Frigidaire Affinity Front Load Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washer that won’t drain can be a major headache. It leaves your clothes soaking wet, prevents you from starting new loads, and can even create a moldy mess. The frigidaire affinity front load washer not draining often happens mid-cycle or at the end of a wash. Addressing this problem quickly is important to avoid damage to your clothes and washer and to prevent the growth of mold or mildew. Let’s get your washer back up and running!

Common Causes of frigidaire affinity front load washer not draining

Here are some of the most common reasons why your Frigidaire Affinity washer might not be draining properly:

Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter catches lint, hair, and small objects that can block the drain pump.
Blocked Drain Hose: Kinks, bends, or obstructions in the drain hose can prevent water from flowing out.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be broken or malfunctioning.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Air trapped in the hose can create a vacuum effect, preventing drainage.
Overloading the Washer: Too many clothes can put strain on the pump and prevent proper draining.
Siphon Issues: If the drain hose is pushed too far down the drainpipe, it can create a siphon effect.
Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the control board that operates the drain pump might be faulty.
Lid Switch Problems: Although less common in front-load washers, a faulty lid switch can sometimes interfere with the drain cycle, especially if the control board interprets its signal incorrectly.

Symptoms Checklist

These symptoms can help you confirm that your washer is indeed having draining problems:

Standing water remains in the drum after a wash cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
The drain cycle takes an unusually long time.
The washer displays an error code related to draining.
Clothes are soaking wet at the end of the cycle.

How to Fix frigidaire affinity front load washer not draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Frigidaire Affinity washer’s draining issue:

Unplug the Washer: Disconnect the washer from the power outlet for safety.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the washer. You might need a screwdriver to open the panel.
Prepare for Water: Place a shallow pan or towel under the access panel to catch any spilled water.
Open the Filter Access: Carefully open the access panel and unscrew the drain pump filter cap. Turn it counterclockwise.
Clean the Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. Remove any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
Inspect the Filter Housing: Check the inside of the filter housing for any obstructions.
Reinstall the Filter: Screw the filter cap back on securely, making sure it’s tight.
Close the Access Panel: Close the access panel.
Check the Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer.
Inspect for Kinks and Bends: Straighten any kinks or bends in the hose.
Detach the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe or standpipe.
Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the hose to flush out any clogs. You can use a garden hose for this.
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe isn’t clogged. A simple test is to pour a bucket of water into the drainpipe. If it drains slowly, it’s clogged. Consider using a drain snake to remove the blockage.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to the drainpipe, ensuring it’s not pushed too far in (no more than 6 inches).
Plug in the Washer: Reconnect the washer to the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Run a short wash cycle to see if the washer drains properly.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before resorting to part replacements, try these solutions:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes to reset the control board. Plug it back in and try again.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a washer cleaner to remove buildup and debris that might be affecting the drain pump.
Check the Load Size: Avoid overloading the washer. Smaller loads drain more efficiently.
Ensure Proper Drain Hose Height: The drain hose should be at the correct height (usually between 30 and 96 inches) to prevent siphoning. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Frigidaire Affinity washer still isn’t draining, the drain pump itself might be faulty. Replacing the drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200, including parts and labor. Other less common, but more costly replacement parts could be the control board ($150-$350). Consult a qualified appliance repair technician to determine the best course of action.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or 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, contact a qualified technician.
Do not use excessive force when removing or reinstalling parts.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Bucket
Drain snake (optional)
Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer draining problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?
A: This usually indicates a blockage in the drain pump or a faulty pump motor. Clean the drain pump filter first.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
A: If the pump is making unusual noises, not running at all, or the impeller doesn’t spin freely, it’s likely faulty.
Q: Can I replace the drain pump myself?
A: Yes, if you’re comfortable with basic appliance repair. However, consider calling a technician if you’re unsure.
Q: What does the “E20” or similar error code mean?
A: This usually indicates a draining problem. Consult your owner’s manual for a specific code definition.
Q: Can too much detergent cause draining problems?
A: Yes, excessive detergent can create suds that interfere with the draining process. Use the recommended amount.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Frigidaire Affinity washer that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Start with the easy fixes like cleaning the filter and checking the drain hose. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and your washer still isn’t draining, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!