Amana Washing Machine Clean Drain Pump

Introduction

If your Amana washing machine isn’t draining properly, or is making a loud buzzing or humming noise during the drain cycle, the drain pump is likely the source of the issue. A clogged drain pump prevents water from being expelled from the machine, leaving your clothes soaking wet and unusable. This problem often occurs when small items like lint, coins, socks, or hair accumulate in the pump. Addressing this issue promptly is important to prevent further damage to your washing machine and avoid potential water damage in your laundry room. Don’t worry, in most cases, you can fix this yourself!

Common Causes of Amana Washing Machine Clean Drain Pump Issues

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Amana washing machine’s drain pump might be clogged:. For more related activities, check out our Amana Front Load Washer Not Spinning.

• Lint Buildup: Excessive lint accumulates over time, blocking the pump’s impeller.
• Small Objects: Coins, buttons, hairpins, and other small items can get trapped in the pump.
• Socks: Small socks (especially baby socks) are notorious for finding their way into the drain system.
• Pet Hair: Pet hair can clump together and clog the pump, especially if you wash pet bedding.
• Debris from Pockets: Paper, tissues, and other pocket debris can dissolve and form a sticky mess.
• Hard Water Deposits: Mineral buildup from hard water can restrict the pump’s performance.
• Worn Impeller: While less common, a worn or damaged impeller blade can reduce the pump’s ability to move water effectively.
• Kinked Drain Hose: A kinked drain hose can restrict water flow, putting extra strain on the pump.

Symptoms Checklist

Check for these signs that your drain pump needs cleaning:

• Washing machine doesn’t drain properly, leaving clothes soaking wet.
• Standing water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
• The washing machine makes a loud buzzing, humming, or grinding noise during the drain cycle.
• Error code related to draining issues is displayed on the control panel (check your owner’s manual).
• The drain cycle takes significantly longer than usual.
• The washing machine smells musty or moldy due to stagnant water.

How to Fix Amana Washing Machine Clean Drain Pump Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to clean your Amana washing machine’s drain pump:

1. Unplug the Washing Machine: Safety first! Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Locate the Drain Pump Access Panel: This is usually located at the bottom front of the washing machine. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
3. Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that may spill out.
4. Open the Access Panel: Use a screwdriver or your fingers to open the access panel.
5. Locate the Drain Pump Filter/Cap: Inside the access panel, you’ll find a small cap or filter that covers the drain pump.
6. Carefully Remove the Filter/Cap: Slowly unscrew or pull out the filter/cap. Be prepared for some water to come out.
7. Inspect and Clean the Filter: Remove any lint, hair, coins, or other debris from the filter. Rinse it thoroughly under running water.
8. Inspect the Drain Pump Housing: Use a flashlight to look inside the drain pump housing. Remove any visible debris. You can use long tweezers or pliers to reach items that are difficult to remove.
9. Check the Impeller: Try to spin the pump impeller (the small fan-like blades inside the pump housing) with your finger. It should spin freely. If it’s stuck or difficult to turn, there may be more debris blocking it. Carefully try to dislodge the blockage.
10. Reassemble the Filter/Cap: Once everything is clean, reinsert the filter/cap into the drain pump housing and tighten it securely.
11. Close the Access Panel: Close and secure the access panel.
12. Plug in the Washing Machine: Reconnect the power cord to the electrical outlet.
13. Run a Test Cycle: Run a short wash cycle to test if the drain pump is working properly. Observe if the machine drains completely and if the buzzing noise is gone.
14. Check for Leaks: After the test cycle, check around the drain pump area for any leaks. If you find any, double-check that the filter/cap is properly tightened.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement, try these free methods:

• Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the machine for 5 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear error codes and reset the system.
• Check the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose is not kinked or clogged. Straighten any kinks and remove any visible obstructions.
• Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many Amana washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle. Running this cycle with a washing machine cleaner can help remove buildup and improve drainage.
• Inspect the Tub-to-Pump Hose: Check the hose that connects the washing machine tub to the drain pump. This hose can sometimes become clogged with debris.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If cleaning the drain pump doesn’t solve the problem, the pump itself might be faulty. This is usually a last resort. Signs include: a consistently loud buzzing noise, the impeller being completely seized, or visible damage to the pump housing. Replacing a drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. The most commonly failing parts, other than the pump itself, are the drain pump filter and the hoses connecting to the pump.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water, as electrical shock is a risk.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
• If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers or tweezers
• Shallow pan or towels
• Flashlight
• Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about drain pump issues:

• Q: How often should I clean my drain pump? A: It’s a good idea to clean the drain pump every 3-6 months, or more often if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items or have pets.
• Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain pump? A: It’s generally not recommended to use bleach directly on the drain pump, as it can damage some of the components. A mild detergent or washing machine cleaner is a better option.
• Q: Why is my washing machine still not draining after cleaning the pump? A: There may be other issues, such as a clogged drain hose or a faulty water level sensor. If cleaning the pump doesn’t solve the problem, consult a technician.
• Q: What does a bad drain pump sound like? A: A bad drain pump often makes a loud buzzing, humming, or grinding noise.

Conclusion

Cleaning your Amana washing machine’s drain pump is a relatively simple task that can save you money and prevent further damage to your appliance. By following the steps in this guide, you can likely resolve the issue yourself. If you’ve tried everything and the problem persists, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!

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