So, you've finally decided to deal with that huge pile of laundry. You've spent time separating your colors and whites, and you proudly loaded your washing machine. But then, you hit a problem: your washing machine won’t drain. It’s like stubbing your toe or getting stuck in traffic – it ruins your day. It's frustrating to find water still in the washer tub after the cycle ends.
If your washing machine won’t drain, many modern appliance repair services are here to assist. Discover how your washing machine drain works and how you can drain the washer yourself.
Why Is My Washing Machine Not Draining Water?
When your washing machine doesn't drain, it could be due to various reasons. It might be because the drain hose is blocked or stuck, or it could be a problem with the pump, lid switch, or belt. Whatever the reason, you must get rid of the water in the washing machine before you can figure out what's wrong or fix it.
What's the Purpose of the Drain Function in a Washing Machine?
The washing machine drains water when it spins. A pump inside the washer pushes water from the bottom to a hose. This hose goes up and then down to the drain, allowing the tub to fill. When the water in the hose reaches the bend, it flows out into the drain.
Manual Methods for Draining Your Washing Machine
If your washing machine isn't draining properly, you might need to take matters into your own hands to get rid of the water. Here are a couple of ways you can do it:
1. Bail it out with a bucket:
This means using a bucket, cup, or bowl to scoop out the water manually. Many people do this when their washing machine won’t drain. It can be a bit tiring and might strain your back because you have to keep bending over to scoop the water out from the bottom.
2. Use a hose to drain it:
This method is easier than using a bucket because you let gravity do the work for you. You'll need a bucket, a screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, and a clamp to drain your washer with the washing machine drain hose. Keep a sponge and towels nearby in case of spills.
Follow these steps to drain the water using the drain hose.
Step 1: Power Off
Before you start draining your washer, make sure it's unplugged from the outlet or the power is turned off at the circuit breaker or fuse box. It's also a good idea to turn off the hot and cold water connections to the washing machine, just to be safe.
Step 2: Locate the Drain Hose
The drain hose is located behind your washer and links the washing machine to the external washing machine drainpipe. If the hose is bent or twisted, it can block the water flow. In that case, just straighten the hose.
If there's no bend or twist, your next move is to disconnect the hose from the washing machine drain. If needed, use a clamp to unscrew the hose. Always keep the hose higher than the washer tub until you're ready to empty the water.
Step 3: Arrange the Bucket and Drain Hose
Make sure the bucket is in a secure spot where you won't accidentally tip it over; you can place it on or between several towels to keep it steady. Then, lower the hose below the washer tub and into the bucket. If the bucket fills up, lift the hose above the washer tub again until you can empty the bucket. Then, lower the hose to start filling it again.
If water doesn’t flow freely from the washing machine tub through the drain hose and into the bucket, the filter might be blocked. You'll need to clear it before moving forward.
Step 4: Inspect and Clear Drain Hose Clogs
After all the water has drained from the tub, inspect the drain hose for any debris, clothing, or soap blockages. These can clog the washing machine drain. To check for clogs, loosen the clamp connecting the hose to the bottom of the tub, and look inside. If you notice anything blocking the hose or its connecting parts, use pliers to remove it, and then reconnect the hose.
Step 5: Examine for Deeper Drain Clogs
If your check confirms that the drain hose is clear, there might be a clog in the drain or further down the line. To tackle deeper clogs, you may need to use a plumber’s snake or seek help from a professional.
Step 6: Check the Washing Machine Drain Pump
Next, take a look at the washer pump to check for clogs, broken belts or impellers (if you have a top-load machine), or any leaks. Refer to the washing machine manufacturer's instructions, which typically include a diagram showing where the drain pump is located and its components.
Normally, if the drain pump isn’t functioning properly, you might hear unusual noises or notice leaks when the washing machine is running. If your pump is faulty, you'll either need to replace it yourself or seek help from a professional. If you decide to replace it yourself, ensure you get the same pump model to ensure it fits your washing machine correctly.
Step 7: Check the Washing Machine Lid Switch
Try pressing down the lid switch manually to check if it's working. If you don’t hear a click, it could mean the switch is broken and needs to be replaced.
Step 8: Look at the belts in the washing machine
If you've followed all the steps and your washing machine still won’t drain damaged belts might be the issue. Refer to the manufacturer’s washing machine instruction manual to locate the belts. To inspect them, unscrew the washing machine’s access panel and examine the main belt and the pump belt. Look for any signs of corrosion, breakage, or other damage.
Step 9: Check the Drain Vent
A washing machine drain vent lets air into the machine, which prevents a vacuum from forming and helps water drain properly. If there's a gap around the drain hose where it enters the drain, a vent might not be necessary. However, you should install a vent if local building codes mandate it or if your washer is more than four feet away from the vent stack for proper draining.
Step 10: Utilize Your Home Warranty
If you've tried all these steps and your washing machine still won’t drain, it's best to call a professional plumber or washing machine service technician. Consider getting complete home warranty coverage with Appliance Stores Charlotte NC which includes a washing machine warranty as well.
With home warranty coverage, you can avoid expensive out-of-pocket costs for repairs. It helps reduce the expense of repairing or replacing parts of your covered household items, ensuring your home gets back up and running quickly. With comprehensive coverage and flexible pricing and plans, a home warranty from us provides budget protection when your washing machine won’t drain.
Conclusion
If your washing machine still won't drain, it's time to call in the experts. Choose CLT Appliance Repair for affordable and expert solutions. They'll fix your appliances quickly, making your home run smoothly again. Book your repair now for our top-notch service! Or if we’re not closer to you, look up Washer Repairs Near Me to find the best services around you.
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