What to Do When Your Washing Machine Won't Drain

A washing machine that won't drain leaves clothes sitting in a tub of water — not ideal. The good news is that the most common cause of this problem is easy to fix yourself, without calling a technician. Here's how to diagnose and fix it.

Step 1: Check the Drain Hose

The drain hose runs from the back of the washing machine to your laundry drain or standpipe. Check that:

• The hose isn't kinked or bent sharply, which would prevent water flowing through
• The hose isn't blocked or clogged inside
• The hose end isn't pushed too far down into the standpipe, which can create a siphoning problem
• The hose height is correct (usually 60cm to 90cm from the floor — check your machine's manual)

Step 2: Clean the Pump Filter (Most Common Fix)

This is the most frequent cause of a washing machine not draining. Most front load washing machines have a pump filter (also called a coin trap) at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small access panel.

How to clean it:

1. Put towels on the floor — water will come out when you open this.
2. Open the access panel at the bottom front of the machine.
3. Place a shallow bowl or tray under the small drain hose (usually a black cap) and open it to drain water.
4. Once water has drained, unscrew the filter cap (turn anti-clockwise).
5. Remove any debris — coins, hair, lint, small items of clothing.
6. Rinse the filter under warm water.
7. Reinsert and screw closed. Run a short cycle to test.

Step 3: Check the Lid Switch (Top Loaders)

Top load washing machines have a lid switch that prevents the machine from spinning (and thus draining) when the lid is open. If this switch is faulty, the machine may fill but not drain or spin. Try pressing the switch manually while running a cycle. If this helps, the switch needs replacement.

Step 4: Check for Error Codes

Many modern washing machines display error codes when something is wrong. Consult your machine's manual or search the error code online to identify the specific issue. Common drain-related error codes vary by brand but often indicate pump or filter issues.

Step 5: Check the Drain Pump

If the filter is clear and the hose is fine, the drain pump itself may be faulty. You may hear the machine trying to pump (a humming sound) but water isn't moving. A failed pump typically needs replacement by a technician.

When to Call a Technician

If the filter is clean and there are no kinks in the drain hose, the issue is likely either the pump or a control board problem. Both require a technician. For older machines, consider whether repair cost versus replacement makes sense.

Oceania Appliances stocks quality washing machines across Sydney with free delivery and 3 to 6 month warranty. If your machine needs replacing, browse our range at oceaniaappliances.com.au.