How to get rid of standing water in a washing machine?

Author: Mattie Christiansen  |  Last update: Saturday, September 27, 2025

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.

How do I get water stuck out of my washing machine?

There must be a filter at the bottom outside the washer. You remove and clean the filter, then put it back. There should also be a hose to drain the water. This work will clear out any leftover water inside and avoid the same event in the future.

What to do when laundry machine is full of water?

If the washer is full of water (or even if its not then put some water in, about half full) then use a water vac to suck on the drain tub which will drain the water like you would cyphon gas from a car. This would suck out any blockage if its not that bad.

Why does water stay in the seal of my washing machine?

If you have water remaining in the door seal (bellows) area of the washer, check under the door seal. Small items, dirt, and pet hair can get trapped in the bellows area. If there is a build-up, water can also build up and remain in that area. This area should be inspected and cleaned on a monthly basis.

How do I fix the water sitting in my washing machine?

  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 Drain the Water Out of Your Washing Machine

What happens if water stays in washing machine?

If the Water is Staying in the Washing Machine

The issue probably lies with the washer. This problem could be traced to the drain tube (which comes out of the machine), the lid switch or the drain pump (an internal issue).

Is it normal to have standing water in a washing machine?

But if your washing machine is full of water or you can see water trapped in the bottom of your washer after a cycle, you may have a drainage problem. Here are a few common washing machine problems you could be dealing with: Your drain hose is kinked. Your lid mechanism is broken or not engaging fully.

How to fix a washing machine not draining?

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 you fix a washing machine that keeps filling up 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 won't my washing machine drain full of water?

This could be due to lint, debris, or even small items of clothing becoming lodged within the hose. To check for blockages, remove the drain hose from the drain outlet and visually inspect it. If you find any obstructions, remove them, and reattach the hose, ensuring it's securely in place.

Why is water pooling in my washing machine?

There are a few reasons why water may be collecting under the wash drum, like a kinked or clogged drain hose or regularly overpacking your machine with laundry. These can cause obstructions and water will not be able to properly drain from the washer drum.

How to clean a washing machine drain hose without removing?

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.

What to do when water is stuck in washing machine?

Turn off the power to the washing machine by unplugging it from the wall outlet or turning off the circuit breaker that controls the washer. Open the lid of the washing machine and use a cup or scoop to remove as much water as possible from the tub. Pour the water into a bucket or other container.

How do I unclog a washing machine?

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.

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.

How to empty a washing machine full of water?

The natural drain method
  1. Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine.
  2. Unhook it from its current position and lower it into a bucket or drain.
  3. Allow the water to flow out naturally.
  4. Once empty, reattach the hose securely.

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 I get water out of the bottom of my washing machine?

If your top-loading washer did not drain by unblocking the drain hose or initiating drain prompts, siphon the water into buckets with a hose.
  1. Open the Lid. Open the washing machine lid. ...
  2. Unplug the Washer and Turn Off the Water. ...
  3. Remove the Clothing. ...
  4. Place Buckets. ...
  5. Set Up a Water Siphon. ...
  6. Drain the Washing Machine Drum.

Why is there so much water left in my washing machine?

A washing machine not draining can have multiple causes, including a clogged or jammed drain hose or a broken pump, lid switch, or belt. No matter the culprit, you need to drain the water from the washing machine before diagnosing the issue or doing any work to remedy the situation.

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 to get rid of sitting water in a washing machine?

Run your washer on a spin cycle and see if it drains this time. Switch Off Water and Power Supply: If the problem persists, you're going to have to inspect your washer further. Switch off the water and power supply to prevent flooding or electrical shock. Check Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or clogs.

Why is my washing machine full of water when not in use?

Is it filling up when not in use? If you find clean water filling up the drum when the washer is not being used this could be due to contamination from your cold water supply clogging in the water valve of your washing machine. There is a filter fitted in the valve to catch this debris and can be easily cleaned.

How do you fix a washer that won't stop filling with water?

Examine the Water Inlet Valve: The machine will continue filling if the valve that lets water into your washer is stuck open. This may require replacement or repair by a professional. Inspect the Pressure Chamber: Washers often use a pressure chamber and hose to control the water level.

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