Washing Machine Not Draining? Here's What to Check
A step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing a washing machine that won't drain. Learn which problems you can solve yourself and when to call for professional help.
Few things are more frustrating than opening your washing machine to find your clothes still sitting in murky water. A washer that won't drain is a common problem with several possible causes—some you can fix in minutes, others require a professional touch.
Safety First
Before troubleshooting, always:
- Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet
- Turn off the water supply valves
- Have towels and a shallow pan ready for potential water spillage
Check the Simple Things First
The Drain Hose
The drain hose connects your washer to your home's plumbing. Issues here are the most common cause of drainage problems.
What to look for:
- Kinks or bends that restrict water flow
- The hose positioned too deep into the standpipe (insert only 6-8 inches)
- Clogs from lint, coins, or small items
The Fix: Disconnect the hose and flush it with water. Straighten any kinks and ensure proper positioning.
The Lid Switch
On top-loading washers, the lid switch is a safety mechanism that prevents the spin cycle from running when the lid is open. A faulty switch can stop drainage.
Quick Test: Listen for a clicking sound when you close the lid. No click often means a failed switch.
Deeper Troubleshooting
The Drain Pump Filter
Most modern washers have an access panel at the front bottom where you can clean the drain pump filter. This filter catches debris before it reaches the pump.
Important: Have towels and a container ready—water will spill when you open the filter access.
What you might find:
- Coins and small objects
- Lint buildup
- Sock fragments
- Hair and fabric debris
The Drain Pump Itself
If cleaning the filter doesn't help, the pump may be damaged. Listen for:
- Humming without water movement (pump motor running but impeller stuck)
- Complete silence (motor failure)
- Grinding noises (damaged impeller)
Control Board Issues
On modern electronic washers, the control board manages all operations including drainage. A fault in the board can prevent the drain cycle from initiating.
Signs of control board problems:
- Error codes on the display
- Buttons not responding
- Random cycle interruptions
Common Washing Machine Error Codes
Different brands use different codes, but here are some common drain-related ones:
| Brand | Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | 5E, SE | Drain error |
| LG | OE | Drain failure |
| Whirlpool | F9 E1 | Long drain time |
| GE | E2 F5 | Lid switch/drain issue |
Check your owner's manual for model-specific codes.
When Professional Help Is Needed
Call an appliance repair technician if:
- The drain pump needs replacement
- You suspect control board failure
- Water is leaking from unusual places
- Error codes persist after basic troubleshooting
- You're not comfortable working with electrical components
Preventing Future Problems
Keep your washer draining properly with these habits:
- Check pockets before loading clothes
- Use HE detergent in high-efficiency machines (regular detergent creates excess suds)
- Leave the door open after cycles to prevent mold and odor
- Run a cleaning cycle monthly with washer cleaner or white vinegar
- Don't overload — clothes need room to move freely
The Cost of Ignoring Drainage Issues
A washer that struggles to drain is working harder than it should. This leads to:
- Higher energy bills
- Premature motor wear
- Water damage risks
- Mold and mildew growth
- Clothes that don't get clean
Get Your Washer Back in Action
If you've tried these troubleshooting steps without success, it's time to call in the experts. Appliance Dean provides same-day washing machine repair throughout the Atlanta metro area.
We diagnose the real problem the first time, carry common parts in our service vehicles, and stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee.
Schedule your repair today and get back to fresh, clean laundry.