To determine if your washer's drain pump is bad, listen for loud humming, buzzing, or grinding during the drain cycle, or check for water left standing in the drum. Test the pump by clearing any clogs, checking if it receives power, and testing the motor's internal resistance and impeller.
Performing a Multimeter Test
Set your multimeter to check for resistance (Ohms). Place multimeter probes on the pump terminals. A properly functioning pump should give a measurable resistance reading (generally between 10 and 100 Ohms, depending on your model).
Performing a reset by unplugging the machine for a few minutes and plugging it back in could help to get the drain cycle running again. Keep in mind, resetting your washing machine will not help it start draining again if the problem is coming from one of the components, such as the drain hose, pump, or lid switch.
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.
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.
On average, you can expect a quality, professionally installed sump pump to last for approximately 7 to 10 years.
Most Common Washing Machine Faults
Most washing machines last anywhere from 10-13 years, while Hisense washing machines can last up to 10 years. It's an average lifespan, but Hisense does offer a few different warranties ranging from 1-5 years, so keep that in mind.
Unfortunately, small issues can still cause big disruptions. A washing machine not draining often traces back to one of these common causes: Clogged or kinked drain hose blocking water flow. Blocked pump filter filled with lint, debris, or small items.
Yes, but only for minor, grease-based clogs (like slow kitchen sinks). Dawn works well as a degreaser, but it won't fix hair, mineral buildup, or solid blockages.
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!
To manually drain a washing machine, unplug the power and lay down towels. Open the access panel at the bottom front to locate the emergency drain hose and pump filter. Place a shallow container under the hose, remove its plug, and let the water flow out completely.
5 Warning Signs Your Water Pump May Be Failing
Most washing machines last between 10 and 13 years. Top-load washers typically edge out front-loaders in longevity—averaging 12 to 14 years—because they have simpler mechanics. Front-load washers generally average 10 to 11 years due to added wear on their complex door seals and drum bearings.
One common sign of a bad washer pump is water not draining properly. After a wash cycle, you might notice water still sitting in the drum. This often happens because the pump is clogged, broken, or not strong enough to push water out.
Loud Noises During the Drain Cycle
Another common symptom of a failing drain pump is unusual or loud noises coming from the washing machine, especially during the draining or spin cycle. The pump may be clogged, or there could be a problem with its motor, causing it to make grinding or buzzing noises.
If you prefer a natural alternative, pour about 1/2 cup baking soda into the pipe followed by approximately 1 cup of white vinegar. Wait at least 30 minutes. Then, pour boiling water down the standpipe to flush away loosened debris.
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.
If you only treat the adult drain flies, the problem won't go away. The eggs and larvae will keep growing. In a week or two, you'll have new adult drain flies. If you remove the adults and just clean the surface of your drain, you probably won't get rid of all the organic matter inside.
Clean the drain pump and filter once per month - Hoover Advice Centre.