Washer Is Full Of Water And Won T Drain

Introduction

Discovering your washing machine is full of water and won’t drain is a common household headache. It means wet clothes are stuck, your laundry routine is on hold, and potentially, you’re facing a messy situation if the water overflows. Addressing this issue quickly is important to prevent water damage and get your washer back in working order.

Common Causes of washer is full of water and won t drain

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your washer might be refusing to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can get blocked by lint, small items (like socks!), or debris.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter to catch lint and small objects before they reach the drain pump. This filter can become clogged.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A simple kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s broken, it won’t work.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe in your wall where the drain hose connects can also become clogged.
Lid Switch Problems: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch (which senses if the lid is closed) isn’t working properly.
Air Lock: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain system, preventing water from flowing freely.
Control Panel Malfunction: Rarely, the washer’s control panel can malfunction and prevent the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the issue:

Washer is completely full of water after a wash cycle.
Washer makes unusual noises during the drain cycle (or no noise at all).
Water drains very slowly, if at all.
Error code related to draining appears on the washer’s display (if applicable).
Drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.

How to Fix washer is full of water and won t drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your washer:

Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Locate the Drain Hose: The drain hose is usually located at the back of the washer.
Check for Kinks: Carefully inspect the drain hose for any kinks, twists, or bends. Straighten them out.
Remove the Drain Hose: Detach the drain hose from the drainpipe in the wall. Have a bucket ready to catch any water.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Look inside the drain hose for any visible clogs. You can try flushing it with a garden hose to dislodge any debris.
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe in the wall isn’t clogged. You can try using a plumber’s snake or a drain auger to clear any obstructions.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The location varies by washer model. Consult your owner’s manual. It’s often behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the washer.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter (again, have a bucket ready). Clean it thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the drain pump filter and reattach the drain hose to the drainpipe.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short drain/spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check the Lid Switch: If the washer still won’t drain, the lid switch might be the problem. Consult your owner’s manual for its location and testing instructions (usually involves a multimeter).
Try a Reset: Some washers can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you consider replacing any parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned above, simply unplugging the washer for 5-10 minutes can sometimes reset the electronic controls and resolve the issue.
Thorough Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the washer tub (using a washing machine cleaner) can help prevent buildup of lint and debris that can clog the drain system.
Inspect Hose Connections: Ensure all hose connections are tight and secure.
Proper Laundry Practices: Avoid overloading the washer and always check pockets for small items before washing clothes.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and the washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself may be faulty and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the washer model. Other parts that might fail (though less commonly) include the lid switch and the control panel.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water near electrical appliances.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
If you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Bucket
Pliers
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Plumber’s snake or drain auger
Gloves
Multimeter (for testing the lid switch, optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer making a loud humming noise but not draining?
A: This could indicate a blockage in the drain pump or a failing drain pump motor. Check the filter first.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
A: If the pump makes no noise at all, or a very weak humming sound, and the filter is clean, the pump is likely faulty.
Q: Can I use a regular hose to flush out the drain hose?
A: Yes, a garden hose works well for flushing out the drain hose.
Q: My washer is still under warranty. Should I try to fix it myself?
A: No. DIY attempts will void your warranty. Contact the manufacturer or authorized repair service immediately.

Conclusion

A washer full of water is a frustrating problem, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can often fix it yourself. Don’t be afraid to give it a try before calling a technician. However, if you’re uncomfortable working with appliances or you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.