Whirlpool Washer How To Drain Water

Introduction

A washer that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. Standing water in your Whirlpool washing machine after a cycle can lead to musty odors, ruined laundry, and a generally unusable appliance. Addressing the issue quickly is essential to prevent further damage to your machine or your home. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and fixing the problem, even if you’re new to appliance repair.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer How to Drain Water

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

Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most frequent culprit. Lint, small objects, or soap residue can accumulate inside the hose.
Blocked Drainpipe: The drainpipe where your washer’s drain hose connects might be clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for forcing the water out of the washer. If it’s broken or malfunctioning, it won’t drain.
Lid Switch Problems: The lid switch prevents the washer from spinning or draining if the lid is open. A faulty switch can interrupt the drain cycle.
Belt Issues: Some Whirlpool washers use a belt to power the drain pump. If the belt is broken or loose, the pump won’t function.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the electronic control board that governs the washer’s functions may be malfunctioning.
Clogged Filter: Many newer models have a drain pump filter that can become clogged with debris.
Overloading the Washer: Packing the washer too full can sometimes prevent proper drainage.

Symptoms Checklist

Look for these indicators to help pinpoint the problem:

Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
The washer stops mid-cycle.
Error codes related to draining appear on the display panel. (Check your owner’s manual for a list of error codes.)
The drain hose is kinked or blocked.
Water is draining very slowly.

How to Fix Whirlpool Washer How to Drain Water Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain:

Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Disconnect the washer from the power outlet before you begin.
Locate the Drain Hose: It’s usually a thick hose connected to the back of the washer.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check for kinks, bends, or visible blockages. Straighten any kinks.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
Clear the Drain Hose: Use a straightened coat hanger or a plumber’s snake to clear any obstructions inside the drain hose. Flush the hose with water to remove loose debris.
Check the Drainpipe: With the drain hose disconnected, check the drainpipe for clogs. You can use the same tools as above to clear it.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter (if applicable): Refer to your owner’s manual to find the drain pump filter. Newer models often have one.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water. Remove any lint, hair, or other debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: If you’re comfortable, you can access the drain pump (usually located at the bottom of the washer). Look for any visible obstructions or damage.
Check the Lid Switch: The lid switch can be tested with a multimeter. If you do not have a multimeter, visually inspect the switch for damage. If damaged, this is likely the problem.
Reassemble and Test: Reconnect the drain hose, plug in the washer, and run a short test cycle to see if it drains properly.
Listen for Sounds: As the washer starts the drain cycle, listen carefully for the sound of the drain pump running. If you don’t hear anything, the pump may be faulty.
Check the Washer Tub: Ensure the tub is securely mounted to the frame. Excessive movement or wobbling can lead to drainage issues.
Level the Washer: Use a level to make sure the washer is sitting flat on the floor. Unevenness can affect drainage.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Mineral buildup can also impact drainage. Run the washer’s cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve drainage issues without replacing any parts:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Clean Regularly: Run a washer cleaning cycle monthly to prevent buildup of soap residue and mineral deposits.
Avoid Overloading: Don’t overfill the washer. Overloading can strain the drain pump.
Use HE Detergent: High-efficiency (HE) detergents are designed to produce less suds, which can reduce the risk of clogs.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the above steps don’t solve the problem, the drain pump may need replacing. The drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150. The lid switch is another common part to fail and usually costs less than $50. Replacing the control board is a more significant repair, costing between $150 and $300. If the repair costs approach half the price of a new washer, consider replacing the appliance.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
Be careful when working with water to avoid electric shock.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Do not tilt the washer excessively as you may cause it to tip over.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Coat hanger or plumber’s snake
Wrench
Level
Multimeter (optional, for testing the lid switch)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer drainage issues:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming sound but not draining?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is blocked or faulty. Check for obstructions and consider replacing the pump if necessary.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
A: If the pump doesn’t make any noise when it should be draining, or if it makes a loud, grinding noise, it’s likely bad. You can also test it with a multimeter.
Q: Can I use bleach to clear a clogged drain?
A: While bleach can help, it’s not always the best solution. It can damage some types of pipes and can react with other chemicals. It’s better to physically remove the clog.
Q: How often should I clean my washing machine?
A: Aim to clean your washing machine at least once a month to prevent buildup of soap residue and mineral deposits.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’re unable to resolve the issue, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. With a little effort, you can get your washer back in working order and avoid costly laundry mishaps.