Washer Not Draining Fully (Troubleshooting Guide)

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Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

Turn off the washer and unplug it. Check the drain hose for clogs, clean the pump filter, and ensure the drain line is not kinked. If the issue persists, the pump or drain valve may need replacement.

Confirm the symptom

Water remains in the drum after the cycle ends
Washer makes gurgling or humming noises during drain
Cycle ends but water is still present
Drain hose is not siphoning water properly
Drain pump is running but not removing water

Tools and prep

Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
Bucket
Flashlight
Work gloves
Plumber's putty or sealant
Plunger (optional)
Unplug the washer for safety
Shut off water supply

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check Drain Hose
Do: Inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs. Disconnect it and check for blockages.
Observe: Water flows freely when hose is disconnected.
Means: Hose is clear; issue may be elsewhere.
Next: If clogged, clear the blockage and reconnect the hose.
Clean Pump Filter
Do: Locate the drain pump filter (usually at the front or bottom of the washer) and remove it. Clean out any debris or lint.
Observe: Filter is free of debris and water flows through the pump.
Means: Clogged filter was the issue.
Next: Reinstall the filter and run a test cycle.
Inspect Drain Pump
Do: Check the drain pump for visible damage or blockage. Use a multimeter to test for continuity if available.
Observe: Pump spins freely and has electrical continuity.
Means: Pump is functioning properly.
Next: If the pump is damaged or not working, it may need replacement.
Check Drain Valve
Do: Inspect the drain valve for clogs or damage. Ensure it opens fully during the drain cycle.
Observe: Valve opens and closes smoothly without obstruction.
Means: Valve is working correctly.
Next: If the valve is faulty, it may need cleaning or replacement.
Verify Drain Line Installation
Do: Ensure the drain line is properly connected and not too high (air gap). The line should slope downward toward the drain.
Observe: Drain line is correctly installed with no high loops.
Means: Improper installation was the issue.
Next: Adjust the drain line as needed and test the washer.
Test with a Different Drain
Do: Connect the washer to a different drain to rule out issues with the existing drain pipe.
Observe: Washer drains properly with the new connection.
Means: Original drain pipe had an issue.
Next: Address the problem with the original drain pipe.
Check for Error Codes
Do: Consult the washer's manual to see if there are any error codes related to drainage issues.
Observe: Error code is displayed and corresponds to a drainage problem.
Means: Specific component may need attention.
Next: Refer to the manual for troubleshooting the specific error code.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Clogged Drain Hose Lint, debris, or foreign objects can block water flow.	Common	Easy	None
Clogged Pump Filter Lint and debris accumulate in the filter, preventing proper drainage.	Common	Easy	None
Faulty Drain Pump The pump may be damaged or not functioning, preventing water removal.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain Pump
Clogged Drain Valve Debris or mineral buildup can block the valve opening.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain Valve
Improper Drain Line Installation High loops or incorrect slope can prevent proper drainage.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Blocked House Drain The main drain pipe may have a clog that affects the washer.	Rare	Hard	Professional Service
Faulty Water Inlet Valve A faulty inlet valve can cause water to remain in the drum.	Rare	Medium	Water Inlet Valve
Control Board Issue A malfunctioning control board may not signal the pump to drain.	Rare	Hard	Control Board

Parts matching

Common parts that may be needed for a washer not draining fully include:

Drain Pump
Drain Valve
Pump Filter
Water Inlet Valve
Control Board

Always refer to your washer's manual for specific part numbers and compatibility.

When to call a professional

If the washer still doesn't drain after cleaning the hose, filter, and pump
If you suspect a blocked house drain or complex plumbing issue
If the control board or water inlet valve is faulty and requires professional diagnosis
If you're unsure about electrical testing or part replacement
If the washer is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it

FAQ

How often should I clean the drain pump filter?

It's recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 3–6 months, depending on usage and water hardness.

Can a clogged drain hose cause the washer to stop mid-cycle?

Yes, a severe clog can cause the washer to pause or stop the cycle to prevent overflow.

What should I do if the drain pump is making noise but not draining?

The pump may be clogged or damaged. Turn off the washer, unplug it, and inspect the pump for blockages or replace it if necessary.

Why is my washer draining slowly even after cleaning the hose and filter?

There may be a partial clog in the drain valve or house drain. Check these areas or consult a professional.

Can a faulty water inlet valve affect drainage?

Yes, if the inlet valve is not closing properly, water can remain in the drum, affecting the drainage process.