Samsung Vrt Plus Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a frustrating problem. It means your laundry is stuck in a soapy bath, and you can’t move forward with your washing. This often happens because of a blockage, a pump issue, or a problem with the drain hose. Addressing it quickly is important to prevent mold growth, bad odors, and further damage to your machine. Let’s walk through how to troubleshoot this issue on your Samsung VRT Plus washer.

Common Causes of Samsung VRT Plus Washer Not Draining

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Samsung VRT Plus washer might be failing to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away can get blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Most washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the pump. This filter can become clogged.
Drain Pump Malfunction: The pump itself might be broken or have a jammed impeller (the spinning part of the pump).
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow.
Blocked Drain Pipe: The pipe where the washer drain hose connects to your home’s plumbing could be clogged.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Sometimes air gets trapped in the hose, preventing proper draining.
Faulty Lid Switch: On some older models, a faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from entering the drain cycle.
Control Panel Issues: Although less common, a problem with the washer’s control panel could prevent it from initiating the drain cycle.

Symptoms Checklist

Look for these signs to confirm that you have a draining issue:

Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle is complete.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
An error code related to draining appears on the control panel (e.g., 5E, 5C, nd).
The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
Water drains very slowly, or only a small amount drains.

How to Fix Samsung VRT Plus Washer Not Draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the problem:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Make sure the drain hose isn’t bent, twisted, or pinched. Straighten it out if needed.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drain pipe.
Lower the Drain Hose: If the drain hose is too high, it can prevent proper siphoning. Ensure the top of the hose is no more than 96 inches (244 cm) above the floor.
Check the Drain Pipe: Disconnect the drain hose from the drain pipe and check for any obstructions. You can use a straightened coat hanger or a plumbing snake to clear the pipe.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your washer’s manual for the exact location.
Drain the Remaining Water: Before removing the filter, place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any spilled water.
Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew or unclip the filter and remove it. Clean any lint, hair, or debris from the filter.
Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, you might be able to see the impeller (the spinning part) of the drain pump. Check if anything is blocking the impeller. You can try to gently turn the impeller with your finger.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Securely reattach the filter, making sure it’s properly seated.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short spin cycle to see if it drains correctly.
Check for Error Codes: If the problem persists, check the washer’s display for any error codes. Consult your owner’s manual to interpret the code.
Check the Air Vent (if applicable): Some models have an air vent near the drain pump. Make sure this vent isn’t blocked.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, a simple reset or cleaning can solve the draining issue:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear minor electronic glitches.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar in an empty cycle to help remove buildup and prevent future clogs.
Regularly Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Make it a habit to clean the filter every few months to prevent clogs.
Inspect the Drain Hose Regularly: Look for kinks or damage to the hose and address them promptly.

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 new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 (USD), plus labor if you hire a technician. Other parts that could potentially fail include the control board (more expensive) or the drain hose (relatively inexpensive).

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when working with water to avoid electric shock.
If you’re not comfortable performing repairs yourself, consult a qualified appliance technician.
Clean up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.

Tools You May Need

Pliers
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Shallow pan or towels
Flashlight
Plumbing snake (optional)
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers:

Q: My washer is making a loud buzzing noise but not draining. What could it be?
A: This usually indicates a blocked drain pump. Check the drain pump filter and impeller for obstructions.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: Ideally, you should clean it every 2-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled clothes.
Q: What does error code “5E” (or similar) mean?
A: This error code typically indicates a draining problem. Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific meaning of the code and troubleshooting steps.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my washing machine?
A: Yes, but use it sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Too much bleach can damage some washer components. White vinegar is a gentler alternative for routine cleaning.

Conclusion

A Samsung VRT Plus washer not draining can often be fixed with a little troubleshooting and cleaning. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of a service call. If you’re still having trouble after trying these solutions, it might be time to call a qualified appliance technician.