Washing Machine Won't Drain? Here's What to Check
A washing machine that won't drain is one of the most common washing machine problems. The good news is that in many cases, the cause is something simple you can fix yourself in 15–30 minutes without a service call. This guide walks through the most likely causes in order of probability.
Step 1: Check for a Drain Hose Kink
Before anything else, check the drain hose at the back of the machine. If it's kinked, bent sharply or pinched against a wall, water cannot drain. Straighten the hose and try running a drain cycle again. This takes 60 seconds to check and costs nothing.
Step 2: Check the Coin Filter (Pump Filter)
All modern front-loading and many top-loading washing machines have a coin filter (also called a pump filter or debris filter) at the bottom-front of the machine. This filter catches lint, coins, hairgrips and small items before they reach the pump. A blocked coin filter is the most common cause of drainage failure.
To clean the coin filter:
- Place a low tray or towels under the filter cover (water will come out)
- Open the small access panel at the bottom-front of the machine
- Slowly unscrew the filter cap anticlockwise
- Let the water drain into the tray
- Remove the filter, rinse it under a tap and remove any debris
- Refit the filter and close the access panel
- Run a drain or spin cycle to test
If a large amount of water pours out when you open the filter, this is normal for a machine that stopped mid-cycle with water in the drum.
Step 3: Check the Drain Hose Height and Routing
The drain hose must be installed at the correct height. If it's too low to the ground, water can siphon back into the machine. The hose end should be at a height of 60–100cm above floor level, routed into a standpipe or laundry trough. Check your machine's installation instructions for the correct height specification.
Step 4: Check for a Blocked Standpipe or Laundry Trough
If the problem is not in the machine, it may be in the drain that the machine empties into. Pour a bucket of water into your laundry trough or the standpipe to see if that drains freely. A blocked household drain will back up and prevent the machine from draining.
Step 5: Check for Error Codes
Most modern washing machines will display an error code on their screen when a drain fault occurs. Common codes include E21, F21, 5E, E5 or similar (varies by brand). Search your machine's make and model plus the error code online for the specific diagnosis — or call your brand's service line.
Step 6: Check the Pump
If none of the above resolves the issue, the drain pump itself may be faulty or jammed. With the coin filter removed, you should be able to see and manually rotate the pump impeller (the small propeller inside the filter housing). If it's jammed or broken, the pump needs replacement. This is a technician-level repair for most households.
When to Call a Technician
Call a service technician if the coin filter is clean, the hose is correctly routed, there are no blockages in the household drain and you're still getting a drain error. The pump, control board or wiring harness may need diagnosis and repair.
When to Replace vs Repair
If your machine is 8+ years old and needs a pump replacement, it's worth comparing the repair cost against the cost of a new machine. At Oceania Appliances, we can help you find a replacement if the repair costs more than it's worth. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.