpleasant smell by washing the machine and doing preventive measures using folk remedies. Or contact a repairman.
Detecting and eliminating even one cause is always more difficult than ongoing care. Watch the video, photos - you have to remove several liters of scale and dirt from the machines. Especially in houses that receive water from a well.
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Traditional methods
Sometimes simple methods and available home remedies can help remove a nasty smell from an automatic washing machine without leaving a trace.
Hot water
It’s worth starting to fight microorganisms that cause stench with a basic technique. At a temperature of +90℃, turn on the service wash for 2.5 - 3 hours without auxiliary products. If the bacteria do not die and the stench remains, they try other methods.
Very hot water with baking soda and vinegar will help solve the problem.
Vinegar
Acetic acid destroys bacteria that cause stench; removes stuck dirt inside the hose; dissolves limescale. To clean, pour 1 glass of vinegar (9%) into the powder compartment; select long-term cleaning in the boiling mode. 15 minutes after turning on, the machine is stopped for 40 - 50 minutes for the product to take effect. After the cycle is completed, the parts are rinsed and the seals on the door are wiped. This cleaning method is used every 4 to 5 months.
Additional Information! Before the first wash, the machine should be disinfected. To prepare the working solution, add 15 ml of table vinegar to 0.5 liters of water (70% essence is diluted in a ratio of 1:7). A napkin is moistened with liquid and the surfaces of the device are wiped. Then turn on the idle wash without spinning.
Soda
Sodium bicarbonate is an alkali that quickly gets rid of scale and fungus. To prevent the appearance of odors, 2.5 tablespoons are periodically added to the powder. l. soda If a “smell” has already appeared, the dose of the substance is doubled. Wash at a temperature of +30 – 35℃, choosing the economy mode. After treatment, wipe the machine with a dry cloth.
Sometimes soda ash is used instead of baking soda:
- the substance is dissolved in water;
- use a sponge dipped in liquid to wipe the internal surfaces, rubber seals, and door;
- after 30 minutes, wash off the soda;
- start an empty wash.
Sodium bicarbonate is milder than soda ash, so this product is used more often.
Baking soda helps remove stench and remove stains
Vinegar + soda
To quickly eliminate an unpleasant odor from a washing machine, pour 0.2 liters of vinegar (9%) into the drum, and put a mixture of 50 ml of water and 2 tablespoons into the powder receptacle. l. soda Turn on the continuous boiling mode (without spinning). After rinsing, the unit is wiped and ventilated. This technique helps even in advanced cases to destroy scale, greasy growths, and stench.
Reference! Before cleaning, wear a respirator and gloves to protect the respiratory tract and skin from the aggressive action of cleaners.
Bleaching
Chlorine solutions act quickly but aggressively. By destroying bacteria, chlorine destroys the material from which the parts are made:
- corrodes the top layers of plastic, causing yellow spots to appear;
- increases metal corrosion;
- breaks the elasticity of rubber seals.
Experts do not recommend pouring preparations containing chlorine into the drum. But these products will clean the filter if other methods are powerless: the part is soaked for an hour in a Domestos or Belizn solution, then thoroughly washed and dried. Chlorine leaves a pungent odor, which can be removed by empty washing and prolonged airing. If the substance causes an allergy, the procedure is abandoned.
A strong product is rarely used so as not to damage parts
Copper sulfate
Copper sulfate crystals completely destroy mold and germs. To prepare a working solution, 18 g of the substance are diluted in a liter of water. Use a soft cloth soaked in liquid to thoroughly wipe the parts of the unit. After treatment, start an empty wash.
Lemon acid
If foreign odors appear, you should clean the washing machine with granulated citric acid. The substance inhibits mold growth and kills bacteria that cause stench. 60 g of citric acid is poured into the detergent compartment and the service wash is turned on. The operation is completed by rinsing.
To preserve the washing unit after oxalic and citric acid, start the rinsing process
Oxalic acid
The toxic substance and salt derivatives (oxalates) act quickly but aggressively:
- reduce water hardness;
- disinfect surfaces;
- clean metal parts from scale;
- kill germs;
- remove traces of rust.
