Why is the water backing up from my washing machine drain?

Author: Thelma Lowe  |  Last update: Sunday, March 23, 2025

Clogged Drain Hose Or Improper Installation One of the main reasons for backups is a clogged drain hose. Over time lint, debris, and fabric fibers can accumulate in the hose.

Why does my washing machine drain keep backing up?

Regular blockages in a washing machine drain can be caused by several factors: Lint and Debris: Lint, hair, and small fabric pieces can accumulate in the drain hose or filter, leading to clogs. Detergent Buildup: Using too much detergent or the wrong type can create soap scum that builds up in the drain system.

How do you fix a backed up washing machine drain?

Here are some steps you can take to clear a clogged washer drain:
  1. Turn off the power. Turn off the power to your washing machine by unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker. ...
  2. Find the drain pipe. ...
  3. Check for blockages. ...
  4. Plumber's snake. ...
  5. Hot water and vinegar. ...
  6. Power on. ...
  7. Call a top rated plumber. ...
  8. Clean lint trap.

Why is the water from my washing machine backing up into the sink?

You probably have a partial blockage somewhere in the drain pipe, it is letting some water get by slowly. When the washer empties the water starts backing up and some of it comes up out of the sink drain. The larger the amount of water your washer puts out then the larger the amount of backup.

How to stop water backing up into the washing machine?

You can minimize this returning water by attaching the outlet/drain hose of the machine up almost to the height of the machine as near the exit of the machine as possible so that from there it runs downhill to the drain or spigot. Most of the exiting water will then flow away rather than returning into the washer.

Washing Machine not Draining Water - Fixed

Why is there water sitting in my washing machine drain pipe?

Your washing machine's drain hose may be blocked, preventing water from leaving the drum. This can be caused by a clog or kink in the hose. Clogged Filters: Filters in your washing machine play a crucial role in trapping lint, debris, and foreign objects.

What causes water to come back up the drain?

Clogs can form in any part of your plumbing system, including the main sewer line. Grease, soap, hair, and food debris can build up in your drains over time and restrict the flow of wastewater. If the clog is in your main sewer line, it can cause sewage to back up into multiple drains and toilets throughout your home.

How do I know if my washer drain pipe is clogged?

How to Tell if Your Washer's Drain Hose is Clogged
  1. Gurgling and bubbling noises coming from the hose and drain pipe.
  2. Bad odors emanating from the drain.
  3. Cycle ends with the tub filled with water and clothes are still wet.
  4. Water is leaking onto the floor near the washing machine.

Why is water overflowing when washing machine drains?

Regularly clean your washing machine's drain hose and filter to prevent clogs. Avoid overloading your washing machine, this can lead to excessive water usage and potential overflow. Periodically inspect your home's plumbing system for signs of leaks, clogs, or other issues that could contribute to standpipe overflow.

How to unclog main drain line?

Your step-by-step guide: How to clear a main sewer line clog
  1. Step 1: Loosen the cap on the drain pipe. ...
  2. Step 2: Open the cap and let the buildup drain out. ...
  3. Step 3: Feed the auger cable into the drain pipe. ...
  4. Step 4: Run the auger until the clog is clear—and beyond. ...
  5. Step 5: Hose down the pipe and auger cable.

Why is water coming back into my washing machine?

Why does my washer keep filling with water? If your washing machine water won't shut off, there are a few possible causes: A damaged water inlet valve. A broken water level switch.

How often should you clean a washing machine drain pipe?

The best way to prevent issues with your washing machine's drain pipes is to conduct a maintenance wash on your appliance at least once a month. This includes washing the detergent drawer and washing machine filter, which can help prevent a blockage in the drain pipe.

How do I stop my drain from backing up?

If you do not have a backwater valve, plugs with backflow devices can be installed in floor drains. These plugs have a ball or float that will stop water or sewage from backing up into a home while permitting water to flow into the drain. These plugs can be left in place year-round.

Why does my washing machine keep draining?

If the machine is draining out immediately, it could be due to a clogged or damaged drain hose, a malfunctioning pump, or a problem with the water level sensor.

How to prevent washing machine drain from clogging?

Use a Lint Filter

However, the majority of the lint is washed out and ends up going down the drain, and all of this lint has the potential to quickly lead to a clog. This is why we always recommend attaching a lint filter to the end of the washing machine drain hose.

Why is water coming back up from my washing machine drain?

Washing machines overflow for a variety of reasons—the leading culprit, though, is a clog in the drain pipe.

Why is my washing machine backing up when I drain?

The washing machine uses too much water for the drain

The pipe that drains your washer might be too small for the water capacity of the machine. Imagine trying to pour a gallon of water through a small funnel all at once. The water can't exit the funnel fast enough, so it overflows.

How do I fix my washing machine from draining?

Washing Machine Not Draining? 5 Fixes (+ Reasons Why)
  1. Perform a Master Reset.
  2. Check the Lid Switch Assembly.
  3. See if the Drain Hose Is Kinked.
  4. Check the Drain Hose or Pumps for Clogs.
  5. Clean out Filter.

How do you unblock a water pipe on a washing machine?

A plunger can be an effective tool to unblock a washing machine drain.
  1. Fill the washing machine with enough water to cover the plunger.
  2. Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly.
  3. Pull up quickly to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
  4. Repeat this process a few times until the water starts to drain.

How to tell if a washer 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.

Will Drano unclog a washing machine drain pipe?

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

How do you fix a drain backing up?

Pour one cup of fresh baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of white vinegar. Place a rubber stopper or other sink hole cover over the drain opening. Wait 15 minutes to allow the vinegar and baking soda to unclog your drain, Then take out the drain cover and run hot tap water down the drain to clear the clog.

How much does it cost to fix a clogged sewer line?

You will likely pay around $350 to $650 to have a plumber unclog a main sewer line unless you have complications like serious damage to the line.

How do I stop water from coming up my drain?

Help! There's Water Coming Up My Drain!
  1. Grab a plunger. ...
  2. Use a drain snake (or auger), which are widely available wherever plungers are sold. ...
  3. If neither of these options work, we recommend calling in a professional. ...
  4. Whatever you do, do not use chemical drain cleaners.

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