How to fix a washer not draining?

Author: Haylie O'Conner DDS  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 4, 2026

  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.

How do you fix a washing machine 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 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.

What causes the washing machine to not drain water?

If your washing machine isn't draining or filling, the most likely cause is a clogged filter, or clogged or twisted hose. This may display as a 4E/4C or 5E/5C error message on your machine. Follow these links for step-by-step guides to cleaning your debris filter and cleaning your mesh filter.

How do you unclog a washing machine drain?

Clear things out by mixing equal parts of hot water and vinegar and pouring the mixture through the drain pipe. Wait half an hour, then reconnect the drain pipe, plug in your machine and run a wash cycle.

Washing Machine Not Draining Water Properly - How to Fix

How do you unblock a clogged washing machine?

There are three recommended methods of unblocking a washing machine drain yourself. These are to use baking soda and vinegar, a chemical drain cleaner, or do it manually. You can also potentially fix the issue by straightening out the washing machine drain hose if it has become twisted.

Can I use Drano to unclog my washing machine drain?

Drano® Snake Plus Tool + Gel System was designed to unclog a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, shower, bathtub and even a laundry drain.

How to fix a washing machine that won't wash?

What are the steps to fix a washing machine that won't wash?
  1. Step 1: Check the Power Supply. ...
  2. Step 2: Check the Water Supply. ...
  3. Step 3: Check the Detergent Dispenser. ...
  4. Step 4: Check the Drain Hose. ...
  5. Step 5: Check the Agitator. ...
  6. Step 6: Check the Belt. ...
  7. Step 7: Check the Motor.

How do you manually drain a washing machine?

Manual draining

For more stubborn situations, try this manual method to drain your washing machine: Find the drain filter, usually located at the front bottom of the machine. Place a shallow container and towels beneath to catch any water. Slowly unscrew the filter, allowing water to flow out gradually.

How do I know if my washing machine 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.

What can I press to drain water from my washing machine?

1. After the washing cycle is complete and washing is done, power down the machine and cut off the water supply. 2. Take out the washed clothes, in the case of a top-loading machine, and turn the knob from “wash” to “drain”.

How to tell if a washing machine drain pump is bad?

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.

How to reset a washing machine?

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.

How do I fix the water not coming out of my washing machine?

Check the proper connection of the hot- and cold-water hose

Also, check to see if the hot and cold-water supply hoses are not kinked and both water supply valves are completely open, and the hose filter has no issues inside.

How do you know if your washing machine filter is blocked?

If you do not already clean your washing machine filter then the following indications mean it is overdue:
  • Deposits or residue on your clothes.
  • The unusual smell from your clothes or machine.
  • Build up of leftover laundry detergent.
  • Mould or mildew around the lid or door.
  • The water doesn't drain fully from the machine.

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.

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 is my washing machine not draining?

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.

Why won't my washing machine rinse or drain?

Check the hose and unclog or straighten it if necessary. The most probable cause is a clogged pump filter. The pump filter should be cleaned every three months or when it's clogged. This filter is installed to catch foreign items like buttons or coins and to prevent these items from entering the drain hose.

Can I fix my washing machine myself?

While some common washer issues — noisy operation, overflow, shaking and moving, or failure to start can be DIY fixes. If the problem is more complicated than anticipated and your self-repairs aren't working, it's time to call an experienced professional to service your washing machine.

Why is my washing machine on but not washing?

A blocked detergent line or tray is the most likely reason for your washing machine not cleaning your clothes properly. Alternatively, there could be a blockage elsewhere, meaning that detergent, germs, dirt and grime will eventually build up and transfer onto your clothes.

How do you unblock a washer that won't drain?

How to Drain a Washing Machine Manually
  1. Tools Required:
  2. Inspect. Check the hose and drain pipe for visible clogs. ...
  3. Use A Drain Snake. Use a plumber's drain snake to clear lint and clogs from the hose and drain line. ...
  4. Use Baking Soda And Vinegar. ...
  5. Use A Plunger. ...
  6. Use Drain Cleaner.

What is best to unclog washing machine drain?

Use Hot Water and Baking Soda

Hot water and baking soda make for a simple, powerful, and low-cost solution here. This combination is one of the best homemade solutions for unclogging a drain.

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