Acid and oxalates are added to disinfectants and bleaches. If the manufacturer does not prohibit the use of aggressive substances to clean the device, oxalic acid is poured into the drum and the treatment is started for half an hour at +90℃ with additional rinsing.
Additional Information! The aggressive substance irritates the mucous membranes, respiratory tract and skin, so before the procedure wear glasses, a respirator, and rubber gloves.
Belt damage
Changes in the position of the pulley and bearing deformation due to long-term operation lead to changes in belt tension. In such situations, it jams or frays. During the spin cycle, a faulty belt will emit a specific smell reminiscent of burnt tires. Another characteristic sign is the appearance of black-gray smoke.
In this case, the bearings and drive belt need to be replaced. To replace the belt, you need to remove the back wall of the machine. The old belt must be removed (you must first rewrite the markings on it - using these indicators, you can select a new belt). It is important to check the motor pulley - there should be no remnants of the old belt on it. To install a new part, the belt is initially put on the engine pulley, then it is thrown onto the drum pulley. Often, the belt can only be put on one third of the way freely, after which it must be secured - with zip ties or by hand. When using ropes, the drum pulley must be gradually rotated and cut off. After the belt is put on, it needs to be aligned - it should be located in the center, and not slide towards the back wall or tub of the washing machine.
Replacing bearings yourself is problematic - this requires some experience and the use of special tools.
Household chemicals
To choose the right product, the housewife needs to test several.
When available products do not get rid of the rotten smell from the washing machine, household chemicals are used. The dose of the substance is calculated according to the instructions. After treatment, wash dry with an additional rinse cycle.
Tiret
Disinfects; Safely removes lime and greasy deposits and scale. Neutralizes stench. Pour in the gel and start the cycle at +60℃. To improve the performance of the machine, apply it once every six months.
Doctor ten
Acid-free antibacterial powder contains triclosan, alkali metal carbonates. Disinfects. Removes limescale build-up from the internal surfaces of the unit and cleans the heating element. Dissolves detergent residues. Prevents the formation of mold in the machine and in the drain pipe.
The cleaner quickly eliminates the causes of stench
A pack of powder is poured into the drum, and the washing is turned on at high temperature (without spinning). For soft water use 2-4 times a year, for hard water – up to 10 times.
Reference! Citrus peels or peeled potatoes placed in an ajar machine after washing will absorb foreign odors.
Chistolan-super for removing scale
Inexpensive effective remedy. Contains citric acid and sodium chloride. Dissolves scale. Does not damage rubber, plastic, metal parts. Set normal mode at +70℃. Wash without laundry.
Chistolan automatic – washing powder
Powder containing soda ash, tripolyphosphate and sodium sulfate is added to the detergent with each wash. Suitable for all types of fabric. Reduces the consumption of detergents. Prevents the formation of plaque, softens water, removes scale. Helps increase the life of the machine. It is used economically: with water of medium hardness, take 25 g of powder per 10 liters; with hard water, double the dose.
Special products are effective and at the same time do not damage rubber, plastic and metal.
Refine
Due to the high concentration of sodium carbonate (soda ash) and Trilon B, it intensively softens and removes dirt; dissolves rust. Manufacturers recommend adding 1 table for each wash in soft water. l. granules, hard – 2.5 – 3 table. l.
Dr Beckmann
Available in liquid and powder form. Contains citric acid, glycerin, activated carbon, surfactants. The antibacterial drug destroys dirt even in hard-to-reach areas. Extends the service life of the machine. Anti-corrosion and softening components do not damage metal or rubber.
MultiDez-Teflex
A concentrated chlorine solution destroys mold, fungal spores, viruses, and bacteria that cause stench. Does not damage metal or rubber elements. The parts are wiped with liquid. Without adding additional substances, wash the laundry or choose an empty wash (30 - 60 minutes).
Pipe cleaners will help clean the insides of your car.
