Quick answer
Turn off power and water. Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, clean the pump filter, and ensure the drain line is clear. If the issue persists, inspect the drain pump for damage.
Confirm the symptom
- Water remains in the tub after cycle ends
- Washer beeps or displays a drain error
- Clothes are still damp after spin cycle
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on model)
- Flashlight
- Bucket (for water collection)
- Work gloves
- Plumber's putty (if resealing connections)
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker
- Shut off water supply valves
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check Drain HoseDo: Locate the drain hose and inspect for kinks or blockages.Observe: Hose is straight and free of obstructions.Means: Hose is not the issue.Next: Clean Pump Filter
- Clean Pump FilterDo: Find the pump filter (usually near the front or bottom of the washer), remove it, and clear debris.Observe: Filter is clean and free of lint or objects.Means: Clog removed; washer may drain properly.Next: Test Drain Cycle
- Test Drain CycleDo: Restart the washer and run a drain/spin cycle.Observe: Water drains completely without error messages.Means: Issue resolved.Next: End
- Inspect Drain LineDo: Check the drain line connection to the wall or standpipe for clogs or improper height.Observe: Drain line is clear and installed correctly.Means: Drain line is not the issue.Next: Check Drain Pump
- Check Drain PumpDo: Inspect the drain pump for damage or blockage. Use a multimeter to test for continuity if possible.Observe: Pump is intact and operational.Means: Pump is functioning.Next: Test Drain Cycle
- Test Drain CycleDo: Run another drain/spin cycle to confirm resolution.Observe: Water drains fully; no error codes.Means: Problem solved.Next: End
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Drain Hose Kinks or debris in the hose prevent water from exiting. | Common | Easy | None |
| Clogged Pump Filter Lint and debris accumulate in the filter, restricting flow. | Common | Easy | None |
| Clogged Drain Line Debris or improper installation blocks the drain line. | Sometimes | Easy–Medium | Drain line cleaning kit |
| Faulty Drain Pump A damaged or failed pump cannot move water out. | Sometimes | Medium | Drain pump |
| Incorrect Drain Line Height Drain line too high creates backpressure, slowing drainage. | Rare | Easy | None |
| Water Inlet Valve Issues A faulty valve can cause imbalances affecting drainage. | Rare | Hard | Water inlet valve |
Parts matching
Common parts needed for a washer not completely draining:
- Drain Pump
- Drain Line Cleaning Kit
- Pump Filter (if replaceable)
- Drain Hose
- Water Inlet Valve
Always refer to your washer’s manual for part compatibility before purchasing.
When to call a professional
- Drain pump shows visible damage and cannot be repaired
- Water leaks persist after fixing clogs
- Error codes persist after troubleshooting
- Drainage issue recurs frequently
- You are unsure about electrical testing or part replacement
FAQ
Can I use a plunger to unclog the drain hose?
Avoid plunging the drain hose as it may damage the hose or connections. Instead, disconnect the hose and flush it with water to remove clogs.
How often should I clean the pump filter?
Clean the pump filter every 3–6 months, depending on usage and water hardness, to prevent clogs.
Why is my washer draining slowly even after cleaning the filter?
A slow drain after cleaning the filter may indicate a partially clogged drain line or a failing drain pump that needs inspection.
Can a kinked drain hose cause the washer to stop mid-cycle?
Yes, a kinked hose can trigger a sensor error, causing the washer to pause or stop the cycle to prevent overflow.