Washing Machine Not Draining? 5 Fixes (+ Reasons Why)

From making it impossible to wash clothes to potentially causing damage to your home, a washing machine that won’t drain is a common problem that can significantly inconvenience your household.

Fortunately, there are some common causes you can investigate to get your appliance back in proper working order. A washing machine not draining can be caused by several issues. Our appliance experts will review the common causes, provide some troubleshooting tips, and steps you can take to remedy the situation.

Troubleshooting tips:

1. Perform a Master Reset
2. Check the Lid Switch Assembly
3. See if the Drain Hose Is Kinked
4. Check the Drain Hose or Pumps for Clogs
5. Clean out Filter

1. Perform a Master Reset

Unplug your washer for about one minute. Then, plug the appliance back in. . This may not work on all machines, but it’s an easy fix for a washer not draining if yours is compatible with this technique.

2. Check the Lid Switch Assembly

Top-loading washers will only drain and spin if the lid is securely closed. . A defective lid switch assembly in a top-loading washer could be why a specific washer won’t drain.

Because this is a safety switch you will need to have a service professional check your lid switch.

3. See if the Drain Hose Is Kinked

In the case of a washing machine not draining completely, a kinked drain hose could be one of the causes. Drain hoses are tubes that remove water from washing machine drums and transfer it to drainage systems. If water can’t flow freely through the drain hose, the washing machine may not drain.

To test if this is the case, adjust the hose behind the washer to make sure water can easily flow through it. If the hose is kinked, it could stop an otherwise functional machine from draining and potentially cause leaks.

4. Check the Drain Hose or Pumps for Clogs

It’s common for a sock or other small piece of clothing to get into the drain system and clog the hose or pump.

Rather than risk further damage to the appliance trying to fix this yourself and wasting time, it’s best to enlist the help of an experienced service professional. These experts have the knowledge and tools to diagnose the issue and perform comprehensive repairs, such as removing clogs from drain hoses and pumps.

5. Clean Out the Filter

Some washers have a filter designed to catch foreign objects before they flow into the pump. Front loading washers usually have a panel designed for easy access in the front.

If your washer has one, it may be useful to clean it out and remove any obstructions that could be blocking water from properly draining. Have a bucket and towels ready.

Common Reasons Your Washing Machine Won’t Drain

There are various reasons your washing machine won’t drain properly, including:

• Clogged drain hose
• Clogged pump
• Kinked drain hose
• Broken pump
• Broken lid switch

If you’ve tried the troubleshooting tips above and your washing machine still isn’t draining, it’s best to consult an appliance repair professional. They have the expertise to diagnose and repair the problem efficiently.

Trust Mr. Appliance for Washing Machine Repair

If these troubleshooting tips don’t solve the problem, you could have a broken water pump or drive belt. These components require professional repair or replacement to get your machine working properly again.

Whether you have a washing machine not draining or a dryer that won’t start, your local Mr. Appliance is here to address your appliance needs. Our experienced local service professionals will efficiently and effectively restore your washing machine to good working order.

Schedule service with Mr. Appliance today.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Appliance is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Mr. Appliance location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

FAQ About A Washing Machine Not Draining

Integrity, dependability, and exceptional customer service are the qualities that have made Mr. Appliance the go-to resource for appliance maintenance and repairs. All independently owned and operated Mr. Appliance locations are committed to providing the top-notch service you expect from an industry leader. This commitment also includes using our expertise and years of experience to answer your appliance-related questions.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about a washing machine not draining.

How Do You Fix a Washing Machine That Won’t Drain?

Some common fixes for washing machines that won’t drain include performing a master reset, testing the lid switch assembly, and clearing clogged drain hoses and pumps.

However, DIY fixes have the potential to further damage your appliance. Contact a qualified service professional for the quickest and most effective results.

How Do You Force Your Washing Machine to Drain?

A master reset may force some washing machine models to drain. To do this, unplug the appliance, then plug it back in . However, this may not be an effective solution for all models.

Why Is Your Washing Machine Not Draining Wastewater?

There are a few common reasons washing machines won’t drain wastewater, including:

• Clogged drain hose or pump
• Kinked drain hose
• Broken pump
• Broken lid switch

For help with your specific appliance, it’s best to schedule service with an experienced service professional.

What Causes a Washer To Stop Draining?

Washers can stop draining for a variety of reasons. If your washer won’t drain or spin, it may be a problem with the lid switch. If it works normally aside from not draining completely, it may be a clogged drain hose or pump.

How Do You Know If Your Washing Machine Drain Hose Is Clogged?

Some key indicators that a washing machine drain hose is clogged include water filling up too high and splashing onto the floor and water draining slower than usual after completing a cycle. Another sign is if your washing machine smells bad.

Contact an experienced service professional to understand exactly what’s wrong with your washing machine and for the most efficient fix.

How Does a Washing Machine Drain?

Pumps in washing machines force water out of the drum through drain hoses that are connected to a drainage system. Complications with any of these components can cause washers to malfunction and not drain properly.