Café Washer: How to Remove Black Mold from Door Boot... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The washer's door boot gasket is a flexible seal that prevents water from leaking during operation. Due to its design and location, it can trap moisture, detergent residue, and lint, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. The MCU doesn't directly control mold growth, but prolonged moisture can lead to sensor malfunctions over time.

Symptoms:

The US homeowner observes black mold growth on the Café washer door boot gasket that resists removal with typical cleaning efforts.

Possible Causes:

Insufficient ventilation after washing cycles.
Use of excessive detergent.
Low temperature washing cycles.
Trapped moisture within the gasket folds.
Infrequent cleaning of the gasket.
Detergent residue buildup.

Solution:

1

Disconnect the washer from the breaker panel (LOTO). Use a multimeter to verify 0V AC at the wall outlet.
2

Carefully inspect the door boot gasket for mold, noting the extent of the contamination.
3

Prepare a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Use appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection.
4

Apply the bleach solution to the affected areas of the gasket with a soft brush or cloth. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes.
5

Thoroughly scrub the gasket, paying close attention to the folds and crevices. A small brush or toothbrush can be helpful.
6

Rinse the gasket with clean water to remove all traces of bleach. Ensure no bleach remains before operating.
7

Dry the gasket completely with a clean cloth. Leave the washer door ajar after use to promote ventilation.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power at the breaker panel before performing any maintenance. Bleach can cause skin and eye irritation; use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed to prevent accidental re-energizing of the appliance.

Prevention:

After each wash cycle, wipe down the door boot gasket with a dry cloth. Leave the washer door ajar to allow the interior to air out. Run a monthly cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar.

Expert Tip:

Some Café washers have a dedicated cleaning cycle. Refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions on using this cycle to help prevent mold growth. Also, running the self-clean cycle with Affresh tablets significantly reduces mold and grime buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of cleaner is safe to use besides bleach?

A mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) or commercial washing machine cleaners designed for mold removal can be used as alternatives to bleach.

•How often should I clean the door boot gasket?

Ideally, the gasket should be wiped down after each wash. A deep clean with a bleach solution (or alternative cleaner) should be done at least monthly.

•Will replacing the door boot gasket solve the problem permanently?

Replacing the gasket will remove the existing mold, but if the underlying causes (poor ventilation, excessive detergent, low-temperature washes) are not addressed, mold will likely return on the new gasket.

Café Washer: How to Remove Black Mold from Door Boot Gasket

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of cleaner is safe to use besides bleach?

•How often should I clean the door boot gasket?

•Will replacing the door boot gasket solve the problem permanently?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: