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

Author: scraper  |  Last update: Tuesday, July 21, 2026

To quickly check if your washer's drain pump is bad, first ensure the drain hose and filter are free of blockages. If the washer still fails to drain, is making loud grinding noises, or the pump impeller is loose, use a multimeter to check the electrical continuity.

How to test if a washer drain pump is bad?

If your drain pump is working properly, the multimeter should show a reading between 160 ohms to 260 ohms (with about 5% leeway). So the lowest possible acceptable reading should be 152 ohms. If the multimeter reads lower than this, it means the drain pump is faulty and needs replacing.

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

Some of these signs include:

  1. Water remaining in the drum after the washing cycle completes.
  2. Excessive noise or unusual humming coming from the washer during draining or spinning cycles.
  3. Leaking water under or around the washing machine.
  4. The machine failing to initiate the draining process.

What are signs of a failing drain pump?

Common drain pump failure symptoms include: Incomplete cycles: Have you recently checked a wash load only to discover a full reservoir or soaked clothes? These issues indicate incomplete cycles, a hallmark of a failing drain pump. Stinky smells: You might detect rotten or decay odors wafting from your washing machine.

Why is my Hisense washing machine not draining?

If it's not draining, I'd just check that the outlet hose isn't kinked or hasn't been squashed or trapped by anything. The other thing you can do is check the drain pump filter. There's usually a small door on the front bottom of the washer with a cap behind that you can screw off.

Whirlpool Washer Won't Drain - How to Drain the Washer, Diagnose and Fix

How to unblock a washing machine drain pump?

Unblocking a washing machine pump is usually a quick, DIY-friendly fix if your machine won't drain. The pump filter catches items like coins, lint, and hair.

What is the lifespan of a drain pump?

On average, you can expect a quality, professionally installed sump pump to last for approximately 7 to 10 years.

How to know if a washing machine drain is clogged?

A clogged washer drain can lead to water pooling in the tub, slow drainage, or water backing up out of the standpipe during a cycle. Follow these steps to find and identify if your drain is blocked.

What is the average lifespan of a washing machine?

The average lifespan of a washing machine is 10 to 13 years. However, this varies by type; simpler top-load models often last around 14 years, while more complex front-load models average about 11 years.

How to reset washing machine drain pump?

To "reset" a washing machine drain pump, perform a system power reset or manually clear the built-in pump filter. A hard reset clears electronic glitches, while clearing blockages (like coins or lint) restores mechanical function.

Can I replace a washing machine drain pump myself?

To remove simply turn the pump motor while depressing the tab that locks the rotation and simply take the electrical connectors off. Grab your new pump, reconnect the electrical connectors and reconnect it. There you go - all done! Well done you on being able to replace your washing machine drain pump all by yourself!

Does too much detergent cause draining issues?

Significantly overloading the appliances with detergent can eventually lead to too much soap buildup, causing clogs in pipes and drains. Use the correct amount of detergent to avoid this issue.

How does a washer drain pump go bad?

Washing machine drain pumps usually fail because small debris clogs the pump impeller, the motor burns out, or internal seals wear out and leak water onto the electrical components.

How can I force my washer to drain?

HOW TO MANUALLY DRAIN WATER FROM A FRONT LOAD WASHER

  1. LOCATE THE WASHER FILTER. Unplug your washer from the electrical outlet and look for the washer filter. ...
  2. OPEN THE WASHER FILTER. ...
  3. DRAIN THE WATER.

What is the most common problem with Whirlpool washers?

The most common problem with Whirlpool washers is a failure to spin, agitate, or drain, primarily caused by unbalanced loads or a malfunctioning lid latch/door lock. Because safety mechanisms prevent the machine from running if the door isn't properly locked, or if the load shifts unevenly, the cycle frequently stalls.

What will unclog a washing machine drain?

The best way to unclog a washer drain pipe is to remove the machine's drain hose and use a combination of a natural enzymatic/vinegar treatment, a wet/dry vacuum, or a handheld plumber's auger to clear the lint, soap scum, or foreign objects blocking the line.

Does Dawn really unclog drains?

A straightforward yet effective approach to addressing a clogged drain pipe involves simply using hot water mixed with dish soap. This method, ideal for tackling minor blockages, leverages the degreasing power of dish soap combined with the force of hot water to dislodge and dissolve clog-causing residue.

Do top load washers have a drain filter?

Most newer top-load washers do not have a user-serviceable drain filter. Instead, they rely on self-cleaning pump systems and larger drain holes to flush out lint and debris automatically.

How to check if a drain pump is faulty?

To check a faulty drain pump in an appliance like a washing machine or dishwasher, first isolate power and access the pump. Inspect and clear the filter for clogs. Check the impeller for physical damage and test its mechanical and electrical resistance with a multimeter.

What are the first signs of water pump failure?

Early signs of a failing water pump include visible coolant leaks, a high-pitched whining or grinding noise from the front of the engine, a slow but steady drop in the coolant reservoir, and an engine temperature gauge that occasionally creeps higher than normal.

How often does a drain pump need to be replaced?

Sump pumps typically don't last more than 10 years. Many experts recommend replacing your pump every 5 years and replacing the switch and float every couple of years.

Can I pour drano down a washing machine drain pipe?

No, you should not put Drano or other chemical drain cleaners down a washing machine drain pipe. It can damage your pipes, cause expensive plumbing repairs, and push the clog deeper.

What will dissolve a blocked drain?

To unclog a drain quickly, you can use common household items or store-bought chemicals depending on the severity of the clog.

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