Whirlpool Won T Drain And Spin

Introduction

Discovering that your Whirlpool washer won’t drain and spin can be frustrating. This issue means your clothes are left soaking wet, and you can’t move forward with drying them. It’s a common problem that many homeowners face, and it often happens when you’re in a hurry to get laundry done. Addressing this quickly is essential to prevent mildew, odors, and potential damage to your washing machine and laundry area. Don’t worry; with a little troubleshooting, you can often resolve this issue yourself.

Common Causes of whirlpool won t drain and spin

Here are some of the most frequent reasons why your Whirlpool washer might not be draining and spinning correctly:

Clogged Drain Hose: A blockage in the hose that carries water away from the washer.
Obstructed Drain Pump: Debris like lint, hair, or small objects can get stuck in the pump.
Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be broken or malfunctioning.
Clogged Filter: Many Whirlpool washers have a filter that traps debris before it reaches the pump.
Lid Switch Issue: The washer won’t spin if the lid switch isn’t working correctly.
Belt Problems (on some models): A broken or loose belt can prevent the drum from spinning and draining.
Control Board Malfunction: The electronic control board that manages the washer’s functions could be faulty.
Over sudsing Using too much detergent or the wrong kind can cause excessive suds that prevent proper draining.
Kinked or Bent Drain Hose: A simple kink can restrict water flow.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to accurately identify the problem:

Washer is full of water after the cycle ends.
You hear a humming noise but the water doesn’t drain.
The washer spins very slowly or not at all.
Error codes are displayed on the washer’s control panel.
Water is leaking from the washer.
The drain hose is visibly clogged or kinked.

How to Fix whirlpool won t drain and spin Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot your Whirlpool washer:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, disconnect the washer from the power outlet before you start.
Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for kinks, bends, or visible obstructions. Straighten any kinks and ensure the hose isn’t crushed.
Disconnect the Drain Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the drainpipe or sink.
Flush the Drain Hose: Run water through the drain hose to flush out any potential clogs. You can use a garden hose for more pressure.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Refer to your washer’s manual to find the location of the drain pump filter. It’s usually located at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small access panel.
Prepare for Water: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel, as some water may spill out.
Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully remove the filter and clean it thoroughly, removing any lint, hair, or debris.
Inspect the Drain Pump: With the filter removed, shine a flashlight into the drain pump housing. Look for any visible obstructions. You might be able to reach in and remove debris with pliers.
Check the Lid Switch: Open and close the washer lid several times. If the lid switch is faulty, it might not be engaging properly. Some models will show an error code.
Reset the Washer: Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve the issue. Unplug the washer for 1-2 minutes, then plug it back in.
Run a Drain/Spin Cycle: Select a drain and spin cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.
Check for Suds: Too many suds can trick the washer into thinking it’s not draining. Run an empty cycle with no detergent.
Check error codes Search for the specific error code on Whirlpool’s website to determine what it means and possible fixes.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacing parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: As mentioned above, unplugging the washer for a minute can sometimes clear error codes and reset the system.
Deep Clean the Washer: Run an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup that could be affecting performance.
Recalibrate the Washer: Some Whirlpool models have a calibration cycle. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions.
Inspect the Water Inlet Valves: Check the hoses connected to the hot and cold water inlets for clogs or kinks.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the lint filter regularly and use the correct amount of detergent to prevent future issues.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain and spin, you might need to replace a part. Common parts that fail include the drain pump (estimated cost: $50-$150 USD), the lid switch ($20-$50 USD), or the control board (expensive, $150-$400+ USD). However, before replacing the control board, it is recommended to call an appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washing machine before performing any repairs or inspections.
Be careful when handling water and electricity. Avoid working on the washer with wet hands or on a wet floor.
If you are uncomfortable with electrical repairs, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
Do not overload the washing machine, as this can put extra strain on the motor and pump.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Shallow pan or towels
Flashlight
Bucket

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining? A: This usually indicates a blockage in the drain pump. Check the filter and pump for obstructions.
Q: How do I know if my drain pump is bad? A: If the pump is making unusual noises, not pumping water, or if it’s visibly damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Q: What does an error code mean? A: Consult your washer’s manual or the Whirlpool website to identify the meaning of the specific error code.
Q: Can I use a liquid drain cleaner to unclog my washer? A: No, liquid drain cleaners can damage the washer’s components. Use manual methods to clear clogs.
Q: How often should I clean my washer? A: You should clean your washer every month or so to prevent buildup and odors.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain and spin can seem daunting, but with this guide, you can systematically identify and address the most common causes. Remember to prioritize safety by unplugging the washer before you begin. By following these steps, you can often fix the problem yourself and save money on repair costs. If you’ve tried everything and the issue persists, don’t hesitate to call a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.