My Washing Machine Won’t Drain

So, your washing machine isn’t draining. Don’t panic! There are many reasons that you could be having this problem, and many washing machine repairs can be made personally by homeowners. These steps will walk you through the process of determining the problem and fixing the machine.

Drain the Water

Your first step will be to drain the water out of the washing machine. This will also present you with an opportunity to check the first possible source of the problem: the drainage hose.

Unplug the machine and pull it away from the wall. At this point, you should inspect the drain hose that drains the water from the machine. If the hose is kinked, this is probably why the machine isn’t draining properly. Unkink the hose, plug the machine back in and let the washer do its thing.

If the hose isn’t kinked, use a bucket to bail out the water from the machine until it’s nearly empty. Next, remove the hose from the back of the machine and allow the rest of the water to drain out. Place a drain pan beneath the hole before removing the hose to ensure that the water won’t run out over the floor.

Once the hose is removed, check it for clogs. If the hose is clogged, this is like the source of your problem.

Check the Pump

Remove the front panel from the washing machine and locate the pump. Disconnect the pump from the washing machine. Some pumps are made from translucent plastic, others are not.

If you can see into the pump, either through the plastic or through one of the tubes that enters the pump, look for any piece of clothing that may have become lodged inside the pump. Remove any clothing from inside the pump, reassemble the washing machine and attempt to use it once again.

If clothing is not clogging the pump, inspect the pump belt. If the belt is loose or broken, this is the source of the problem. Replace the belt and reassemble the machine.

Check the Washing Machine Lid Switch

The lid switch is what causes the machine to stop running when you open the lid, and to start running again when you shut the lid. A defective lid switch could be the source of your problem. Inspect the lid switch for damage, wear and tear.

Replace Any Necessary Parts

If you are able to determine that either the pump or the lid switch is defective, you may be able to replace the parts yourself. Contact your washing machine’s manufacturer for more information about how to obtain replacement parts for your washing machine model.

Resources and Info

To see a good picture of a washing machine pump, a driver belt and a lid switch, check out this article. If you’re unable to locate the source of the problem, you could be in need of a good appliance repair person–or even a good plumber, depending on the problem. For more information about how a plumber can help you with your washing machine problems, residents of Pittsburgh may contact Terry’s Plumbing. With over 30 years in the business, we know how to help you with all of your plumbing needs.