Bagi Schumanit
Aggressive concentrated liquid. Thanks to a mixture of organic acids, it quickly removes water scale, rust, and limescale. Increases the heat transfer of the heating element. 0.2 liters of concentrate are poured into the powder compartment, the machine is turned on for 15 minutes, then the rinse program is selected.
Mellerud
Eliminates pollution and neutralizes stench. Pour 0.25 liters of solution into the detergent container, select a short program followed by rinsing. Used for soaking contaminated removable parts (take 0.2 liters of the drug per 8 liters of warm water). After 25 - 35 minutes, scrub with a brush and rinse with running water. The seals are wiped with a cloth soaked in the solution. After 15 minutes, wash off.
Frau Schmidt
The active ingredients include citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and trisodium citrate. The tablets quickly corrode scale and fat deposits; removes residual detergents. One tablet is placed in the machine and the normal program is turned on without spinning.
Tablets are suitable for all car models
Cillit bang
Cleaning compositions of this brand clean surfaces from various types of contaminants. A spray containing chlorine gets rid of black mold on the rubber seal (spray on the rubber, after 20 minutes remove with a damp sponge, wipe off). Anti-Plain + Shine removes traces of rust, greasy dirt, and dissolves excess detergents on plastic and metal. The sprayer helps remove dirt in remote corners and at the joints of parts.
Additional Information! Before applying the compositions, the treated surfaces are moistened.
Dishwasher cleaning tablets
For the treatment of dishwashing equipment, tablets are produced that stop the growth of bacteria and prevent the formation of scale, rust, and lime deposits. The drugs also dissolve fat and protein deposits.
A powerful remedy is to combine boiling and dishwashing tablets
Therefore, these products are also suitable for eliminating bad odors from the washing machine. One capsule is placed in the powder compartment, and 2 - 3 in the drum. Start the boiling mode. Stop after 35-45 minutes. After 2 hours, treatment is resumed.
Buy chlorine-free hypoallergenic tablets containing a complex of washing and cleaning ingredients (Filtero 7 in 1; Somat Machine Cleaner; Finish Rinse).
How to solve a problem?
If a “plastic” smell appears, it is not recommended to immediately disassemble the washing machine. Firstly, it’s better to wait first - most likely, there’s nothing wrong. All volatile substances will evaporate over time and the smell will disappear. Secondly, opening the case yourself may result in loss of warranty.
The best option is to wait. The main thing is to first rule out problems with the electrical network connected to the machine. Over time, the smell should disappear on its own, although no one can give an exact time frame: it all depends on the manufacturer and the quality of the build. Usually the situation stabilizes after 5-14 days.
If not only the machine smells, but also the clothes washed in it, then it is recommended to clean the washing machine with professional chemicals. It is enough to “rinse” the car once with citric acid, vinegar or a special cleaner. It is important to follow the dosage given in the instructions. When waiting and cleaning did not help, you should carefully check the machine using the following steps:
- Carefully remove the top and side covers of the housing;
- turn on the washing machine at full power and wait until the smell intensifies;
- turn off the machine and feel the drive belt, cuff, wiring (if there is excessive heating).
The further sequence of what to do depends on the detected problem. Usually the issue is resolved by diagnosing the drive and motor. Step-by-step instructions are below.
Call a plumber
To quickly remove the stench without damaging the equipment, they call a technician from the service center. The plumber will determine the source of foreign odors and perform the following procedures:
- wash the drain filter;
- cleans the drum, powder receptacle, rubber seals, door;
- will remove scale from the heating element;
- diagnoses the condition of the device, replaces worn parts that cannot be restored.
The technician will check the correct connection of the unit to the sewer pipes and correct any errors.
Smell from laundry
Washed items smell unpleasant if:
- dirty clothes are stored in the washing machine until washed;
- the dosage of detergent has been exceeded;
- the hose is not connected correctly;
- low-quality gels and powders were used;
- the filter is clogged;
- In old units, the valve is worn out, so after draining, residual water accumulates.
