Washing machine pumps primarily fail due to physical obstructions, motor burnout, and natural wear and tear. When these pumps stop working, the machine will typically struggle to drain water, leaving clothes soaking wet at the end of a cycle.
Some of the most common reasons for a bad drain pump include: Faulty pump motor: The motor should only move water, dissolved soap, and dirt. 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.
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.
This can be due to faulty wiring or other electrical issues. If you can access the washer pump and disconnect the wires you can have an assistant operate the washer switch while you check for power and ground at the washer pump connector. Sometimes washer pumps will lock up. Sometimes the motor will wear out.
To determine if your washing machine pump is broken, look for symptoms like water remaining in the drum, loud buzzing or grinding noises, or clothes that remain soaking wet at the end of the cycle. Most drain pumps can be easily diagnosed with a few physical and electrical checks.
Replacing a washing machine drain pump typically costs between $150 and $400. The exact price depends on whether you are fixing a clothes washer, a pressure washer, or a car's windshield system, and whether you handle the repair yourself or hire a professional.
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.
Keep reading for six of the most common causes of pump failure, and learn to recognize the signs, so you can fix them quickly.
Washing Machine Pump Repair
On average, expect to spend $300 to $400 for a pump replacement job.
Yes, you can temporarily fix a leaking automotive water pump without replacing it by using a cooling system sealant like K-Seal Engine Leak Repair or Aluma-Seal. However, this is strictly a stopgap measure. Because water pumps are sealed units, true repair requires replacement.
Whether to fix a 7-year-old washing machine depends on the repair cost vs. the "50% rule." Generally, if the repair costs more than half the price of a new machine, replacement is smarter. For a 7-year-old unit, you should only proceed if the repair is under $150 to $200.
Here are the seven most common warning signs that your washing machine needs professional attention, along with practical advice on what to do about each one.
Speed Queen is the longest-lasting washing machine brand, boasting an industry-leading lifespan of 20 to 25 years. They use commercial-grade metal parts and industrial motors. For heavy use, Miele and LG are also top-tier choices.
A failing water pump typically signals trouble through a high-pitched squealing, a rhythmic chirping, or a deep growling and grinding noise. These sounds generally indicate that the pump's internal shaft bearings have worn out or that the attached drive pulley is loose or misaligned.
For the least amount of mechanical issues, Speed Queen is universally praised as the most reliable brand due to its heavy-duty, commercial-grade build. For modern, feature-rich machines, LG consistently ranks at the top for front-load reliability, and Whirlpool/GE are top choices for traditional top-loaders.
The most expensive washing machine parts to replace are usually the drum and bearings, followed closely by the motor and control board. While some repairs are worth doing, in many cases replacement is the better long-term investment—especially if your machine is older and less efficient.
Replacing a car water pump could be simple or difficult, depending on the vehicle and the water pump's location. It's usually best left to professional mechanics. Depending on the vehicle's design, the water pump may be hidden under other components and require special tools. The repair can take two to three hours.
While, in most cases, it's better to replace an older washing machine, if the repairs are simple, then they may be more cost-effective. If you're repairing only a simple issue with your washing machine, then it might not cost you very much. It's worth contacting an electrician to take a look at the issue.
With a bad water pump, coolant cannot circulate, and the engine would quickly overheat, resulting in potential breakdowns and costly repairs.
The core triggers of pump failures usually come under one of two categories - electrical or mechanical. Poor-quality power can cause pump/ motor malfunctions, so start by getting power readings.
Because "pump" can refer to several very different products, the best brands vary widely depending on the category you are looking for. The top manufacturers across the three most common definitions are detailed below:
Yes, a water pump can fail without warning. While they often show signs like leaking, noise, or overheating, internal components—such as the impeller—can snap, or bearing failure can occur suddenly, causing immediate loss of circulation and overheating without prior symptoms.
To test a car's water pump, check for coolant circulation by turning on your cabin heater to maximum—if it blows consistently hot air, the pump is likely circulating. Next, with the engine off, inspect the pump’s weep hole for leaks, and wiggle the pulley to check for failing, loose bearings.
Whether you mean a water pump in your car or the well pump in your home, specific warning signs will tell you when it’s time for a replacement.