Drain Water In Washing Machine

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a common and frustrating problem for homeowners. A pool of standing water after a wash cycle can leave you with soggy clothes and a mess to clean up. It’s important to address this issue quickly because trapped water can lead to mold growth and damage to your appliance and potentially your home. If left unresolved, you won’t be able to do laundry until the problem is fixed. Follow this guide to diagnose and potentially fix the drain issue before calling for professional help.

Common Causes of drain water in washing machine

Several factors can contribute to a washing machine refusing to drain properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose can become clogged 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 Issues: The drain pump itself may be malfunctioning or blocked by a foreign object.
Clogged Drainpipe: The house drainpipe where the washing machine hose connects can be blocked.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow.
Air Lock: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing the pump from working effectively.
Lid Switch Problems: Some washing machines won’t drain if the lid switch is faulty. This switch tells the machine the lid is closed, allowing it to spin and drain.
Control Panel Malfunction: In rare cases, the control panel may have an issue preventing it from sending the signal to drain.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that you might have a draining problem:

Water remains in the washing machine drum after a cycle.
The washing machine makes unusual noises during the drain cycle.
The drain cycle takes significantly longer than usual.
Error codes related to draining appear on the washing machine’s display.
Water backs up into the washing machine from the drainpipe.

How to Fix drain water in washing machine Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety, disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet.
Locate the Drain Hose: This hose is usually located at the back of the washing machine.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Check for kinks, bends, or twists that might be blocking water flow. Straighten out any kinks you find.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from both the washing machine and the drainpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
Flush the Drain Hose: Use a garden hose or sink faucet to flush out the drain hose. Remove any visible debris.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washing machine’s manual to find the drain pump filter. It’s often located at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small access panel.
Access the Drain Pump Filter: Open the access panel and carefully unscrew the filter cap. Have a shallow pan or towel ready to catch any water that spills out.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump Area: Use a flashlight to look inside the drain pump housing for any obstructions. Carefully remove any debris you find.
Reassemble the Drain Pump Filter: Replace the drain pump filter and tighten the cap securely.
Reconnect the Drain Hose: Reattach the drain hose to both the washing machine and the drainpipe, ensuring a secure connection.
Check the Drainpipe: If you suspect a clog in the house drainpipe, use a drain snake or plumber’s snake to clear any blockages.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washing machine back in and run a short wash cycle to see if the draining issue has been resolved.
Listen to the drain pump: During the drain cycle, listen closely to the drain pump. If it’s making a humming noise but not pumping water, it could be partially blocked or starting to fail.
Check the Lid Switch: If your washing machine has a lid switch, make sure it’s functioning correctly. Try gently pressing it down to see if that triggers the drain cycle (while unplugged, and then replug after releasing).

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free solutions:

Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the machine for a few minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control panel and resolve minor issues.
Check for Air Locks: Ensure the drain hose is not inserted too far into the drainpipe, as this can create an air lock.
Level the Washing Machine: An unbalanced machine can sometimes cause draining problems. Use a level to adjust the legs of the machine.
Maintenance: Run a washing machine cleaner cycle regularly to prevent buildup and clogs.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

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

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs or inspections.
Be careful when dealing with water near electrical components.
Wear gloves when handling potentially dirty or contaminated water.
Be mindful of wet floors to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Flashlight
Garden hose or sink faucet
Drain snake or plumber’s snake

FAQ

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

Q: Why is my washing machine making a loud noise when trying to drain? A: This could indicate a blockage in the drain pump or a failing pump motor.
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 usage.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: It’s generally not recommended, as these cleaners can damage the washing machine’s components.
Q: My washing machine drains slowly. What could be the problem? A: A slow drain could be caused by a partial blockage in the drain hose, drain pump filter, or drainpipe.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a washing machine draining problem can seem daunting, but with a little patience and this guide, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By systematically checking for clogs and other common causes, you can save yourself the cost of a service call. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, then it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician.