Whirlpool Washing Machine Not Draining Properly

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. Nobody wants to scoop out a tub full of soapy water! When your Whirlpool washing machine doesn’t drain properly, it means your clothes are sitting in dirty water, and you can’t start the next load. This can happen for a few reasons, like a clog in the drain hose or a problem with the pump. Fixing it quickly is important to prevent mold growth and get your laundry routine back on track. Don’t panic most of the time, it’s a simple fix you can handle yourself.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washing Machine Not Draining Properly

Here are some common reasons why your Whirlpool washing machine might not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the machine can get blocked by lint, socks, or other small items.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Most Whirlpool washers have a filter near the drain pump to catch debris. This can get clogged and prevent the pump from working correctly.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: If the drain hose is bent or twisted, it can restrict water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the machine. If it’s broken, it won’t be able to do its job.
Clogged House Drain: Sometimes the problem isn’t the washing machine itself, but the drain in your house that the washing machine connects to.
Air Lock: An air pocket in the drain hose can prevent the pump from working efficiently.
Lid Switch Problem: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch (which detects if the lid is closed) is faulty.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, a problem with the washing machine’s control board can prevent the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to accurately identify the problem:

Standing water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
The washing machine makes unusual noises during the drain cycle (or no noise at all).
You see error codes related to draining on the washing machine’s display.
The drain hose feels cold when the machine is attempting to drain.
Clothes are soaking wet after the spin cycle.
The wash cycle completes, but the machine doesn’t progress to the drain cycle.

How to Fix Whirlpool Washing Machine Not Draining Properly Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Whirlpool washing machine:

Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety, disconnect the power cord from the outlet before starting any repairs.
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: Check where the drain hose connects to the drainpipe or utility sink. Ensure it’s not clogged at the connection point.
Remove and Clean the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from both the washing machine and the drainpipe. Flush it out with water to remove any debris. You can use a garden hose for this.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your Whirlpool washing machine’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small access panel.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter. Be prepared for some water to spill out. Clean the filter thoroughly to remove any lint, hair, or other debris.
Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, use a flashlight to inspect the drain pump impeller (the small fan-like part inside the pump). Make sure it’s not blocked by anything. You can try to gently turn the impeller with your finger to ensure it spins freely.
Check for Air Lock: Sometimes, an air lock can prevent the pump from working properly. Try gently blowing into the drain hose to dislodge any air pockets.
Check the House Drain: Make sure the drain in your house that the washing machine connects to is not clogged. You can try running water into the drain to see if it drains freely.
Run a Drain/Spin Cycle: After cleaning the hose and filter, plug the washing machine back in and run a drain/spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check the Lid Switch: Make sure the lid switch is functioning correctly. If it’s broken, the machine might not drain. You may need to consult the user manual on how to troubleshoot this.
Reset the Washing Machine: Some washing machines can be reset by unplugging them for a few minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear error codes and resolve draining issues.
Check for Error Codes: If your washing machine has a display, check for any error codes related to draining. Consult your owner’s manual to understand what the error code means and how to fix it.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many draining problems can be resolved without spending any money:

Reset the Machine: As mentioned above, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can sometimes clear the issue.
Deep Cleaning: Run an empty wash cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup.
Hose Inspection: Regular inspection of the drain hose can prevent future clogs.
Maintenance: Regularly cleaning the lint filter can help prevent draining issues.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t drain, the drain pump may be faulty and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model of your Whirlpool washing machine. Other parts that could fail and require replacement include the lid switch or the control board, but these are less common.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when dealing with water and electricity to avoid electric shock.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
If you’re not comfortable performing the repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or container to catch water
Flashlight
Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Whirlpool washing machine draining problems:

Q: Why is my washing machine making a loud noise when draining? A: This could indicate a problem with the drain pump. Check for obstructions in the pump or filter.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washing machine.
Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner to unclog the drain hose? A: It’s generally not recommended to use liquid drain cleaners in washing machines, as they can damage the plastic components.
Q: What if my washing machine drains slowly? A: A slow drain could be caused by a partial clog in the drain hose or filter. Try cleaning both to see if that resolves the issue.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool washing machine that won’t drain can seem daunting, but with a little patience and these steps, you can often fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting options and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. But give it a try yourself first!