Whirlpool Washer Water Won T Drain

Introduction

Discovering that your Whirlpool washer won’t drain is a frustrating situation. It means you can’t do laundry, and a washer full of water can quickly become a breeding ground for mold and unpleasant odors. This problem often occurs mid-cycle, leaving your clothes soaking wet. Addressing it promptly is important to prevent further damage to your machine and avoid potential water damage to your home. Don’t panic many drainage issues are simple to fix yourself!

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer Water Won’t Drain

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

Clogged Drain Hose: A kinked or blocked drain hose restricts water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Small items like lint, coins, or hair can accumulate in the filter, blocking the pump.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump might be worn out or malfunctioning.
Kinked or Blocked Tub Drain Hose: Hose that goes from the bottom of the tub to the drain pump
Blocked House Drain: The drainpipe where your washer empties may be clogged.
Air Lock in Drain System: Sometimes air gets trapped in the drain lines, preventing proper drainage.
Lid Switch Issues: If the lid switch is faulty, the washer may not signal the drain cycle to start.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the electronic control board might be sending incorrect signals.
Too much soap: Too much soap can cause buildup in your machine, preventing it from draining properly

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some signs that your Whirlpool washer is having drainage problems:

The washer stops mid-cycle with water remaining in the drum.
You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the washer, but the water isn’t draining.
The washer displays an error code related to draining (check your owner’s manual).
The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
Water drains very slowly.
The washer smells musty or moldy.

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

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your drainage problem:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or visible blockages. Straighten any kinks and detach the hose from the drainpipe to check for obstructions.
Clear the Drain Hose: If the hose is clogged, try flushing it with water from a garden hose. You can also use a long, flexible brush to dislodge any debris.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your owner’s manual if you can’t find it.
Drain Remaining Water: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that might spill out when you remove the filter.
Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew or pull out the filter (it may be stiff). Clean it thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, look inside the pump housing. Check for any visible obstructions, such as socks or small items. Try to manually rotate the pump impeller (the small fan-like part inside). It should spin freely.
Check the House Drain: Make sure the drainpipe where the washer empties isn’t clogged. You can try running water into the drain to see if it flows freely. If it doesn’t, use a drain snake or call a plumber.
Check the Tub Drain Hose: This hose connects the bottom of the tub to the drain pump. Make sure it isn’t kinked or blocked.
Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the drain pump filter, reconnect the drain hose, and plug the washer back in. Run a short rinse and spin cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.
Check the Lid Switch: Try gently pushing down the area around the lid switch while the washer is supposed to be draining. If it starts to drain, you may have a faulty lid switch.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and clear minor errors.
Clean the Washer: Run an empty wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove any buildup of soap or minerals.
Inspect for Kinks: Frequently check the drain hose for kinks and bends.
Use less soap: Using less detergent can help prevent soap buildup and blockages. Refer to the detergent label for the right amount, and use even less if you have soft water.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, you might need to replace a part. The most common parts to fail are the drain pump (estimated cost: $50-$150) and the lid switch (estimated cost: $20-$50). Consider consulting a appliance repair technician before replacing parts to make sure they are indeed the issue.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
Be careful when dealing with water and electricity.
Wear gloves to protect your hands.
Be aware that water may spill when removing the drain pump filter.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Garden hose
Long, flexible brush
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer drainage problems:

Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A slow drain is usually caused by a partial blockage in the drain hose or drain pump filter.
Q: What does it mean when my washer displays an error code related to draining? A: Consult your owner’s manual to decipher the error code. It will likely indicate the source of the drainage problem.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s a good idea to clean the filter every 2-3 months, or more often if you wash heavily soiled clothes.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain hose? A: While bleach can help clean, use it sparingly. Excessive use can damage the hose over time. Dilute it with water.

Conclusion

Fixing a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain might seem daunting, but it’s often a manageable task for homeowners. By following these steps, you can diagnose the problem and potentially resolve it yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. If you’ve exhausted all DIY options and the problem persists, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!