Washing machines are handy. They clean clothes by mixing water and detergent, then scrubbing away dirt and stains. After washing, the machine rinses and drains the water. It then spins the clothes to remove excess moisture for easier drying.
But, if the washer can’t drain properly, you might end up with a tub full of water. If this happens, use this guide to learn how to drain a washing machine without making a mess. We’ll show you simple fixes for your front-load or top-load washer. It will help avoid damage and keep it running smoothly.
Why Is My Washer Not Draining?
If your washer isn’t draining properly, several common issues might be responsible. Here’s a quick guide to help you identify and troubleshoot the problem:
- Clogged Drain Hose: Lint, fabric bits, or small objects can block the hose and stop water from flowing out.
- Blocked Filter: Debris can jam the filter at the bottom of the machine. This may cause drainage issues.
- Kinked Drain Hose: A bent or twisted hose can restrict water flow.
- Broken Lid Switch: If the machine can’t detect the closed lid, it won’t drain.
- Plumbing Problems: A clogged drain or poor venting can prevent drainage.
If you’ve checked these common issues and your washer won’t drain, consult the user manual or call a pro to fix it. Ignoring drainage issues can lead to further damage to your machine.
Safety Considerations
Avoid moving the washing machine on your own. A 4.2 cubic foot machine filled with water can weight around 200 pounds. If you need to shift it a little to reach the back, get someone to help you. If it’s more than that, it’s best to call a technician for help.
What You’ll Need
Equipment / Tools
- Screwdriver
- Bucket or shallow container
- Soft-bristle brush
How to Drain a Front-Load Washing Machine?
Draining a front-load washing machine can be tricky if you are unsure where to start. Here is a guide to help you fix your washer. It will assist in restoring proper drainage.
- Check the Drain Hose for Blockages: The hose may be kinked or not connected. This could stop the washing machine from draining. Make sure the hose is straight and not obstructed by anything resting on top of it.
- Correct the Position of the Drain Hose: The drain hose must be 30 inches to 8 feet above the floor. If it’s connected to a standpipe, make sure no more than 5 feet of the hose is inside. The hose shouldn’t extend more than 5 feet away from the machine either.
- Stop the Drain Hose from Creating a Suction: The hose should be loosely fitted into the laundry standpipe to prevent a suction effect. If the hose fits too snugly, it can cause the washer to stop draining.
- Manual Drain and Spin Override: Most washers have a manual drain option if the automatic one fails. It lets you force a spin and drain cycle to remove any remaining water. Check your washer’s manual for instructions.
- Force A Short-Term Automatic Drain: If you can’t manually start the drain, some washers have an automatic drain feature. It kicks in 15 to 30 minutes after opening the lid.
- Wait For A Long-Term Automatic Drain: Some washers also have a long-term drain feature. If you close the lid and pause the machine, it will drain. This might take up to 24 hours.
To drain a front-load washing machine check the drain hose and setup. These steps will fix drainage issues and restore your washer. If the problem persists, consult your washer’s manual. Or, contact a technician for help.
Troubleshooting Draining a Front-Loading Washer
- Don’t mix up the drain pump area in the front with the drain port at the back of the machine. The back port’s design is for regular washer use. It does not allow for emergency draining.
- If there’s a problem with the front lid not opening, draining the machine won’t fix it if there’s a faulty switch or lock. In that case, it’s best to call a technician.
- If the hose isn’t draining properly, check if the edge of the drain pan is higher than the surrounding surface. The pan’s edge should be at the same height as the drain hose or lower to allow free flow.
How to Drain a Top-Load Washing Machine?
Draining a top-load washing machine might seem tricky. But, it is easy with the right steps. Follow this guide to drain your washer in a safe and efficient manner in case of a problem or emergency. Here is what to do:
- Open the Lid: Open the washing machine lid. If it won’t open right away, the water inside may need to cool down first. Some machines have a lid sensor that requires this.
- Unplug The Washer And Turn Off Water: With the lid open, unplug the machine, making sure the plug stays dry. Also, turn off the hot and cold water faucets that supply the washer.
- Remove the Clothes: Take any clothes out of the drum and place them in buckets.
