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If your washing machine is no longer draining properly, your clothes will usually be left dripping wet in the drum. There are many possible causes for this – from a clogged lint filter to a faulty pump. This article will show you how to fix the problem safely and effectively.
Washing machine not draining: step-by-step solution
Before you start working on your washing machine, be sure to unplug it. This is the only way to avoid the risk of electric shock. Also, make sure you have plenty of rags and a bucket handy – water may leak out when you open hoses or flaps.
- Check the program selection and restart: Some wash programs – e.g., delicates or wool – do not automatically drain at the end to prevent damage to delicate fabrics. In this case, select the “Drain” or “Spin” program manually. Restart the machine if necessary to reset the electronics.
- Perform emergency drain: Most modern washing machines have an emergency drain hose located behind a small flap on the front, usually next to the lint filter. This allows you to drain the water in a controlled manner: open the flap, pull out the small hose, place a bucket underneath and slowly remove the hose cover to allow the water to drain out. Only then open the lint filter – this minimizes flooding.
- Clean the lint filter and detergent dispenser: Clogged lint filters or blocked detergent pumps are a common problem: Open the lint filter (screw cap), remove any foreign objects (tissues, coins, buttons), shine a flashlight into the opening, and check whether there are any pieces of clothing in the pump impeller – these can block the pump. If the impeller turns slowly or not at all, there may be a defect.
- Check the hoses: The drain hoses are usually located at the back of the washing machine. Look for kinks or squashed areas that could block the water flow and blockages in the hose itself – unscrew the hose and rinse it thoroughly. You should also check that the drain hose is neither too high (more than approx. 1 meter) nor too low, and that it is not inserted too deeply into the wall drain pipe – otherwise there is a risk of backflow and malfunction.
- Check the drain and wall connection: If the drain hose is clear, the wall connection (e.g., siphon) may also be blocked. Check whether the water can flow freely from the hose into the drain. A blocked pipe often leads to backwater and thus to the pumping process being interrupted.
- Check error codes: Many newer machines display an error code on the display when problems occur. These codes provide information about the problem – e.g.: E20 (AEG/Electrolux) – Problem with pumping F18 (Bosch/Siemens) – Detergent pump blocked OE (LG) – Water cannot be pumped out Refer to the operating instructions or the manufacturer’s website to interpret the code and take appropriate action.
- When to call a professional: If none of the above measures solve the problem, there is probably a technical defect. Possible causes include a defective drain pump (often makes a humming noise but does not pump), an electronic fault (e.g., control board, door lock), motor damage, or a broken V-belt. In these cases, you should not attempt to repair the appliance yourself, but contact a specialist.
Tip: Regular maintenance prevents the washing machine from not draining
To avoid problems:
- Clean the lint filter regularly (every few weeks).
- Rinse the hoses occasionally, especially if you live in a hard water area.
- When loading the machine, check the contents of pockets and use laundry nets if necessary.
