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Washer Not Draining? Fixes and Repair Help
A washer that will not drain usually has a blockage. Socks, coins and lint collect in the pump filter or drain hose. If those are clear, the drain pump or the lid lock may have failed.
Safety first: unplug the appliance or switch off its breaker before touching anything inside, and shut off the water or gas supply where it applies. If you smell gas, leave the house and call your gas utility from outside.
Likely causes
- Clogged drain pump filter (common on front-loaders, usually behind a small panel at the bottom front)
- Kinked or clogged drain hose
- Drain pump failed or jammed by a foreign object
- Lid switch or door lock not registering closed, so the washer will not run the drain cycle
- Clogged house standpipe or laundry sink drain
Safe owner checks
- Unplug the washer. Put down towels and a shallow pan before opening anything.
- On a front-loader, open the small access panel and drain the water through the little hose, then unscrew and clean the pump filter.
- Pull the washer out and check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
- Check the standpipe or sink the hose drains into. If it backs up, the house drain is the problem.
- Run a drain or spin-only cycle and listen. A hum with no water moving can mean a jammed pump.
When to call a pro
- The filter and hose are clear and it still will not drain
- You hear humming or grinding from the pump
- The washer shows an error code you cannot clear
- The door will not unlock with water inside
Repair or replace?
Drain pumps and lid locks are common, moderately priced repairs, so repair usually beats replacement unless the washer is very old or has other problems.
Repair cost
Call for a quote. Costs depend on the brand, the model, the part and the shop. Ask for any diagnostic or trip fee and a written quote after diagnosis.
Local facts
Where to take an old appliance, rebates, licensing rules and local shops differ by state and city. Each Local Help Stations state site keeps those facts on its own pages, with official sources.
Other washer guides
FAQ
Why won't my washer drain?
Most often a clogged pump filter or drain hose. If those are clear, the drain pump, lid switch or door lock may have failed.
Where is the washer drain filter?
On most front-loaders it is behind a small panel at the bottom front. Many top-loaders have no user-serviceable filter, so check the hose and pump instead.
Can I use the washer if it will not drain?
No. Running it again can overflow or burn out the pump. Drain it and fix the cause first.
Last checked: . Written by Local Help Stations.