Washer Filled With Water And Won T Drain

Introduction

Discovering your washing machine is full of water after a cycle is complete (or worse, mid-cycle!) is frustrating. Not only does it prevent you from doing laundry, but it can also lead to water damage and even mold growth if left unattended. This issue, where your washer filled with water and won’t drain, is a common problem homeowners face. Addressing it quickly is important to prevent further complications and get your laundry routine back on track. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting the problem step-by-step, even if you’re a complete beginner.

Common Causes of washer filled with water and won’t drain

Several issues can cause your washing machine to refuse to drain:

Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose can become blocked with lint, small objects, or soap residue.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Most washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can get clogged, preventing drainage.
Drain Pump Malfunction: The drain pump itself might be faulty or worn out, unable to pump the water out.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe where the drain hose connects might be clogged, preventing water from flowing out.
Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Lid Switch Problem: The lid switch tells the washer that the lid is closed, allowing it to spin and drain. If it’s broken, the washer might not drain.
Faulty Pressure Switch: The pressure switch monitors the water level. If it malfunctions, it might not signal the washer to drain.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Trapped air in the drain hose can prevent proper drainage.
Over-Sudsing: Using too much detergent, especially non-HE detergent in an HE machine, can create excessive suds that prevent draining.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some things to check that confirm you have a draining problem:

Washer is full of water after the wash cycle.
Washer makes a humming or buzzing noise but doesn’t drain.
Water drains very slowly.
You find small objects or excessive lint near the drain pump area.
Error code related to draining appears on the washer’s display panel.

How to Fix washer filled with water and won’t drain Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your washing machine:

Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the power before working on any appliance.
Locate the Drain Hose: It’s usually at the back of the washer.
Check for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks or twists in the drain hose.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe or sink. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that spills out.
Inspect the Drain Hose: Look inside the hose for any visible clogs. You can use a long, flexible object (like a straightened coat hanger) to dislodge any blockages.
Flush the Drain Hose: Connect a garden hose to the drain hose and flush it with water to remove any remaining debris.
Check the Drainpipe: Make sure the drainpipe or sink drain is not clogged. You can use a drain snake or plumber’s snake to clear any blockages.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your washer’s manual for the exact location.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or small objects.
Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, inspect the drain pump for any visible obstructions. You might be able to reach in and remove any debris.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short spin/drain cycle to see if it drains properly.
Listen for Unusual Noises: If the drain pump is making a loud humming or grinding noise, it might be failing.
Check the Lid Switch: With the washer unplugged, locate the lid switch (usually near the lid hinge). Press it manually to see if it clicks. If it doesn’t click or seems loose, it might be faulty.
Reduce Suds: If you suspect over-sudsing, run an empty cycle with no detergent to flush out excess soap.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things you can try that don’t involve buying new parts:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 10-15 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Cleaning Cycle: Run a cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner to help remove soap residue and buildup.
Recalibration (If Applicable): Some washers have a recalibration cycle that can help reset the water level sensors. Check your owner’s manual.
Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean the drain pump filter and avoid using excessive detergent.
Inspect Hose Connections: Ensure all hose connections are tight and secure to prevent leaks and airlocks.

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 and need replacement. Replacing a drain pump typically costs between $80 and $200, including the part and labor if you hire a technician. The lid switch and pressure switch are other parts that might eventually fail and require replacement.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid electrical shock.
Clean up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.
If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket
Towels
Drain snake or plumber’s snake
Garden Hose

FAQ

Here are some common questions about washing machine drainage problems:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates a problem with the drain pump, either a blockage or a failing motor.
Q: How often should I clean my 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 any type of detergent in my HE washing machine? A: No, you must use HE (High Efficiency) detergent specifically designed for HE washers. Using regular detergent can cause excessive suds and drainage problems.
Q: What do I do if the water is overflowing? A: Immediately turn off the water supply to the washing machine and unplug it. Then, try to manually drain the water using a bucket or wet vacuum. You may need professional assistance to diagnose and fix the overflow issue.

Conclusion

A washer that won’t drain can be a frustrating problem, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve exhausted all your DIY options and your washer is still giving you trouble, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance. Getting your washer back in working order will be worth the effort, so you can stop thinking about washer filled with water and won’t drain, and get back to enjoying fresh, clean clothes.