To remove the smell that appears after washing, the treated items are aired. But this method will not remove the “aroma” of dampness or mustiness. To cope with such a nuisance, you need to destroy the bacteria and fungus that cause the stench. Smelly laundry will have to be washed, but before re-loading into the drum, the items are soaked for 2 - 4 hours with the following product:
- salt;
- sodium borate;
- hydrogen peroxide;
- ammonia
The specialist will disinfect the surfaces and remove mold from the car.
After re-treatment, the items are thoroughly wrung out and air dried. Smelly pillowcases and sheets should not be placed in the closet: the rest of the linen will become saturated with an unpleasant odor. A tall cup is placed on a cabinet shelf, into which a bottle of iodine is placed (instead of a cork, the neck is plugged with cotton wool: through the loose fibers, antiseptic vapors will enter the air and destroy fungal spores).
Reference! Linen washed in a new machine often smells like rubber (the stench intensifies as the temperature rises). To prevent trouble, the first 1–3 washes are run without laundry and detergents. Gradually the smell will go away.
Did something happen to the motor?
Often the cause of an unpleasant odor is the engine. Sometimes the problem is water leaking onto the motor from the washing tank, but more often the electric brushes are to blame. The carbon tips of the latter constantly rub against the engine body and spark. If new “emers” smooth out over time, then worn ones need to be replaced.
The instructions for replacing brushes are simple:
- de-energize the machine;
- remove the back panel;
- remove the drive belt from the drum pulley;
- look under the tank and see the electric motor;
- disconnect all wires from the engine;
- unscrew the screws securing the motor;
- Having rocked, remove the engine from the seat;
- find plastic cases on the sides of the motor for electric brushes;
- loosen the bolts holding the cases;
- unhook the brushes from the body;
- secure new cases.
You cannot change brushes individually - only in pairs. It is important to choose the right replacement based on the LG model serial number. To avoid mistakes, it is recommended to bring dismantled rods to the store and use them to find an analogue. If everything is fine with the brushes, then you should check the entire engine. We inspect its body for damage, and then connect it to a multimeter and test the winding. The latter often shorts out, overheats and begins to smell burnt.
How to remove the smell of gasoline from a washing machine
Things that smell of kerosene or gasoline should not be machine washed: the internal surfaces of the machine will quickly absorb and retain the pungent odor for a long time. After subsequent washes, the laundry will emit a strong stench.
If clothes contaminated with petroleum products get into the machine, run 3 dry wash cycles:
- 0.25 kg of baking soda is poured into the powder receptacle, the temperature is selected at +30℃;
- 0.25 liters of table vinegar is poured into the detergent compartment (the temperature is doubled);
- Empty wash (spin is turned off).
Vinegar and soda will help get rid of the smell of gasoline.
Wipe the treated device and ventilate it for 1 - 3 days. Then they put in an old towel to see if the stench has gone away or not. If the method does not work, store-bought drugs are used:
- Filtero - liquid eliminates even stubborn odors and removes scale;
- dr. Beckmann removes stench, dissolves dirty deposits;
- Frau Schmidt - tablets disinfect parts, remove foreign “odors”, and increase the service life of the machine.
If this technique does not work, use Whiteness. Bleach is diluted according to instructions. Set the temperature to +30℃ (wash without laundry). After the end of the cycle, run a service wash without additives to remove traces of chlorine. Chlorine bleach is not suitable for every model, so it is worth re-reading the instructions for the machine.
Additional Information! If the smell of petroleum products persists, the internal parts of the unit are manually cleaned with degreasers.
Eliminating rubber odor from shoes
Have you bought shoes, but they smell like rubber? Don't rush to wash it! Washing can be harmful. Try proven methods that can refresh your shoes, slippers, and boots.
Light smell
If the “aroma” of novelty is not too expressive, you can use a special shoe spray. Usually its application is sufficient to eliminate a slight odor.
Average smell
Special shoe sprays often eliminate more intense odors. You can also carefully wipe your shoes with vinegar (be careful, it is not suitable for all materials!) and dry. Repeat cleaning if necessary.
