Fix Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a common household headache. A pool of water left in your washer after a cycle not only prevents you from doing laundry but can also lead to unpleasant odors and potential water damage. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to avoid further complications and get your laundry routine back on track. This guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions to help you diagnose and resolve the “fix washer not draining” problem.

Common Causes of Fix Washer Not Draining

Here are several reasons why your washer might be refusing to drain:

• Clogged Drain Hose: A kinked or blocked drain hose prevents water from exiting the machine.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter to catch lint, buttons, and other debris before they reach the pump. A full filter restricts water flow.
• Obstructed Drain Pump: Small objects like socks or coins can get lodged in the drain pump, preventing it from working correctly.
• Kinked or Blocked Air Vent Hose: The air vent hose allows air into the drain system, helping the water drain. If its kinked or blocked, the draining process will be affected.
• Faulty Lid Switch or Door Latch: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch or door latch isn’t properly engaged, as the machine thinks the door is open.
• Defective Drain Pump: The drain pump itself might be malfunctioning and unable to pump the water out.
• Clogged House Drain: The problem might not be the washer at all but a clog in your home’s drain system.
• Control Panel Malfunction: In rare cases, a faulty control panel can prevent the washer from initiating the drain cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to identify the issue accurately:

• Washer fills with water but doesn’t drain after the wash cycle.
• Washer makes a humming or buzzing noise but doesn’t drain.
• Washer drains very slowly.
• Error code related to draining appears on the control panel.
• Water backs up into the laundry tub or drainpipe.

How to Fix Fix Washer Not Draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and hopefully fix the issue:

1. Unplug the Washer: Disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet for safety.
2. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Ensure the drain hose isn’t bent or kinked. Straighten any bends you find.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Make sure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
4. Lower the Drain Hose: If the drain hose is positioned too high, gravity might prevent proper drainage. Lower it so it is within the recommended height specified in your washer’s manual.
5. Check for Clogs in the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe. Hold it up and check for any visible clogs. You can try flushing it with water.
6. Locate and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washer’s manual to find the drain pump filter. Usually it is located at the bottom front behind a small access panel.
7. Drain the Remaining Water: Before removing the filter, have a shallow pan and towels ready to catch the water that will spill out.
8. Remove the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew or pull out the filter (as per your manual).
9. Clean the Filter: Remove any lint, hair, buttons, or other debris from the filter. Rinse it thoroughly with water.
10. Inspect the Drain Pump: Shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing. Look for any visible obstructions like small socks or coins. You might be able to reach in and remove them with pliers.
11. Reinstall the Filter: Put the clean filter back in place, making sure it’s securely fastened.
12. Check the House Drain: If the washer drains into a standpipe, make sure the standpipe isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any blockages.
13. Check the Air Vent Hose: Locate and inspect the air vent hose for any kinks or obstructions. Clear it if needed.
14. Check the Lid Switch/Door Latch: Make sure the lid switch or door latch engages properly when the door is closed. Clean around the area to remove dirt.
15. Plug the Washer Back In: Reconnect the washing machine to the power outlet.
16. Run a Test Cycle: Set the washer to a short drain and spin cycle to see if it drains properly.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

• Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control panel.
• Deep Clean the Washer: Run an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner or a cup of vinegar to dissolve buildup.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check hoses for cracks, kinks, or damage.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can strain the drain pump.
• Proper Detergent Use: Use the correct amount of detergent; too much can lead to excessive suds and drainage problems.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, the drain pump might be defective or the control board is malfunctioning. Replacing the drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200 (USD), including parts and labor. A new control board can cost $150 to $350 (USD), including installation. Common parts to fail are the drain pump, lid switch, and control board. For more related activities, check out our Roper Washing Machine Won T Drain.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when dealing with water near electrical components.
• Wear gloves when handling potentially dirty water or debris.
• Mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Shallow pan
• Towels
• Flashlight
• Plumbing snake (for clearing house drains)
• Gloves

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?

A: This often indicates that the drain pump is blocked. Check the drain pump filter and the drain pump itself for obstructions.

Q: How often should I clean my washer’s drain pump filter?

A: It’s recommended to clean the filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washer.

Q: Can I use a wire hanger to clear a clogged drain hose?

A: While a wire hanger can be used, it’s best to use a flexible plumbing snake to avoid damaging the hose.

Q: What does an error code related to draining mean?

A: Check your washer’s manual for the specific meaning of the error code. It often points to a problem with the drain pump, lid switch, or control panel.

Conclusion

Fixing a washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself and save money on repair costs. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve tried everything and your washer still won’t drain, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!

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