Samsung Top Load Washer Won T Drain

Introduction

Is your Samsung top load washer stubbornly refusing to drain, leaving your clothes soaking and your laundry room in a potential state of emergency? A washer full of water is a common and frustrating issue. Not only does it prevent you from doing laundry, but the standing water can quickly become a breeding ground for mildew and bacteria. Addressing this quickly is important to prevent damage to your clothes, your washer, and even your home. This guide will walk you through easy steps to diagnose and fix the problem, even if you’ve never worked on an appliance before.

Common Causes of Samsung Top Load Washer Won’t Drain

Here are some of the most frequent culprits behind a Samsung top load washer that’s holding water:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose, responsible for carrying water away, can easily become blocked with lint, small objects (socks, coins), or soap residue.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Many Samsung washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can become clogged.
• Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A simple kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is the motor that actively pumps the water out of the washer. If it’s broken, it won’t be able to do its job.
• Clogged Standpipe: The standpipe is the pipe that the drain hose empties into. A clog in this pipe can prevent the washer from draining.
• Lid Switch Problem: The lid switch tells the washer that the lid is closed, allowing it to spin and drain. If the switch is faulty, the washer may not drain.
• Air Lock: Sometimes, air can become trapped in the drain system, creating an “air lock” that prevents water from flowing freely.
• Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, a problem with the washer’s electronic control board can prevent the drain cycle from starting.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the exact problem:

• Washer is full of water after a wash cycle.
• Washer makes a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
• Washer displays an error code related to draining. (Look up the error code in your washer’s manual).
• Washer drains very slowly.
• Water is leaking from the drain hose or pump area.
• The drain hose is kinked or blocked.

How to Fix Samsung Top Load Washer Won’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your washer:

1. Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
2. Check the Drain Hose: Carefully inspect the drain hose for any kinks, twists, or obstructions. Straighten out any kinks and ensure the hose is not pinched.
3. Inspect the Standpipe: Make sure the standpipe (the drain pipe the hose goes into) isn’t clogged. You can use a plumbing snake or a bent wire to clear any blockages.
4. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front, near the bottom of the washer, behind a small access panel.
5. Drain the Washer (If Possible): Before removing the filter, try to drain as much water as possible. Use a wet/dry vacuum, siphon the water out, or carefully tilt the washer to drain it into a bucket.
6. Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter. Clean it thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
7. Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, look inside the filter housing. Can you see the drain pump impeller (the little fan that spins)? Try to gently rotate it with your finger. If it’s stuck or feels stiff, there might be an obstruction in the pump itself.
8. Clear Obstructions (Carefully!): If you see an obstruction in the pump, carefully try to remove it with tweezers or pliers. Be very careful not to damage the impeller blades.
9. Reassemble the Filter and Housing: Once the filter and pump area are clean, reassemble the filter and housing securely.
10. Check the Lid Switch: The lid switch ensures the washer only spins when closed. A faulty switch might prevent draining too. Clean any visible debris. Gently push the switch manually to see if it clicks smoothly.
11. Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short spin cycle to see if it drains properly.
12. Check for Error Codes: If the washer still doesn’t drain, check the display panel for any error codes. Consult your owner’s manual to understand the meaning of the code and possible solutions.
13. Reset the Washer: Sometimes, a simple reset can solve the problem. Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many draining problems can be resolved without spending any money:

• Reset the Washer: Unplugging the washer for 5-10 minutes is a simple reset that can sometimes clear up electronic glitches.
• Thorough Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the drain pump filter and checking for hose kinks should be part of your washer’s maintenance.
• Inspect and Recalibrate (If Applicable): Some washers have recalibration cycles. Refer to your user manual.
• Maintenance Basics: Use the correct amount of detergent. Too much detergent can lead to excessive suds, which can interfere with draining. Run a washer cleaner cycle monthly.

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. Replacing the drain pump can cost between $50 and $150 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. Other less common but potentially costly issues involve the control board ($100-$300 plus labor). Before replacing any parts, get a professional diagnosis to ensure you’re addressing the root cause of the problem.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when working with water and electricity. Avoid standing in puddles.
• If you’re not comfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
• Wear gloves to protect your hands from dirt and grime.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Bucket
• Towels
• Wet/dry vacuum (optional)
• Plumbing snake or bent wire (for clearing standpipe)
• Gloves

FAQ

• Q: My washer is making a humming noise but not draining. What does this mean? A: This often indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Check the drain pump filter for obstructions.
• Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the filter every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you notice slow draining.
• Q: My washer displays an error code related to draining. What should I do? A: Consult your owner’s manual to identify the error code and the recommended troubleshooting steps.
• Q: Can I use bleach to clean the drain pump filter? A: No, avoid using bleach on the filter. It can damage the material. Just use warm water and a soft brush.
• Q: The water is draining very slowly. Is that normal? A: No, slow draining usually indicates a partial blockage. Check the drain hose, standpipe, and drain pump filter.

Conclusion

Don’t let a washer full of water ruin your day! By following these simple troubleshooting steps, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. If you’ve exhausted all the DIY options and your washer still refuses to drain, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician.