Clogged pump filter
Coins, hair ties and small socks collect in the filter on many front-load models and slow or stop draining.
Appliance problem guide
Washer Not Draining
Standing water after a cycle usually means something is blocking the drain path or the drain pump is not running.
Short answer
Check the drain hose for kinks and, on front-load washers, clean the pump filter behind the small panel at the bottom front. If the hose is clear, the filter is clean and the washer still holds water, the drain pump or a control part likely needs a technician.
For homeowners with a broken washer, dryer, oven, stove, cooktop or freezer. Not for refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, commercial appliances, parts orders or phone-only quotes.
What is usually behind it
Likely causes
A washer drains by pumping water up and out through the hose. Anything that blocks that path, or stops the pump, leaves water behind.
Kinked or blocked drain hose
A hose pushed too far into the standpipe or crushed behind the machine can stop the flow.
Failed drain pump
A pump that hums without moving water, or makes no sound at all, may have failed or be jammed.
Lid switch or control fault
On many top-load washers, a faulty lid switch stops the drain and spin steps from starting.
Safe first checks
What you can safely check first
- Make sure the washer finished the cycle and is not paused
- Look behind the washer for a kinked or crushed drain hose
- On front-load models, place towels down and clean the pump filter as the manual describes
- Check that the standpipe or laundry sink is not backing up
- Run a drain and spin cycle with the washer empty
Safety: gas and electrical work
Unplug the washer before reaching behind it or opening the filter panel. Expect water to come out when you open the filter, and keep it away from outlets.
Do not open the cabinet or try to remove the pump yourself while the washer is plugged in.
When to call
When to call a technician
Call if the filter and hose are clear but the washer still holds water, if you hear the pump humming without draining, or if the control shows a drain error. Mention the washer type and any error code.
Related services
Services that cover this problem
Start with washer repair, part of washer and dryer repair.
Washer Repair
Washing machines that will not drain, spin, fill or stop leaking.
Washer and Dryer Repair
Washers that will not drain or spin, and dryers that will not heat or start.
Markets and areas
Calling from your market
- Washer and Dryer in Birmingham, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Tuscaloosa, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Huntsville, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Mobile, AL
Markets
Regional areas
Yes. Unplug it first, then scoop or towel out the water, or drain it through the front filter hose on models that have one. Do this before moving the washer to check the hose.
A partly clogged filter, a sagging drain hose or a weak pump can slow draining. Clean the filter first. If draining stays slow, the pump may be wearing out.
Usually, yes. Most washers will not start the spin step until the water is pumped out, so a drain problem often looks like a spin problem as well.
Next step
Still not working after the safe checks?
Call to describe what the appliance is doing and get connected with an independent local provider.