My Washer Will Not Drain The Water Out

Introduction

Discovering that your washer won’t drain is a common household headache. A washing machine full of water can be messy, inconvenient, and even a little worrying. Not only does it prevent you from doing laundry, but it can also lead to mold and mildew growth if left untreated for too long. This guide will walk you through the most common causes of this issue and provide simple, step-by-step solutions you can try at home before calling a professional.

Common Causes of My Washer Will Not Drain the Water Out

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your washing machine might refuse to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is a very common culprit. Lint, small objects, or soap buildup can restrict the flow of water.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Most washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. If this filter is clogged, the pump can’t do its job.
Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow. A damaged hose might leak, causing the washer to think it’s still full.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out. If it’s broken, it won’t be able to do so.
Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch tells the washer that the lid is closed, which is necessary for spinning and draining. If it’s faulty, the washer might not start the drain cycle.
Blocked House Drain: A clog in your home’s drain system could be preventing the washer from draining, even if the washer itself is working fine.
Control Panel Issues: Sometimes, the washer’s control panel can malfunction, preventing it from sending the signal to drain.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes an air bubble can get trapped in the drain hose and stop the water from draining correctly.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to accurately identify the issue:

Washer is full of water after a cycle.
You hear a humming noise but no draining.
Washer won’t start the spin cycle.
Error code displayed on the washer’s control panel (refer to your owner’s manual).
Water drains very slowly.
Water drains partially but leaves a puddle.

How to Fix My Washer Will Not Drain the Water Out Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before troubleshooting to avoid electrical shock.
Locate the Drain Hose: It’s usually on the back of the washer and connects to a drainpipe or standpipe.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks you find. Make sure the hose isn’t crushed or damaged.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the hose from the drainpipe or standpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that might spill out.
Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose: Flush the hose with water from a garden hose or faucet to dislodge any debris. You can also use a straightened coat hanger to carefully probe for clogs.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front bottom of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Drain Remaining Water: Before removing the filter, place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any remaining water.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. Remove any lint, hair, or small objects.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Make sure the filter is securely in place.
Check the House Drain: If your washer drains into a standpipe, make sure the standpipe isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
Reconnect the Drain Hose: Securely reattach the drain hose to the drainpipe or standpipe.
Run a Test Cycle: Set the washer to a short spin cycle to see if it drains properly.
Check the Lid Switch: If the washer still won’t drain, try gently pressing down on the lid when the washer is in the drain cycle. If it starts draining, the lid switch might be faulty.
Check for Air Lock: Slowly and carefully lower the drain hose end near the floor to see if the air bubble will dislodge.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Sometimes, you can resolve the drainage issue without spending any money:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control panel and resolve minor glitches.
Check the Washer Level: Make sure your washing machine is level. An unbalanced machine can sometimes have trouble draining.
Maintenance Wash: Run a monthly hot water cycle with a cup of vinegar or washer cleaner to help prevent buildup in the drain system.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump or lid switch might need to be replaced. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, while a lid switch is usually less expensive, ranging from $20 to $50. These parts often fail due to age or wear and tear. If you’re not comfortable replacing these parts yourself, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls. Clean up any spills immediately.
If you’re unsure about any step, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Plumbing snake (for clearing house drains)
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some common questions about washing machine drainage problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This often indicates a clogged drain pump or a faulty drain pump motor.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: You can usually tell if the pump is bad by checking for a humming noise without water being pumped out or by seeing if the impeller (the rotating part of the pump) is blocked or damaged.
Q: Can I use bleach to unclog my washer drain? A: While bleach can help with some clogs, it’s generally better to use a mixture of hot water and vinegar or a commercial washer cleaner.
Q: How often should I clean my washer drain pump filter? A: It’s a good idea to clean the filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washer.

Conclusion

Don’t let a washer full of water ruin your day! By following these simple troubleshooting steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving time and money. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and your washer still won’t drain, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance.