A washer full of water and a pile of wet clothes signify a draining problem but sometimes the cause is less obvious. Why is my Whirlpool washer not draining? The drain hose may be kinked or blocked, restricting water flow. Use these troubleshooting tips when to quickly pinpoint the problem when your Whirlpool washer does not drain.
Three Common Causes for a Whirlpool Washer Not Draining
Most draining problems can be traced to a clog in the drain hose or pump or a part malfunction. How do you fix a Whirlpool washer that won’t drain? While cleaning out the pump can be a DIY job, part malfunctions are best resolved by a professional repair. Here’s how to determine what’s going on and how to fix it.
Drain Hose is Blocked or Kinked
Drain hose kinks or blockages are often responsible for a Whirlpool washer not draining. If the hose is jostled or pushed too closely against the wall a kink can form and restrict the flow of water. Sometimes, the hose can be gently straightened to remove the kink. However, if the kink has damaged the hose it should be replaced.
Drain hose clogs occur if debris or a small article of clothing blocks water flow, backing it up into the washer tub. While the hose can be disconnected to remove the blockage, this job is best performed by an experienced DIYer or a professional service.
Follow these guidelines to unclog a Whirlpool washing machine drain hose:
- Move the washer away from the wall, unplug it and turn off its water supply.
- Unclamp the drain hose from the back of the machine according to your user manual’s instructions.
- Drain residual water into a bucket and inspect the hose for clogs. Remove any visible blockages with a straightened wire hanger or pliers.
- If no blockages are visible, disconnect the hose from the standpipe or sink to inspect for clogs.
- Reconnect the hose at the standpipe or sink and washer. Plug the washer back in and turn on the water supply before repositioning it against the wall.
- If a clog can’t be reached the hose should be replaced.
Drain Pump Filter is Clogged
The drain pump filter collects dirt and debris as water drains from the tub, preventing it from clogging the drain pump. However, the filter itself can become clogged with these byproducts and prevent water from draining, leaving clothes still wet after wash cycle. Cleaning the drain pump filter can fix a Whirlpool washer not draining, while regular cleanings can prevent blockages from forming.
Here’s how to clean the drain pump filter:
- Open the drawer on the bottom of the washer. Remove the drawer by pushing up on the left side tab while pushing the right side tab down.
- Place a pan or tray under the drain pump filter to catch draining water.
- Remove the black hose from its clip, take out the plug and drain the hose into the pan. Once the hose is drained, replace the plug, clip the hose in place and empty the pan.
- Lay a towel in front of the filter and turn it slowly counterclockwise to remove.
- Remove any debris and rinse the filter under running water.
- Turn the filter clockwise to replace it.
- Replace the drawer by placing it on both rails simultaneously. Listen for a clicking sound that indicates the rails are fully engaged.
Whirlpool Washer Parts Have Failed
If the above interventions don’t resolve draining issues it’s possible a part failure is responsible.
The following parts can result in a Whirlpool washer not draining when they fail:
- Door lock assembly: On front-loading machines, the door lock assembly locks the closed door, signaling the washer to begin a cycle. If the door lock is damaged or fails electronically, you’ll notice the washer not spinning clothes dry or draining. A door lock that fails multimeter testing with a lack of continuity or appears damaged must be replaced.
- Lid switch: The lid switch performs the same function as the door lock assembly on top loading machines. If the lid switch doesn’t secure the door or signal the beginning of a wash cycle, the washer won’t spin or drain. Replace the lid switch if it’s damaged or shows a lack of continuity with multimeter testing.
- Drain pump: The drain pump uses impellers to expel water from the washtub into the drain hose. Check the drain pump for clogs that can impede the impellers. If there are no visible blockages and the pump operates loudly or not at all, the motor may have failed, requiring professional replacement.
The experts at Sloan Appliance Service can solve the problem when your washer won’t drain. Contact us to schedule your Whirlpool washing machine repair!
