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

Author: Mr. Chad Cruickshank II  |  Last update: Sunday, June 8, 2025

Disruptive noises: When your washing machine makes loud, thumping sounds during the drainage phase, it might indicate that the pump has a clog or can't effectively empty the water. No washer movement: Washing machines spin and jerk quickly to loosen dirt on fabrics.

How do I know if my washing machine water pump is bad?

The pump should work or not. Simply check the outlet pipe. If it pumps the water out and the machine follows it's sequence then it's ok. If the water pump keeps running and there is water in the machine you have a problem. Generally, if it takes ``a longer than normal'' time to drain you have a problem.

How to check a washing machine pump?

First, set your multimeter to the 2k setting, which stands for 2 kiloohms. Then place the two multimeter prongs into the socket in which the electrical connection was connected. If your drain pump is working properly, the multimeter should show a reading between 160 ohms to 260 ohms (with about 5% leeway).

Is it worth replacing the pump on a washing machine?

Yes its worth fixing your washing machine if it's just the drain pump that's gone bad. But really not worth the effort if the tank seal goes bad.

Will the washer not spin if the drain pump is bad?

Okay, what you need to do is to check your drain pump for a partial clogging. What happens in virtually all front load washers is that if the drain pump get clogged, even partially, the washer won't spin out the clothes all the way. Also, immediately before the drain pump will be a trap.

How to test a washing machine and dishwasher drain pump

What would cause a washer to wash but not spin?

The washing machine is too full. The load is improperly balanced. The washer itself isn't balanced correctly. The lid switch is broken.

How do I know if my drain pump is not working?

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 do I know if my washer needs a new pump?

Firstly, just to check you are on the right path, here are the warning signs that your drain pump is broken:
  1. You can't hear the pump when it's draining the water out.
  2. You can hear a low humming sound when on spin cycle but the water doesn't drain.
  3. The washing machine fills up with water as normal.

How much does it cost to replace a washing machine water pump?

On average, expect to spend $300 to $400 for a pump replacement job. Washing machine pump repairs are usually required when you note active leaks or a tub that doesn't drain. If the tub does not move, but the agitator does, this indicates the pump is starting to experience issues.

What is the most expensive part to replace on a washing machine?

Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.

How can I test my water pump?

Since you cannot physically inspect the impeller and inside of a water pump without removing the pump, the best way to know if it is functioning properly is to visually inspect the coolant condition, test the coolant pH and protection levels, test drive the vehicle to verify normal operating temperature, and squeeze ...

How do I clean my washing machine water pump?

Clean Your Washer Drain Pump for More Efficient Washing
  1. Open your washer's filter access door. You're looking for a small, rectangular door on the bottom right-hand corner of your machine. ...
  2. Unhook the emergency drain hose. ...
  3. Empty the hose. ...
  4. Remove the drain pump filter. ...
  5. Clean the drain pump filter. ...
  6. Replace the drain pump.

How do I fix my washing machine not pumping water?

Washer Won't Fill? Try These Troubleshooting Tips
  1. Check that the lid is completely closed. ...
  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. ...
  5. Check Water Flow. ...
  6. Is water inlet valve working? ...
  7. Check for Broken Wires. ...
  8. Check the Pressure Switch.

How do I know if my washer fluid pump is bad?

If you activate the windshield washer and don't hear the pump's distinct sound, then the pump is either broken or not receiving any power. This can be due to faulty wiring or other electrical issues.

Is it worth fixing a 7 year old washing machine?

Factors to Consider

If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.

Is replacing a water pump easy?

Replacing a car water pump could be a simple or difficult job, depending on the vehicle and the water pump's location. It's a job usually best left for professional mechanics. The water pump may be hidden under other components and may require special tools depending on the vehicle's design.

How to tell if a washing machine pump is broken?

Usually, if the drain pump isn't working properly, you'll hear an unusual noise or notice leaking from the washing machine when it is running. If your pump is malfunctioning, you'll need to replace it yourself or call a professional to replace it for you.

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.

Will washer not spin if drain pump is bad?

A blocked drain pump may cause your washing machine not to spin. To fix this issue, clean out any lint from around the pump or replace it if necessary.

How do you test a water pump?

to check your water pump, with the car warmed up, squeeze the upper radiator hose and rev the engine, you should feel the pressure push back on you.

How do you check if the filter is blocked in a washing machine?

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

How do I know if my pump is failing?

You see water or other fluids leaking from the pump. The pump isn't generating enough pressure to correctly move fluids through your system. The pump is running hot, even when there's no load on it. The motor seems to be struggling or straining when the pump is running.

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