Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Draining drama? not anymore! fix your whirlpool washer’s drainage issues

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

  • The water level switch monitors the water level in the washer and signals the drain pump to activate once the water reaches a certain level.
  • If the control board malfunctions, it may not be able to send the correct signals to the drain pump, resulting in drainage problems.
  • A partially clogged drain hose or filter, a kinked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump can all contribute to slow drainage.

A malfunctioning washing machine can turn a mundane chore into a frustrating ordeal. When your Whirlpool washer refuses to drain, it’s essential to identify the root cause promptly to prevent further damage or inconvenience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the potential reasons behind your Whirlpool washer’s drainage woes and provide practical solutions to restore its functionality.

1. Clogged Drain Hose

The drain hose is a critical component responsible for carrying wastewater away from the washer. Over time, debris, lint, or other small objects can accumulate within the hose, causing a blockage that prevents proper drainage.

Solution: Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe. Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the hose for any obstructions. Remove any visible debris using a pair of pliers or a wire hanger.

2. Faulty Drain Pump

The drain pump powers the removal of wastewater from the washer. If the pump becomes faulty or damaged, it may not be able to generate sufficient suction to drain the water.

Solution: To test the drain pump, disconnect the washer from the power source and remove the back panel. Locate the drain pump and manually rotate the impeller. If the impeller is stuck or resists movement, the pump may need to be replaced.

3. Blocked Drain Filter

Most Whirlpool washers feature a drain filter designed to trap lint and small objects that could otherwise clog the drain hose or pump. If the drain filter becomes blocked, it can restrict water flow and prevent proper drainage.

Solution: Locate the drain filter, typically found at the bottom of the washer’s front panel or behind a small access panel. Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly under running water.

4. Kinked Drain Hose

A kinked drain hose can obstruct water flow and prevent the washer from draining effectively.

Solution: Inspect the drain hose for any sharp bends or kinks. If the hose is kinked, carefully straighten it out to ensure a smooth flow path for the wastewater.

5. Faulty Water Level Switch

The water level switch monitors the water level in the washer and signals the drain pump to activate once the water reaches a certain level. If the water level switch malfunctions, it may not send the correct signal to the drain pump, resulting in incomplete drainage.

Solution: To test the water level switch, disconnect the washer from the power source and remove the back panel. Locate the water level switch and use a multimeter to check for continuity between the switch’s terminals. If there is no continuity, the switch may need to be replaced.

6. Clogged Coin Trap

Some Whirlpool washers have a coin trap located near the drain hose. If the coin trap becomes clogged with coins or other small objects, it can block the flow of wastewater.

Solution: Remove the coin trap by unscrewing it from the drain hose. Clean the trap thoroughly under running water and remove any obstructions.

7. Malfunctioning Control Board

The control board is the brains of the washer, coordinating the operation of various components. If the control board malfunctions, it may not be able to send the correct signals to the drain pump, resulting in drainage problems.

Solution: Troubleshooting a malfunctioning control board can be complex and may require the assistance of a qualified appliance repair technician.

Ending the Drainage Dilemma

Once you have identified and addressed the underlying cause of your Whirlpool washer’s drainage issues, it’s time to put the machine back into action. Reconnect the drain hose and power up the washer. Run a test cycle to ensure that the washer is draining properly.

Wrap-Up: Reclaiming Laundry Harmony

A well-functioning Whirlpool washer is essential for a smooth and efficient laundry routine. By understanding the potential reasons behind drainage problems and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can restore your washer to its former glory and enjoy uninterrupted laundry bliss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is my Whirlpool washer draining slowly?
A: A partially clogged drain hose or filter, a kinked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump can all contribute to slow drainage.

Q: What does it mean when my Whirlpool washer stops draining mid-cycle?
A: A faulty water level switch or a malfunctioning control board can cause the washer to stop draining during a cycle.

Q: Can I use a drain cleaner to unclog my Whirlpool washer drain?
A: It’s not recommended to use chemical drain cleaners in your Whirlpool washer as they can damage the internal components.

Was this page helpful?

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.
Back to top button