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HomeRepair HelpUniversal Washer RepairUniversal Washer won't drain Repair
Universal Washer won't drain
When a washer won't drain, standing water in the tub usually points to a blocked or failed drain pump. Small objects or clothing can obstruct the pump, and a pump that remains noisy during the drain cycle may need replacement. If the pump is clear, the control board may not be sending voltage to it, or a faulty timer may be preventing the drain cycle from starting. Check the drain hose next for kinks, crushing, or clogs caused by lint or hair, especially if the washer has moved across the floor. On some models, debris in the door lock or door latch assembly can also stop the washer from draining properly. For top-load models, inspect the lid switch assembly for obstructions, and check the door lock on front-load models. These washer not draining repairs may involve a drain pump, control board, timer, drain hose, door lock, door latch, or lid switch assembly. Always disconnect power before servicing and use the wiring diagram and a multimeter when testing electrical parts. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific washing machine.
01 - Universal Washing Machine Timer
On some washing machine models, a timer is used to determine when voltage is to be sent to the washer's electrical components. A faulty timer may not be sending power to the drain pump during the drain cycle. You can inspect the timer for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test for incoming power to the drain pump after reviewing the appliance's wiring diagram. If no voltage is present when the washer is in the drain cycle, it's likely the timer is defective and will need to be replaced.
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02 - Universal Washing Machine Drain Pump
Sometimes, small objects or articles of clothing can get caught in the drain pump. To determine if anything is blocking the drain pump, remove the drain pump and check the pump for obstructions. If the drain pump is clear of obstructions, but is still noisy during the drain cycle, replace the drain pump.
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03 - Universal Washing Machine Control Board
Since a washing machine control board provides voltage to nearly all of the washer's electrical components, a faulty board may not be sending power to the drain pump during the drain cycle. You can inspect the board for signs of burning or a shorted-out component. You can also use a multimeter to test for incoming power to the drain pump after reviewing the appliance's wiring diagram. If no voltage is present when the washer is in the drain cycle, it's likely the control board is defective and will need to be replaced.
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04 - Drain hose is clogged or kinked
Check to see if the drain hose is kinked or crushed. If your washer "dances" during cycles, it may have moved and kinked the hose. The drain hose could also be clogged with lint or hair. You can use a thin, long-handled brush to clean the hose.
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05 - Door lock or door latch obstructed
Remove any debris in the door lock or latch assembly. Any debris that is in the lock or latch can prevent the washer from working properly.
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06 - Obstructed Lid switch assembly or Door lock
Remove any debris in the door lock or lid switch assembly. Any debris that is in the lock or latch can prevent the washer from working properly.
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07 - Universal Washing Machine Suspension Rod
If a top-load washer is not completing a cycle in addition to not draining, a broken suspension rod could be making the tub unbalanced and unable to spin or agitate properly. Inspect the suspension rods for damage and replace if necessary - it is recommended that all suspension rods be replaced at the same time for more even wear.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my washer drain?
How do I drain a washing machine that has standing water?
What should I check if my washing machine is making noise when draining?
How can I tell if the drain pump, control board, or timer is bad?
How do I find and buy the correct washer drain pump or other replacement part?