Top 4 Reasons Your Washing Machine Wont Drain Or Spin
From unbalanced loads to trouble with your drain hose, we tackle the most common explanations for why your washing machine wont drain or spin and how to fix them.
In the most popular video series on our YouTube channel, the pros at Sears Home Services share their best troubleshooting tips for common problems that befall high-efficiency top-load washers. Oftentimes, theres a simple fix that you can do yourself to save you from having to call a washer repair service.
There are many possible reasons your washing machine may not be spinning or draining properly.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter
The drain pump in all washing machines is designed to evacuate the water from the tub after cycles of washing and rinsing. However, if during one of these draining cycles you hear that the pump appears to be running but water is either going down slow or not at all, then this usually indicates a problem with this pump.
If it is not working, you will need to take apart your washer to check for damage or clogs in the pump itself.
Unplug the washing machine from the outlet. Pull the machine away from the wall so that you can access the back panel. On most front-loading machines, the drain pump filter is located behind the washer, but check your owners manual to be sure.
Unplug the washer and open it up, then remove the access panel. Look for the drain pump and hose. Disconnect the hose from the water inlet, then check the filter screen for any debris that might be clogging it. Clear away any blockage you find, then reattach the hose and replace the access panel. Plug it back in and run a cycle to see if it drains properly now.
Inspect The Drain Hose
The best place to start is to check the drain hose. During and after a wash cycle, the drain hose is how the water exits your washing machine. When the drain hose gets blocked with loose debris, your washing machine wont drain.
Checking the drain hose is simple all you need to do is:
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Is It The Drain
If there is water remaining in the tub or on the floor, you may have a clogged drain. Run a plumbers snake through the drain opening to see if you can clear the stoppage. One of the easiest preventive measures you can take to keep your washer draining properly is to check the pockets of all clothing items before washing them. Coins and other small objects can get caught in the pump or other washer components and cause draining difficulties. Pay attention to any unusual sounds that your washer is making there may be a forgotten item banging around in the tub that could cause drain problems.
Six: Check The Washer Motor Coupler
A coupler Is between the transmission and the motor to ensure that everything is running correctly. If the coupling breaks, the motor breaks with it, and no draining or spinning will occur.
To handle this, you will need to remove the motor. The motor is beneath the cover for the washing machine. It is secured with a series of clips and screws. Your owners manual will detail what is holding in the motor. Once you remove those, the coupling is the metal piece just underneath your engine.
The replacement is pretty easy, as you need to pry the old one off and smack the new one in its place. You can also hire a technician who will charge anywhere between $200 to $400 for the replacement. If you plan on a DIY repair, pay extra attention to any wire harnesses, bolts, and screws. You want to make sure that everything is back where it belongs.
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Inspect The Drain Pump
The last component to check is the drain pump, which is responsible for draining your washing machine at the end of a cycle. Sometimes the pump becomes defective and stops working. When this happens, your washing machine will not be able to drain properly.
Before you replace the drain pump, you need to check if it is working or not to do that:
Replacing the drain pump is quite difficult and should only be attempted if youre familiar with working on appliances. If you are, this is how you replace the drain pump:
What If My Washers Drain Pump Is Clogged
If your washing machines drain pump is clogged, you will need to remove the panel leading to this. On front-loaded machines, you can find this below the door and in the front. Top-loaded washing machines have the drain pump near the back.
Remove the panel and check to see if there are any significant obstructions. You likely want gloves, and the gross wet buildup of fabric isnt always pleasant for some people to feel. If cleaning the pump doesnt work, there is a chance that you will need to make the replacement. Check your warranty to see if this is covered.
While it may be tempting to do this as a DIY project, it is incredibly complicated to replace. Get a quote from an HVAC technician, but this should not exceed $200 in most cases.
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Whirlpool Washer I Have A Front Load Washing Machine And
Whirlpool washer. I have a front load washing machine and the drain pump went out and I can’t get the door open is there a way to bypass the interlock
Contractor’s Assistant: Have you tried resetting your Whirlpool washer by unplugging it for 60 seconds then plugging it back in? How old is it?
I did 5 years old
Contractor’s Assistant: How long has this been going on with your Whirlpool washer? What have you tried so far?
Just started recently I have done everything I know what to do I have unplugged it I have thrown the breaker I have pushed all the buttons and nothing works
Hello my name is ***** ***** you still in need of assistance? I will require your response in order to assist you confirming you have read this message.
I may be helping multiple customers at a time, and may have possible delays in my response. I will respond as soon as possible and your patience is very much appreciated.
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Ok does the machine have a removable panel beneath the door? If not take off the top, look into see the latch, there should be a pull tab on it, pull the tab with one hand and open the door with the other.
Washing Machine Not Draining Even After Troubleshooting
In addition, always follow your model’s manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for the type of laundry detergent you should use and for how to properly load the machine. If the answers to these questions dont reveal why your washer isnt draining properly, you may need to call the plumber after all.
