10 Tips for Rescuing Your Washing Machine from Drainage Problems

Troubleshooting Guide: Fixing a Washing Machine That Won't Drain

Ah, the noble quest to conquer the laundry mountain, meticulously sorting colors and whites, only to be thwarted by a defiant washing machine that refuses to drain. It's akin to the frustration of stubbing your toe or enduring a maddening traffic jam – a minor hiccup that threatens to derail your day entirely. Picture this: you eagerly approach your machine, ready to transfer your freshly cleaned garments to the dryer, only to be greeted by an unwelcome sight – a stubborn pool of water stubbornly lingering in the tub.

But fret not, dear laundry warrior, for we're here to lend a helping hand in navigating this all-too-common household conundrum. Join us as we embark on a journey deep into the inner workings of your trusty washing machine's drain, armed with knowledge and determination to vanquish this draining dilemma once and for all.

Why Won't My Washing Machine Drain Water? 

So, your washing machine is holding onto that water like it's its prized possession. Why? Well, there are a few possible reasons. It could be because the hose that lets the water out is all blocked up, or maybe something's gone wrong with the pump, the lid switch, or even the belt.But here's the thing: before you can figure out what's going on and fix it, you've gotta get rid of that water first. So, grab a bucket or whatever you've got handy and let's drain that machine. Once that's done, we can roll up our sleeves and start sorting out this whole mess. Easy peasy, right?

What Does the Drain Function on a Washing Machine Do? 

A washing machine’s drain function removes water from the tub during the spin cycle. The washer pump forces water from the bottom of the appliance into the drain hose. The washer drain hose loops to the top of the machine and then down to the drain, enabling the tub to fill. When the water reaches the bend in the hose, it goes out of the drain.

How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually

Ever wondered what that drain function on your washing machine is all about? Well, wonder no more! It's actually pretty simple. When your machine goes into its spin cycle, the drain function kicks in, doing exactly what it says on the tin – getting rid of all that water from the tub.

Here's how it works: Inside your machine, there's a pump that does all the heavy lifting. It pushes the water from the bottom of the machine up through a hose that loops around and then down to the drain. Think of it like a little water rollercoaster – up and then down, until it reaches its final destination. Once the water hits that bend in the hose, it's on its way out, leaving your tub nice and dry for the next load. Simple, right?

Drain it with a hose:

Using a hose to drain your washing machine offers a simpler method compared to manual bailing with a bucket. By employing gravity, the drain hose efficiently removes water. Gather essential tools: a bucket, screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, and a clamp. Keep a sponge and towels nearby for potential spills, ensuring a smooth draining process.

Follow these steps to drain the water with the drain hose.

Step 1: Power Down.

Begin by disconnecting your washer from the power source, either by unplugging it from the outlet or switching off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Additionally, consider shutting off the hot and cold water connections to the washing machine for added safety measures.

Step 2: Locate the drain hose in the back of the washing machine.

The drain hose is located behind the washer and links it to the outside washing machine drainpipe. Bending or kinking your drain hose may obstruct water flow. If this appears to be the problem, simply straighten the hose.

If there are no visible bends or kinks, detach it from the washing machine drain. If required, unscrew the hose with the clamp attached. Always keep the hose higher than the washer tub until you're ready to empty it.

Step 3: Prepare the bucket and drain hose.

Make sure the bucket is in a location where you won't accidentally knock it over; you might want to lay it firmly on or between several towels. Then, place the house lower than the washer tub and into the bucket. If the bucket fills up, simply elevate the hose back above the washer tub until you can empty it. Drop the hose to begin filling it again.

If water does not flow freely from the washing machine tub via the drain hose and into the bucket, the filter may be clogged, requiring you to remove it before proceeding.

Step 4: Check for and remove any obstructions in the drain hose.

Once the water has completely drained from the tub, inspect the drain line for debris, clothing, or soap blockages, all of which can clog the washing machine drain. To check for clogs, release the clamp that connects the hose to the bottom of the tub and inspect the interior. If you see anything impeding the hose or its connection pieces, use the pliers to remove it and then reattach the line.

Step 5: Look for deeper obstructions in the drain and beyond.

If your research reveals that the drain pipe is clear, this indicates that there may be a clog in the drain or elsewhere. To remove deeper clogs, you will most likely need to use a plumber's snake or hire a professional.

Step 6: Inspect the washing machine's drain pump.

The next step is to inspect the washer pump for a clog, a broken belt or impeller (if you have a top-loading machine), or a leak. Read the manufacturer's instructions for your washing machine, which should include a diagram of the drain pump's placement and components.

If the drain pump isn't working properly, you may notice unexpected noises or leaks from the washing machine while running. If your pump fails, you must replace it yourself or hire an expert to do it for you. If you decide to replace it yourself, make sure you choose the identical pump model so that it fits properly in your washing machine.

Step 7: Inspect the washing machine's lid switch.

Try manually depressing the lid switch to see if it works. If you don't hear a click, it could mean you have a broken switch that has to be replaced.

Step 8: Check the washing machine belts.

whether you have completed all of the steps and your washing machine still won't drain, check to see whether damaged belts are the cause of the problem. The belt placement should be indicated in the manufacturer's instruction handbook for the washing machine. Unscrew your washing machine's access panel and inspect the main and pump belts. Be on the watch for any rusted, fractured, or otherwise damaged components.

Step 9: Check the drain vent.

The washing machine drain vent enables air into the machine. It can assist avoid the formation of a vacuum, which may prevent water from adequately draining from the washer. If there is a gap surrounding the drain hose where it enters the drain, you may not require a vent. If your washer is more than four feet from the vent stack or if local building rules mandate it, you should install a vent for appropriate drainage.

Step 10: Utilize your home warranty coverage.

If you've tried all of these measures and your washing machine still won't drain, contact a professional plumber or washing machine service expert. American Home Shield offers comprehensive home warranty coverage, which can assist in this situation. Our ShieldGold™ and ShieldPlatinum™ plans include a washing machine warranty.

If your machine breaks down in the future, don't pay high out-of-pocket expenses by arranging a repair technician. Home warranty coverage reduces the cost of repairing or replacing parts of your covered household items.

Learn about frequent washer and dryer problems, maintenance advice, and if a drain pan is necessary.