Tromm Washer Not Draining

Introduction

A washer that won’t drain is a frustrating and common problem. When your Tromm washer refuses to empty after a cycle, it can leave your clothes sitting in stagnant water, potentially leading to mildew and unpleasant odors. This isn’t just inconvenient; it can also damage your clothes and potentially harm your washing machine. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further complications and get your laundry routine back on track.

Common Causes of tromm washer not draining

Several factors can prevent your Tromm washer from draining properly:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose, which carries water away from the washer, can become blocked with lint, debris, or small objects.
Obstructed Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter designed to catch lint and small items before they reach the drain pump. A full filter restricts water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for actively pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s broken or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to do its job.
Blocked Drain Pipe: The pipe where the drain hose connects to your house’s plumbing can be clogged.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink or twist in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Air Lock in Drain Hose: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing the pump from working effectively.
Lid Switch Problems: Although less common, a faulty lid switch might prevent the washer from advancing to the drain cycle.
Control Board Issues: In rare cases, a malfunctioning control board might not be signaling the drain pump to activate.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to accurately identify the problem:

Washer cycle completes, but water remains in the drum.
Washer makes a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
“Drain” or “Error” code displayed on the washer’s control panel.
Standing water in the laundry tub or floor around the washer.
Water drains very slowly.

How to Fix tromm washer not draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix your washer:

Unplug the Washer: For your safety, always disconnect the power cord from the outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any bends, twists, or kinks. Straighten them out.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drain pipe.
Lower the Drain Hose End: If the drain hose is positioned too high, it might prevent proper drainage. Make sure the end of the hose is lower than the water level inside the washer.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter:
- Locate the drain pump filter. It’s usually at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your owner’s manual if needed.
- Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that spills out.
- Carefully open the access panel and remove the filter.
- Clean the filter thoroughly under running water, removing any lint, debris, or foreign objects.
- Reinstall the filter securely and close the access panel.
Check the Drain Hose for Obstructions:
- Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drain pipe.
- Shine a flashlight into the hose to look for any visible blockages.
- Use a straightened coat hanger or a similar tool to gently dislodge any obstructions.
- Flush the hose with water to remove any remaining debris.
- Reconnect the hose securely.
Check the Drain Pipe: If you suspect a blockage in the drain pipe, try using a drain snake or plunger to clear it.
Listen for the Drain Pump: Plug the washer back in (temporarily!) and start a drain cycle. Listen carefully for the drain pump to activate. If you don’t hear it humming or buzzing, the pump may be faulty. Unplug the washer again immediately after testing.
Check the Lid Switch: If your washer has a lid switch, make sure it’s functioning correctly. A faulty switch might prevent the washer from draining. Try pressing the switch manually (while the washer is UNPLUGGED!) to see if it clicks.
Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After checking all the components, run a rinse and spin cycle to see if the washer drains properly.
Check for Air Lock: Disconnect the drain hose from the standpipe. Place the disconnected hose end into a bucket that is positioned lower than the washer drum. Select the drain/spin cycle and watch if water begins to drain into the bucket. If it does, the water should create a siphoning action and flow freely. If the water does not flow freely, try blowing into the drain hose to dislodge a possible air lock and allow the water to drain.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Often, you can resolve a drainage issue without spending money:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the drain pump filter (every 1-3 months) to prevent clogs.
Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check drain hoses periodically for kinks, cracks, or damage.
Use the Correct Amount of Detergent: Using too much detergent can lead to excessive suds, which can clog 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 may be faulty and require replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the model. Control board replacement is a last resort and significantly more expensive, ranging from $150 to $400. If your washer is quite old and you’ve already invested in repairs, it may be time to consider replacing the entire machine.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water, as it can create slippery surfaces. Wipe up any spills immediately.
If you’re not comfortable performing any of these repairs, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
When working near water, ensure you are wearing appropriate footwear to prevent electric shock.

Tools You May Need

Here’s a list of tools that can be helpful for this repair:

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Flashlight
Straightened coat hanger or similar tool
Drain snake (optional)
Plunger (optional)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A clogged drain pump filter or a partially blocked drain hose are the most likely causes.
Q: What does it mean when my washer makes a humming noise but doesn’t drain? A: This often indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by an obstruction.
Q: How often should I clean my drain pump filter? A: Ideally, clean it every 1-3 months, depending on how frequently you use your washer.
Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: No, avoid using chemical drain cleaners in your washing machine as they can damage the internal components.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Tromm washer that isn’t draining can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to prioritize safety by unplugging the washer before starting any repairs. If you’ve exhausted all these options and your washer still won’t drain, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Don’t be discouraged many drainage problems are simple to fix and can save you the cost of a service call!