A washer that won’t drain properly can be frustrating, leaving your clothes soaked and heavy with water while also increasing the risk of flooding and water damage in your home. This issue is often caused by a clogged drain hose, a faulty drain pump, or a blocked filter, all of which can prevent water from exiting the machine efficiently.
Before searching for a washing machine repair near me, try these washing machine repair troubleshooting steps from HouseTriangle to identify and fix the problem. In many cases, a simple fix can get your washer draining properly again, saving you both time and money on unnecessary repairs.
1. Check for a Clogged Drain Pump Filter
- Most washers have a filter that collects lint and debris.
- Remove the filter and clean out any clogs.
- Run a test cycle to check if draining is restored.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose for Blockages
- A kinked or clogged hose can prevent water from draining.
- Straighten out any bends and flush the hose with water.
- Ensure the hose is positioned correctly to allow drainage.
3. Verify the Drain Pump Functionality
- Listen for any buzzing sounds from the pump.
- If the pump is malfunctioning & it may need replacement.
- Call a technician if the pump is faulty.
4. Make Sure the Lid Switch is Working
- If the lid switch is broken, the washer won’t drain.
- Test the switch manually to see if it clicks.
- Replace the switch if it doesn’t respond.
5. Remove Excess Detergent Buildup
- Using too much detergent can clog the drainage system.
- Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar to remove buildup.
- Use only high-efficiency (HE) detergent for best results.
6. Reset the Washing Machine
- A software glitch may cause drainage issues.
- Unplug the machine for five minutes and restart it.
7. Inspect the Control Board for Errors
- Some washers display error codes related to draining.
- Refer to the manual to diagnose the issue.
- If the control board is faulty, professional repair is needed.
8. Ensure Proper Installation of the Drain Hose
- The drain hose should be at the correct height.
- If it’s too low, water may siphon back into the machine.
- Adjust the placement for efficient drainage.
9. Check for Foreign Objects in the Drain Pump
- Small items like socks or coins can block the pump.
- Remove any visible obstructions from the pump area.
10. Contact House Triangle for Drainage Repairs
- If the problem persists, professional help is needed.
- HouseTriangle specializes in washing machine repair near me.
- Get expert assistance to fix draining issues efficiently.