Whirlpool Washer Won T Drain All The Way

Introduction

Finding your Whirlpool washer with standing water after a wash cycle can be frustrating and messy. Not only does it prevent you from transferring your clothes to the dryer, but it can also lead to unpleasant odors and even mold growth if left unattended. This problem is fairly common and usually stems from a blockage or a mechanical issue. Addressing this problem promptly can save you from potential damage to your clothing and the washing machine itself. This guide will walk you through troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain All the Way

Here are some common reasons why your Whirlpool washer might not be draining properly:

• Clogged Drain Hose: A kinked, bent, or blocked drain hose restricts water flow.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: This filter traps debris to prevent damage to the drain pump. If it’s clogged, the pump can’t effectively remove water.
• Drain Pump Malfunction: The drain pump is responsible for pushing the water out of the washer. If it’s faulty, it may not work correctly.
• Clogged Standpipe: The standpipe is the pipe that the washer drains into. If it’s clogged, water backs up into the washer.
• Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Sometimes air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing the water from flowing freely.
• Lid Switch Problem: On some older models, a faulty lid switch can prevent the drain cycle from starting.
• Control Board Issue: In rare cases, a malfunctioning control board may prevent the washer from initiating the drain cycle.
• Over-sudsing: Using too much detergent or the wrong type (non-HE in an HE machine) can cause excessive suds that hinder draining.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some indicators to help you pinpoint the problem:

• Washer is full of water after the cycle ends.
• Water drains very slowly.
• You hear a humming or buzzing sound from the drain pump, but no water is draining.
• Error code related to draining appears on the washer’s display.
• Clothes are excessively wet after the spin cycle.
• The drain hose is kinked or blocked.

How to Fix Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain All the Way Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the draining issue:

1. Unplug the Washer: For your safety, always disconnect the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
2. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks or bends in the drain hose. Make sure the hose isn’t crushed or pinched.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the drain hose is properly connected to both the washer and the standpipe. Make sure it’s securely fastened.
4. Check the Standpipe: Remove the drain hose from the standpipe and check for any clogs. You can use a plumber’s snake or a straightened coat hanger to clear any obstructions.
5. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: The drain pump filter is usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
6. Drain Remaining Water (Carefully!): Place a shallow pan or towels in front of the access panel to catch any water that spills out.
7. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Open the access panel and carefully remove the drain pump filter. Clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, coins, or other debris.
8. Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Once the filter is clean, securely reinstall it back into its housing.
9. Check the Drain Pump (If Accessible): If you can easily access the drain pump, visually inspect it for any obstructions. You can try to carefully turn the pump impeller (fan) by hand to see if it’s stuck. (Do NOT force it.)
10. Check for Air Lock: Sometimes an air lock can prevent draining. Try gently raising and lowering the drain hose to release any trapped air.
11. Try a Rinse and Spin Cycle: After checking these components, run the washer through a rinse and spin cycle to see if it drains properly.
12. Reduce Detergent Use: If you suspect over-sudsing, use less detergent in your next load, and make sure to use HE detergent if you have an HE machine.
13. Check the Lid Switch (Older Models): On older Whirlpool washers, a faulty lid switch can prevent the drain cycle from starting. Visually inspect the switch for damage. (Testing it might require a multimeter and is best left to a professional.)
14. Restart the Washer: Sometimes, simply unplugging the washer for a few minutes and then plugging it back in can reset the control board and resolve the issue.
15. Run Diagnostic Cycle: Consult your owner’s manual to see if your washer has a diagnostic cycle. Running this cycle can sometimes identify error codes that point to the problem.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before resorting to buying replacement parts, try these free methods:

• Washer Reset: Unplug the washer for 5 minutes to reset the electronic control.
• Drain Hose and Standpipe Cleaning: Thoroughly flush the drain hose and standpipe with water to remove blockages.
• Proper Detergent Use: Use the correct amount and type of detergent (HE for HE washers).
• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect the drain hose for kinks and the drain pump filter for debris.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading the washer can strain the drain pump and cause it to fail prematurely.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still won’t drain, the drain pump may be faulty and need replacing. A replacement pump typically costs between $50 and $150 USD. Other parts that could potentially cause draining issues include the lid switch (on older models) and, in rare cases, the control board, which is the most expensive part. Calling a technician is advised if you are not comfortable replacing parts or testing electrical components.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs.
• Be careful when dealing with water to avoid electric shock.
• Clean up any spilled water immediately to prevent slips and falls.
• Do not attempt to repair the washer if you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Shallow pan or towels
• Plumber’s snake or straightened coat hanger
• Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about washer draining issues:

• Q: Why is my washer draining slowly?
  A: A slow drain is usually caused by a partial clog in the drain hose, drain pump filter, or standpipe.
• Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad?
  A: If you hear a humming or buzzing sound from the pump but no water is draining, the pump may be faulty.
• Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner in my washing machine?
  A: No, it’s not recommended to use liquid drain cleaners in washing machines, as they can damage the internal components.
• Q: My washer is giving me an error code related to draining. What does that mean?
  A: Consult your owner’s manual to determine the meaning of the error code and follow the recommended troubleshooting steps.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain all the way can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and take your time. If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing problems, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and repair more complex issues.