Washing Machine Won’t Drain – Fixes for Common Washing Machine Problems

Soggy clothes stuck in the washer? A puddle forming on your laundry room floor? There are few things more frustrating than a washer that won’t drain. But before you give up and start handwashing, I’ve got good news – many drain problems have simple fixes. As an appliance repair tech, let’s roll up our sleeves and get your laundry flowing again.

Why Won’t My Washing Machine Drain?

There are a few usual suspects to investigate when your washing machine won’t drain properly:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The #1 Culprit The hose behind your washer can get clogged with lint, small objects, and all sorts of surprising finds. This is the leading cause of washing machine drain problems.
• Kinked Drain Hose: If this hose is bent sharply, it blocks water flow. Make sure it has a smooth curve and connects securely to the washing machine drain pipe.
• Faulty Drain Pump: This part pushes water out of your washer. If it’s failing, you might hear it trying to run, but no water drains. A failing drain pump is one of the most common washing machine problems.
• Washing Machine Drain Clogged: Many models have a small filter that catches debris before it reaches the pump. A full filter can cause draining issues.
• Main Drain Clog: Less common for DIY, but if your laundry sink or tub is also draining slowly, you might have a blockage deeper in your plumbing.

DIY Washing Machine Drain Fixes: What You Can Do

Before you panic, try these steps to get your washer draining again:

1. Safety First! Always unplug your washer before troubleshooting any electrical or drain-related problems.
2. Check the Drain Hose: Disconnect it from the back of the washer (have a bucket ready!). Use a straightened wire coat hanger to dislodge clogs, then flush it with water. Check for kinks and reposition the hose if needed.
3. Locate & Clean the Filter: Your washer’s manual will show you where to find this. Clean the filter thoroughly and replace it. Make this part of your monthly cleaning routine to prevent washing machine drain clogs.
4. Listen to the Pump: Try running a “drain and spin cycle”. A humming pump that isn’t draining usually means the pump itself needs repair. Other odd noises could also point to washing machine drain pump problems.

Anecdote: The Case of the Missing Quarter

A client called me in a panic because their washer wouldn’t drain. I checked the usual suspects – hose, filter, etc. – but found nothing. Finally, I removed the pump, and out popped a single quarter! It had wedged itself just right to completely block the pump’s action.

Stop Washing Machine Drain Clogs Before They Start

A little prevention goes a long way in avoiding washing machine headaches! Here’s how to minimize the chances of clogs:

• Pocket Patrol: Empty all pockets thoroughly before throwing clothes in the hamper. Coins, tissues, even tiny toys can cause major drain issues.
• Mesh Bag Magic: Delicate items, or things with lots of buttons or beads, are best washed in a mesh laundry bag. This prevents snags and stops small objects from escaping into your drain system.
• Cleaning Cycle: If your washer has a “Tub Clean” or similar cycle, run it monthly with a washer cleaning tablet. This helps break down lint buildup and keeps your drain flowing freely.

Advanced Troubleshooting

• Checking the Lid/Door Switch: In some models, a faulty lid or door switch prevents the drain cycle from starting (safety feature). Include basic instructions on testing this.
• Drive Belt Issues: On belt-driven washers, a loose or broken belt stops the pump from working. Briefly explain how to check this visually..
• Vent Stack Problems: Less common, but severe venting issues can cause improper draining. Mention signs that point to this, and emphasize calling a plumber.

When to Call the Appliance Repair Squad

Not every washing machine problem is DIY-able. Here’s when to get the pros involved:

• Lingering Issue: If cleaning the filter, hose, etc., didn’t fix the washer not draining problem, there might be a more complex issue with the pump or internal valves.
• Washer Won’t Spin and Drain: This often points to a control board or motor issue, which is complex to diagnose and likely needs an experienced technician.
• Major Drain Clogs: If other drains in the house are backing up, it’s time to call a plumber.

Need Washing Machine Repair Help? We’ve Got You Covered!

Tired of wading through laundry puddles? Let Pro Appliance Repair diagnose your washing machine drainage woes and get it fixed fast. We offer reliable washing machine repair in Atlanta. 

Call us at (470) 694-5363 to get a free estimate. We serve all around Atlanta: Cumming, Buford, Alpharetta, Duluth, Roswell, Norcross, Lilburn, Suwanee, Tucker, East Point, Stone Mountain, Decatur, Johns Creek, Peachtree Corners, Sandy Springs.  

How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually (If the Pump is Broken)

If your washer is full of water and won’t drain at all, you might need to remove the water manually before calling for repair. Safety first: Unplug the washer! Then, you can try:

• Bailing It Out: For small loads, use a bucket or pitcher to scoop the water out.
• Siphon Method: With the drain hose lowered into a bucket on the floor, sometimes gently sucking on the hose end (like starting a siphon) will get the water flowing.
• Gravity Drain: If you can safely tip the washer slightly, sometimes this dislodges the clog enough for the water to drain into a pan.

Is the Washer Making Weird Noises?

The sounds your washer makes can offer clues about the drain problem. Listen for:

• Grinding or Squealing: This often points to a broken or jammed drain pump impeller. Time to call the repair technician.
• Humming Without Draining: The pump is trying to run, but no water is moving. This could be a clog, a broken pump, or a faulty control board.
• No Noise at All: If the washer won’t even attempt to drain, this often indicates a power supply issue to the pump, or a more complex electrical problem.

Important Takeaways

• A washing machine not draining is frustrating, but often has a simple solution, saving you money on repairs.
• Don’t ignore the problem – water left sitting in the washer can lead to mold and odor issues.
• Knowing how to drain a washing machine is a handy skill, but some issues are best left to the pros.
• If in doubt, call the appliance experts! We’re here to get your laundry routine back on track.