Why Your Washing Machine Won’t Drain — And What You Can Do About It

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as opening your washing machine after a cycle and finding your clothes sitting in a pool of water. If your washer won’t drain, don’t panic — it’s a common issue, and in many cases, you can fix it yourself without calling a technician.

Here’s what might be going wrong, and what you can do to get your laundry back on track.

1. A Clogged Drain Hose

The problem: Over time, lint, coins, and other debris can build up inside the drain hose, blocking water from exiting the machine.

The fix: Unplug your machine, pull it away from the wall, and inspect the drain hose. Detach it and check for clogs. If you find gunk or buildup, rinse it out thoroughly or replace the hose if needed.

2. A Dirty or Blocked Pump Filter

The problem: Many front-load washers have a small filter trap to catch objects before they reach the drain pump. If this gets clogged, the washer can’t drain properly.

The fix: Locate your pump filter (usually behind a small panel near the bottom front of the washer). Place a towel and shallow pan underneath, open the filter slowly, and clean out any debris.

3. A Faulty Drain Pump

The problem: If the drain pump is broken or worn out, it may not be able to remove water from the tub.

The fix: If you hear a humming or buzzing sound but no water drains, the pump may need replacing. Unless you’re confident with appliance repair, this is a good time to call a professional.

4. A Kinked or Improperly Installed Drain Hose

The problem: If the hose is pinched or not angled correctly, water won’t drain properly.

The fix: Make sure the hose isn’t kinked and that it’s installed at the correct height (typically 30–40 inches off the ground) to allow proper gravity flow.

5. A Lid Switch Malfunction (Top-Load Washers Only)

The problem: For top-load machines, if the lid switch doesn’t engage, the washer may stop mid-cycle and refuse to drain.

The fix: If your machine stops completely when you close the lid, the switch might be broken. A replacement part is inexpensive and can often be installed with basic tools.

When to Call a Pro

If you’ve tried these fixes and your washer still won’t drain — or if you’re unsure how to safely open or inspect components — it’s time to call a certified appliance technician. Ignoring a draining issue too long could lead to bigger problems, including mold, electrical damage, or water leaks.

Final Thoughts

A washer that won’t drain is annoying, but it’s rarely a lost cause. By troubleshooting a few common issues, you may be able to fix the problem on your own — and save some money in the process.