Clothes Washer Will Not Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a common and frustrating problem. It leaves your clothes sitting in a pool of water, potentially leading to mildew and unpleasant odors. This issue often occurs after a regular wash cycle and requires immediate attention to prevent further damage to your clothes and your washing machine. Acting quickly can save you money and time by preventing more serious problems.

Common Causes of clothes washer will not drain

Here are some of the most common reasons why your washing machine isn’t draining properly:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, small objects, or soap residue.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Many washing machines have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can get clogged.
• Drain Pump Malfunction: The drain pump itself may be faulty or damaged, preventing it from effectively pumping out the water.
• Kinked or Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where the drain hose connects to your home’s plumbing can be kinked or blocked.
• Air Lock: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain system, preventing the water from flowing freely.
• Over-sudsing: Using too much detergent, especially non-HE detergent in an HE machine, can cause excessive suds that interfere with the draining process.
• Lid Switch Problems: In some models, a faulty lid switch can prevent the machine from entering the drain cycle.
• Control Panel Issues: Rarely, a malfunctioning control panel can send incorrect signals, preventing the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some signs that indicate your washing machine isn’t draining correctly:

• Clothes are soaking wet after the wash cycle.
• Standing water remains in the drum.
• The washing machine makes unusual noises during the drain cycle (or no noise at all).
• Error codes related to draining appear on the display panel.
• Water drains very slowly.

How to Fix clothes washer will not drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your draining problem:

1. Unplug the Washing Machine: Safety first! Disconnect the power cord from the outlet to avoid electrical shock.
2. Locate the Drain Hose: This is the hose at the back of the machine that carries water away.
3. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks or Obstructions: Straighten any kinks. Detach the hose from the drainpipe and inspect it for blockages. You can use a flexible wire or a garden hose to flush out debris.
4. Inspect the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe where the hose connects is not clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any obstructions.
5. Find the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front bottom of the washing machine, behind a small access panel. Consult your owners manual for the exact location.
6. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Place a shallow pan or towel under the access panel to catch any spilled water. Carefully unscrew or unclip the filter cover and remove the filter. Clean it thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
7. Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, look inside the drain pump housing. See if you can spot any obstructions (coins, buttons). You might even be able to carefully turn the pump impeller with your finger to make sure nothing is jamming it.
8. Check for an Air Lock: Ensure the drain hose is not pushed too far down into the drainpipe, as this can create a siphon effect and cause an air lock. Leave some air gap.
9. Reduce Suds: If you suspect over-sudsing, run an empty wash cycle with hot water and no detergent. Consider using high-efficiency (HE) detergent if you have an HE washing machine.
10. Check the Lid Switch: Carefully inspect the lid switch (or door lock on front loaders). Make sure it is clean and that the lid/door engages it properly. A faulty switch might need professional repair, but ensure it’s clean first.
11. Reset the Washing Machine: Some washing machines can be reset by unplugging them for 1-2 minutes and then plugging them back in. This can sometimes clear error codes and reset the drain cycle.
12. Run a Test Cycle: After checking and cleaning everything, run a short wash cycle to see if the washer drains properly.
13. Check the Washing Machines Level An unlevel machine can sometimes have draining issues. Adjust the feet at the bottom of the machine so it sits level on the floor. A bubble level can help you with this.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many draining problems can be resolved without purchasing new parts:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the drain pump filter every few months to prevent clogs.
• Correct Detergent Usage: Use the correct amount of detergent and ensure it is HE detergent if you have an HE machine.
• Hose Inspection: Regularly check the drain hose for kinks or damage.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washing machine can strain the drain pump.
• Run Self-Clean Cycles: If your machine has a self-clean cycle, run it periodically to help remove build-up.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If youve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself might be faulty. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $200, plus the cost of labor if you hire a professional. Other less common but more expensive failures include a faulty control board, but it’s best to explore all other avenues first.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when working with water to avoid electrical shock.
• If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
• Be aware that there may be water remaining in the machine. Protect floors and have towels ready.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket or shallow pan
• Towels
• Flexible wire or plumbing snake
• Gloves
• Bubble Level

FAQ

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

• Q: Why is my washing machine making a loud noise when it tries to drain? A: This could indicate a blockage in the drain pump or a failing drain pump motor.
• Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, depending on usage.
• Q: Can I use Drano to unclog my washing machine drain? A: No, Drano and other harsh chemical drain cleaners can damage the washing machine’s components.
• Q: What does HE detergent mean? A: HE stands for High Efficiency. HE detergents are designed for washing machines that use less water and produce fewer suds.
• Q: My washing machine drains slowly, but not completely. What does that mean? A: This can point to a partial clog in the drain hose or pump filter, or a sign that your drain pump is beginning to fail.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a washing machine that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve tried everything and the washer still isn’t draining, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. However, with a little effort, you can often get your washing machine back in working order and avoid costly repairs.

Youtube Video: