How do I get my GE washer to drain?

Author: Juliana Feest  |  Last update: Monday, September 8, 2025

Try these fixes when your GE washing machine isn't draining:
  1. Unplug your washer. ...
  2. Check the load size and balance. ...
  3. Test the lid switch. ...
  4. Inspect the drain hose. ...
  5. Check for clogs in the drain hose or pump. ...
  6. Inspect the water level control. ...
  7. Get help with advanced repairs.

How do I force my GE washer to drain?

If you look at the large center knob where you select different cycles, there is a ``Drain & Spin'' option in the bottom right corner of the knob selection options. You can turn the knob to this selection and start a cycle on drain and spin, and the washer will do nothing but drain and spin.

How do I force my washing machine to drain?

How to drain a washer filled with water
  1. Try the spin cycle. ...
  2. Turn off the power and water supply. ...
  3. Remove and check the drain hose. ...
  4. Check to see if it will drain with the help of gravity. ...
  5. Check your machine's inner workings. ...
  6. Check the drain pipe. ...
  7. Drain manually if needed. ...
  8. Call a service professional.

Why isn't my GE washer not draining?

Clogged Drain Pump or Hose:The most common culprit is a clog in either the drain pump or the drain hose. Check the hose for kinks or blockages,and inspect the pump for debris. Faulty Lid Switch:Top-loading GE washers have a lid switch that prevents the machine from spinning or draining if the lid is open.

Why is my GE washer humming but not draining?

What to check:If the impeller is intact and there are no visible clogs,the pump motor itself might have failed. Listen carefully when your washer should be draining - if the humming is coming from the pump area and it's not clogged,a bad pump is likely. How to fix:Replacing the drain pump usually requires a technician.

Washing Machine not Draining Water - Fixed

How to fix a washer that won't drain?

Here are some simple fixes to try when your washer tub is still full of water after a cycle:
  1. Reset your washer. ...
  2. Check the load balance. ...
  3. Test the lid switch. ...
  4. Check the drain hose. ...
  5. Look for clogs in the drain hose or pump.
  6. Check the water level control. ...
  7. Ask for help with advanced repairs.

How to reset GE washer?

Washer Control Reset

To reset the electronic controls on your washer, shut off the circuit breaker or fuse to the washer or unplug the washer for 2 minutes. For models that have a timer control knob, turn the knob around and back to any position other than final spin for the interrupted cycle. Then, restore power.

Why is my built in washing machine not draining?

This could be due to lint, debris, or even small items of clothing becoming lodged within the hose. To check for blockages, remove the drain hose from the drain outlet and visually inspect it. If you find any obstructions, remove them, and reattach the hose, ensuring it's securely in place.

What are common problems with GE washers?

Most Common GE Washing Machine Repair Problems
  • Washer won't spin. 30 possible causes and potential solutions. ...
  • Washer is making loud noise. 21 possible causes and potential solutions. ...
  • Washer won't agitate. 21 possible causes and potential solutions. ...
  • Washer won't drain. ...
  • Washer vibrating or shaking. ...
  • Washer not filling properly.

How to force GE dishwasher to drain?

Can you force a GE dishwasher to drain? For some models, simply press and hold the start button for 3-4 seconds, and it should begin to drain.

How do I get my washer to just drain?

  1. Perform a Master Reset. Unplug your washer for about one minute. ...
  2. Check the Lid Switch Assembly. Top-loading washers will only drain and spin if the lid is securely closed. . ...
  3. See if the Drain Hose Is Kinked. ...
  4. Check the Drain Hose or Pumps for Clogs. ...
  5. Clean Out the Filter.

Why is my washing machine not emptying water?

A washing machine not draining can have multiple causes, including a clogged or jammed drain hose or a broken pump, lid switch, or belt. No matter the culprit, you need to drain the water from the washing machine before diagnosing the issue or doing any work to remedy the situation.

How do you make a GE washer drain and spin?

Drain and Spin Operation

In general, Top-Load and Front-Load Washers with only a Rinse & Spin cycle can still achieve a Drain and Spin without the rinse by selecting the Rinse & Spin cycle, and then de-selecting the Deep Rinse (Top-Load) or Extra Rinse (Front-Load) option.

Can you force a washer to drain?

Even if the automatic drain does not work, all clothes washers have a manual override that allows you to prompt the washer to spin out and drain the remaining water. Check your washer's instructions. In most cases, manual override requires advancing the washer cycle to a later cycle.

Why won't my GE washing machine drain?

Your load is unbalanced. The lid switch is faulty. The drain hose is worn out or kinked. The hose or washer pump is clogged.

What is the life expectancy of a GE washing machine?

The lifespan of a washing machine, no matter the brand, is typically 11-14 years.

What is the class action lawsuit for GE washing machines?

(CN) - General Electric cannot dismiss nationwide class allegations that its front-loading washers accumulate mold, mildew and foul odors, a federal judge ruled.

How do I get rid of standing water in my washing machine?

If you have a drain pump filter, put your shallow container against the washing machine under the filter to catch the water. Turn the knob slowly until the water starts flowing. Each time you fill the container, turn the knob off and empty it into a sink and repeat the process until all the water has been drained.

How do I know if my washing machine drain pump is clogged?

Disruptive noises: When your washing machine makes loud, thumping sounds during the drainage phase, it might indicate that the pump has a clog or can't effectively empty the water. No washer movement: Washing machines spin and jerk quickly to loosen dirt on fabrics.

How to unblock a washing machine drain?

Use a funnel to pour about a quarter of a cup of baking soda into the pipe. Next, empty a baster full of vinegar into the drain hose. Top tip: If the blockage is not completely gone, you can repeat the above process. Once you have cleared any debris from the hose, pour hot water in to flush everything out.

How to drain water from GE top load washer?

DISCONNECT DRAIN HOSE

Disconnect the drain hose from the wall and allow the water to drain. You may need to have several buckets lined up to catch all the water. Once empty, reconnect the drain hose, move the washer back into place, and turn the power back on.

Why won't my washer drain and spin?

Make sure the drain pump filter is not clogged. Remove the belt to inspect for any damage or debris blocking the spinning mechanism. Check if there is enough water in the washer drum before starting a cycle, and ensure that all hoses are securely connected.

How do I reboot my washing machine?

1. Unplug the washing machine: First, unplug the machine from its wall outlet. 2. Reconnecting: After about a minute, replug the machine into the wall outlet, which will restart the washing machine.

Previous article
What happens 30 minutes after death?
Next article
Who will pay for old appliances?