Like any other appliance, a washing machine is typically set up once and remains in its place until it requires repair or replacement due to parts wearing out or when you move.
Thankfully, you don’t have to dread draining your washing machine. Whether it’s overflowing with gray water or no longer needed in the house, as long as you know how to drain properly, this won’t be a hassle!
If you’re reading this article, you are about to discover everything that can make draining a washing machine straightforward. This post has everything from the basics to the step-by-step course of action.
Things to Consider When You Drain A Washing Machine
Before you start, remember that the procedure might vary slightly depending on the model of your washing machine and whether it’s a front-loading machine or a top-loading washer. So read carefully before proceeding.
Drainage Options
- Shallow Container: A must-do when running the spin cycle of your washing machine is to replenish any used, typically gray water, with fresh, clean water. Generally, the drain hose connects to the back of your washing machine, and you can put a shallow container, such as a bucket or a bowl, beneath it to collect the water.
- Standpipe: Installing a standpipe is an affordable and straightforward solution for any washing machine drainage system. The drain hose will carry water into a standpipe, so to ensure optimal water flow, consider a pipe at least two inches in diameter.
- Underground Drain Tube: Another draining option is to take the drain pipe from your washer and connect it to an underground drainage system or a sump pump. Mostly, this is typical if the water has stopped flowing out of your machine.
Don’t Do This!
- Don’t use detergent with sodium: Sodium is a vital mineral and can damage your machine or shorten its lifespan.
- Don’t wash clothes with feces: Not only will it contaminate the water, but it can also harm your machine.
- Don’t neglect regular maintenance: Regular washing machine maintenance is necessary for optimal performance and longevity.
- Don’t use bleach with your laundry: Bleach corrodes the rubber seals on washing machines and can be hazardous to your health if inhaled.
Do This!
- Make a plan: Before you start, plan out the route and have everything you need on hand.
- Ready the tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools, such as needle nose pliers, a soft-bristled brush, towels, a shallow container or a baking dish, duct tape, warm water, spring clamps, drain hoses, plumber’s snake, and more.
- Evaluate the process: Read through the instructions, check the owner’s manual, and evaluate the process, so you know what to do.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Drain A Washing Machine Properly
Now that you have all the information let’s discuss how to drain a washing machine before you move it properly.
Step 1: Switch off the Water Supply Hoses
This is essential if you want to avoid flooding in your laundry room. You can usually find washing machine valves behind or near the machine, where hoses are connected.
Step 2: Drain the Remaining Water
To completely drain the washing machine of water, leave the valves off and turn on your washer to a warm water cycle for 30 seconds.
Subsequently, check the lid switch and dial to a spin cycle for automatic draining of any standing water.
Step 3: Turn Off the Electrical System
Prioritize your safety and well-being by turning off the power and water supply before beginning any process. Doing so will safeguard you from any dangerous electric shock or floods.
Step 4: Prepare a Large Bucket
Take a shallow container, such as a bucket or bowl, and place it below the drain hose. Then, pull back on the drain hose clamp connecting to the washer and carefully remove it from the washing machine. As you do this, hold up the hose so all the remaining water can pour into the container.
Step 5: Detach the washing machine drain hose
On the rear of most washing machines, you will notice three hoses: one for draining off used water and two supplying both the hot water and cold water, respectively.
Carefully remove the drain hose from the washing machine in a warm water container. This will soften any blockages that may have formed in the pipe, allowing you to remove them easily.
Step 6: Move the machine
This step will require you to move the machine forward to the access panel as instructed in the owner’s manual. You will see a drain pump hose and an inlet hose connected to the spring clamps. Other types may require you to tilt the machine backward to drain the excess water.
Step 7: Clean the washer
Once you have emptied all the water, use a soft-bristled brush and hot water to clean the inside and outside of the washer. Make sure to scrub and vacuum any dust or dirt accumulated in the drain pump filter or drainage system.
Don’t miss the cold water hoses, which can also accumulate rust and debris. Most front-loading machines have a single drainpipe filter that should be cleaned and checked regularly.
Step 8: Celebrate!
Now that your washer is drained and clean, you can rest assured that it will work better and last longer. Be sure to follow all these steps regularly for optimal performance.
Bonus Step: Troubleshoot Common Washing Machine Issues
If you are having trouble seeking ways to why your washing machine is not draining properly, here are a few ways to determine why:
- Clogged Pipes: Clogs like a drain pump clog or a drain hose clog can happen if lint or other debris builds up in the drain hose. Use a plumber’s snake to unclog them.
- Overflowing Washer: Your washer may overflow if the lid switch is stuck in the closed position or if the water pressure is too high. Check both of these issues and make adjustments accordingly.
- Faulty Inlet Valve: If your washing machine doesn’t fill up with water, it may be due to a defective inlet valve. You can check if this is the issue by disconnecting the water supply hoses and checking for blockages or breaks in the line.
Calling Washing Machine Technician For Help
If you have tried all of the above fixes for your washing machine and it still doesn’t seem to be working properly, then it may be time to call in a professional washing machine technician. They can diagnose the issue and provide you with a detailed solution about what needs to be done to fix the problem.
In some cases, they can even repair the issue on-site, saving you both time and money. Regardless of the issue, it’s important that you have your washing machine serviced regularly by a professional to ensure it remains in good working order.
Quality Appliance Repair provides comprehensive services for various types of washing machines. Our network of technicians across Australia is skilled in delivering onsite repairs and full servicing to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency of your washer.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, repair, or installation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us using the contact details provided below:
- Washing Machine Repairs Melbourne VIC – (03) 9034 6162
- Washing Machine Repairs Perth – (08) 9551 7923
- Washing Machine Repairs Adelaide – (08) 6118 7045
- Washing Machine Repairs Sydney – (02) 6190 1313
- Washing Machine Repairs Brisbane – (07) 3088 9002
Contact us today for more information about our services.
