Whirlpool Washer Not Pumping Water

Introduction

A washing machine that won’t pump water out is a common and frustrating problem. Nobody wants soaking wet clothes at the end of a wash cycle! If your Whirlpool washer isn’t draining, it can lead to mold growth, unpleasant smells, and damage to your clothes. Addressing this issue promptly is essential to prevent further complications and get your laundry routine back on track. Before calling a repair person, let’s explore some simple fixes you can try yourself.

Common Causes of whirlpool washer not pumping water

Here are several reasons why your Whirlpool washer might be refusing to drain:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: Many washers have a filter to catch debris before it reaches the pump. This filter can get clogged.
• Kinked or Damaged Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow, and a damaged hose can leak or completely block drainage.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be malfunctioning, unable to force the water out.
• Lid Switch Issues: Some washers won’t drain if the lid switch isn’t working correctly, as it signals that the washer is closed and safe to drain.
• Air Lock in the Drain System: Sometimes air gets trapped, preventing the water from flowing freely.
• Over Sudsing: Using too much detergent can create excessive suds that interfere with the pump’s ability to drain the water.
• Control Board Malfunction: While less common, a problem with the washer’s electronic control board could prevent the drain cycle from initiating.

Symptoms Checklist

Does your Whirlpool washer exhibit any of these symptoms?

• Washer stops mid-cycle and displays an error code related to draining.
• Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle is complete.
• You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the pump area, but no water is being pumped out.
• The washer makes no sound at all during the drain cycle.
• The drain hose is visibly bulging or leaking.
• The clothes are wetter than usual after the spin cycle.

How to Fix whirlpool washer not pumping water Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot your Whirlpool washer:

1. Unplug the Washer: Always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs. Safety first!
2. Check the Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer. Inspect it for kinks, bends, or visible damage. Straighten out any kinks.
3. Detach the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe (usually in the wall). Have a bucket ready to catch any remaining water.
4. Inspect the Drain Hose for Clogs: Look inside the hose for obstructions. You can use a straightened coat hanger or a plumber’s snake to clear any blockages. Flush the hose with water to ensure it’s clear.
5. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Consult your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually at the front bottom of the machine, behind a small access panel.
6. Remove the Drain Pump Filter: Place a towel and a shallow pan under the access panel to catch any water. Carefully unscrew or unclip the filter cover and remove the filter.
7. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Rinse the filter under running water, removing any lint, hair, or other debris. A toothbrush can help dislodge stubborn particles.
8. Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Once the filter is clean, reinsert it into its housing and secure the cover tightly.
9. Check the Drainpipe: Ensure the drainpipe in the wall isn’t clogged. You can use a plumber’s snake to clear any obstructions.
10. Reattach the Drain Hose: Reconnect the drain hose to the drainpipe, making sure it’s securely fastened.
11. Level the Washer: An unlevel washer can sometimes have draining problems. Use a level to check and adjust the washer’s feet if necessary.
12. Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short wash or rinse cycle to see if the water drains properly.
13. Check for Error Codes: If the problem persists, check the washer’s display panel for error codes. Consult your manual to interpret the code and take appropriate action.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before you rush to buy replacement parts, try these free and simple fixes:

• Washer Reset: Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor glitches.
• Run a Cleaning Cycle: Use a washing machine cleaner or a cup of white vinegar to run a cleaning cycle. This can help remove buildup and debris that might be affecting the drain pump.
• Reduce Detergent: Using less detergent can prevent excessive sudsing and improve drainage.
• Inspect the Lid Switch: Carefully inspect the lid switch mechanism to ensure it’s not damaged or obstructed.
• Check Air Vent: If your drain line includes an air vent, ensure it isn’t blocked.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, you might need to consider replacing the drain pump. A new drain pump typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the model. Another part that can fail is the lid switch, costing around $20-$50. In some rare cases, a faulty control board may be the culprit, which is a more expensive repair (around $100-$300) and might warrant considering a new washer altogether.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when working with water and electricity. Avoid creating wet floors.
• If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
• Sharp objects can be present if internal components are exposed – be careful when reaching inside washer.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket
• Towels
• Plumber’s snake or straightened coat hanger
• Washing machine cleaner or white vinegar

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: My washer is making a loud humming noise but not draining. What could it be? A: This usually indicates a blocked drain pump or a failing drain pump motor. Clean the drain pump filter first.
• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump is making unusual noises, not pumping water, and you’ve already checked for clogs, it’s likely faulty.
• Q: Can I use any detergent in my Whirlpool washer? A: It’s best to use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in HE washers to prevent excessive sudsing.
• Q: My washer drained fine, but now it won’t spin. Is that related? A: A drainage problem can sometimes prevent the spin cycle from engaging, as the washer needs to sense that the water is gone.

Conclusion

Don’t give up hope! Many draining issues with Whirlpool washers can be resolved with some simple troubleshooting. By following these steps, you can often get your washer working again without the expense of a repair technician. If you’ve exhausted all these options and the problem persists, it might be time to call a professional. Good luck!