Whirlpool Washer Not Draining: Troubleshooting and Solutions

Is your Whirlpool washer refusing to drain, leaving you with a tub full of water and a mountain of frustration? A washer that won’t drain is a common problem, but thankfully, it’s often something you can diagnose and fix yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common causes of a Whirlpool washer not draining, providing step-by-step troubleshooting instructions and solutions to get your machine back up and running. We’ll cover everything from simple fixes to more involved repairs, helping you save time and money by avoiding a costly service call.

Understanding the Drainage System

Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s helpful to understand how your Whirlpool washer’s drainage system works. The process generally involves these key components:

* **Washer Tub:** This is where the water and clothes reside during the wash and rinse cycles.
* **Drain Pump:** The heart of the drainage system, the drain pump forces the water out of the tub and into the drain hose.
* **Drain Hose:** This hose carries the water from the drain pump to your home’s drainpipe or utility sink.
* **Drainpipe/Utility Sink:** This is where the water ultimately exits your home.
* **Lid Switch/Sensor:** Many Whirlpool washers have a lid switch that prevents the washer from spinning or draining if the lid is open. This is a safety feature.
* **Control Board:** The control board is the brain of the washer, sending signals to the drain pump and other components.
* **Water Level Sensor/Pressure Switch:** This sensor detects the water level in the tub and signals the control board when to start and stop the drain pump.

When your washer is functioning correctly, the control board activates the drain pump at the appropriate time, which then pumps the water out through the drain hose and into your home’s drainage system. A blockage or malfunction in any of these components can cause draining problems.

Safety First!

Before you begin any troubleshooting or repair work, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. Always follow these precautions:

* **Unplug the Washer:** Disconnect the washer from the power outlet. This prevents any accidental electrical shock during the repair process. Locate the power cord at the back of the machine and unplug it. Do not proceed until this is done.
* **Turn Off the Water Supply:** Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves behind the washer and turn them off. This will prevent more water from entering the machine while you’re working on it. It is generally a good idea to turn them clockwise to stop the water flow.
* **Wear Gloves:** Consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from dirt, grime, and any potential irritants. Gloves are especially helpful when dealing with potentially moldy or mildewed components.
* **Have a Bucket and Towels Ready:** You’ll likely need to deal with some residual water during the troubleshooting process, so keep a bucket and towels handy to clean up any spills. Also have a wet/dry vacuum available in case of any major floods.

Common Causes and Troubleshooting Steps

Now, let’s explore the most common reasons why your Whirlpool washer might not be draining, along with detailed troubleshooting steps:

1. Clogged Drain Hose

**Cause:** The drain hose can become clogged with lint, debris, small items (like socks or buttons), or soap buildup. This is one of the most frequent causes of drainage issues.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Inspect the Hose:** Visually inspect the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or obvious obstructions. Straighten out any kinks and make sure the hose isn’t crushed or pinched.
* **Detach the Hose:** Disconnect the drain hose from both the washer and the drainpipe or utility sink. Be prepared for some water to spill out, so have your bucket and towels ready.
* **Flush the Hose:** Hold the drain hose over a sink or bucket and flush it out with water from a garden hose or faucet. You can also use a long, flexible brush or snake to dislodge any stubborn clogs. If using a hose with high pressure, be sure to have a firm grip on the hose.
* **Check for Obstructions:** Carefully inspect both ends of the hose for any visible obstructions. Use pliers or tweezers to remove any lint, debris, or foreign objects.
* **Reattach the Hose:** Once you’ve cleared any blockages, reattach the drain hose securely to the washer and the drainpipe/utility sink. Make sure the connections are tight to prevent leaks. Use new clamps if necessary to ensure a secure seal.
* **Test the Washer:** Run a short wash cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.

