Whirlpool Washer Drain Clean

Introduction

Is your Whirlpool washing machine leaving your clothes soaking wet after a cycle? Or maybe it’s making strange gurgling noises and not draining properly? These are classic signs of a clogged drain. A clogged washer drain can be a real headache. It not only leaves your clothes wet and smelly but can also lead to water damage in your laundry room. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer Drain Clean Issues

Several things can cause a Whirlpool washer’s drain to clog. Here are some common culprits:

• Lint Buildup: Lint is a major offender. Over time, it accumulates in the drain hose and pump filter, restricting water flow.
• Small Objects: Socks, coins, buttons, and other small items can accidentally make their way into the drain and cause a blockage.
• Soap Scum: Excessive use of detergent, especially powdered detergent, can lead to soap scum buildup that clogs the drain.
• Hair: Hair can easily get caught in the drain pump and cause blockages.
• Foreign Debris: Dirt, sand, and other debris from heavily soiled clothes can contribute to drain clogs.
• Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A kinked or crushed drain hose can restrict water flow. Sometimes the hose is just clogged itself.
• Drain Pump Issues: While not always a clog, a faulty drain pump might not be able to effectively pump water out.
• Standpipe Issues: The standpipe (the pipe your drain hose empties into) may be clogged, causing water to back up into the washer.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some telltale signs that your Whirlpool washer drain might be clogged:

• Water remaining in the drum after a wash cycle.
• The washer making loud gurgling or straining noises during the drain cycle.
• The wash cycle takes longer than usual.
• A foul odor coming from the washer.
• Water backing up into the laundry sink or floor drain.
• Error codes displayed on the washer’s control panel related to draining.

How to Fix Whirlpool Washer Drain Clean Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and clear a clogged Whirlpool washer drain:

1. Unplug the Washer: Safety first! Disconnect the washer from the power outlet to prevent electric shock.
2. Turn off the Water Supply: Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves behind the washer and turn them off.
3. Locate the Drain Hose: The drain hose is usually located at the back of the washer.
4. Inspect the Drain Hose: Check the hose for kinks, bends, or crushing. Straighten any kinks or replace the hose if it’s damaged.
5. Disconnect the Drain Hose: Carefully disconnect the drain hose from the standpipe or drainpipe. Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
6. Check the Standpipe: Inspect the standpipe for any visible clogs. You can use a drain snake or plumber’s auger to clear any blockages.
7. Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the drain hose to flush out any loose debris. You can use a garden hose or a sink faucet.
8. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: On many Whirlpool models, the drain pump filter is located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
9. Access the Drain Pump Filter: Open the access panel and carefully unscrew the drain pump filter cap. Be prepared for water to spill out. Have a towel and a shallow pan handy.
10. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly. Remove any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
11. Inspect the Drain Pump: While the filter is removed, shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing and check for any obstructions. You can try to remove any visible debris with pliers or tweezers. Be careful not to damage the pump impeller (the spinning part).
12. Reassemble the Filter: Reinstall the drain pump filter and tighten the cap securely.
13. Reconnect the Drain Hose: Reattach the drain hose to the standpipe or drainpipe. Make sure it’s securely connected.
14. Turn on the Water Supply: Turn the hot and cold water shut-off valves back on.
15. Plug in the Washer: Plug the washer back into the power outlet.
16. Run a Test Cycle: Run a short wash cycle to test the drain and ensure that the problem is resolved. Observe for any leaks or unusual noises.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you consider replacing parts, try these free methods:

• Run a Clean Washer Cycle: Many Whirlpool washers have a “Clean Washer” cycle. Use this cycle with a washer cleaner (following the product’s instructions) to help remove buildup and debris.
• Hot Water Wash: Periodically run an empty wash cycle with hot water and a cup of white vinegar to help dissolve soap scum and freshen the washer.
• Regular Cleaning: Wipe down the inside of the washer drum and door seal regularly to prevent mildew and buildup.
• Reduced Detergent: Use only the recommended amount of detergent. Excessive detergent can lead to soap scum buildup.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check the water inlet and drain hoses for any signs of damage or wear. Replace them if necessary.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain, you might need to replace a part. The drain pump is the most common culprit in drain issues. Replacement cost can range from $50 to $150, depending on the model. The drain hose can also fail due to cracks or collapses, costing around $20 to $50 to replace. A professional repair person may be needed if replacing internal parts is too challenging.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Turn off the water supply to the washer before disconnecting any hoses.
• Be careful when working with water and electricity. Avoid creating a wet environment.
• If you’re not comfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket
• Towels
• Drain snake or plumber’s auger
• Flashlight
• Shallow pan

FAQ

• Q: Why is my washer making a loud buzzing noise when it tries to drain?
  A: This often indicates a blockage in the drain pump or a failing pump motor.
• Q: How often should I clean my washer’s drain pump filter?
  A: Ideally, you should clean it every 3-6 months, or more often if you wash heavily soiled clothes.
• Q: My washer is displaying an error code related to draining. What should I do?
  A: Consult your owner’s manual to identify the error code and its meaning. The manual should provide specific troubleshooting steps.
• Q: Can I use bleach to clean my washer’s drain?
  A: While bleach can help disinfect the washer, it’s not recommended for clearing clogs. It can damage rubber components and is not effective at dissolving lint or debris. Use a dedicated washer cleaner or vinegar instead.
• Q: How do I prevent future drain clogs?
  A: Use the correct amount of HE detergent, clean the drain pump filter regularly, and check pockets before washing clothes to remove potential obstructions.

Conclusion

Dealing with a clogged Whirlpool washer drain can be frustrating, but with these troubleshooting steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. By following this guide, you can save money on repair costs and keep your washer running smoothly. Before calling a technician, give these steps a try. You might be surprised at how easy it is to fix!

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