- Place Buckets: Set up two buckets in front of the washing machine.
- Set Up a Water Siphon: To drain the water, use a clean 4- to 6-foot hose. If you don’t have a siphon hose, remove one of the washer’s fill hoses. Submerge the hose in a sink or bathtub to fill it with water. Then, quickly put one end in the washing machine drum and the other in a bucket. The siphon should begin draining the water automatically.
- Drain The Washing Machine Drum: When one bucket fills up switch the hose to the second bucket. Empty the first bucket into a sink or bathtub, then keep repeating this until the washer is drained.
These steps will let you safely drain your top-load washer in an emergency or for maintenance. Rank safety first. Handle water and electrical parts with care.
Troubleshooting Draining a Top-Loading Washer
- The siphon will get rid of most of the water, but not all of it. You can soak up the remaining water using towels.
- If the siphon isn’t working, check if too much water drained from the hose. This can happen before you put the other end in the bucket. Remember, the bucket needs to be lower than the washer drum, so always set it on the floor.
- Also, tilt the end of the hose inside the washer drum. This helps keep the water flowing smoothly.
- Siphoning is all or nothing. If it stops midway, you’ll have to remove the hose and start over.
When to Call a Professional?
If you have tried all the DIY fixes and your washing machine will not drain, it may be time to get a pro. Here are some signs you need expert help:
Water Overflowing: If water is spilling from your washer or sink, there is a serious blockage. It needs immediate attention. A plumber can pinpoint the issue and resolve it in a short time.
Unusual Noises: Strange sounds during the draining cycle? Then there must be a blockage. A professional can diagnose and fix the problem before it gets worse.
Bad Odors: A foul smell from your washing machine is mostly a sign of a blockage. A plumber can track down the source and fix it for good.
Several Blockages: If you have clogs in several places, there may be a bigger plumbing issue. An expert can identify the root of the issue and resolve it effectively.
Tips For Maintaining Your Washing Machine
To keep your washing machine running well and saving energy, maintain it regularly. Here are some simple, effective tips. They will help you maintain your machine and keep it running well for years.
- Use the Right Detergent: Always use the type and amount of detergent your machine’s maker recommends. For example, water-saving models may need high-efficiency (HE) liquid detergent to avoid residue. Check if your machine has separate trays for detergent and fabric softener.
- Check the Hoses: Inspect the hot, cold, and drain hoses each month for cracks or leaks. The best time is after a wash cycle. Even if they look fine, replace them every 3–5 years to avoid accidents.
- Consider A Drain Vent: Local codes may require a drain vent, which can improve drainage. If there’s a small gap around your drain hose, you’re likely fine. If it’s tight, you might need to install a vent to prevent water pressure issues.
- Keep The Door Gasket Dry: After every wash, wipe the rubber seal (gasket) around the door to prevent mold and wear.
- Leave the Door open: Let air circulate when the machine isn’t in use. This helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Clean Your Washer Regularly: Washers, especially front-loaders, can get dirty. Clean your Washing machine every 1–2 months to keep it fresh.
- Check The Lint Filter: Many washers have lint traps. If clothes come out fuzzy, make sure to clean the lint filter on a regular basis.
Conclusion
In Conclusion, a washing machine that won’t drain is a hassle. However, with some information and the proper tools many problems can be resolved. The following tips may help you to solve your front-load or top-load washer problem. Regular maintenance is essential. It prevents drainage issues and keeps your machine running for years. And do not forget to refer to the user guide or call for professional help in case the issue persists. These simple fixes and routines will always keep your washer in its excellent shape, besides saving time and effort.
Faqs
- Is There A Drain Option On The Washing Machine?
The drain option on a washing machine removes water from the machine. It can be used to drain the washing machine after a canceled load or interrupted cycle. It can also be used to drain clothes that have been soaked.
- How To Unblock A Washing Machine Drain?
To unblock a washing machine drain, you can try: checking the drain hose for kinks, removing the hose to access the drain trap, pouring boiling water down the drain, using a baking soda and vinegar mixture, or using a drain snake to physically remove the blockage; if the issue persists, consider calling a plumber.
