My Whirlpool Washer Will Not Drain

Introduction

Discovering that your Whirlpool washer won’t drain can be frustrating. It means wet clothes are stuck in the machine, and your laundry routine grinds to a halt. A washer refusing to drain is a common issue, often stemming from simple causes. Addressing it quickly is important to prevent mold growth and potential damage to your appliance and surrounding area. Don’t panic! This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps before you need to call a repair technician.

Common Causes of my whirlpool washer will not drain

Several factors can cause your Whirlpool washer to refuse to drain. Here are some of the most common:. For more related activities, check out our Samsung Washer Not Taking Water.

• Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose carries water away from the washer. If it’s kinked, blocked by lint, or debris, water won’t be able to pass through.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many Whirlpool washers have a drain pump filter designed to catch lint, buttons, and other small objects. A clogged filter can prevent the pump from working correctly.
• Drain Pump Failure: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If the pump motor fails, it won’t be able to do its job.
• Kinked or Blocked Standpipe: The standpipe is the pipe that your washer’s drain hose connects to. If the standpipe is clogged, water won’t drain.
• Lid Switch Problems: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch, which detects whether the lid is closed, is malfunctioning.
• Control Board Issues: Although less common, a faulty control board can sometimes prevent the washer from initiating the drain cycle.
• Overloading the Washer: Overfilling the washer can sometimes strain the drain pump or cause imbalances that affect draining.
• Soap Residue Buildup: Excessive soap use, especially with HE washers, can create buildup that clogs the drain system over time.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that can help you accurately identify the drainage issue:

• The washer completes the wash cycle, but the drum is still full of water.
• You hear a humming noise from the drain pump area, but the water doesn’t drain.
• The washer displays an error code related to draining (check your owner’s manual for specific error codes).
• The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
• Water drains very slowly or only trickles out.
• You notice a foul odor coming from the washer or drain area.

How to Fix my whirlpool washer will not drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Whirlpool washer’s draining problem:

1. Unplug the Washer: For safety, always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the entire length of the drain hose for kinks, bends, or obstructions. Straighten any kinks and remove any visible blockages.
3. Check the Standpipe: Make sure the standpipe is not clogged. You can use a plumbing snake or a wet/dry vacuum to clear any obstructions.
4. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front of the washer, near the bottom. Consult your owner’s manual if you can’t find it.
5. Drain the Remaining Water: Before removing the filter, place a shallow pan or towels beneath the filter access point to catch any remaining water.
6. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Remove any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
7. Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Make sure the filter is securely reinstalled.
8. Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, inspect the drain pump impeller (the small blades inside the pump housing). Make sure it’s not blocked by anything. You can try to manually rotate it to see if it’s stuck.
9. Check the Lid Switch: The lid switch prevents the washer from spinning or draining when the lid is open. Try gently pressing down on the lid switch with your hand and starting a drain cycle to see if that fixes the issue.
10. Reset the Washer: Some washers can be reset by unplugging them for 1-2 minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear minor electronic glitches.
11. Run a Test Cycle: After performing the above steps, run a short drain cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
12. Check for Error Codes: If the washer displays an error code, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting steps specific to that code.
13. Inspect Internal Hoses: If youre comfortable doing so, you can check the hoses inside the washer for clogs or kinks. However, this requires disassembling the washer and should only be attempted if you have experience.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before resorting to replacing parts, try these free methods:

• Reset the Washer: As mentioned earlier, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can sometimes resolve minor issues.
• Clean the Washer Regularly: Run a cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner product every month to prevent soap buildup and odors.
• Use the Correct Amount of Detergent: Using too much detergent can lead to buildup. Refer to your detergent’s instructions and use the recommended amount, especially with HE washers.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Periodically check the drain hose and inlet hoses for kinks, cracks, or leaks.
• Avoid Overloading the Washer: Overloading can strain the drain pump and other components. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load size.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, it might be time to consider replacing a part. The drain pump is the most common part to fail, costing between $50 and $150 (USD). Replacing the lid switch might cost between $20 to $50 (USD). A new control board replacement could be from $100 to $300 (USD). However, if the cost of repairs is approaching half the price of a new washer, it may be more economical to replace the entire appliance.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slipping. Clean up any spills immediately.
• If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
• Do not operate the washer if it is leaking or has damaged wiring.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Shallow pan or towels
• Plumbing snake (optional)
• Wet/dry vacuum (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Whirlpool washer draining problems:

• Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?
  A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Check the drain pump filter and impeller for obstructions.
• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
  A: If the drain pump is making unusual noises, failing to drain water, or if you’ve already checked for clogs, it may be faulty and need to be replaced.
• Q: What does error code F## mean on my Whirlpool washer?
  A: Error codes vary by model. Consult your owner’s manual for a list of error codes and their meanings. Draining related errors often begin with “F” or “E”.
• Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washing machine?
  A: No, it’s generally not recommended to use liquid drain cleaners in washing machines. They can damage the washer’s components.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain can be a manageable task, even for beginners. By following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem without the expense of a service call. However, if you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. Remember to prioritize safety and always unplug the washer before starting any repairs. Good luck!

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