Another possibility is the use of special granules to absorb odors containing activated carbon.
Violation of operating rules causing a stench from an automatic machine
Wet washed and dry dirty laundry should not be stored in the drum of the machine.
Housewives try to quickly get rid of bad odors from the washing machine, but do not think that the stench is caused by incorrect operation. The following mistakes are often made:
- Leave wet clothes in the drum to allow any remaining water to drain. Bacterial growth increases in a humid, warm environment.
- Do not ventilate the powder receptacle; close the door immediately. Equipment manufacturers recommend leaving the door open for 5–6 hours so that the moisture has time to evaporate.
- They store dirty laundry not in wicker baskets, but in a washing machine, thereby creating a breeding ground for germs.
- Pour concentrated gels and rinses without measure. Thick products are not completely washed off (especially in cool water), this causes mold and bacterial growth.
Regular washing at low temperatures creates conditions for the appearance of an unbearable odor.
The smell of dirty laundry easily takes root in the car.
Eliminating rubber smell from Chinese products
Items made in China often emit a distinct rubbery or plastic aroma. Almost everything stinks: shoes, bags, toys, etc. And sometimes you can’t get rid of it even after several washes.
The reason for this “trouble” is the “quality” of materials used in the manufacture of a number of Chinese goods. They absorb everything in their environment (eg during transport).
The next reason is the impregnation of products with special substances, which ensures their desired appearance. This impregnation is most noticeably felt when purchasing plastic items.
Preventative techniques
If you follow simple rules, you won’t have to look for a way to deal with the stench from your washing machine:
- Washed items are rinsed thoroughly.
- Buy high-quality detergents for washing in the machine. The granules of such powders do not stick together, dissolve well in water, and foam moderately.
- You cannot pour dishwashing concentrates into the machine: excess gel is not completely rinsed out of the fibers and remains on the surfaces of the unit. Excessive foaming causes damage to the heating element.
- Before loading, remove hair and dried dirt from clothes; remove foreign objects from pockets. Check whether buttons and small details are securely sewn on.
- After wet processing and washing, the drum is thoroughly wiped and ventilated.
- Dirty clothes should not be stored in the drum as this increases the risk of mold growth. Contaminated laundry is placed in baskets or containers that allow air to pass through.
- The cuff is a rubber seal installed between the drum and the door so that water does not spill out of the appliance during washing. Without regular cleaning and drying, water stagnates here, mold and dirty deposits appear. This part is periodically wiped with diluted acetic acid.
- The device is installed on a flat surface, according to the diagram in the instructions.
- After finishing washing, wipe the internal surfaces of the machine, rubber seals and tray with a damp soft cloth. Then wipe dry and ventilate.
- The corrugated hose quickly becomes dirty and is difficult to clean from deposits. If it is not possible to remove contamination from the inside, the part is replaced with a new one.
If you take care of the cleanliness of your machine, the smell of freshly washed laundry will only delight you.
When trying to get rid of the stench, you must not exceed the permissible concentration of cleaning agents or use different agents at the same time: aggressive substances will damage plastic and rubber parts and cause metal corrosion.
Pump failure
Sometimes the pump may continue to run continuously even after all the water has been drained. As a result, it overheats and fails. The result of such a breakdown is the burning smell emanating from the machine .
A pump malfunction may be indicated by the presence of water in the washing machine tank or the presence of an extraneous sound when draining the water. In order to replace the pump, you first need to open the front panel of the washing machine and remove the filter. The pump propeller is usually located directly below the filter. Initially, you should disconnect the wires from the pump, the drain hose from the volute and loosen the clamps. After this, you need to remove the tank pipe and unfasten the fastening screw for fixing the snail with the machine and remove the snail. If the snail is attached to the pump with screws, they should be unscrewed, if with latches, they can be easily bent with a thin knife or screwdriver. Using rotational movements, the pump is separated from the cochlea. It is advisable to remember the correct position of the pump - then it will be easier to install a new part. To install a new pump, perform the steps described above in reverse order, having first cleaned the pump seat.
