Common Causes and Solutions for When Your Washing Machine is Not Draining
A washing machine that won’t drain is as frustrating as it is common. This fact might not be much of a comfort when you are faced with a machine full of water and damp clothes. Still, it’s good to find out – whether this is a one-off or a recurring problem, how to identify the issue, if you can fix it yourself, or call a professional washing machine repairs technician. Knowing how to fix the problem can save you time, money, and stress.
We’ve put together a comprehensive guide exploring the most common reasons your washing machine isn’t draining, and the possible solutions.
Common Causes and Fixes for When a Washing Machine is Not Draining
1. Blocked Drain Hose
- Cause: One of the most common reasons for a washing machine not draining is a clogged or twisted drain hose. When the hose is blocked by lint, debris, or the occasional small items like socks, water will not be draining out of the washing machine.
- Solution: Inspect the hose – unplug the washing machine, pull it away from the wall, and carefully remove the hose to check for blockages, untangling it along the way if it’s been twisted. Clean the hose, reattach it, and push the machine back to its original position.
2. Pump Failure
- Cause: The drain pump’s job is to discharge water from the washing machine. If it becomes clogged or otherwise fails due to a mechanical issue, it won’t be able to drain water from the drum.
- Solution: If you have some knowledge and feel comfortable disassembling parts of your washing machine, you’d be able to inspect the pump and probably find out if this is causing the problem. However, it is recommended to seek a professional washing machine repair specialist’s advice, as pump repairs often require professional help, especially if the pump’s motor has failed.
3. Clogged Filter
- Cause: Washing machines have filters that catch lint, hair, other debris and small objects. When the filter is clogged, water is unable to drain properly.
- Solution: This problem is easily fixable, but often overlooked. If you don’t already know where the filter is, read the manufacturer’s manual to locate it, take it out and wash it under running water – using warm soapy water and a soft brush for better results.
4. Malfunctioning Lid Switch
- Cause: This issue is relevant to top-loading washing machines. The lid switch ensures that the machine only spins or drains when the lid is closed. The washing machine will not drain when the lid switch is faulty, and water will remain in the drum at the end of the washing cycle.
- Solution: Replacing a faulty lid switch will resolve the draining issue. Test the lid switch by closing the lid and listening for the sound of the switch activating. If there isn’t a click sound, the lid switch could be faulty.
5. Drain or Plumbing Issues
- Cause: Sometimes the issue is not with the machine, but with the water mains – a blockage in the building’s drain pipes could prevent the water from clearing out, affecting the washing machine’s drainage.
- Solution: If you’ve tried the above steps and the problem persists, it might be a plumbing issue. You may need both a washing machine repair engineer and a plumbing specialist to resolve the issue.
When to Call for Professional Washing Machine Repairs
Sometimes, even knowing what to do, fixing a washing machine that won’t drain is impossible without professional help. Delaying a repair could lead to bigger problems. Signs that it’s time to call a repairs technician include:
- Persistent pump failure or clogging despite repeated cleaning.
- Electrical issues, such as the washing machine not turning on after the drain cycle.
- Unidentified or inexplicable mechanical failures that might require part replacement.
How to Find Reliable Washing Machine Repairs Near Me
- Check Online Reviews: Find a reputable repair service by checking online reviews on platforms like Google, Trust Pilot, and Reviews.io. Look for companies with consistently high ratings and positive feedback.
- Find a Certified Technician: When searching for washing machine repairs, ensure you look for certified technicians to guarantee they have the necessary knowledge and expertise.
- Ask for Recommendations: Having a technician recommended by a friend or relative is often the best way to find a reliable washing machine repair engineer.
- Request a Quote: Once you have a shortlist, contact potential companies or certified technicians for a quote. Most repair companies offer free or low-cost consultations.
We hope this article has been helpful. If you haven’t been able to fix your washing machine and it still won’t drain, you now have an idea of what might be wrong and how to find the best repair service or technician to resolve the issue.
