We rely on our washing machines more than we know, and over time, we’ll all likely run into an issue or two. When you hear the “ding!” and go to switch your laundry but see that the water hasn’t drained, you’re bound to get worried in a hurry. After all, not having clean clothes is bad enough, but a broken appliance can lead to unexpected bills and headaches.
Fortunately, it’s not all doom and gloom! Washing machine drainage issues are relatively common, and while there are a few different problems that your machine could be having, some of them can be addressed within minutes. We’ve put together a handy FAQ and a list of common issues and solutions to help you get started.
Common Drainage Issues & Fixes
If you’re not sure exactly what’s wrong with your washing machine, that’s okay! There are a few common issues that cause your washing machine to not drain that we’ll explain next. Plus, we’ll walk you through the fixes for these issues.
Reset the Machine
Have you ever had a problem with your computer or phone that was fixed by turning it off and back on again? There’s a chance you’ll be able to do the same with your washing machine. Simply unplug your washer, wait one minute, then plug it back in. After that, open and close the door six times within 12 seconds. Note that while this is a common method to reset a washing machine, it’s not universal. Consult the machine-specific manual if you can for precise instructions.
Check the Drain Hose
The drain hose moves water from the washing machine into the pipe that leads it out of your home. If there is something wrong with your drain hose, the water won’t have anywhere to go; thus, it will sit in your washer. Examine the drain hose to see if it is kinked or clogged, and if you find that it is, then you remove the kink or clear the clog. Just be careful when dealing with a potential clog: some need a snake or help from a plumber to be fully cleared.
Inspect the Lid Switch
If you have a washing machine that loads from the top, there is a switch that locks the lid when closed called a lid switch. This senses if the lid is closed all the way and then locks the lid in place to ensure the water stays in the machine. Try pushing down on this switch. That may be all you need for the water to drain out. Just note that if you don’t hear a click, this switch may need to be replaced.
Examine the Pump
The pump is responsible for pushing the water from the machine into the drain hose, and a malfunctioning pump can result in standing water. Washing machines generally have different ways to access the pump, so consult your user manual to locate it and check if there are any obstructions. You may also hear an unusual noise coming from your washer that could indicate a pump problem. If you do try to fix or replace the pump yourself, be aware that the water may come out of the machine when you remove the pump.
Drain the Machine Manually
If you can’t quite fix the problem and want to just get rid of the water as a temporary solution, you can manually drain the machine by using a bucket to scoop out the water and dispose of it elsewhere. This is a tedious process, but it can be used if you truly need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’re sure you have some burning questions on your mind. So, before we dive into how to fix common problems, we’ll take the time to answer some of the questions our customers most often have.
Do I need to call a plumber to fix my washing machine?
No, you don’t necessarily need to call a plumber for washing machine drainage issues. Some of the fixes we’ll present are ones that you can do yourself without too much technical experience. However, there are some more complicated problems that your washing machine could have that require expert help. If you’re not confident in your skills or want a speedy solution, calling a plumber is always a safe bet.
How expensive is washing machine repair?
Washing machine repairs done through a trusted plumber can be quite cost-efficient, ranging in price depending on the exact problem. That said, you can usually expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 on average.
Does a washing machine drainage problem indicate other plumbing issues?
Typically, it does not. These kinds of problems usually only occur due to an issue with the unit itself, not with your wider plumbing system.
Call the Dependable Plumbers at Joe the Plumber
Instead of dealing with the hassle yourself and wondering if you’re fixing a non-draining washing machine correctly, you should trust in the pros here at Joe the Plumber for fast, affordable solutions! Our highly skilled plumbers will be able to pinpoint the exact problem in a fraction of the time and have the tools to provide long-lasting repairs. We can handle any plumbing problem you might have, so give us a call today to schedule your service!
