If you’re running into the problem of my washing machine won’t drain, then you’re not alone.
When your machine reaches the end of a cycle and the clothes are still wet with water standing in the base of the tub, you have a problem.
If you’re not feeling as though this is a problem you can resolve on your own, reaching out to a plumber is the best solution.
However, there are a few common problems that you may be able to resolve on your own.
Before you try any of these solutions though, turn off the electrical power to the machine. You can unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker. Get rid of any standing water as well.
1. Check the Drain Hose
This is the hose that transfers water from the base of the machine to drain during the cycle. There could be a kink that’s preventing the water from draining or the unit might be jammed into the wall, interfering with water flow.
The hose could also be clogged with debris. Disconnect the drain hose and shine a light through it to ensure that there are no particles or items preventing water flow.
If there is a clog but you can’t get rid of it, then consider taking it out of the house and running water through it with a hose.
Connect the drain hose and make sure that it’s not kinked. Run a rinse cycle to determine if you’ve fixed the problem.
2. Check the Lid Switch
The lid switch may be broken and this will prevent the washer from draining. The switch is typically located beneath the lid or the door in the washer.
It’s a plastic switch and fairly easy to break. Check to see if it’s working correctly by opening the washer and pressing down the switch.
You should hear a sound to show that it’s turning on. If you don’t hear any noise or the switch doesn’t appear to be intact, then it may need to be replaced.
Typically, you want a technician to do this repair as it may be more challenging to do on your own.
3. Check the Belt
The belts of the machine are responsible for its movement and can break over time. Check the owner’s manual for your washer to see the location of the belts.
If you can access them fairly easily, complete a visual inspection. Check to see if they are broken or damaged.
They should also be in place and not be slipped. If there are any problems with the belt, you probably won’t be able to fix this on your own.
4. Check the Pump
Once again, start by looking at the diagram of the washer and locate the washer pump. It’s typically in the front of the washers.
You usually will have to take out a panel in order to reach it so make sure you have a screwdriver handy.
Take off the pump to open it up in order to dislocate the screen. Rinse the screen and then check the fan blades to ensure that they can move freely.
Check the outlet part as well to ensure that nothing is lodged inside. If the pump is visually damaged, it may need to be replaced.
5. Check the Drain
Finally, if you have water that’s in the washer or drains onto the floor, then your drain may be clogged. Get a plumber’s snake and run it through the opening in the drain to see if you can clear it on your own.
One of the simplest ways to prevent a clog in the future is to check pockets of clothing before it goes in the washer.
Coins or items left in pockets can easily get caught in the drain and make it difficult to get rid of the water after a cycle. Pay attention to your washer as these objects may make noise when they get stuck.
If none of these problems resolve your draining concern, then you may have to call a plumber after all.
Keep in mind that the typical washing machine should last about 14 years so depending on the age of your model, it may be the time to get a new one. However, a newer machine can usually be repaired.