Washing Machine Not Draining Water Out

Introduction

A washing machine refusing to drain is a common and frustrating problem. Imagine laundry piling up because your washer is stuck with a tub full of water. This isn’t just inconvenient; it can also lead to unpleasant smells and potential damage to your machine. Addressing this promptly is key to preventing bigger issues and getting your laundry routine back on track.

Common Causes of Washing Machine Not Draining Water Out

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

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can easily get blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter is designed to catch debris before it reaches the drain pump. It needs regular cleaning.
Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A simple kink in the drain hose can restrict water flow.
Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out. If it’s broken, the water won’t go anywhere.
Clogged Standpipe: The standpipe is the pipe that the drain hose empties into. If it’s clogged, water can’t escape.
Lid Switch Problem: Some washing machines won’t drain if the lid switch (which senses if the lid is closed) is malfunctioning.
Control Panel Issue: A glitch in the washing machine’s control panel might prevent it from initiating the drain cycle.
Overloading the Washer: Packing too many clothes into the washer can sometimes strain the system and hinder draining.

Symptoms Checklist

Here’s how to identify if your washing machine is struggling to drain:

Water remains in the drum after a wash cycle.
You hear a humming noise but no water is being pumped out.
The washing machine stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining.
Water drains very slowly compared to normal.
The drain hose feels unusually stiff or blocked.

How to Fix Washing Machine Not Draining Water Out Step-by-Step Guide

Unplug the Washing Machine: This is the most important safety precaution.
Locate the Drain Hose: It’s usually at the back of the washing machine.
Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks or bends.
Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach it from the standpipe or drain connection. Have a bucket ready to catch any water.
Check the Drain Hose for Blockages: Use a long object like a garden hose or a straightened coat hanger to push through the hose and dislodge any blockages. Flush with water.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: It’s usually at the front or bottom of the machine, behind a small access panel. Consult your owner’s manual.
Drain Remaining Water from the Filter Area: Place a shallow pan or towel to catch any water that spills out when you open the filter access.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Unscrew the filter and remove any lint, coins, buttons, or other debris. Rinse it thoroughly.
Inspect the Drain Pump Area: Shine a flashlight into the pump area and check for any visible obstructions.
Reassemble the Drain Pump Filter: Securely screw the filter back into place.
Reattach the Drain Hose: Make sure the drain hose is securely connected to the standpipe or drain connection.
Check the Standpipe: If the drain hose empties into a standpipe, make sure the standpipe isn’t clogged. You can try using a plumbing snake or drain cleaner.
Plug the Washing Machine Back In:
Run a Rinse and Spin Cycle: This will test if the washing machine is now draining properly.
Observe the Drainage: Watch the machine as it drains to ensure the water is flowing freely.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things you can try before considering replacing parts:

Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the washing machine for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear minor glitches.
Run a Cleaning Cycle: Many washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle. Use it regularly to prevent buildup.
Inspect the Lid Switch: Make sure the lid switch is engaging properly when the lid is closed.
Reduce Laundry Load: Avoid overloading the washing machine.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still won’t drain, the drain pump might be faulty and need replacing. A new drain pump can cost between $50 and $200, depending on the model. Other parts that could potentially fail include the lid switch or the control panel, but these are less common causes of draining problems.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.
Be careful when handling water to avoid slipping and falling.
If you’re not comfortable working with electrical appliances, consult a qualified technician.
Do not use excessive force when removing or reinstalling parts.

Tools You May Need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or pan
Towels
Flashlight
Garden hose or coat hanger (for clearing blockages)

FAQ

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

Q: Why is my washing machine making a humming noise but not draining?
A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is blocked or faulty. Check the drain pump filter for obstructions.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
A: If the pump makes a humming noise but doesn’t pump water, or if the pump is completely silent, it’s likely faulty.
Q: Can I use a drain cleaner in my washing machine?
A: It’s generally not recommended, as it can damage the washing machine’s components. Try to manually clear the blockage first.
Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
A: Ideally, you should clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washing machine.

Conclusion

Dealing with a washing machine that won’t drain can be frustrating, but with a little patience and these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Try these fixes before calling a technician. However, if you are not comfortable with these steps, consulting a professional is the best option.