Front Load Whirlpool Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

A front-load Whirlpool washer refusing to drain is a common and frustrating problem. Imagine your laundry cycle finishes, but instead of clean, ready-to-dry clothes, you’re greeted with a tub full of water. This issue needs immediate attention because stagnant water can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odors, and potential damage to your clothing and the washer itself. Acting quickly can prevent further complications and costly repairs.

Common Causes of Front Load Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain

Several factors can cause your Whirlpool front-load washer to stubbornly hold onto water:

Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter catches lint, small objects, and debris that can block the drain pump.
Blocked Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become kinked, twisted, or clogged.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself may be malfunctioning and unable to expel the water.
Air Lock in the Drain System: Sometimes, air gets trapped in the drain hose, preventing the water from flowing freely.
Control Board Issues: A problem with the washer’s control board can prevent the drain cycle from initiating.
Overuse of Detergent: Excessive detergent can create suds that hinder the draining process.
Items Caught in the Tub: Small items like socks or undergarments can slip past the tub and obstruct the drain.
Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: Physical damage to the hose can impede water flow.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to confirm the problem:

Water remains in the washer drum after a completed cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
You see an error code related to draining on the washer’s display panel.
The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
The drain pump filter is clogged with lint or debris.
The washer successfully washes but fails to enter the drain/spin cycle.

How to Fix Front Load Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix the drainage issue:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, disconnect the washer from the power outlet before proceeding.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is typically located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the washer. You may need a screwdriver to open it. Have a towel ready, as some water will likely spill.
Drain the Remaining Water: Many models have a small drain hose near the filter. Carefully pull it out and remove the plug to drain the water into a shallow container.
Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Unscrew the filter cap (counter-clockwise). Clean the filter thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump Housing: With the filter removed, look inside the pump housing for any obstructions. You may need a flashlight.
Check the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer and from the drainpipe in the wall. Inspect it for kinks, clogs, or damage. Flush it out with water to remove any blockages.
Clear the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe in the wall is not clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any obstructions.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Securely reconnect the drain hose to the washer and the drainpipe. Make sure there are no kinks.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Place the cleaned filter back into the pump housing and tighten the cap securely.
Close the Access Panel: Reattach the access panel to the front of the washer.
Check for Air Lock: Sometimes an air lock can prevent draining. Try gently tilting the washer forward a few inches to see if this releases any trapped air.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short drain and spin cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check the Owners Manual: Your Whirlpool washers manual may have specific troubleshooting steps or error codes related to draining issues.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacing parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many Whirlpool washers have a cleaning cycle. Run this cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove detergent buildup and potential clogs.
Use Less Detergent: Switch to a high-efficiency (HE) detergent and use only the recommended amount to prevent excessive suds.
Inspect the Tub: After removing the drain pump filter, visually inspect the inside of the tub for socks or small items that may be lodged near the drain.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, you might need to replace the drain pump. Drain pumps typically cost between $50 and $150 (USD), depending on the model. Other less common but possible replacement parts include the drain hose ($20-$40) or the control board (can be $200-$400). However, replacing the control board should be a last resort, and only after a professional diagnoses the problem.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water near electrical components.
Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and debris.
Clean up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Towels
Shallow container
Flashlight
Plumbing snake (optional)
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some common questions about washing machine drainage issues:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming sound but not draining?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by an obstruction or is failing. Check the drain pump filter first.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: It’s recommended to clean the filter every 1-3 months, depending on your usage and how much lint your clothes produce.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain pump filter?
A: It’s best to avoid using bleach, as it can damage the filter material. Use warm water and a mild detergent.
Q: What does an error code related to draining mean?
A: The error code provides a clue about the problem. Consult your washer’s owner’s manual to understand the specific error code and troubleshooting steps.

Conclusion

Don’t let a washer that won’t drain ruin your laundry day! By following this troubleshooting guide, you can often resolve the issue yourself and save money on repair costs. Take it step by step, and remember to prioritize safety. If you’ve tried everything and the washer still won’t drain, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance.