My Washer Won T Drain All The Way

Introduction

Finding standing water in your washing machine after a cycle can be frustrating. Not only does it prevent you from moving your clothes to the dryer, but it can also indicate a larger problem with your appliance. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial, as prolonged dampness can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your washing machine and even your laundry room. We’ll walk you through the common causes and simple fixes for why your washer won’t drain all the way.

Common Causes of my washer won t drain all the way

Here are some of the most frequent culprits behind a washer that won’t drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose carrying water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, debris, or small objects.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where the drain hose empties may be clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s malfunctioning, it won’t be able to do its job.
Clogged Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter designed to catch lint and debris before they reach the drain pump. This filter can become clogged.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Air trapped inside the drain hose can prevent proper drainage.
Lid Switch Problem: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch isn’t properly engaged, even if the lid is closed.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, a problem with the washer’s control board can prevent it from initiating the drain cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Check if any of these indicators apply to your situation:

Standing water remains in the washer drum after a cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound during the drain cycle, but no water is being pumped out.
The washer stops mid-cycle.
The washer displays an error code related to draining.
The drain hose vibrates excessively during the drain cycle.
Water drains very slowly.

How to Fix my washer won t drain all the way Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your draining problem:

Unplug the Washer: Before you start, disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet for safety.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the drain hose for kinks, twists, or blockages. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose isn’t crushed.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from both the washing machine and the drainpipe.
Check the Drain Hose for Blockages: Flush the drain hose with water to dislodge any debris. You can use a garden hose or a utility sink faucet.
Inspect the Drainpipe: Shine a flashlight into the drainpipe and look for any visible obstructions. Use a wire coat hanger or a drain snake to clear any blockages.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washer’s user manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front or bottom of the machine, behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Remove any lint, hair, or debris that may be trapped.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully reinstall the drain pump filter, ensuring it’s properly seated.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to both the washing machine and the drainpipe, making sure the connections are secure.
Check for Air Lock: Ensure the drain hose isn’t pushed too far into the drain pipe. A slight air gap is necessary.
Level the Washing Machine: Make sure the washing machine is level. An unlevel machine can sometimes interfere with draining. Use a level and adjust the feet as needed.
Plug the Washer Back In: Reconnect the washing machine to the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Run a small load to see if the washer now drains properly. Observe the entire cycle to ensure there are no other issues.
Check the Lid Switch: Make sure the lid closes properly and engages the lid switch. Sometimes cleaning around the lid and latch helps.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many draining problems can be resolved without spending money. Here are some free methods to try:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for several minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Check for Recalibration Needs: Some high-efficiency washers require recalibration after moving or if certain functions are not operating correctly. Check your manual on the proper recalibration procedure.
Regular Cleaning: Clean your washer regularly, including the detergent dispenser and the rubber seal around the door (for front-load washers), to prevent buildup that can contribute to drainage problems.
Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can put extra strain on the drain pump.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself might be faulty. Replacing the drain pump is a more involved repair, but it’s often cheaper than replacing the entire washing machine. Drain pumps can range from $50 to $150 depending on the model of your washer. Another possible, though rarer, culprit is the control board. If you suspect either of these are faulty, consider consulting with a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls. Wipe up any spills immediately.
If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.
Do not operate the washing machine if it is leaking water or if any electrical components are exposed.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips head and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or container
Flashlight
Wire coat hanger or drain snake
Level
Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machine draining problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a loud buzzing noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates a problem with the drain pump. It could be clogged or malfunctioning.
Q: How often should I clean my washer’s drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the filter every 3-6 months, or more often if you notice drainage problems.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: No, chemical drain cleaners can damage the washing machine’s components. It’s best to use manual methods to clear blockages.
Q: What if the water drains slowly, but eventually drains completely? A: A partial clog in the drain hose or drainpipe is likely the cause. Follow the steps above to clear any blockages.

Conclusion

A washing machine that won’t drain properly can be a major inconvenience, but with a little troubleshooting, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By following this step-by-step guide, you can identify the cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it. Remember to prioritize safety and, if you’re unsure about any of the steps, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician.