Washer Won T Drain The Water

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t drain is a common and frustrating problem for homeowners. The water sitting in the drum after a wash cycle can prevent you from removing your clothes and can even lead to mold and mildew growth. Addressing this issue quickly is important to prevent further damage to your washing machine and avoid unpleasant odors. This guide will walk you through simple steps to diagnose and fix the problem, without needing advanced technical skills or expensive parts.

Common Causes of washer won t drain the water

Here are some common reasons why your washing machine might not be draining:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries the water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, small items (like socks or coins), or soap scum.
• Blocked Drainpipe: The standpipe where the drain hose empties can also become clogged, preventing the water from flowing freely.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: Most washing machines have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. This filter can become clogged, stopping the pump from working correctly.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If the pump is broken or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to drain the water.
• Blocked Air Vent (or Standpipe too low): If air can’t enter the drainpipe as water flows out, a vacuum can form, stopping the draining process. Similarly, if the top of the standpipe is lower than the water level in the washing machine, the washer won’t drain.
• Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink or twist in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
• Lid Switch Problems: Some washing machines won’t drain if the lid switch (which detects if the lid is closed) is faulty. This is more common in top-loading machines.
• Control Panel Issues: In some cases, a problem with the washing machine’s control panel can prevent it from sending the signal to drain.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the specific problem:

• Water remains in the washer drum after the cycle is complete.
• The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound, but doesn’t drain.
• The washer doesn’t make any sound when it should be draining.
• You see an error code on the washer’s display related to draining.
• The drain hose is visibly kinked or damaged.
• Water drains very slowly, or only a small amount drains.

How to Fix washer won t drain the water Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem:

1. Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
2. Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any kinks, twists, or visible blockages. Straighten any kinks and make sure the hose is securely connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
3. Inspect the Drainpipe (Standpipe): Make sure the drainpipe isn’t clogged. You can try using a plumbing snake or a bent wire hanger to clear any obstructions.
4. Locate and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your washer’s owner’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the front, bottom of the machine behind a small access panel.
5. Remove the Filter: Carefully remove the drain pump filter. Be prepared for some water to spill out, so have a towel handy.
6. Clean the Filter: Rinse the filter under running water, removing any lint, hair, or other debris. Use a small brush to scrub it clean.
7. Reinstall the Filter: Carefully reinsert the clean filter into its housing and close the access panel. Make sure its properly secured.
8. Check the Drain Pump: With the filter removed (and unplugged!), shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing. Look for any visible obstructions like coins or small objects that may be jamming the pump impeller.
9. Test the Lid Switch (Top-Loading Washers): If you have a top-loading washer, try manually pushing the lid switch (usually a small plastic lever) to see if it triggers the drain cycle. Be extremely careful not to touch any internal parts.
10. Reset the Washer: Sometimes, a simple reset can fix the problem. Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in and try running a drain and spin cycle.
11. Check for Error Codes: Consult your owner’s manual for the meaning of any error codes displayed on the washer’s control panel. This can help pinpoint the exact problem.
12. Run a Test Cycle: After performing these checks, run a short drain and spin cycle to see if the washer is now draining properly.
13. Elevate the Drain Hose: Ensure that the drain hose reaches a height of at least 30 inches from the floor (check your owner’s manual for exact requirements). This prevents siphoning.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many drainage problems can be resolved without replacing any parts:

• Reset the Washer: As mentioned, unplugging the washer for a few minutes can sometimes clear minor electrical glitches.
• Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean the drain pump filter and run a washer cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner to prevent build-up of lint and soap scum.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check the drain hose and inlet hoses (the ones that connect to the water supply) for cracks, bulges, or kinks.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can put strain on the drain pump and other components.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, the drain pump may be faulty and need replacement. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD, depending on the model of your washing machine. Other parts that sometimes fail and require replacement are the lid switch (for top-loading washers) and the control panel, but try all other cheaper options first.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs.
• Be careful when handling water to avoid slips and falls.
• If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
• Never stick your hand into the washing machine while it’s running.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Plumbing snake or wire hanger
• Bucket
• Towels
• Flashlight
• Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washing machine drainage problems:

• Q: Why is my washer draining slowly? A: A slow drain is usually caused by a partial blockage in the drain hose, drainpipe, or drain pump filter.
• Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter? A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of lint-producing items.
• Q: Can I use a chemical drain cleaner in my washing machine? A: It’s generally not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in washing machines, as they can damage the plastic components.
• Q: My washer is making a loud buzzing noise but not draining. What could it be? A: This usually indicates a problem with the drain pump. The pump may be blocked or faulty.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a washing machine that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions related to your model. If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting options and the washer still won’t drain, it may be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Good luck!

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