Frigidaire Washer Doesn T Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a common household headache. When your Frigidaire washer refuses to empty after a wash cycle, it leaves you with a tub full of water and soaking wet clothes. This issue needs to be addressed quickly because prolonged moisture can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your laundry. Luckily, many drainage problems have simple solutions you can try at home before calling a repair technician.

Common Causes of Frigidaire Washer Doesn’t Drain

Several factors can prevent your Frigidaire washer from draining properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose can become blocked with lint, small objects (like socks or buttons), or soap residue.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Many Frigidaire washers have a filter near the drain pump that catches debris to protect the pump. This filter can become clogged.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink or twist in the drain hose restricts water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it fails, the washer won’t drain.
Clogged House Drain: The drainpipe where the washer drains into may be clogged, preventing the washer from emptying.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Sometimes air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing the washer from draining properly.
Lid Switch Problems: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch is faulty and doesn’t register that the lid is closed.
Control Board Issues: While less common, a faulty control board can sometimes cause drainage problems.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the issue:

Washer completes the wash cycle but the tub remains full of water.
You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the washer during the drain cycle, but no water is being pumped out.
The drain hose is not expelling any water during the drain cycle.
The “drain” light or error code is illuminated on the washer’s control panel.
Water drains very slowly or only partially.

How to Fix Frigidaire Washer Doesn’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your Frigidaire washer’s drainage problem:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always disconnect the power to the washer before performing any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks or Twists: Straighten out any kinks or twists in the drain hose. Ensure the hose isn’t pinched behind the washer.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Make sure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
Check the Drainpipe: Remove the drain hose from the drainpipe and check for clogs. You can use a drain snake or a bent wire hanger to clear any blockage.
Locate and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. Typically, it’s located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the washer.
Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that may spill out when you remove the filter.
Remove the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew or pull out the filter. Clean it thoroughly with water to remove any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing and check for any visible obstructions.
Check the Lid Switch: Visually inspect the lid switch for any damage. If it appears damaged, it may need to be tested or replaced (though try all other steps first).
Reconnect the Drain Hose and Filter: After cleaning the filter and checking for obstructions, reassemble everything. Ensure the filter is securely in place.
Plug in the Washer: Reconnect the power cord to the washer.
Run a Test Cycle: Select a short “drain and spin” cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.
Check for Leaks: While the washer is running the test cycle, check for any leaks around the drain hose, filter, or pump area.
Consider an Air Gap: Ensure the drain hose has an “air gap” which is when the end of the drain hose is not submerged in the drain pipe.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many drainage issues can be resolved without replacing any parts:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Deep Cleaning: Run an empty wash cycle with a washer cleaner to remove soap buildup and residue that may be contributing to the clog.
Check the Washer Level: An unlevel washer can sometimes have drainage problems. Use a level to make sure the washer is properly leveled.
Proper Loading: Avoid overloading the washer, as this can strain the drain pump.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself might be faulty. A drain pump replacement typically costs between $50 and $200 USD, depending on the model. Other less common parts that might need replacement are the lid switch or the control board, but these are more expensive to replace and are usually best left to a professional technician. First check to make sure that the impeller in the drain pump is not broken or obstructed.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any repairs.
Be careful when working with water and electricity.
Clean up any spills immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Flashlight
Drain snake or bent wire hanger
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Frigidaire washer drainage problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is blocked or faulty. Check the drain pump filter and clear any obstructions.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the drain pump is making unusual noises, not pumping water, or is visibly damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Q: Can I use a plunger to unclog my washer drain? A: It’s generally not recommended, as it can damage the washer’s internal components.
Q: How often should I clean my washer’s drain pump filter? A: It’s a good idea to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.

Conclusion

Don’t let a Frigidaire washer that won’t drain ruin your laundry day! By following these simple troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself and save money on repair costs. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.