Are your clothes soaking wet at the end of your washing machine’s cycle? As one of many home appliances connected to your plumbing drain system, there’s always a possibility of clogging and improper draining. When the water doesn’t drain from the washing machine, it can disrupt your day-to-day functions. Fortunately, you may be able to find and fix the issue before calling in the professionals, saving yourself a bundle in the process. Here’s a guide about repairing a washer that won’t drain.
How a Washing Machine Works
Your washing machine has probably washed your clothes hundreds of times, but have you ever wondered how it operates? One of the main functions of a washing machine is to drain dirty water and replace it with clean water to rinse your clothes. If foreign objects get into the drain pump it can cause the drain pump to bind or can damage the pump impellor. The washer has to completely drain several times per cycle to ensure the clothing is properly rinsed and can be ready to spin. If the draining of the unit is slow it can extend the length of the cycle or cause it not to finish the cycle.
How to Drain a Washing Machine That Won’t Drain
Check the Drain Pump
To begin troubleshooting, verify that the drain hose is not kinked or restricted. Remove saturated clothing and bail out the remaining water. A wet/dry vacuum can make this task much easier, just remember to empty the vacuum first and removed the air filter. Some front load units have a trap door on the front of the machine in the bottom left corner. A trap door roughly 4”x5” that accesses the drain pump strainer. Once drained you can remove the small cover to access the strainer. Clear debris and run another cycle to verify operation. If issues persist likely the pump has been damaged and would need to be replaced. Other styles of washers including top loading and other front loading can be much more technical to removed and access the drain pump area. Please don’t go beyond you comfort level in accessing drain pumps or removing clogs. This can result in flooding causing further damage to the machine and your home.
It’s also possible that the pump has failed electrically. Use a multi-meter to determine if the drain pump motor has a reasonable resistance. Reasonable would be roughly 250-800 ohms. If the motor tests having very low resistance, such as less than 20 ohms, the motor has failed and would need to be replaced.
Tip: Always check the pockets of your clothes before tossing them into the washing machine. Loose items such as keys and pocket change can easily clog the drain pump. How long your washer lasts and how much it costs to keep up and running is going to be directly connected to how well you check your pockets for foreign objects.
Replace the Lid Switch
Just under the lid or door on the washing machine is the lid switch. For safety reasons, the lid must be closed when the machine is on. In some models, an open lid prevents the drum from draining properly. A faulty lid switch will keep the motor from running in the drain and spin mode. If your washer completes the cycle and is full of water, it can likely be due to a failed lid switch. Close the lid slowly and listen for the click of the switch. If you hear no click of the switch your issue may be due to a failed lid switch.
Replace the Main Electronic Control Board
The main electronic control board acts as the brain of the washing machine by controlling major components. If the main electronic control board is malfunctioning, it could fail to control the drain pump’s function of draining water. It is not recommended that homeowners replace the control. Control boards are commonly misdiagnosed. Many controls are needlessly replaced.
Balance the Load
A washer can become unbalanced during the wash cycle, causing the washer to not spin properly. This can result in the washer not to be able to evacuate all the water simulating a draining issue. An unbalanced washer can result from bulky items and overloading. Balance your front-load washer by positioning it on a level surface and adjusting the feet on the bottom. Always load the machine properly by separating towels, jeans, bulk items, etc. This will protect the washer and the clothing while saving hundreds on costly repairs. It is best to balance the washer during a spin cycle. Ensure the washer is well connected and lever on the ground. Then during high spin, you can finely adjust the feet to absorb additional vibration.
Avoid Using Excessive Detergent
Using extra detergent doesn’t mean your clothes will be cleaner. High efficient (HE) washing machines are designed to use less water, which means less detergent, bleach, and softener should be added. Always use the cap or scoop that comes with the detergent to determine amount. Always err on the side of less detergent than more.
Replace the Water-Level Pressure Switch
The washing machine detects how much water is inside the drum using the water-level pressure switch. If the switch is damaged or defective, the washing machine may not fill at all, overflow, or fail to drain.
It’s important to note that performing repairs or maintenance to appliances can be dangerous. Avoid undertaking these repairs unless you are confident and capable. Certain repairs or maintenance, however, should be performed by an experienced repair technician.
Call the Pros at iFiX Utah for Washing Machine Repair Service
If you have a problem with your washing machine, contactiFiX today. Our friendly staff will help with all your washing machine repair needs. As part of our service to our customers, iFiX offers a year warranty on parts installed and labor repairs. We can handle everything from simple part replacements to helping you select a new washing machine. We strive to help our customers have peace of mind in dealing with unexpected repair or replacement costs by providing high-quality service and products. Contact iFiX today for more information on washer repair service in Ogden and surrounding Areas. We service Weber and Davis Counties as well as surrounding areas.
