How to fix a washing machine that isn't draining?

Author: Reyes Ryan  |  Last update: Sunday, September 7, 2025

  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 to fix a washing machine that won't drain?

Fortunately, there are a variety of steps you can take to diagnose and resolve the issue.
  1. Check the Drain Hose. ...
  2. Manually Drain the Washing Machine. ...
  3. Check for Deeper Clogs. ...
  4. Clean the Pump Filter. ...
  5. Clean the Coin Trap. ...
  6. Test the Lid Switch. ...
  7. Try a Master Reset. ...
  8. Check the Power Source.

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 is the reason if the washing machine is not taking water?

The most common reason is a problem with the water supply, or a blocked or kinked water supply hose. In this situation, the washing machine will drain for 3 minutes and the power button will be inoperative. In this case, please clean the debris filter and 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 - Fixed

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.

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”.

When water doesn't drain from washing machine?

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.

How to fix a washing machine not filling with water?

Washer Won't Fill? Try These Troubleshooting Tips
  1. Check that the lid is completely closed. Washing machines have a safety switch that prevents the washer from operating if the lid is open. ...
  2. Make sure the hot and cold water supplies are on. ...
  3. See if the fill hoses are kinked. ...
  4. Check if the water inlet screens are clogged.

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.

Why is my washing machine not draining or spinning?

If your washing machine does not open, drain, or spin: The most likely cause is an inoperative drain pump, or a clogged debris filter. If your washer has water inside the Drum, the door will not open to prevent a flood.

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.

Is there an emergency drain on a washing machine?

You need the emergency drain when the washer door is closed or the machine displays an unbalanced load error (Ub). This process also covers cleaning the debris filter on the machine, which is a good thing to do every 2 months.

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 reset a washing machine?

Turn the machine off at the powerpoint, wait for one minute, and then turn it back on. If you see no change, you can try a Master Reset. This will reset all of the onboard componentry and is often successfully used by appliance technicians. Open and close the door of the washing machine 6 times within 12 seconds.

What to do if your washing machine keeps filling with water?

Check the water inlet valve

Turn your washer on and let it start filling up. As it's filling, disconnect the power to your washer. If the water keeps filling, you'll know the water inlet valve didn't close. (It's most likely broken, and you'll need to replace it).

Why is my washing machine humming but not filling with water?

Why is my washing machine humming and not filling with water? If your washing machine isn't filling with water and is making a humming sound, it could be related to water flow problems, such as closed or blocked supply taps. Check the water supply and connections to address this issue.

How to fix a washer not draining water?

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 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 long do washing machines last?

Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.

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.

What to do when water stays in the washing machine?

Check the hose and drain pipe for visible clogs. The drain pipe is usually a white or black plastic pipe behind the washing machine. You can consult your owner's manual if you can't find it. Use a plumber's drain snake to clear lint and clogs from the hose and drain line.

What can clog a washing machine drain?

A number of reasons could cause a washing machine drain can become clogged, including the buildup of lint or debris, foreign objects lodged in the drain, or even a more serious problem with the drain and sewer line system.

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