My Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

A washer that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. You’re left with soaking wet clothes, a washing machine that’s out of commission, and the worry of potential water damage. This issue can occur after a normal wash cycle, during a specific cycle like “bulky items,” or even right at the beginning of the wash. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent mold and mildew growth in your washer and to avoid damaging your clothing.

Common Causes of My Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Won’t Drain

Here are some typical reasons why your Whirlpool Cabrio washer might not be draining properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, socks, or other debris.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter catches small items to prevent them from damaging the pump. This filter can become clogged.
Kinked Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where the drain hose connects to your home’s plumbing can be clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s malfunctioning, it won’t drain properly.
Lid Switch Issues: Some washers have a lid switch that prevents draining if the lid isn’t closed properly.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing proper drainage.
Control Board Malfunction: Although rare, a problem with the washer’s control board could prevent the drain pump from activating.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to confirm the problem:

Washer is full of water after a cycle.
You hear a humming sound from the washer, but no water is draining.
Washer displays an error code related to draining (check your owner’s manual).
Clothes are excessively wet after the spin cycle.
Water drains very slowly.

How to Fix My Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Won’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, disconnect the washer from the power outlet before you begin any troubleshooting.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Make sure the drain hose isn’t bent, twisted, or pinched. Straighten it out if necessary.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
Lower the Drain Hose: If the top of the drain hose loop is too high, it can cause back-pressure. Lower it to a suitable height as specified in your washer’s manual (typically 3-4 feet above the floor).
Check the Drain Pipe: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe. Check the drainpipe for any obstructions. You can use a garden hose to flush it out.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your owner’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s often located at the bottom front of the washer behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Place a shallow pan or towel to catch any spills. Carefully remove the drain pump filter. Clean away any lint, hair, coins, or other debris. Rinse it thoroughly and reinsert it securely.
Inspect the Drain Pump (If Accessible): If you can access the drain pump after removing the filter, visually inspect it for any obvious damage or obstructions. Do not stick your fingers into the pump housing.
Check the Lid Switch: Open and close the washer lid a few times to make sure the lid switch is engaging properly. If it seems loose or damaged, it might be the problem. (This is harder to diagnose without tools).
Try a Reset: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Run a Drain and Spin Cycle: Select the “Drain and Spin” cycle on your washer. This will force the washer to attempt to drain. Observe if the drain pump is running and if any water is being expelled.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the drain pump during the drain cycle. This could indicate a problem with the pump itself.
Check for Error Codes: If your washer has a display screen, check for any error codes that might indicate a specific problem with the draining system. Consult your owner’s manual for the meaning of the code.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many drain problems can be resolved without buying replacement parts. Try these free methods:

Regular Cleaning: Clean the drain pump filter every few months to prevent clogs.
Hose Inspection: Regularly inspect the drain hose for kinks, cracks, or damage.
Proper Loading: Avoid overloading the washer, as this can strain the drain pump.
Lint Filter Use: Always use a lint filter in your dryer to reduce the amount of lint entering the washer’s 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 itself may be faulty and require replacement. A drain pump replacement typically costs between $80 and $200, including the part and labor if you hire a technician. Other parts that may fail (though less common) include the lid switch or the control board. Replacing the control board is usually more expensive, potentially costing $150-$350.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when dealing with water. Mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
Never stick your fingers or any objects into the drain pump housing while the washer is plugged in.
If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Bucket
Garden hose (optional, for flushing drainpipe)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer draining problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a loud humming noise but not draining? A: This likely indicates a clogged drain pump or a faulty drain pump motor.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: Ideally, you should clean it every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items.
Q: Can I use Drano to unclog my washer? A: No, avoid using chemical drain cleaners like Drano in your washing machine. They can damage the washer’s components.
Q: What does an error code like “F20” or “E2” mean on my Whirlpool Cabrio washer? A: Error codes vary by model. Consult your owner’s manual to understand the specific meaning of the code and the recommended troubleshooting steps. Common drain related codes reference pump or pressure switch issues.

Conclusion

Don’t panic! Many draining issues with Whirlpool Cabrio washers can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting steps. Before you call a repair technician, take the time to follow this guide. You might be surprised at how easily you can get your washer back in working order.