Midea Top Load Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washing machine that refuses to drain can quickly turn laundry day into a stressful situation. If your Midea top load washer is holding water, it’s a problem you need to address promptly. Standing water can damage your clothes, lead to mold growth inside the machine, and even cause flooding in your laundry room. Don’t panic! Most drain issues are easily fixable with a bit of troubleshooting.

Common Causes of Midea Top Load Washer Not Draining

Here are several reasons why your Midea top load washer might not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most common culprit. Lint, small objects, or even soap buildup can block the hose that carries water away from the washer.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Many top load washers have a filter designed to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. If this filter is full, it will prevent proper drainage.
Kinked or Bent Drain Hose: If the drain hose is bent or kinked, it can restrict water flow.
Drain Hose Height: The height of the drain hose where it connects to the drainpipe is crucial. If it’s too low, siphoning can occur; if it’s too high, the pump may struggle to push the water out.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s failing or broken, it won’t be able to do its job.
Lid Switch Issues: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch (which detects whether the lid is closed) is faulty.
Control Board Malfunction: While less common, a problem with the washer’s control board could prevent the drain cycle from initiating.
Overloading the Washer: Putting too many clothes in the washer at once can sometimes strain the drain pump.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help pinpoint the issue:

Washer completes the wash cycle but leaves standing water in the tub.
Washer makes a humming or buzzing sound during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
Washer displays an error code related to draining. (Refer to your Midea washer’s manual for code meanings.)
Water drains very slowly.
You can visually inspect the drain hose and see a kink or blockage.

How to Fix Midea Top Load Washer Not Draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the draining issue:

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance. Safety first!
Inspect the Drain Hose: Carefully examine the entire length of the drain hose for kinks, bends, or visible blockages. Straighten any kinks.
Detach the Drain Hose: Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe (usually located in the wall).
Flush the Drain Hose: Use a garden hose or faucet to flush out any debris from the drain hose. You might be surprised at what comes out!
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe in the wall isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake to clear any obstructions.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your Midea washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s often behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter (be prepared for some water to spill out). Clean it thoroughly under running water to remove any lint, hair, or debris.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Securely reattach the drain pump filter.
Check the Drain Pump (Advanced): If cleaning the filter doesn’t work, you can try to access the drain pump itself. This often involves removing the washer’s back panel (refer to your manual for instructions).
Test the Drain Pump (Advanced): Once you have access to the pump, visually inspect it for damage. You can also try turning the pump impeller (fan blade) by hand to see if it’s stuck.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to both the washer and the drainpipe, ensuring a secure fit.
Proper Drain Hose Height: Ensure the top of the drain hose is not lower than 24 inches or higher than 96 inches from the floor. Your Midea manual can confirm the recommended height.
Plug in the Washer: Plug the washer back into the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Run a short wash cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.
Check for Error Codes: If the washer still doesn’t drain, check the display panel for any error codes. Refer to your Midea washer’s manual to troubleshoot the specific code.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many draining problems can be resolved without spending any money:

Washer Reset: Try unplugging the washer for 5 minutes to reset the control board. Sometimes a simple reset is all it takes.
Recalibration: Refer to your Midea washer’s manual for instructions on how to recalibrate the machine.
Regular Cleaning: Run a washer cleaning cycle regularly (usually with vinegar or a washer cleaner) to prevent buildup of soap and debris.
Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload the washer with too many clothes, 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 and require replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD. In rare cases, the control board could be the issue, which is a more expensive repair. However, try the steps outlined above before assuming you need to replace anything.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water, as it can create a slip hazard. Wipe up any spills immediately.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Garden hose
Plumbing snake (optional)

FAQ

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

Q: My washer is making a humming noise but not draining. What does that mean?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Check the drain pump filter for clogs.
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 how frequently you use the washer.
Q: What if I can’t find the drain pump filter?
A: Consult your Midea washer’s manual for the exact location of the drain pump filter.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine?
A: It’s generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in a washing machine, as they can damage the machine’s components.

Conclusion

A Midea top load washer that won’t drain can be frustrating, but don’t lose hope! By following this troubleshooting guide, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your washer’s manual for specific instructions. If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. But hopefully, you’ll be back to doing laundry in no time!