Samsung Front Load Washer Will Not Drain

Introduction

Finding your laundry still sopping wet after a wash cycle is frustrating. A Samsung front load washer that won’t drain can lead to mildew smells, ruined clothes, and a general disruption to your laundry routine. The good news is that many drain issues are caused by simple blockages that can be easily resolved without calling a costly repair technician. Let’s get your washer back in working order!

Common Causes of Samsung Front Load Washer Not Draining

Here are some common reasons why your Samsung front load washer might be refusing to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most frequent culprit. Lint, small objects, or soap buildup can block the hose.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter catches debris before it reaches the drain pump, but it can become clogged over time.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow.
Drain Pump Malfunction: If the pump is faulty, it won’t be able to push the water out.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where your washer drains into could be clogged.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Air trapped in the hose can prevent proper drainage.
Faulty Lid Switch/Door Lock: While less common on front loaders, a malfunctioning door lock could prevent the machine from completing its cycle, including draining.
Over Sudsing: Using too much detergent, especially non-HE detergent, creates excess suds that the washer struggles to remove, affecting the drain process.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to pinpoint the problem:

Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
Error codes related to draining are displayed on the control panel (e.g., 5E, 5C, nd).
The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
The drain pump filter is clogged with debris.
You smell a musty or moldy odor coming from the washer.

How to Fix Samsung Front Load Washer Not Draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your draining issue:

Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: On most Samsung front load washers, it’s located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. You might need a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it open.
Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or several towels under the access panel to catch any water that might spill out when you remove the filter.
Open the Drain Pump Filter Access: Some models have a small drain hose next to the filter. If so, carefully pull out the hose and remove the plug to drain the excess water into your pan.
Remove the Drain Pump Filter: Turn the filter counterclockwise to unscrew it. Be prepared for more water to come out.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove any lint, hair, coins, or other debris from the filter. Rinse it thoroughly under running water.
Inspect the Drain Pump Housing: Shine a flashlight into the filter housing and check for any obstructions inside the pump area. Carefully remove any debris you find.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Screw the filter back into place clockwise until it’s snug. Don’t overtighten. If applicable, re-plug the small drain hose.
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, twists, or clogs.
Flush the Drain Hose: Use a garden hose or a sink faucet to flush out any debris from the drain hose.
Check the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe in the wall isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake or a coat hanger to clear any blockages.
Reconnect the Drain Hose: Reattach the drain hose to the washer and the drainpipe, ensuring it’s securely connected.
Level the Washer: An unlevel washer can sometimes have draining problems. Use a level to check the washer’s position and adjust the legs as needed.
Plug in the Washer: Reconnect the power cord to the electrical outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Select a short wash cycle to see if the washer drains properly.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you consider replacing any parts, try these free methods:

Washer Reset: Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the electronic controls and resolve minor glitches.
Deep Clean: Run an empty washer cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove soap buildup and odors.
Recalibration (if available): Some models have a recalibration cycle in the settings. Consult your user manual.
Detergent Type & Amount: Make sure you’re using HE (High Efficiency) detergent and using the correct amount (usually indicated on the detergent bottle).

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, the drain pump itself might be faulty. Replacing the drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200 in parts and labor. Other less common parts to fail include the water level sensor, but replacing the pump is often the solution. If you aren’t comfortable replacing the pump yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when dealing with water to avoid electrical shock.
Avoid overfilling the drain pan, as this can create a slipping hazard.
If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances, contact a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Flathead screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver
Shallow pan or towels
Pliers
Flashlight
Plumbing snake (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Samsung front load washers that won’t drain:

Q: My washer displays an “5E” or “5C” error code. What does it mean? A: These error codes typically indicate a drainage problem. Follow the troubleshooting steps above to resolve the issue.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the filter every 1-3 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain pump filter? A: While bleach can be used to disinfect, it’s best to use warm water and a mild detergent to clean the filter to avoid damaging it.
Q: My washer drains very slowly. What could be the cause? A: A partially clogged drain hose or drain pump filter is the most likely cause. Follow the steps above to inspect and clean these components.

Conclusion

A Samsung front load washer that won’t drain can be a real nuisance, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted all options and the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance.