Opening your washer to find clothes sitting in dirty water is frustrating and prevents you from completing your laundry. A washing machine that won't drain is a common problem with several possible causes, many of which you can check yourself.
Common Causes
1. Clogged Drain Pump Filter (Check This First!)
Most front-load washers have a drain pump filter that catches coins, lint, and small items. When clogged, water can't drain.
Location: Usually behind a small door at bottom front of washer
How to check:
- Place towels on floor (water will come out)
- Open access door
- Slowly unscrew filter cap
- Remove debris
- Clean filter and reinstall
Common items found: Coins, bobby pins, small socks, hair ties, lint
Difficulty: Easy - 10 minutes
2. Kinked or Clogged Drain Hose
The drain hose can get kinked, crushed, or clogged with lint.
How to check:
- Pull washer away from wall
- Inspect drain hose for kinks
- Feel for hard spots (clogs)
- Ensure hose isn't too far down drain (can create siphon)
Fix: Straighten kinks, clear clogs, adjust hose position
3. Faulty Drain Pump
If the pump motor fails or impeller breaks, water won't pump out.
Symptoms:
- No humming sound during drain cycle
- Grinding or unusual noises
- Pump runs but water doesn't drain
Cost: $200-$350 for pump replacement
4. Lid Switch Problem (Top-Loaders)
Some washers won't drain if lid switch thinks lid is open.
Check: Listen for click when closing lid
Cost: $100-$150 to replace
5. Drain Hose Height
The drain hose must be installed at proper height. Too low causes siphoning, too high prevents draining.
Proper installation: Hose should loop up higher than water level in tub, then down to drain
6. Coin Trap or Pump Obstruction
Small objects can jam the pump impeller.
Check: Remove filter and look into pump opening with flashlight
Quick Checks Before Calling
- Run "spin only" cycle - does water drain?
- Check drain filter
- Ensure drain hose isn't kinked
- Listen for pump motor sound
- Check for error codes on display
When to Call a Professional
- Pump needs replacement
- Can't locate clog
- Electrical or control board issues
- Washer is under warranty
Average repair cost: $150-$350
Book washer repair if DIY checks don't work.
