Simple Fixes When Your Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain
When you find your Whirlpool washer won’t drain, it leaves you with sopping wet clothes that your dryer takes forever to dry. But don’t fret! In most cases, the reasons behind this issue are quite common, and with a little patience and know-how, they’re often fixable right at home.
In this guide, we will walk you through some common issues causing your Whirlpool washer not to drain and how to fix them yourself.
Why Your Whirlpool Washer Won’t Drain and How to Fix It
Several things might be causing issues where your Whirlpool washer won’t drain. Let’s go through the most common ones.
Kinked or Clogged Drain Hose
When the washer begins its drain cycle, water is supposed to exit through the drain hose. If this hose is kinked or clogged, the water can’t drain properly. Wondering, “How do I get my Whirlpool washer to drain water?” Here’s how to assess and fix your hose:
- Check the hose for visible kinks. If you find any, gently straighten them. If the hose seems damaged, consider replacing it.
- To look for blockages, detach the hose from the washer and/or standpipe and remove any clogs. Always refer to your washer’s manual for the correct procedures for removing and reattaching the hose.
- Ensure that the hose is correctly positioned in the drainpipe, usually between 39 to 96 inches above the floor.
Spin Speed
The spin speed is a crucial aspect to consider when your Whirlpool washer won’t drain. Choosing a slow spin speed or using the “delicate” or “hand wash” cycle may cause the washer to leave more water in the tub than desired. It’s essential to select the appropriate cycle and spin speed according to the fabric type and load size.
Unbalanced Load
Why is my Whirlpool washer not draining? An unbalanced load can interfere with your washer’s ability to drain properly. While it’s common to wash bulky items, your Whirlpool washer is designed with sensors that may automatically adjust the spin speed to maintain a balanced load. However, this automatic adjustment can leave extra water in the tub. To optimize your washer’s performance:
- Add a few more items to balance the load.
- Avoid overloading the washer, as it can negatively affect the spin cycle and leave your clothes excessively wet.
- Regularly check to ensure the washer is balanced before starting the washing cycle.
Too Much Soap
The type and quantity of detergent you use significantly influence your washer’s draining performance. Most modern washing machines, including Whirlpool washers, recommend using high-efficiency detergent. These detergents produce fewer suds, which can otherwise impede the spin speed and hinder proper drainage. To enhance your washing machine’s draining:
- Always use the recommended type and amount of detergent to prevent excessive suds.
- If using non-high-efficiency detergent, use less than you normally would to avoid too much suds.
- Regularly clean your washer to prevent any soap residue buildup that may interfere with draining.
Blocked Drain Pump Filter
Many washers, including some Whirlpool models, have a drain pump filter or coin trap that collects debris and lint to prevent clogging. If this filter is clogged, You may find your Whirlpool washer spinning but not draining. Here’s how to clean it:
- Open the drawer usually located on the bottom right corner of the washer.
- Remove the filter, dispose of any debris, and rinse it under running water before replacing it.
If cleaning the filter doesn’t fix the problem, it’s best to have a professional technician assess the pump for clogs or malfunctions.
Failed Whirlpool Washer Parts
If you’ve ruled out the hose and the filter, some failed washer parts might be causing the drain problem. These can include:
- Door lock assembly : If damaged, this can cause washer starting issues , as well as prevent it from draining correctly. You will need to replace it if testing shows a lack of continuity.
- Lid switch : This switch signals the start of the wash cycle. If it’s faulty, your washer won’t drain or spin. If damaged or testing shows a lack of continuity, it needs replacement.
- Drain pump : This pump expels water from the washtub into the drain hose. If it’s blocked or the motor has failed, it needs to be replaced.
Addressing issues with your Whirlpool washer’s spin speed, load balance, and detergent usage can significantly improve issues where your Whirlpool washer won’t drain. However, for more complex problems, we highly recommend getting in touch with the washing machine repair pros at Authorized Appliance. Your appliances deserve the best care, and our team is ready to provide just that.
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