Why is the washing machine not draining water?

McCombs Supply gets this question from customers who email or send us Facebook messages. 

There could be many reasons for the drain issue. Here are a few things to check.

Clogged Pump or Hose

If the washer won't drain there might be a clogged pump or hose. It's common for small socks or other small clothing items to get into the water drain system and clog the hose leading to the pump or the pump itself. 

You may have wondered, where do all my old socks disappear to? 

Hey, hun, I'm missing my blue dress sock ...

A lot of socks get sucked into your washing machine and find their way into the drainage outlets. It’s not just socks that can get lost in washing machines, but also coins, keys, pens, cigarettes, dollar bills and more. These items can cause a blockage. 

You may enjoy this related washing machine story on three signs your refrigerator needs fixed, but you may not need to spend a lot of money. 

Here is a 16 second video showing how quickly a sock can make its way into the drainage outlet.

Most of these items are expelled through drainage systems and do not cause a blockage, but if one gets caught up in the drain pump, this can prevent the pump from operating properly and can cause water to remain stuck in the drum. 

To determine whether or not this is the problem, blow through the drain hose. If it is difficult to blow through, then there is likely a blockage.

Remove the hoses from the pump in order to remove the article of clothing. 

Note: Keep in mind that any water in the washing machine will pour out of the hoses when removed, so do this at an area where you won't get water all over your floor. 

Belt, Water Pump

If the washer won't drain the pump belt might have broken or might have worn out. Check the belt and replace if it shows signs of excessive wear. MCombs has replacement belts. 

If the washer won't drain, you should check the drive belt. If the belt is broken or if it isn't tight on the pulleys the washer won't drain properly, if at all.

Drain Pump

If the washer won't drain water the drain pump might be broken. Check for an obstruction before replacing the pump.

Other Causes 

Lid Switch Assembly

If the washer won't drain the lid switch assembly might be defective. This is a very common problem. The lid switch assembly can fail either mechanically or electrically. Test any electrical switches with an Ohm meter for continuity. The switches should have continuity according to their design.

McCombs Supply Co.also sells lid switch assemblies. 

Drain Hose

If the washer won't drain water check the drain hose. Be sure the hose did not get kinked behind the washer. Also, remove the hose from the pump and check it for obstructions.

Note: See related story on why does my washing machine smell?

Coin Trap 

If the washer won't drain the coin trap may be clogged. This washer is equipped with a device near the water pump called a coin trap. The purpose of this device is to trap any foreign materials that make their way down the drain. 

Normally, the coin trap can be accessed through an access panel. It is normally easy to clean out.

In summary, here are a few steps to take before calling a repair man or buying replacement parts. 

Step 1: Perform a master reset

Unplug the washing machine and leave unplugged for about 1 minute. Plug the machine back in and close the machine door six times in 12 seconds to send a message to the computer to reset everything. 

It may not work on all washing machines, so consult the repair guide to see if it will work for this particular machine.

Step 2: Fix the lid switch

See if the switch works when it is used to open and close the machine door. If it does not, the lid switch needs to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the water level control if the machine isn't spinning

Open the control panel and look for the water level valve. If the plastic tube attached to it appears clogged, try using vinegar, which can clear it up.

If the switch itself appears corroded, it may be necessary to replace it.

If this does not solve the problem, you may need to consult with a repair man or buy replacement parts. McCombs Supply has a large inventory of washer parts. Feel free to call us at 717-299-3866 or email McCombs at supplystuf@gmail.com

About Us

McCombs Supply Company, Inc.

In business since 1953,McCombs Supply Co., Inc. is a third-generation family-owned business that specializes in low prices and fast, reliable shipping.
Located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, McCombs Supply Co., Inc. offers replacement repair parts for dishwashers, dryers, microwaves, range-ovens, refrigerators, washing machines, HVAC, commercial refrigeration, commercial cooking, pellet stove parts and more. Some of our manufacturers we distribute for include – Backer-Chromolox, Broan-Nutone, Exact Replacement Parts (ERP), EZ Flo, Fasco, Mastercool, ICM, JW Harris, Packard, Robertshaw, Sealed Unit Parts Company (SUPCO), White Rodgers, Englander, Breckwell, Harman, Lennox, Napoleon, St. Croix and Quadra-Fire.

We supply contractors, service technicians, housing developments, hospitals, retirement communities, institutions, and do-it-yourselfers.

Today, we have nearly one million SKUs in our system. We are constantly upgrading our cutting-edge technology to serve our customers better.

Copyright 2018