Do washer drain pumps go bad?

Author: Celia Sawayn  |  Last update: Monday, August 18, 2025

Check the pump. Your washing machine could also not be draining properly because the pump has burnt out, or because something has become wrapped around the impeller like an elastic band or piece of plastic.

How do I know if my washer drain pump is bad?

The pump impeller shouldn't turn both directions freely. It should have a rubber bandy type feeling going one direction due to the magnets. Either way, the pump only needs to be replaced if the washer isn't draining, or if it's really noisy.

Is it worth replacing the pump on a washing machine?

Yes its worth fixing your washing machine if it's just the drain pump that's gone bad. But really not worth the effort if the tank seal goes bad.

How do I know if I need a new washer pump?

Listen for the pump whirring and see if you can feel any vibration when the switch is activated. If you can't, the pump is faulty; if you can, there's likely a blockage or a leak from the reservoir. If the pump isn't working, turn the power off and access the bottom of the washer reservoir.

What causes a washing machine drain pump to break?

  • Clogged: Lint, debris, or even foreign objects can block the pump, hoses, or filter.
  • Worn pump: Age, defective components, or hard water can lead to pump problems.
  • Installation issues: Kinks in the drain hose or improper venting can hinder water flow.

LG Washer Drain Pump Fix in 7 Minutes

How much does a new drain pump cost for a washing machine?

On average, the washer pump replacement cost is between $20 and $100 (CAD 27 to CAD 134) just for the part itself, according to data from HomeGuide.

Will a bad drain pump cause a washer to not spin?

Your washing machine may fail to run the spin cycle because it cannot drain the water out of the drum. In this case, the problem likely is a result of a clogged or faulty drain pump.

How do I know if my washer needs a new pump?

Firstly, just to check you are on the right path, here are the warning signs that your drain pump is broken:
  1. You can't hear the pump when it's draining the water out.
  2. You can hear a low humming sound when on spin cycle but the water doesn't drain.
  3. The washing machine fills up with water as normal.

How much does it cost to replace a washer pump?

Auto Windscreen washer pump: how much does this product cost? The price of car parts within the auto Windscreen washer pump category ranges from £2 to £109, depending on the vehicle type, manufacturer, and product specifications.

What are the symptoms of a bad washer fluid pump?

Common signs include washer fluid not spraying evenly, no fluid spraying onto the windshield, and the pump not engaging when you activate the system.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

Are washing machine pumps expensive?

How much does it cost to replace a washing machine pump? On average, a washing machine pump repair cost is around £85.

How often should you clear the drain pump on a washing machine?

Clean the drain pump filter at least once a month. You may need to clean it more frequently if the washer is used on a daily basis. If you notice any signs of clogging or improper drainage, clean the filter immediately.

How long do washer fluid pumps last?

A washer fluid pump can last the lifetime of the vehicle in some cases. However, it's subject to wear and tear like any other part. On average, you could expect it to last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles under normal circumstances.

Why won't my washer empty water?

If your washer won't drain, the main thing to check is your drain hose. It needs to be in good condition and properly installed in order to work properly. If you have a front load washer, you should also clean the pump filter. It also helps to make sure your washer is level.

How much does it cost to replace a washing machine pump?

On average, expect to spend $300 to $400 for a pump replacement job. Washing machine pump repairs are usually required when you note active leaks or a tub that doesn't drain. If the tub does not move, but the agitator does, this indicates the pump is starting to experience issues.

What causes a washing machine drain pump to fail?

It can fail when hard objects, like coins or rocks in your pockets, enter the pump system. Damaged impeller: The impeller works like a fan with blades directing water outward. Tangled fibers or heavy debris collections can cause impeller damage. Clogged pump filter: The pump removes debris from the cleaning reservoir.

How long does a washing machine last?

Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.

How to test if a washer drain pump is bad?

First, set your multimeter to the 2k setting, which stands for 2 kiloohms. Then place the two multimeter prongs into the socket in which the electrical connection was connected. If your drain pump is working properly, the multimeter should show a reading between 160 ohms to 260 ohms (with about 5% leeway).

Will washer not spin if drain pump is bad?

A blocked drain pump may cause your washing machine not to spin. To fix this issue, clean out any lint from around the pump or replace it if necessary.

How do I know if my washer drain hose is clogged?

If there is standing water in the washer tub following the final spin cycle, or there is water leaking from the bottom of the washer cabinet, the washer's drain pump or drain hose could be clogged or broken and preventing the water from being emptied from the appliance into a laundry tub or standpipe.

How do I know if the pump has gone on my washing machine?

When the drain pump is either blocked or faulty these are the top symptoms that will be reported:
  • Water in washing machine won't drain.
  • Washing machine stopped full of water.
  • Washing machine won't spin.
  • Washing machine won't drain.

What would cause a washer to wash but not spin?

The washing machine is too full. The load is improperly balanced. The washer itself isn't balanced correctly. The lid switch is broken.

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