Washing Machine Not Draining
If your washing machine is not draining, the appliance has been unable to pump water out of the drum. This is one of the most common washing machine faults and in many cases it can be resolved at home without the need for an engineer.
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Find Your Brand
Select your washing machine brand below for a specific drainage fault guide including the relevant error codes for your appliance.
Why Is My Washing Machine Not Draining?
When a washing machine fails to drain, water remains in the drum at the end of the cycle or the machine stops mid-programme. Most modern machines will display an error code when a drainage fault is detected — check the brand-specific guide above for the relevant codes for your appliance. The most common causes are a blocked pump filter, a kinked or blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump.
Common Causes
Blocked pump filter
The pump filter is the most common cause of drainage faults. It catches small items such as coins, buttons, hair grips and fluff before they reach the pump. Over time it becomes blocked and prevents water from draining correctly. The filter should be cleaned every few months as part of routine maintenance.
Kinked or blocked drain hose
If the drain hose at the back of the machine is kinked, crushed or blocked, water cannot exit the machine. The end of the hose should be positioned between 60cm and 100cm above floor level.
Blocked household drain or standpipe
A blockage in the household drain or standpipe where the hose connects can prevent water from draining away even if the machine itself is functioning correctly.
Faulty drain pump
If the pump has failed or the pump rotor is locked and unable to rotate, the machine will not be able to remove water from the drum regardless of whether the filter is clear.
Too much detergent or wrong detergent type
Excess foam caused by too much detergent or the wrong type of detergent can interfere with the drainage process and trigger a drainage fault.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Clean the pump filter
The pump filter is located behind a small cover panel at the bottom front of the machine. Place a shallow dish or towels beneath it before opening as water will drain out. Twist the filter cap anticlockwise to remove it, clear any debris, and refit by twisting clockwise. Always ensure the cap is tightly refitted to prevent leaks.
Check the drain hose
Inspect the drain hose at the back of the machine for any kinks or blockages. Ensure the end of the hose is correctly positioned and not inserted too far into the standpipe, which can cause a siphoning effect.
Check the detergent
Ensure you are using a detergent designed for automatic washing machines at the correct dosage. Avoid using hand wash detergents or washing up liquid in an automatic machine.
Reset the machine
Switch the machine off at the mains and leave it unplugged for a few minutes. Plug back in and try running a short spin and drain cycle to see if the fault clears.
When To Contact A Professional
If the fault persists after cleaning the pump filter and checking the drain hose, the drain pump is likely faulty and will need to be tested and replaced by a qualified engineer. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
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