Washing Machine Will Not Empty Water

Introduction

Discovering that your washing machine won’t empty after a cycle is a frustrating experience. It not only leaves your clothes soaking wet but can also bring your laundry routine to a complete halt. This issue is often noticed after a wash cycle completes, leaving the drum full of water. Addressing it quickly is important to prevent mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your machine and flooring. Don’t worry; often, the fix is simpler than you think.

Common Causes of washing machine will not empty water

Here are some of the most common reasons why your washing machine might be refusing to empty:

Clogged Drain Hose: A blockage in the drain hose restricts water flow.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Debris like lint, socks, or small objects can clog the drain pump filter.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kinked hose prevents water from flowing freely.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump may be failing or broken.
Clogged Drain Pipe: The house drain pipe itself may be clogged.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Air trapped inside the drain hose can prevent proper drainage.
Lid Switch Problems: (For top-load washers) If the lid switch is faulty, the machine might not enter the drain cycle.
Control Panel Malfunction: Occasionally, the control panel could be malfunctioning, leading to incorrect signals to the drain pump.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the issue:

Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
The washing machine makes a humming or buzzing noise but doesn’t drain.
Water drains very slowly.
Error codes are displayed on the washing machine’s control panel related to draining.
The drain hose is visibly kinked or damaged.

How to Fix washing machine will not empty water Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix a washing machine that won’t empty:

Unplug the Washing Machine: Safety first! Disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet.
Locate the Drain Hose: This hose is typically at the back of the machine, connected to a drainpipe or standpipe.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten any kinks or twists in the hose. Make sure it’s not pinched behind the machine.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe or standpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose: Flush the drain hose with water to check for clogs. You can use a garden hose or a sink faucet. Remove any debris you find.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front bottom of the washing machine, behind a small access panel.
Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that spills out.
Open the Drain Pump Filter Access Panel: Carefully open the access panel.
Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Unscrew and remove the filter. Clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or other debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump Impeller: With the filter removed, check the impeller (a small fan-like component) inside the drain pump housing. Make sure it’s free to rotate and that nothing is blocking it.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Screw the filter back into place securely.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to the drainpipe or standpipe, ensuring a tight fit.
Plug in the Washing Machine: Plug the washing machine back into the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Set the washing machine to a drain and spin cycle to test if the issue is resolved.
Observe the Drainage: Watch the machine to ensure the water drains completely and smoothly.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the machine for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear electronic glitches.
Deep Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the drum and detergent dispenser can prevent build-up that contributes to drainage problems.
Recalibration: Some washing machines have a recalibration cycle. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to run it.
Inspect the Air Gap (if applicable): If your drain hose connects to an air gap on the sink, make sure it’s not clogged.
Regular Maintenance: Run a cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner every month to prevent build-up.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the troubleshooting steps above don’t resolve the issue, the drain pump itself might be faulty and require replacement. Also, if the control panel seems unresponsive despite all troubleshooting, this could also require replacement. Replacing a drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. A new control panel could range from $100 to $300, again plus labor. Common failing parts include the drain pump and the lid switch (in top-load models).

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls. Clean up any spills immediately.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
Never stick your hands into the washing machine while it’s plugged in.
Be mindful of sharp edges or components when disassembling the machine.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Flashlight
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machines that won’t empty:

Q: Why is my washing machine making a humming noise but not draining?: A: This often indicates a blockage in the drain pump or a failing drain pump motor.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?: A: If the pump doesn’t make any noise, or if it makes a weak humming noise, it’s likely bad. You can also test it with a multimeter, but this requires some electrical knowledge.
Q: Can I use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the water?: A: Yes, a wet/dry vacuum can be used to remove the water from the drum before attempting repairs. Be careful not to overfill the vacuum.
Q: My washing machine drained a little, but now it’s stopped. What could be the problem?: A: This could indicate a partial clog that’s blocking the drain. Check the drain hose and drain pump filter again.
Q: What happens if I don’t fix the draining issue?: A: Leaving water in your washing machine can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your machine and surrounding area.

Conclusion

A washing machine that won’t empty can be a real headache, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By systematically checking for clogs, kinks, and other common problems, you can avoid costly repair bills. However, if you’re uncomfortable performing these repairs or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance. Happy laundry!