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Is your washer machine trapped in a watery prison? unveil the mystery of why it won’t drain

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • A faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from draining if it detects that the lid is open.
  • Electrical problems, such as a loose wire or a blown fuse, can disrupt the power supply to the drain pump or other components, causing drainage issues.
  • With the washer disconnected from power, turn the water supply back on and check if water flows out of the drain hose.

If your washer machine has suddenly stopped draining, leaving you with a pool of soggy laundry, it can be a frustrating experience. Understanding the reasons behind this issue can help you troubleshoot the problem and get your laundry back on track.

Common Causes of Washer Machine Drainage Problems

  • Clogged Drain Hose: One of the most frequent causes of drainage issues is a clogged drain hose. Lint, hair, and other debris can accumulate in the hose, blocking the flow of water.
  • Blocked Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the washer. If the pump becomes clogged with objects like coins or buttons, it can prevent drainage.
  • Faulty Drain Valve: The drain valve opens and closes to allow water to drain from the washer. A malfunctioning drain valve can keep the valve closed, preventing water from escaping.
  • Malfunctioning Pressure Switch: The pressure switch monitors the water level in the washer. If the pressure switch fails, it may not signal the washer to drain when it should.
  • Damaged Lid Switch: The lid switch ensures that the washer only operates when the lid is closed. A faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from draining if it detects that the lid is open.
  • Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as a loose wire or a blown fuse, can disrupt the power supply to the drain pump or other components, causing drainage issues.
  • Overflow Sensor Malfunction: The overflow sensor detects when the water level in the washer is too high. If the overflow sensor malfunctions, it may trigger the washer to stop draining prematurely.

Troubleshooting and Repairing

1. Check the Drain Hose: Inspect the drain hose for any visible clogs. If you find any, remove them and clear the hose thoroughly.

2. Clean the Drain Pump: Disconnect the washer from the power source and locate the drain pump. Remove the pump and clean any debris or objects that may be blocking it.

3. Test the Drain Valve: With the washer disconnected from power, turn the water supply back on and check if water flows out of the drain hose. If water does not flow, the drain valve may need to be replaced.

4. Replace the Pressure Switch: Locate the pressure switch and disconnect the wires connected to it. Use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. If the switch is faulty, replace it.

5. Fix the Lid Switch: Open the washer lid and locate the lid switch. Press the switch to see if it makes a clicking sound. If it does not, the switch may need to be replaced.

6. Check for Electrical Issues: Inspect the power cord and electrical connections to ensure they are secure and not damaged. If you suspect an electrical problem, contact a qualified electrician.

7. Reset the Overflow Sensor: Disconnect the washer from the power source and locate the overflow sensor. Clean the sensor with a soft cloth and reset it by pressing the reset button.

Preventing Drainage Issues

  • Clean the lint filter regularly to prevent debris from entering the drain hose.
  • Avoid overloading the washer, as this can put strain on the drain pump.
  • Use a mesh laundry bag to catch small objects like coins or buttons that could clog the drain pump.
  • Inspect the drain hose periodically for any damage or kinks.
  • Have your washer serviced by a qualified technician regularly to ensure optimal performance and prevent future drainage problems.

Wrapping Up

Resolving “why washer machine won’t drain” issues requires a systematic approach to identify the root cause. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively diagnose and repair the problem, ensuring that your washer machine drains efficiently and keeps your laundry clean and dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my washer machine drain slowly?

  • Clogged drain hose
  • Faulty drain pump
  • Worn-out drain valve

2. What does it mean when my washer machine won‘t drain at all?

  • Blocked drain hose or drain pump
  • Malfunctioning drain valve
  • Electrical problems

3. Can I fix a clogged drain hose myself?

  • Yes, you can disconnect the drain hose and clean out any debris or objects that may be clogging it.
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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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