The Problem
A washing machine should leave clothes damp but ready for drying, yet one day mine finished a cycle with the drum full of water. Clothes were heavy, soaked, and impossible to wring out properly. At first, I thought the pump was broken. But after reading the user manuals, I realized that poor drainage is one of the most common washer issues — and many times, it’s caused by simple blockages or settings, not a major breakdown.
Common Reasons Why a Washer Doesn’t Drain
Clogged drain filter – Lint, coins, or small objects stop water from flowing.
Blocked or kinked hose – The drain hose may be bent or clogged.
Pump malfunction – If the pump motor fails, water won’t leave the drum.
Overloaded drum – Too many clothes can confuse the system and halt draining.
Software or cycle errors – A glitch can leave water inside after washing.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Clean the Drain Filter
The user manuals recommend checking the filter first. I found mine full of lint, hairpins, and a coin. After cleaning it, the washer drained properly again.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose
According to the user manuals, the hose must be straight and free of clogs. I discovered mine bent sharply behind the machine. Straightening it restored normal flow.
3. Check the Pump
The user manuals explain how to listen for the pump. If it hums but no water moves, it may be jammed. Once, I found a small sock blocking mine. Removing it fixed the issue.
4. Reduce the Load
Sometimes, the washer won’t drain if it’s overloaded. The user manuals advise removing some clothes and restarting the drain cycle. This worked for me once when I had stuffed the drum full of towels.
5. Reset the Machine
If the problem is electronic, the user manuals suggest unplugging the washer for 5–10 minutes. After a reset, mine completed the drain cycle normally.
My Experience
At first, I worried that the pump had failed completely. But by following the user manuals — cleaning the filter, adjusting the hose, and restarting the cycle — I solved the problem without repairs. Since then, I’ve made it a habit to clean the filter monthly to avoid surprises.
FAQ
Why is my washing machine not draining water?
– Usually because of a clogged filter, blocked hose, or overloaded drum.
Can I fix this at home?
– Yes, by following the user manuals: clean the filter, check the hose, and reset the machine.
When should I call a technician?
– If the washer still won’t drain after these steps, the pump motor may need replacement.