Washer Not Rinsing or Draining (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

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, clear the pump filter, and ensure the drain pump is working. If the issue persists, the pump or control board may need replacement.

Confirm the symptom

Washer fills with water but does not rinse or drain
Water remains in the drum after cycles end
Washer makes gurgling or bubbling sounds during drain
Error codes related to drainage or rinse cycles appear on the display

Tools and prep

Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
Bucket or container for water collection
Flashlight
Work gloves
Plumber's putty or sealant (if reconnecting hoses)
Unplug the washer before starting any inspection or repair
Turn off the water supply to the washer

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check for Error Codes
Do: Look at the washer's control panel for any displayed error codes.
Observe: Error codes indicate specific issues like drain pump failure or sensor problems.
Means: The code can help identify the exact problem.
Next: Consult the user manual for the error code meaning or proceed to check the drain hose.
Inspect the Drain Hose
Do: Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer and check for kinks or clogs.
Observe: A kinked hose or blockage prevents water from draining.
Means: The hose is obstructed.
Next: Clear the clog or replace the hose if damaged.
Check the Pump Filter
Do: Locate the pump filter (usually at the front or bottom of the washer) and clean it.
Observe: Debris or lint in the filter can block water flow.
Means: The filter is clogged.
Next: Rinse the filter and reassemble it securely.
Inspect the Drain Pump
Do: Access the drain pump and check for visible damage or blockages.
Observe: A clogged or broken pump will not move water out.
Means: The pump is faulty or obstructed.
Next: Clear any blockage or replace the pump if damaged.
Test the Pump Motor
Do: Use a multimeter to test the drain pump motor for continuity.
Observe: No continuity means the motor is not working.
Means: The pump motor is defective.
Next: Replace the drain pump.
Check the Water Inlet Valve
Do: Ensure the water inlet valve is fully open and not clogged.
Observe: A closed or clogged valve restricts water flow.
Means: The valve is not functioning properly.
Next: Clean or replace the valve if necessary.
Inspect the Control Board
Do: Check the control board for signs of damage or error messages.
Observe: Burned components or repeated error codes suggest a control issue.
Means: The control board may be faulty.
Next: Consult a professional for replacement.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Clogged Drain Hose A kink or blockage in the drain hose prevents water from exiting.	Common	Easy	Drain Hose
Clogged Pump Filter Lint, debris, or hair in the pump filter blocks water flow.	Common	Easy	Pump Filter
Faulty Drain Pump A broken or clogged drain pump cannot move water out of the washer.	Common	Medium	Drain Pump
Malfunctioning Control Board A faulty control board may not signal the pump to drain.	Sometimes	Hard	Control Board
Clogged Water Inlet Valve A clogged or closed inlet valve restricts water flow during rinse cycles.	Sometimes	Medium	Water Inlet Valve
Faulty Water Level Sensor A malfunctioning sensor may incorrectly signal the washer to stop draining.	Rare	Medium	Water Level Sensor
Blocked Drain Line A blockage in the home's main drain line can prevent proper drainage.	Sometimes	Medium	Drain Line Cleaning

Parts matching

Common parts needed for a washer not rinsing or draining include:

Drain Hose
Pump Filter
Drain Pump
Water Inlet Valve
Control Board
Water Level Sensor

Always purchase OEM parts or high-quality replacements to ensure compatibility and reliability.

When to call a professional

The washer still does not drain after clearing the drain hose and pump filter
You identify a faulty control board or water level sensor
You are unsure about electrical testing or replacing internal components
The washer is under warranty and you do not want to risk voiding it
You notice unusual noises or smells that suggest internal damage

FAQ

Why is my washer not draining even after I cleaned the pump filter?

If the pump filter is clean but the washer still won't drain, the issue may be a clogged drain hose, a faulty drain pump, or a problem with the control board. Check the hose for kinks and inspect the pump for damage.

Can a clogged drain line in my home cause my washer not to drain?

Yes, a blockage in your home's main drain line can prevent the washer from draining properly. Check for backups in other drains and consider using a drain snake to clear the line.

How do I know if my drain pump is faulty?

A faulty drain pump may make loud noises, fail to spin, or show no signs of movement when the washer is in the drain cycle. Testing the pump with a multimeter can confirm if it's defective.

Is it safe to replace the control board myself?

Replacing a control board requires electrical knowledge and can be risky if not done correctly. If you're not confident, it's best to call a professional to avoid damage or safety hazards.