How to Fix a Washing Machine That Won't Drain
If your washing machine is not draining properly, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the issue.
In this guide, we will discuss some of the most common causes of this problem and how to fix them. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent your washing machine from becoming clogged in the future.
Step One: Straighten the Drain Hose
The first thing you should check is the drain hose. If it is kinked, bent, or otherwise obstructed, this could cause your washing machine to not drain properly. To fix this, simply straighten out the drain hose and make sure there are no obstructions inside it.
It’s also a good idea to check the hose that connects to the drain. If this connection is loose, it can cause a leak. Be sure to check that the hose connects securely, and is not leaking.
Step Two: Confirm the Lid Switch is Working
The lid switch is a safety feature that prevents the washing machine from operating when the lid is open. If this switch is not working properly, it can prevent the washing machine from draining properly.
To check if your lid switch is working, simply open the lid of your washing machine and try to start a spin cycle. If the machine starts, then the lid switch is working properly. If it doesn’t start, the lid switch is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step Three: Empty the Coin Trap
The coin trap is a small plastic cup that catches any coins or other small objects that fall into the washing machine.
If this cup becomes clogged, it can prevent the washing machines from draining properly. To clean the coin trap, simply remove it from the washing machine and empty it.
Step Four: Reset the Washer
Some washers can be reset using the hardware on the machine itself. Others, however, will require you to unplug the machine and plug it back in.
If your washing machine has a reset button, press it and then try to run a cycle. If your washing machine does not have a reset button, unplug it for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
Step Five: Clear the Drain Hose and Pump of Clogs
The drain hose and pump can become clogged with lint, hair, and other debris. If this happens, it can prevent the washing machine from draining properly.
To clear these clogs, here are a few things you can try:
- Use a plunger to clear any clogs in the drain hose.
- Remove the drain hose from the washing machine and clean it out with a brush.
- Clean out the pump by removing any debris that may be blocking it. Broken pump impellers can also cause this issue.
Step Six: Unclog the Drain Connected to the Washer
If the clogs are not cleared by following the steps above, it may be necessary to unclog the drain connected to the washer.
To do this, you will need to remove the pipe that connects your washing machine to the drain. Once the pipe is removed, use a plunger or a snake to clear any clogs in the drain.
Step Seven: Test for Success or Try Again.
Once you have cleared the clogs, test your washing machine by running a cycle. If it is still not draining properly, try again using some of the steps above.
If none of these steps work, it may be necessary to call a professional to fix the problem for you.
Parts of a Washing Machine and What They Do
The washing machine is made up of different parts that work together to clean your clothes. The tub holds the water and detergent, while the agitator moves the clothes around to get them clean.
The spinning motion of the tub helps to remove any excess water from the clothing before they are moved to the drying cycle. If one of these parts stops working, your washing machine will not function properly.
8 Signs that Your Washing Machine Won't Drain
There are a few telltale signs that your washing machine is not draining properly. If you notice any of the following, it is likely that you may be facing this issue:
Sign #1: The clothes are still wet after a cycle
If the clothes are still wet after a cycle, it is not draining properly. This can be caused by several things, such as a clogged drain hose or a faulty pump. To determine whether the machine is clogged, check to see if there is any water pooled around the washing machine.
Sign #2. The washing machine makes strange noises while draining
If the washing machine is making strange noises while draining, it could be a sign that there is something blocking the drain. You can usually tell if the blockage is near the pump because you will hear a louder noise coming from the machine.
Sign #3. The washing machine smells bad
If the washing machine smells bad, it is likely because there is something stuck in the drain. This can often be caused by a build-up of lint or detergent. If you notice a foul smell coming from your machine, it is important to clean it out as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Sign #4. Water is leaking from the washing machine
If your washing machine is leaking, it’s likely due to a problem with the door seal. Check the seal for any cracks or damage, and replace it if necessary. If the door seal isn’t the problem, then it could also be an issue with the hose that drains water from the tub.
Sign #5. The washing machine doesn't seem to be draining at all
If the washing machine isn’t draining at all, then you may be facing a problem with the pump. This can be caused by a number of things, such as debris in the pump or a faulty motor. If you are experiencing this problem, it is important to call a professional to fix the machine.
Sign #6: The washing machine won't start
If the washing machine won’t start, then there’s a good chance that there is a problem with the pump. This can be caused by a number of things, such as blockages within the pump or a faulty motor. If you are experiencing this problem, then the best course of action is to call a professional to fix the machine.
Sign #7: The washing machine doesn't fill with water
If the washing machine doesn’t fill with water, then you’re probably facing problems with the inlet valve, such as a blockage in the valve or a faulty solenoid.
Sign #8: The washing machine doesn't agitate or spin
If your washing machine doesn’t agitate or spin, there could be a few different culprits. The first thing you should check is the drive belt. If it’s broken or loose, it needs to be replaced. If the drive belt looks fine, then the problem is most likely with the motor.
Preventing Your Washing Machine From Not Draining Properly
Preventing your washing machine from not draining properly can save you a lot of time and money. There are a few things you can do to help prevent this issue.
The washer is properly installed
One of the most common reasons a washing machine won’t drain is because it isn’t installed properly
Clean the lint trap
Lint can build up in the lint trap and cause your washing machine to not drain properly. Cleaning the lint trap regularly will help prevent this issue.
Check the pump
If your washing machine has a pump, make sure it is clear of any debris or objects that could block it.
If you follow these simple tips, you can help prevent your washing machine from not draining properly. If you have already tried these tips and your washing machine still won’t drain, then it’s best to call a professional to assess the damage, and fix the machine if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Does the broken lid switch cause the washer not to drain?
It is possible that a broken lid switch could cause your washing machine not to drain properly. However, this is just one of many potential causes.
2
Is the pump belt the same as the drive belt on a washing machine?
The pump belt and the drive belt are not the same. The pump belt is used to power the pump, while the drive belt is used to power the motor.
3
Can drain pump issues be fixed without a professional?
If the problem is something simple, such as a clog, then you might be able to fix it yourself. The drain system on a washing machine is usually quite simple and easy to access. However, if the problem is more complex, such as a faulty motor, then you will need to call a professional.
4
What is an access panel?
An access panel is a door or panel that provides access to the internal components of a machine. This allows you to easily service and repair the machine without having to remove it from its location.
5
Are the rinse cycle and power cord included?
Rinse cycles and power cords are not included with washing machines. You will need to purchase these separately.
To fix a washing machine that won’t drain, you can try using less detergent, setting the timer correctly, or inspecting the drainage hose for damage.
Washing machine drainage problems can also be caused by build-up in the machine or clogs in the drain pipe. If all of these aforementioned tips and methods fail, you may need to call a repairman.