While its certainly possible to replace the washer pump, lid switch or belts yourself, you may choose to have a professional make those repairs instead. If the drain is clogged and you cant clear it yourself, you may also need to ask your plumber for help. Be sure to keep in mind that the average washing machine’s life expectancy is about 14 years. This time frame is taking 7 loads a week into consideration. Depending on your make and model, you may be able to get away with a dependable machine for a longer span of time, but if you’re reaching the 14 year mark and you’ve had some problems with your washer in the past, it may be time for an upgrade. This is where washing machine warranties come in handy.
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How To Replace The Pump
Buy a new one to match.
- You can find a new pump by searching for your washing machines brand and model number online.
- Pro tip: Model numbers are usually stamped on a small metal plate located under the tub lid or on the top, side or back of the machine. Copy down all the plate information and use it to access online parts suppliers, or take it along to the parts distributor.
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Get Your Washer Back To Its Best
Still experiencing drainage problems? GE Appliances Factory Service is here to help. Whether repairs are required or a replacement part is needed, our factory-trained technicians are well-equipped to efficiently pinpoint, diagnose, and resolve the issueoften in a single visit.* Book an appointment online now.
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Look For The Clog And Pull It Out
The pump has a translucent housing, so you might even see the offending piece of clothing wrapped up in the pump.
- Loosen the clamp that holds the hose to the bottom of the tub and remove the hose.
- Pro tip: Have a bucket and sponge handy. Any water thats left in the machine will run out.
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Pry Off The Old Belt With A Flathead Screwdriver
The old belt is usually pretty stuck on if you havent changed it out in a while. When you remove it, you are going to need a bit of force on your side. Dont be afraid to remove the belt with force, which you can increase by prying it off using a flathead screwdriver. Be sure you dont damage the pulleys.
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Washing Machine Wont Drain
If your washing machine or washer dryer wont drain, youre likely to see water in the drum and you wont be able to open the door. The first step is to unplug the machine from the mains and get the water out. Before you start, find a large, flat tray, an old towel or two, and some containers empty plastic milk bottles are ideal. It might help to have someone else on hand to empty containers as you fill them.
With most new machines youll find a service hatch at the bottom of the front panel. Open it up and look for an emergency drain hose. If there isnt one, youll need to go to the back of the machine and unhook the main drain hose from the standpipe. Keep the end of it raised above the machine.
Place the flat tray under the drain hose to catch any small spills. Pinch the hose while you remove any plug from the end, then place it into a container, unpinch it and, if necessary, lower it below the water level in the machine water should start to pour out. If the machine is full, youll probably fill many containers before its empty. You might need to pinch or raise the hose while you switch.
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Remove The Front Panel Screws
Start by unplugging the machine and emptying the water.
- Bail the water out of the tub.
- Pro tip: Drain the tub using gravity by placing the washer drain hose on the floor near the drain or in a bucket.Clamp the hose to prevent any remaining water from running out.
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Reset The Washing Machine
When the washer stops draining, it can be due to an internal error code or control panel malfunction. Resetting the machine to factory settings can resolve issues like these and get the washer working again.
Make sure to read your household appliances manual before trying anything else! Many modern washers have a reset button that you can access by pressing the panels buttons. Older top-loading washer models require you to unplug the device for one minute, then plug it back in.
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Washing Machine Wont Drain Heres What To Do
If your washing machine wont drain, its probably due to a faulty drain hose or a defective drain pump filter or because the drain pump has stopped working altogether.
Thankfully, the first two reasons are relatively easy to check and fix. If its the motor, you can replace it yourself if you have the right tools, or you might need to call a technician to do it for you.
If your washing machine wont drain, heres what to do.
Will My Washing Machine Drain
Time for a quick test. Select a wash programme, start the machine, and allow it to fill for a short while before stopping it with the programme selector. Now select the drain programme and test whether it drains. If it does, skip to step five but first, check around the pump access hatch. If any water has seeped out then youll need to remove it, clean and refit it again. A small amount of Vaseline or petroleum grease will help to guarantee a water-tight seal.
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Schedule Washing Machine Repair
If these troubleshooting tips dont 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 again.
Washing machine repair is best left to the professionals. If your washing machine still wont drain, its time to for help. Our experienced technicians can efficiently and effectively restore your washing machine to good working order.
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Check The Drain Hose Or Pump For Clogs
Its common for a sock or other small piece of clothing to get into the drain system and clog the hose or pump. Remove the front panel of the washer and check for any obstructions in these areas. If you find anything, remove it to see if you can get the washing machine to drain.
Be aware that if you remove the hose to get an obstruction out of the pump, any water in the washer will come pouring out. To avoid a mess, scoop out as much water from the drum as possible before disconnecting the hose.
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