Quick answer
Turn off the washer and unplug it. Check the drain pump filter for clogs, clear the drain hose, and ensure the pump is working. If water still doesn't drain, call a professional.
Confirm the symptom
- Water remains in the tub after the cycle ends
- Draining cycle takes longer than usual
- Washer makes gurgling or humming noises during drain
- Water leaks from the drain pump area
- Error code related to drainage appears on the display
Tools and prep
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Bucket or container for water
- Work gloves
- Plumber's putty or sealant
- Flashlight
- Unplug the washer before starting
- Turn off the water supply if needed
Step-by-step troubleshooting
- Check for Obvious ClogsDo: Look at the drain pump filter and remove any visible debris.Observe: Debris or clogs in the filter.Means: Clogged filter is likely the cause.Next: Clean the filter and restart the washer.
- Inspect the Drain HoseDo: Disconnect the drain hose from the wall and check for kinks or blockages.Observe: Kinks, bends, or debris in the hose.Means: Hose is obstructed.Next: Straighten or clear the hose, then reconnect and test.
- Test the Drain PumpDo: Listen for the pump running during the drain cycle.Observe: Pump is silent or makes unusual noises.Means: Pump may be faulty.Next: Check for electrical issues or replace the pump.
- Check Water Level SwitchDo: Inspect the water level switch for damage or dirt.Observe: Switch is dirty or damaged.Means: Switch might not signal the pump to drain.Next: Clean or replace the switch.
- Verify Drain Pipe InstallationDo: Ensure the drain pipe is not too high or improperly angled.Observe: Drain pipe is higher than 9 feet or has a poor slope.Means: Improper installation hinders drainage.Next: Adjust the pipe height or slope.
- Run a Diagnostic CycleDo: Consult the user manual to run a diagnostic cycle if your washer has this feature.Observe: Error codes or specific behaviors during the cycle.Means: Built-in diagnostics can identify the issue.Next: Follow the manual's troubleshooting steps based on results.
Common causes
| Cause | Likelihood | Difficulty | Part often needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clogged Drain Pump Filter Debris like lint, hair, or small objects block the filter. | Common | Easy | Drain Pump Filter |
| Kinked or Clogged Drain Hose The hose is bent or blocked by debris. | Common | Easy | Drain Hose |
| Faulty Drain Pump The pump motor or impeller is damaged. | Sometimes | Medium | Drain Pump |
| Malfunctioning Water Level Switch The switch fails to signal the pump to drain. | Sometimes | Medium | Water Level Switch |
| Improper Drain Pipe Installation The drain pipe is too high or lacks proper slope. | Sometimes | Easy | Drain Pipe |
| Blocked Air Gap or Standpipe Debris or improper installation blocks the air gap or standpipe. | Rare | Medium | Standpipe or Air Gap Kit |
| Control Board Issue The control board fails to activate the drain pump. | Rare | Hard | Control Board |
Parts matching
Common parts needed for a washer not draining water include:
- Drain Pump Filter
- Drain Hose
- Drain Pump
- Water Level Switch
- Standpipe or Air Gap Kit
- Control Board (in rare cases)
Always refer to your washer's manual to confirm the exact part model and compatibility.
When to call a professional
- Water does not drain after clearing all visible clogs
- Drain pump makes loud noises or fails to run at all
- Error codes persist after troubleshooting
- You suspect a control board or electrical issue
- You're unsure about electrical or plumbing connections
- Water continues to leak after repairs
FAQ
How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
Clean the drain pump filter every 3–6 months, or more frequently if you have hard water or notice slow drainage.
Can a clogged drain hose cause the washer to stop mid-cycle?
Yes, a clogged drain hose can cause the washer to pause or stop if water cannot drain properly, triggering a safety mechanism.
What if my washer drains slowly but not completely?
A partially clogged drain hose or a weak drain pump could be the cause. Check both for blockages or wear.
Is it safe to use a plunger on a washer drain?
Avoid using a plunger on a washer drain, as it can damage the pump or hoses. Instead, use a plumber's snake or clear the blockage manually.
Can a faulty water level switch cause other issues?
Yes, a faulty water level switch can also cause overfilling or incorrect water levels during cycles.