Washing machine does not drain properly

There are moments when life throws us a curveball, like when you finally get a chance to do your family's laundry only to find out that your washing machine is not draining properly. This is the kind of situation that can make you feel like you're drowning in stress and panic. Suddenly, you're left with a pile of soggy clothes and no idea what to do next. But don't fret! Take a deep breath, and let's dive into the potential reasons why your washing machine is not draining as it should be.

Washing Machine Drain Issues

The most common scenario you may have on your hands is that you load your washer, started a new washing cycle, and walk away to do other chores. When you came back, the machine finished the washing cycle but there is still water inside. Frustrating, right? You're dealing with a draining problem.

There are two possible reasons why this may be happening: the water isn't leaving the machine, or it's leaving but not flowing through the drainage properly. Now, dealing with a washing machine that is not draining can be difficult. It is not easy to properly diagnose the problem either. It can be a time-consuming and inconvenient process, but with proper diagnosis and repair, the machine can be restored to full functionality. So, let's take a closer look at some of the possible culprits behind your washing machine's stubborn refusal to drain.

Drain Pump Problems

Your washing machine's drain pump is an essential piece of equipment responsible for pumping out all the water during the draining process. But what happens when this crucial component starts to malfunction? Well, you guessed it - your washing machine won't drain properly, and that's when things can get messy.

If you hear the pump struggling to do its job, chances are there's an obstruction somewhere. Lint, hair, fabric, or small objects can all cause problems. First things first, turn off your washer and drain any remaining water. Then, remove the washing machine panel and locate the drain pump. For front-loading washers, it's below the door, and for top-loading machines, it's usually at the back.

Next, remove the pump cover and check the filter screen for any clogs. Clean out any debris, rinse it off with some water and put it back together. Once you've finished inspecting the pump, put the panel back and test the machine.

If after this your washing machine is still not draining you may have a faulty drain pump that needs to be replaced So don't hesitate to give your trusted repair service a call, and they'll take care of the problem in no time.

Washer's Lid Switch Problems

The lid switch on your washing machine's main function is to detect if the lid is properly closed. You may have noticed that if you open your washer lid in mid-cycle it will stop washing and will resume when you close it. When there is a a problem with the lid switch it can cause problems like your washing machine not draining. The problem can be that the piece that triggers the switch when the lid is closed is broken. However, there's an easy way to test if the switch itself is still working. If you have a top loader washer just use your finger or the tip of a pencil to try triggering the switch. If that doesn't do the trick, it's likely that the switch is faulty and needs to be repaired or replaced.

On the other hand, front-loading washing machines don't have a lid switch like their top-loading counterparts. Instead, they typically lock automatically during a cycle. However, if you notice that the door is locked and there's standing water inside, there may be a mechanical issue at play. In this case, it's best to call in a professional repair technician to take a look and diagnose the problem. Don't let this issue put a damper on your laundry day. Get it fixed quickly and easily with the help of one of our experts!

Plumbing System Problems

Your washing machine not draining is frustrating, and you may assume that the machine itself is broken. But did you know that sometimes the issue lies with the plumbing connected to it? That's right - a clog in the pipes that carry dirty water away from the washer can cause backups and prevent proper draining. Don't worry though, there are a few simple steps you can take to diagnose and fix the problem.

First, try disconnecting the drain hose from the pipe and holding it upright to prevent any water from leaking out. If the blockage isn't too far down the line, you may be able to dislodge it with one of the drain snakes on the market. You can also pour a bit of water down the line to see if it backs up.

But what if the issue isn't a simple clog? There may be an issue with the plumbing system's venting, which can prevent water from flowing freely. In this case, it's best to call in a professional plumber to take a look and diagnose the problem. They'll be able to identify the issue and fix it quickly, so you can get back to your laundry routine without any further hassle.

Drive Belt Problems

Picture the pump as the workhorse of your washing machine and is powered by a drive belt that loops around pulleys on the bottom of the motor. If this belt is broken or loose, your machine could have a tough time draining or not draining at all. To diagnose and fix the problem, you'll need to flip the machine over onto its side to inspect the belt. While this is a repair you could do yourself, many homeowners prefer to call an expert technician to handle this type of repair. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're not comfortable getting hands-on with your washer!

Improper Load Distribution Problems

Picture this: you're running a load of laundry and all of a sudden your washing machine comes to a halt mid-cycle. Puzzled? It might be due to poor load distribution. When clothes in the drum become unbalanced, your washing machine may not spin and will not be able to complete a washing cycle.

If you notice that clothes are gathered to one side, or you’re washing a large item like a duvet, try adding other items or redistributing the item to balance the load. Once the load is balanced, try closing the door and resuming the cycle. If that doesn't work, you may need to reset your washer. You can look it up how in your owner's manual.

Drain Hose Problems

If your washing machine is not draining chances are, the rubber drain hose at the back of the washer is clogged with fabric fibres or has been pinched. This can happen after washing items like rugs or blankets, which shed a lot of fibres. If the drain hose is obstructed, water can't be pumped out of the machine, leaving you with a soggy mess.

Luckily, checking for a clog is not a difficult task, it may take some time but is simple. You can start by taking as much water out of the washer as possible to avoid a messy situation. Then, grab a bucket and some towels to place under the hose, and unscrew it from the wall. Don't forget to empty any remaining water from the hose into the bucket before inspecting each end for any blockages. Once you have found the clog, run some water through the hose to clear it out and get back to your laundry in no time!