- Common drainage problems to consider
- 5 steps to fix a washing machine that is not draining
- When to call a professional for help
If you've ever faced the frustration of a washing machine not draining, you're not alone. You might not notice this problem at first, but it can quickly cause problems. The first sign may be that your clothes smell less than fresh. Don't worry when this happens. Whether you have a Beko, Bosch, Samsung, or LG front-load washing machine, there is an answer out there.
Keep in mind that most drainage problems have straightforward solutions. In the following blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix your washing machine when it won't drain or spin. That means you can get back to your washing routine with minimal fuss.
Common drainage problems to consider
Before we take a look at some of the ways you can fix your washing machine, let's talk about what may be causing the problem. The truth is that there's a wide range of reasons that your washing machine may not be draining. Here are some of the most common causes:
The pump filter is clogged
Have you checked whether your pump filter is clogged? Over time, debris such as lint, coins, or small articles of clothing can clog the pump filter, making it almost impossible for your washing machine to drain properly.
The drain hose is blocked
Similarly, you could find that your drain hose is blocked or messed up. When this happens, it can cause all kinds of problems for your machine. As you will discover, a kinked or clogged drain hose can prevent water from flowing out of the washing machine. That means that the old water will build up in the bottom of your washing machine.
The pump is broken or faulty
Next, it may be that the pump is faulty. The pump is responsible for draining water from the machine. Once the cycle has ended, it pushes the water in the right direction. This part of the washing machine works by spinning and forcing the water to go in a certain direction. If it fails, your washing machine will not drain, and the water will build up there.
The wiring of the machine is wrong
Issues with the electronic control board or wiring can affect the washing machine's ability to drain. Unfortunately, these are often harder problems to fix. Should you find that there is a problem with this part of the washing machine, you will need to call out an electrician.
There are other drainage system issues
Believe it or not, the problem may have nothing to do with your washing machine at all. If your home drainage system—i.e. everything outside of your machine—is not up to scratch, that could be to blame. When that happens, you may need to have a plumber deal with the issue.
Chances are, your washing machine is not draining because of one of these key problems. Before you make any other moves, you should check your machine to see which of the above is interfering. Now, let's take a look at how to address these common issues.
5 steps to fix a washing machine that is not draining
By this point, you should have a decent idea about what's happening with your washing machine. Now's the time to check what is going wrong and deal with the problem. Let's take a look at five simple steps that you can take to get started here:
Step 1: Check the drain hose
Start by inspecting the drain hose. You can usually find this at the back of your washing machine on the outside. Ensure it's not kinked or bent, and remove any visible blockages.
If this part of the washing machine is bent, it could mean that the machine cannot drain properly. You can even remove it and clean it to see if that solves the problem.
Step 2: Clean the pump filter
If that doesn't work, find the pump filter. Depending on the brand of machine you have, this is usually at the front of the machine near the bottom. Open the filter cover and check for debris, such as coins, lint, or small objects. Clean it thoroughly and replace it.
If the filter is clogged, it may cause a problem with your drainage. As a general rule, you should clean your pump filter on a regular basis anyway.
Step 3: Check the drain pump
Next, you can check the drain pump. Listen for unusual noises when the machine attempts to drain. If you hear a humming sound, the pump might be clogged or malfunctioning. You might need to remove and inspect the pump to make sure that there are no issues there.
Step 4: Make sure the electrics are fine
If you've checked all of the above and found nothing, there might be an electrical fault. Inspect the wiring connections and the control board for any visible damage.
Electrical or control board issues can prevent the machine from initiating the drainage cycle. Of course, you should never attempt to fix the electrics yourself. Instead, make sure that you call out a qualified electrician to do the job for you.
Step 5: Examine the drainage system
As we have covered, the problem may not be your washing machine. If the problem is with the home's drainage, no amount of fixing the washing machine will help until the drain is cleared.
Check that your home's drainage system is not blocked. Sometimes, a clog in the home's plumbing can cause drainage problems. If the issue is not immediately obvious here, you should speak to a plumber and have them come out to check your home drainage.
When to call a professional for help
If you've tried the above steps and your washing machine still won't drain or spin, it may be time to consult a professional. Ongoing problems could be indicative of more serious issues, such as a malfunctioning control board, a damaged pump, or complex drainage system faults.
You can start by referring back to the manual for your washing machine. In some cases, there may be a helpline that you can call to get answers. If not, you may want to call an electrician or a plumber (depending on the problem!) to help you figure out how to solve it.
Dealing with a washing machine that doesn't drain can be frustrating, but understanding the likely causes and solutions can save you time and money. By following our simple steps, you can check for the most common drainage problems. However, keep in mind that there are some problems you cannot fix without the proper expertise. Should you suspect that the problem is more serious than it first looks, it's always worth calling an expert to help you out.
Q&A
Did we miss something along the way? If you're still looking for answers, check out our frequently asked questions section below.
How do I force my washing machine to drain?
You cannot force your washing machine to drain when there is a problem. Instead, you need to figure out what the issue is and then tackle that. Common causes include a clogged pump filter, a blocked drainage hose, and a broken pump. In this guide, we have covered how you can overcome each of these issues and what the next steps are. Follow them to get started now.
Why is my washing machine not turning to wash?
Chances are that a displaced or faulty spin switch is to blame. When you encounter this problem, it's smart to call the manufacturer and see what they suggest. They may be able to send someone out to fix this element of your washing machine.
Can I still use my washing machine if the drum is loose?
The short answer is no. While your machine may still wash your clothing, using a faulty washing machine is a dangerous move. The movement from the spin cycle is likely to loosen your washing machine drum even more than it already is. That could spell disaster for the machine.
What is the lifespan of a washing machine?
Washing machines wear out over time, especially if you use them frequently. On average, a quality washing machine lasts between 10 and 13 years. However, this will depend on how good the machine is, how often you use it, and how well you maintain it. You need to take all of the above into consideration when estimating how long the machine will work.
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