A washing machine that won’t drain is one of the most frustrating issues a homeowner can face. You load up the laundry, start a cycle, and come back only to find your clothes soaked and water sitting at the bottom of the drum.
At Matrix HVAC & Appliances, we understand how disruptive this can be to your routine. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons why your washer won’t drain and what you can do to fix it—or when to call in professional washer repair services.
Common Cause: Over time, lint, debris, or small clothing items like socks can obstruct the hose.
Fix: Check for obstructions after disconnecting the washer's hose from the back. You can use a plumber’s snake or run water through the hose to ensure it’s clear. Make sure the hose is also properly positioned—too low or too high can interfere with drainage.
Common Cause: The pump may be burned out, damaged, or clogged with debris.
Fix: Listen for unusual sounds during the drain cycle. If the pump is making a grinding or humming noise without removing water, it might be faulty. Cleaning the pump filter may help, but often, professional washer repair is necessary to replace a damaged pump.
Common Cause: Most modern washers have a filter before the drain pump that catches lint and particles.
Fix: Check your user manual for instructions on locating and cleaning the pump filter. It’s usually behind a panel at the front of the washer. Be prepared for water spillage when you remove the filter cap.
Common Cause: Top-loaders have a lid switch; front-loaders use a door lock system. If faulty, they can prevent draining.
Fix: Check that the lid or door closes securely. If the switch or lock mechanism is damaged, you’ll likely need a technician from Matrix HVAC & Appliances to handle the washer repair.
Common Cause: A fault in the washer’s brain can disrupt the drain sequence.
Fix: This is a complex issue and usually requires diagnostic tools to identify. If resetting the washer doesn't work, it’s best to contact a washer repair specialist to assess and replace the board or timer if necessary.
Common Cause: Sometimes the problem lies with your home's plumbing rather than the washer.
Fix: Check if water backs up into the laundry sink or standpipe during draining. A plumber may be needed to clear out the standpipe and ensure proper water flow.
Common Cause: Bulky or uneven loads can throw the washer off balance and stop the cycle.
Fix: Rearrange the clothes and try running the drain/spin cycle again. Avoid overloading your washer, and always balance heavy items with smaller ones.
While some of the above fixes can be done at home, others require professional expertise. If you’ve tried these steps and your washer still won’t drain, don’t delay—standing water can lead to mold, unpleasant odors, and damage to your appliance.
At Matrix HVAC & Appliances, we specialize in fast, reliable, and affordable washer repair services. Our trained technicians diagnose problems quickly and get your laundry back on track without the hassle. Whether it’s a pump replacement, control board issue, or clogged hose, we’ve got you covered.
More than just a hassle, a washer that refuses to drain is an indication that something needs to be fixed. The sooner you troubleshoot and resolve the issue, the better for your clothes and your machine.
For expert washer repair, maintenance tips, or same-day service, contact Matrix HVAC & Appliances today. We’re here to keep your appliances running smoothly—so you can focus on what matters most.
