Samsung Washer Doesn T Drain

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain can be a real headache. It leaves you with a tub full of wet clothes, delaying laundry day and potentially causing a smelly mess. This problem is surprisingly common and can happen due to various reasons, from simple clogs to more complex mechanical issues. Addressing this issue quickly is important to prevent mold growth, damage to your washer, and unnecessary inconvenience.

Common Causes of Samsung Washer Doesn’t Drain

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Samsung washer might not be draining properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: This is the most common culprit. Lint, small objects, and debris can build up in the hose, blocking the water flow.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter is designed to catch larger items that might damage the pump. If it’s full, it will prevent the washer from draining.
Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose restricts water flow, and a blockage inside the hose can also stop the drainage.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing water out of the washer. If it’s malfunctioning or burnt out, it won’t be able to do its job.
Blocked Drain Pipe: The pipe your drain hose connects to could be clogged. This prevents the washer from pushing the water out.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: An air lock can occur in the drain hose, preventing proper siphoning of the water.
Lid Switch Issues: In some models, a faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from entering the drain cycle.
Control Board Malfunction: Although less common, a problem with the washer’s control board could prevent it from signaling the drain pump to start.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators that can help you pinpoint the drainage issue:

Washer stops mid-cycle, leaving clothes soaking wet.
You hear a humming sound, but the water doesn’t drain.
The drain hose is visibly kinked or bent.
Water drains very slowly, or not at all.
Error codes related to draining appear on the washer’s display.
The drain pump area feels abnormally hot.
The washer smells musty or moldy.

How to Fix Samsung Washer Doesn’t Drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and hopefully fix your draining problem:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before starting any troubleshooting.
Locate the Drain Hose: It’s usually at the back of the washer.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks or bends in the hose. Ensure it’s not crushed or pinched.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drain pipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that might spill out.
Check the Drain Hose for Blockages: Shine a flashlight into the hose to look for visible obstructions. You can try flushing it out with a garden hose or running water from a faucet.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is typically located at the front, bottom of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owners manual for specific location.
Drain the Remaining Water: Place a shallow pan or towel beneath the access panel. There will be water trapped. Slowly open the filter access and allow the water to drain.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Once the water is drained, carefully remove the drain pump filter. Rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump Area: Shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing (where the filter was). Look for any visible obstructions. You can try using pliers or tweezers to carefully remove any large items you find.
Reassemble the Drain Pump Filter: Once everything is clean, reinsert the drain pump filter and close the access panel securely.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to the drain pipe, ensuring it’s securely attached.
Plug in the Washer: Plug the washing machine back into the power outlet.
Run a Test Cycle: Select a short spin cycle and run it to see if the washer now drains properly.
Check for Leaks: Monitor the drain hose and pump area during the test cycle for any leaks.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some free methods to try:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 10 minutes. Plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and clear error codes.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar to run a cleaning cycle. This can help dissolve buildup in the drain system.
Check the Owners Manual: Some Samsung washers have specific recalibration procedures. Refer to your manual.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the lint filter after every wash and periodically inspect the drain hose to prevent future clogs.

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 $50 and $200 for the part, plus labor if you hire a technician. Other parts that could potentially fail include the lid switch or the control board, but these are less common causes. It’s best to consult with a qualified appliance repair technician for diagnosis and repair.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when handling water; mop up any spills immediately to prevent slips.
Do not attempt to repair electrical components unless you are qualified.
If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and Flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or Pan
Flashlight
Towels

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A partial clog in the drain hose or drain pump filter is the most likely cause.
Q: What does a faulty drain pump sound like? A: It might make a humming, grinding, or buzzing noise, or no noise at all.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: Check the filter every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you wash heavily soiled items.
Q: Can I use bleach to unclog the drain hose? A: No, bleach can damage the drain hose and other components. Use hot water or a specialized drain cleaner.

Conclusion

A Samsung washer that won’t drain is a frustrating problem, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you might be able to fix it yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual. If you’ve exhausted all options and the issue persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for professional assistance.