A blocked drain is no laughing matter, as a buildup of dirt and lint or an obstruction in the drain line usually causes it.
Don’t let a slow or clogged washing machine ruin your laundry routine! You can do some simple things to get it draining properly again and for you to clean your clothes with ease.
This article is here to help those people who keep searching, “why did my washing machine wont drain” on the internet. From cleaning out drain filters and hoses to checking for broken parts, here are some tips on how you can diagnose and fix a washer that won’t drain.
Reasons Why A Washing Machine Won’t Drain and How To Fix Them
If you find your washing machine draining properly, multiple causes can be behind it. A jammed or clogged drain hose, broken pump, lid switch, or belt are all potential culprits.
Knowing the root cause of the issue is important for addressing it correctly. Here are some of the most common problems and solutions to get your washing machine draining properly again:
Clogged Drain Hose
A clogged drain hose is the most frequent culprit behind a washing machine not draining. Dirt and lint from your clothing can get stuck in the drain hose, causing a blockage. It would be best to clean the hose to ensure it’s draining properly.
To fix this, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply of your washer and then carefully remove the drain hose from the machine.
- Step Two: Take the drain hose outside and use a garden hose to run water through it. This will help flush out any debris that’s blocking the pipe.
- Step Three: Once the blockage is cleared, reinstall the drain line and re-connect the power supply to check if your washer drains properly again.
Improper Drain Height
Sometimes, the drain height can be too low for a washing machine to drain properly. If your washer is placed too high, it may struggle to drain the water from its tub correctly.
Check the owner’s manual when carrying out this task, as it may provide additional information on the correct drain pipe height.
In the meantime, follow this:
- Step One: Use a measuring tape to check the drain height and ensure it meets your washing machine’s minimum requirements.
- Step Two: If the drain is too short, use a drain pipe extender or adjust the plumbing so that it reaches an appropriate level for your washer.
- Step Three: Ensure the drain pipe is situated at least 1-2 feet above the floor for optimal efficiency.
Poor Load Distribution
If the load inside your washer is unevenly balanced, it can cause problems with the machine not draining properly. This could happen if you’re washing too many clothes for one spin cycle or if they are all located on one side of the tub.
To fix this issue, make sure to follow this guide:
- Step One: Stop the cycle, open the lid and redistribute the clothes evenly into both sides of the washer.
- Step Two: Close the lid, select a new cycle, and start it again. The washing machine should now drain correctly.
- Step Three: Always spread your laundry items evenly in the washer for optimal performance.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter
Another common issue that can cause a washer not to drain is a clogged pump filter. The filter helps keep dirt, lint, and other debris out of the machine’s drainage system, but it can become clogged over time.
To fix this problem:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply to your washing machine and carefully remove the drain pump filter.
- Step Two: Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the filter and remove any dirt or debris that may have built up over time.
- Step Three: Reinstall the filter, re-connect the power supply, and select a new cycle to test if your washer is draining properly again.
Defective Lid Switch Assembly
The lid switch assembly can possibly prevent water from draining when it isn’t closed. If this part is faulty, the washer will not drain properly.
To fix this:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply and locate the lid switch assembly in your washer’s control panel.
- Step Two: Carefully remove the lid switch assembly and inspect it for any visible damage.
- Step Three: If the part is faulty, replace it with a new one. Re-connect the power supply and select a new cycle to test if your washer drains properly again.
Faulty Drain Pump
The pump pushes the remaining water out of the tub and into the drainage system. If it’s damaged or malfunctioning, it won’t be able to do this properly.
To resolve this problem:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply and carefully remove the drain pump.
- Step Two: Inspect the drain pump for any visible damage or wear and tear.
- Step Three: If necessary, replace the water pump with a new one.
- Step Four: Re-connect the power supply and select a new cycle to test if your washer drains appropriately again.
Worn Out Drive Belt
The drive belt helps the washing machine’s motor power the pump and spin its internal components. If it is worn out, your washer won’t be able to drain correctly.
To fix this:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply and remove the drive belt from your washing machine.
- Step Two: Inspect the belt for visible damage or wear and tear.
- Step Three: If necessary, replace the belt with a new one.
- Step Four: Locate the washing machine access panel and reinstall the drive belt.
- Step Five: Re-connect the power supply and select a new cycle to test if your washer drains properly again.
Faulty Water Inlet Valve
The water inlet valve regulates the flow of water into the washing machine. If this part is faulty, it could cause problems with draining.
To fix this issue:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply and locate the water inlet valve.
- Step Two: Carefully remove the inlet valve and inspect it for any visible signs of damage or wear and tear.
- Step Three: If necessary, replace the valve with a new one.
- Step Four: Re-connect the power supply and select a new cycle to test if your washer drains appropriately again.
Clogged Washing Machine Drain Hose
The drain hose helps move the water out of the washer and into the drainage system. If it is clogged, the machine won’t be able to drain correctly.
To address this problem:
- Step One: Disconnect the power supply and locate the washing machine’s drain hose.
- Step Two: Carefully remove the hose from the washer and inspect it for any visible signs of clogging.
- Step Three: Use a plumber’s snake to unclog the hose and remove any debris that may have built up over time.
- Step Four: Reinstall the drain hose, re-connect the power supply, and select a new cycle to test if your washer drains properly again.
When to Seek The Help of A Skilled Appliance Repair Person
If you have followed the steps above and your washing machine still isn’t draining properly, it may be time to seek skilled help.
A professional plumber can diagnose the issue and provide a solution for you. They can also answer any questions about repairing your washing machine.
If you are looking for a washing machine technician in Australia, Quality Appliance Repair can help. 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 to talk to one of our friendly professionals about fixing your washing machine. We offer a free, no-obligation quote and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for emergency repairs. Let us help get your laundry back to normal!
