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Dealing with a washing machine not draining is frustrating. You expect to pull out clean, damp clothes, but instead, you find them sitting in a pool of water. Not exactly what you had in mind for laundry day. So, what’s going on? Why is your washing machine not draining, and what can you do about it?
Common reasons for a washing machine not draining
There are a few reasons why a washing machine might stop draining properly. Some are simple to fix, while others might need professional help. Here are some of the usual suspects:
1. Clogged drain hose
The drain hose carries water out of your washing machine, but if you’re dealing with a washing machine not draining, the water has nowhere to go. Lint, small clothing items, or even soap buildup can cause a blockage. A quick way to check is to remove the hose and run water through it.
2. Blocked pump filter
Most front-loading washing machines have a pump filter that catches lint, coins, and other small objects. If this gets clogged, water won’t drain properly. Cleaning the filter regularly can prevent drainage issues.
3. Faulty drain pump
The pump is responsible for pushing water out of the machine. If it’s damaged or clogged, your washing machine not draining could be the result. You might hear a humming noise, or the machine might stop mid-cycle.
4. Kinked or damaged drain hose
A hose that’s bent or crushed can stop water from flowing out. If your washing machine isn’t draining, check the hose for any visible damage or sharp bends.
5. Overloaded machine
Stuffing too many clothes into your washer can throw off the balance and prevent proper draining. Try running a smaller load to see if the problem continues.
6. Faulty lid switch
In top-load washers, the lid switch signals the machine to drain and spin. If the switch is broken, the washer might not drain. Some machines won’t even start the spin cycle if the lid switch isn’t working. A common reason for a washing machine not draining is a clogged drain hose. One way to check is to remove the hose and run water through it.
7. Drain pipe issues
If your household’s plumbing is clogged, it can stop your washing machine from draining properly. A slow drain in the sink or tub might be a clue that the problem isn’t just the washer.
How to fix a washing machine that’s not draining
Before you call for washing machine repairs, there are a few things you can try at home.
1. Check the drain hose
Unplug the washing machine and inspect the hose for clogs, kinks, or damage. If you see anything blocking the hose, clear it out and try running the machine again.
2. Clean the pump filter
If your washer has a pump filter, open the access panel (usually at the bottom front of the machine) and clean out any debris.
3. Reset the machine
Sometimes, simply turning the machine off and on again can fix minor issues. Unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in and run a drain cycle.
4. Try a different cycle
Some washing machines have separate drain and spin cycles. If your washing machine is not draining, try selecting a drain-only or spin cycle to see if that helps.
5. Inspect the lid switch
For top-load machines, press down on the lid switch to see if it clicks. If it doesn’t, the switch may need to be replaced.
When to call Sydney Appliance Repairs
Is your washing machine not draining even after checking the basics? it might be time for expert help. A broken drain pump or a more serious electrical issue isn’t something you want to tackle on your own.
Sydney Appliance Service has been fixing washing machines for over 20 years. Whether it’s a pump issue, a blocked filter, or something more complicated, our team can get your machine back in action. Give us a call at (02) 9546 4444 or book a repair online.
A washing machine not draining can turn into a bigger headache if left too long. Getting it sorted quickly means your laundry routine gets back to normal without a long wait. If you need help, Sydney Appliance Service is just a call away.
