In most modern homes today, homeowners have become accustomed to certain appliances that are now essential in their day-to-day lives, including washing machines which make it so much easier to get the laundry done. However, like all machines, they can sometimes malfunction, causing inconvenience and frustration.
One of the most common drawbacks of top-load washing machines is that they may stop draining for any unknown reason. Fortunately, this is usually an easy problem to solve if you know the proper steps to take.
If you’re experiencing this issue, don’t panic; this article will explore all the reasons your top-load washing machine might not be draining and offer some solutions to help you resolve the problem.
Why Is Your Top Load Washing Machine Not Draining?
Before you can attempt to fix the problem, you first need to be able to identify what might be causing the washing machine not to drain. Listed below are some ideas of potential causes:
1. Imbalanced Load
A common and simple reason behind a top-load washing machine not draining is an imbalanced load. An imbalanced load can cause the drum to spin unevenly, making it difficult for the water to drain.
In some cases, the machine may even stop spinning altogether. To avoid this issue, make sure that you load your washing machine correctly and evenly distribute the clothes around the drum.
2. Material Blocking the Filter
Another common and somewhat silly cause of a top-load washing machine not draining is a material blocking the filter. The filter is designed to catch lint, hair, and any debris that may accumulate during a wash cycle.
If this filter becomes clogged, the water may not be able to drain out. To fix this issue, you must locate the filter and clean it out thoroughly.
3. Clogged Washing Machine Drain Hose or Pump Filter
A clogged washing machine drain, drain pipe, or pump filter can also cause your top-load washing machine to stop draining. The drain hose carries the water from the machine to the drain, and if it becomes clogged, the water won’t be able to pass through.
Similarly, if the pump filter is clogged, it won’t be able to remove the water from the machine. If you think this might be the issue, you must thoroughly clean the drain hose and pump filter.
4. Incorrect Drain Height
The height of the drain hose can also impact whether or not your top-load washing machine can drain correctly. If the drain hose is too high, the water won’t be able to flow out of the machine properly.
On the other hand, if the drain hose is too low, the water may flow back into the machine, creating an inflow of excess water. To ensure that the drain hose is at the correct height, consult your washing machine’s manual for the details and make necessary adjustments.
5. Issues With Your Home’s Plumbing System
Your home’s plumbing system can also cause problems with your washing machine’s drainage. If there is a blockage in the drain or sewer line, the water may not be able to flow out of the machine.
Additionally, if the plumbing system has a venting issue, it may prevent the water from draining correctly. If you suspect that there may be an issue with your home’s plumbing system, contact a professional plumber to diagnose and fix it as soon as possible.
6. Defective Lid Switch
The lid switch on your appliance is designed to stop the machine from spinning when the lid is open, and if it’s faulty, the machine may not start or stop spinning. A broken lid switch can also cause a drainage issue, preventing the water from exiting the machine.
Open the door while the machine is in use and manually press the lid switch. There may be an issue if you don’t hear a clicking sound.
7. Mechanical Failure of the Water Pump
Finally, a mechanical failure of the water pump can cause your top-load washing machine to stop draining. The water pump is responsible for removing the water from the machine; if it’s faulty, the water won’t be able to drain.
To fix this issue, you’ll need to replace the water pump, but this will require the assistance of a professional unless you have specialized skills and knowledge.
How to Fix a Top Load Washing Machine That’s Not Draining?
Now that you know some of the common reasons your top-load washing machine may not be draining, let’s explore some solutions to help you fix the issue.
1. Perform a Reset
Performing a reset on your washing machine can be a quick and easy solution to fix the problem of it not draining. This is the first step you should take when facing any troubles with your appliance.
To perform a reset, unplug your machine from the power source for a few minutes, then plug it in and turn it back on. This will reset any potential error codes or malfunctions in the control panel that might have been causing the issue.
2. Redistribute the Load
If the issue is caused by an imbalanced load, redistributing the clothes inside the drum may help the machine to spin evenly and drain properly.
Open the machine and rearrange the clothes so that they are evenly distributed. In future washes, avoid mixing large, heavy items with smaller, delicate ones, as this can also create an imbalance in your machine.
3. Check the Drain Hose
Inspect the drain hose for any blockages or kinks preventing water from flowing out of the machine. If you find any obstructions, clear them out and straighten any kinks.
You can also check the height of the drain hose and ensure that it’s at the proper level per the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Check the Drain Pump
The drain pump is responsible for removing the water from the machine, so if it’s faulty, the water won’t be able to drain out.
Check the drain pump for any debris or blockages that may prevent it from functioning correctly. You can also try turning the pump manually to ensure it’s not stuck.
5. Check the Drive Belt
The drive belt is the component connecting the motor to the transmission in your washing machine, and if it’s worn out or broken, it can cause the machine to stop spinning and not drain.
Inspect the drive belt for any signs of wear or damage, and if necessary, replace it. For this, you might need to contact an appliance repair professional.
6. Check the Lid Switch Assembly
If the lid switch assembly is faulty, it can prevent the machine from draining. As discussed earlier, inspect the lid switch for any damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
This repair or replacement is another task that will usually require professional intervention.
7. Have Your Plumbing Checked
If none of the above solutions help and your washing machine still isn’t draining, there may be an issue with your home’s plumbing system or the water pressure.
Contact a professional plumber to inspect the drain or sewer line and fix any blockages or venting issues that may be causing the problem.
Final Thoughts
A top load washing machine not draining can be frustrating and inconvenient, but with a bit of troubleshooting, you can identify the cause of the problem and fix it.
Imbalanced loads, material blocking the filter, clogged drain hoses or pump filters, incorrect drain heights, issues with your home’s plumbing system, defective lid switches, and mechanical failures of the water pump are all common causes of this issue.
However, by performing a reset, redistributing the load, checking the drain hose, pump, drive belt, and lid switch assembly, and having your plumbing checked, you can resolve the issue and get your machine up and running again in no time.
Remember to always consult your washing machine’s manual before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my Top Load washing machine is not draining?
If your washing machine is not draining, you may notice that there is still standing water in the drum or that your clothes are still wet after a cycle.
Additionally, you may hear unusual noises from the machine, or the machine may stop working altogether.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog my machine?
Using chemical drain cleaners on your top-load washing machine is not recommended, as they can damage the machine’s components and cause further problems.
Instead, try to manually identify and clear the blockage or contact a professional.
Can I fix a Top Load washing machine that isn’t draining on my own?
In some cases, you may be able to fix a top-load washing machine that isn’t draining on your own by performing simple troubleshooting steps such as redistributing the load, checking the drain hose, and inspecting the pump and drive belt.
However, for more complex issues, it is recommended to contact a professional repair technician.
How often should I check my Top Load washing machine’s drain hose and pump filter?
It is recommended to check the drain hose and pump filter on your top-load washing machine at least once a year to ensure that they are not clogged or blocked. This can help prevent draining issues and prolong your machine’s life.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
