Washing Machine Drain Pump Not Working: Fix It Now

 

 A washing machine drain pump plays a crucial role in expelling water after each wash cycle. When it stops working, your appliance can’t drain properly, leading to water remaining in the drum and clothes staying soaked. This issue can disrupt your laundry routine and potentially cause damage if not addressed quickly. Fortunately, many common problems with the washing machine drain pump can be diagnosed and fixed without needing a professional. In this guide, you’ll learn the essential steps to identify why your drain pump isn’t working and how to restore your washing machine to full function.

Causes and Solutions of a Faulty Washing Machine Drain Pump

A faulty washing machine drain pump can cause water to remain in your washer, leading to incomplete cycles and soggy clothes. Identifying common causes and applying effective solutions can quickly restore your machine’s draining function and prevent further damage.

Clogged Drain Pump Filter

Cause:
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning washing machine drain pump is a clogged filter. Lint, coins, small clothing items like socks, and other debris can accumulate and block the filter, preventing water from flowing freely through the pump.

Solution:

• Locate the drain pump filter, usually behind a small door or panel near the bottom front of your washing machine.

• To catch any spilled water, use towels or a small basin underneath.

• Open the filter cap slowly and carefully remove any debris or buildup.

• Rinse the filter thoroughly under running water.

• Reinstall the filter securely and test the machine to see if it drains properly.

The lifespan of the washing machine drain pump can be increased, and clogs can be avoided by routinely cleaning the filter.

Blocked or Damaged Drain Hose

Cause:
The drain hose carries water from the pump to the home’s drainage system. If this hose is kinked, bent, clogged with debris, or damaged, it can restrict water flow and cause the washing machine drain pump to work harder or fail.

Solution:

• Inspect the drain hose for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or sharp bends.

• To remove any obstructions, disconnect the hose and run water through it. A flexible brush or compressed air can help remove stubborn debris.

• If the hose is damaged or severely clogged, replace it with a new one that matches your washing machine’s specifications.

• Make sure there are no sharp twists or kinks in the hose that could obstruct drainage.

Faulty Drain Pump Motor

Cause:
The washing machine drain pump relies on an electric motor to operate. Over time, this motor can wear out due to age, overheating, or electrical faults, causing the pump to stop functioning altogether.

Solution:

• To diagnose a faulty pump motor, listen for humming or buzzing sounds during the drain cycle. Silence or unusual noises may indicate a motor problem.

• Use a multimeter to test the pump motor’s electrical continuity (this step requires some technical knowledge).

• If the motor is faulty, the pump assembly usually needs to be replaced. To order the correct part, go to the manual that came with your washing machine.

• For safety and to avoid damage, consider hiring a professional technician if you are uncomfortable working with electrical components.

Blocked or Broken Impeller

Cause:
The impeller, a tiny, fan-like part inside the drain pump, forces water through the pipe. Coins, hairpins, and buttons are examples of debris that might clog or destroy the impeller, preventing the pump from emptying correctly.

Solution:

• Access the drain pump by removing the washing machine’s back or front panel, depending on the model.

• Carefully inspect the impeller for debris or damage.

• Remove any objects blocking the impeller, and if the impeller is broken, the entire pump assembly will need to be replaced.

• After cleaning or replacing parts, reassemble the machine and test the drain function.

Electrical Connection Issues

Cause:
Loose, corroded, or damaged electrical connections can cause the washing machine drain pump to lose power or work intermittently. Wear, moisture, or vibration can cause wires to come loose.

Solution:

• Unplug the washing machine before attempting any repairs.

• Inspect the wiring harness connected to the washing machine drain pump for loose connectors, burnt wires, or corrosion.

• Reconnect or replace any damaged wires or connectors.

• To make sure the pump is getting enough power, test the unit and make sure all the connections are tight.

Blocked or Faulty Pressure Switch

Cause:
The pressure switch monitors water levels in the washing machine. If it malfunctions or its hose is blocked, the machine may not trigger the drain pump to operate.

Solution:

• Inside your washing machine, find the pressure switch and associated hose.

• Check the hose for blockages or damage and clear or replace it if necessary.

• Test the pressure switch with a multimeter for continuity and replace it if it’s defective.

• A faulty pressure switch often leads to improper machine draining, so fixing this can restore pump operation.

Overloaded or Unbalanced Load

Cause:
Although less common, an overloaded or unbalanced washing machine drum can put strain on the drain pump. The pump may stop working properly if the machine detects imbalance or excessive weight.

Solution:

• Avoid overloading your washing machine by following the manufacturer’s recommended load capacity.

• Distribute clothes evenly inside the drum to prevent imbalance during spinning and draining.

• If you hear banging noises or see the drum shaking excessively, stop the machine and rearrange the load before restarting.

Worn Out or Broken Drive Belt

Cause:
Some washing machines use a belt to drive the drain pump motor. Over time, the belt can wear out, slip, or break, causing the pump to stop working.

Solution:

• Access the belt by removing the machine’s back panel.

• Inspect the belt for signs of wear, cracking, or slackness.

• Replace the belt with a new one specified by your washing machine’s manufacturer.

• Proper belt tension is essential for pump operation, so ensure it’s correctly fitted.

Faulty Control Board or Timer

Cause:
Modern washing machines use electronic control boards or timers to manage functions including the drain pump. A malfunctioning control board may fail to send the signal to the pump to start draining.

Solution:

• If other components have been ruled out and the pump itself works fine, the control board could be the culprit.

• Signs of a faulty control board include irregular machine behavior or failure to advance through cycles properly.

• Diagnosing and replacing a control board often requires professional assistance due to complexity and cost.

• In some cases, resetting the machine by unplugging it for a few minutes may temporarily fix minor electronic glitches.

Water Pump Pulley Failure

Cause:
In some washing machines, the pump is driven by a pulley connected to the motor. If this pulley becomes worn, loose, or damaged, the pump won’t spin properly, causing drainage issues.

Solution:

• Check for wear or damage on the pulley.

• Tighten any loose pulleys or replace them if worn out.

• Verify that the pulley and motor shaft are correctly aligned.

Clogged or Damaged Internal Drain Pipes

Cause:
Besides the hose, internal pipes that connect the tub to the pump may become clogged with detergent residue, dirt, or fabric fibers, restricting water flow.

Solution:

• Open the machine’s cabinet to access internal drain pipes.

• Use a flexible brush or compressed air to clear blockages.

• Replace pipes if cracked or damaged.

Dealing with a malfunctioning washing machine drain pump doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. By following the troubleshooting steps and maintenance tips provided, you can often resolve the issue on your own, saving time and money. Regularly checking the pump and keeping the drain system clear can prevent future problems, ensuring your washing machine runs smoothly. Remember, prompt action is key to avoiding water damage and prolonged inconvenience. With a little effort, your washing machine’s drain pump will be back in operation, keeping your laundry fresh and dry.

Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of replacement components for refrigerators, washing machine drain pumps, and more.