Washing Machine Won't Drain — How to Fix It

Clothes sitting in standing water after a cycle means the washer can’t drain. Most causes are clogs you can clear yourself.

Safety First

Unplug the washer before working on it. Water + electricity = danger.

Check #1: Drain Hose

The drain hose runs from the back of the washer to your standpipe or sink.

Look for:

• Kinks in the hose (straighten them)
• Clogs (disconnect and check)
• Height issues (hose should rise before dropping into drain, but not more than 96” high)

Clear a clog:

1. Pull the washer out
2. Disconnect the drain hose (have towels ready)
3. Check for obstructions
4. Flush with water
5. Reconnect

Check #2: Pump Filter/Coin Trap

Many washers have an accessible filter that catches small items.

Location: Usually on the front lower right, behind a small access panel.

The Fix:

1. Put towels down — water will come out
2. Open the access panel
3. Slowly unscrew the filter cap
4. Remove debris (coins, hair ties, lint)
5. Reinstall

Do this monthly to prevent future clogs.

Check #3: Lid Switch (Top Loaders)

Top-loading washers won’t drain if the lid switch fails — the washer thinks the lid is open.

Test: Listen for a click when you close the lid. No click = possible switch failure.

Fix: Lid switch replacement ($20-50 part, moderate DIY).

Check #4: Drain Pump

If the pump motor fails, you’ll hear humming but no draining.

Signs:

• Humming during drain cycle
• Motor runs but water doesn’t move

Fix: Pump replacement ($100-200 part, moderate DIY or service call).

Emergency Drain

If you need to get the water out now:

1. Locate the drain hose
2. Lower it into a bucket below the washer level
3. Gravity will drain the water
4. Raise the hose to stop flow, empty bucket, repeat

When to Call a Pro

• Pump motor has failed
• Electronic control board issues
• You can’t locate or access the filter
• Problem persists after clearing clogs

Cost: $150-300 for most drain repairs.

The Bottom Line

Check the drain hose for kinks first. Clean the pump filter second. Those two steps solve most drainage problems. If the pump itself is dead, you’re looking at a part replacement.