Washer Not Draining — Water Not Going Out: What Part Fixes This Problem?
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Understanding the Problem
If your washing machine fills with water but the water won't go out at the end of the cycle, the most common causes are a blocked or failed drain pump, a clogged or kinked drain hose, a clogged drain/filter (coin trap), or an electrical fault preventing the drain cycle from starting. Top-load washers can also be prevented from draining by a faulty lid switch; front-loaders rely on a door lock/monitor that can do the same. In many cases the washer will try to drain— you may hear humming from the pump, see error codes, or notice the machine get stuck on "drain" or "spin". Diagnosing the issue starts with simple, safe checks: inspect the drain hose for kinks or clogs, check the drain filter/coin trap (if your model has one), and listen for the pump during a drain cycle. If the pump is silent or makes a grinding sound, the pump motor is likely failing or jammed by debris. If the pump runs but water stays, there may be an obstruction between the tub and pump or a control/timer issue preventing the drain valve from opening.
Common Symptoms
Standing water in drum after cycle, washer stuck on "drain" or "spin," error codes related to drainage, grinding or humming noises from pump, water slowly draining or not at all.
Common Causes
- Clogged drain pump or internal filter/coin trap (hair, lint, coins, small items)
- Kinked, clogged, or improperly positioned drain hose
- Failed or seized drain pump motor
- Faulty lid switch (top-load) or door lock/door latch assembly (front-load)
- Control board, timer, or pressure switch failure preventing drain cycle
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Run a drain/spin cycle and listen at the back for the pump; if you hear a hum but no water flow, turn off power and check the pump for debris or replace the drain pump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fix a washer that won't drain myself?
Yes — many drainage problems are DIY-friendly: unplug the washer, check the drain hose for kinks or clogs, clean the drain filter/coin trap (if present), and inspect the pump for visible debris. Replace the drain pump if it hums but doesn't move water or makes grinding noises. Always disconnect power and water before working on the machine and consult your model's service manual.
How much does it cost to replace a washer drain pump?
Cost varies by brand and whether you DIY or hire a technician. Parts typically range $30–$150 for common consumer washers; labor (if you hire a pro) can add $80–$200 depending on region. Always verify the correct part number for your model before purchasing.
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Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.