Frustrated with a stuck whirlpool washer? discover the hidden cause

Why won’t my Whirlpool washer drain? It’s a frustrating question that can leave you with a pile of wet laundry and a headache. But don’t worry, with this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and easily.

Common Causes of Whirlpool Washer Drain Problems

1. Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose is the most common source of drainage issues. It can become clogged with lint, hair, and other debris over time.
2. Malfunctioning Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the washer. If it fails, the washer won‘t be able to drain properly.
3. Blocked Pressure Switch: The pressure switch detects the water level in the washer. If it’s blocked, the washer may not be able to sense that it’s full and won’t start the drain cycle.
4. Faulty Lid Switch: The lid switch prevents the washer from operating when the lid is open. If it’s faulty, the washer may not be able to start the drain cycle even if the lid is closed.
5. Drain Valve Solenoid Failure: The drain valve solenoid opens and closes the drain valve. If it fails, the washer won‘t be able to drain the water.
6. Electrical Problems: Electrical problems, such as a loose wire or a blown fuse, can also cause the washer to stop draining.
7. Overloading the Washer: Overloading the washer can put too much strain on the drain pump and cause it to fail.

Troubleshooting and Repairing Whirlpool Washer Drain Problems

1. Check the Drain Hose

• Unplug the washer and turn off the water supply.
• Disconnect the drain hose from the back of the washer and the drainpipe.
• Check for clogs by running water through the hose. If the water doesn’t flow freely, clear the blockage using a drain snake or a pair of pliers.

2. Test the Drain Pump

• Unplug the washer.
• Remove the back panel of the washer.
• Locate the drain pump and disconnect the wires.
• Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the pump. If the pump is faulty, replace it.

3. Clean the Pressure Switch

• Unplug the washer.
• Remove the front panel of the washer.
• Locate the pressure switch and disconnect the wires.
• Use a small brush or a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris from the pressure switch.

4. Check the Lid Switch

• Unplug the washer.
• Remove the top panel of the washer.
• Locate the lid switch and disconnect the wires.
• Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the switch. If the switch is faulty, replace it.

5. Test the Drain Valve Solenoid

• Unplug the washer.
• Remove the front panel of the washer.
• Locate the drain valve solenoid and disconnect the wires.
• Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the solenoid. If the solenoid is faulty, replace it.

6. Check for Electrical Problems

• Inspect the wiring for any loose connections or damaged wires.
• Check the fuse box or circuit breaker panel for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.
• If you find any electrical problems, contact a qualified electrician for assistance.

7. Avoid Overloading the Washer

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the maximum load capacity of your washer.
• Overloading the washer can put too much strain on the drain pump and cause it to fail.

Wrapping Up: Keeping Your Whirlpool Washer Draining Efficiently

By following these troubleshooting steps, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix most Whirlpool washer drain problems yourself. However, if you’re not confident in your abilities or the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. How often should I clean the drain hose of my Whirlpool washer?

It’s recommended to clean the drain hose every 3-6 months to prevent clogs.

2. What are the signs of a faulty drain pump?

A faulty drain pump may produce unusual noises, fail to drain the water completely, or cause the washer to stop mid-cycle.

3. Can I use bleach to clean the drain hose?

No, it’s not recommended to use bleach to clean the drain hose as it can damage the hose material.