2. Clogged Drain Pump Filter

**Cause:** Many Whirlpool washers have a drain pump filter designed to catch lint, debris, and small objects before they enter the pump. This filter can become clogged over time, restricting water flow.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Locate the Drain Pump Filter:** The location of the drain pump filter varies depending on the model of your Whirlpool washer. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. In many front-load washers, the filter is located behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. Top-load washers may have a filter inside the tub or near the pump.
* **Drain Remaining Water:** Before removing the filter, it’s essential to drain any remaining water from the pump housing. Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any spills. Many washers have a small drain hose near the filter that you can use to drain the water. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for draining the water.
* **Remove the Filter:** Carefully remove the drain pump filter. It usually unscrews or pulls out. Be prepared for some water to spill out when you remove the filter.
* **Clean the Filter:** Thoroughly clean the filter under running water. Remove any lint, debris, hair, or other obstructions. You can use a small brush to help dislodge stubborn particles.
* **Inspect the Filter:** Check the filter for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. If the filter is damaged, replace it with a new one.
* **Reinstall the Filter:** Reinstall the clean filter securely, making sure it’s properly seated. Tighten it according to the instructions in your owner’s manual.
* **Test the Washer:** Run a short wash cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.

3. Malfunctioning Drain Pump

**Cause:** The drain pump itself might be faulty or worn out. Over time, the pump motor can fail, or the impeller (the part that spins to move the water) can become damaged or blocked.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Access the Drain Pump:** The location of the drain pump varies depending on the model of your Whirlpool washer. You may need to remove the front or back panel of the washer to access it. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
* **Inspect the Pump:** Visually inspect the drain pump for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Check the wiring connections to the pump to make sure they are secure.
* **Check for Obstructions:** Check the pump impeller for any obstructions. You may need to use pliers or tweezers to remove any lint, debris, or foreign objects that are blocking the impeller. Spin the impeller by hand to see if it rotates freely. If it’s stiff or doesn’t move, it could indicate a problem with the pump motor.
* **Test the Pump with a Multimeter:** If you have a multimeter and are comfortable using it, you can test the drain pump for continuity. Disconnect the wires from the pump and set the multimeter to the ohms setting. Touch the probes of the multimeter to the terminals of the pump. If the multimeter shows no reading or an extremely high reading, it indicates that the pump is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. (Important: Be sure the washer is unplugged from the power outlet before disconnecting any wires.)
* **Listen for the Pump:** During a drain cycle, carefully listen to the drain pump. You should hear a humming or buzzing sound indicating that the pump is running. If you don’t hear any sound, it could indicate that the pump is not receiving power or that the pump motor has failed.
* **Replace the Drain Pump:** If you suspect that the drain pump is faulty, the best solution is usually to replace it. You can purchase a new drain pump from an appliance parts store or online retailer. Be sure to order the correct pump for your specific model of Whirlpool washer. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual or online videos to replace the pump. It typically involves disconnecting the water hoses and electrical connections, removing the old pump, and installing the new one.

4. Clogged or Kinked Air Vent Hose

**Cause:** Some Whirlpool washers have an air vent hose that prevents the tub from creating a vacuum during the drain cycle. If this hose is clogged or kinked, it can prevent the washer from draining properly.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Locate the Air Vent Hose:** The location of the air vent hose varies depending on the model of your Whirlpool washer. It’s usually a small hose located near the top of the washer tub.
* **Inspect the Hose:** Visually inspect the air vent hose for any kinks, bends, or obstructions. Straighten out any kinks and make sure the hose isn’t crushed or pinched.
* **Detach the Hose:** Disconnect the air vent hose from both ends.
* **Flush the Hose:** Flush the hose out with water to remove any clogs. You can also use a small brush or wire to dislodge any stubborn obstructions.
* **Reattach the Hose:** Reattach the air vent hose securely to both ends.
* **Test the Washer:** Run a short wash cycle to see if the washer now drains properly.

5. Lid Switch/Sensor Problems

**Cause:** Whirlpool washers have a lid switch or sensor that prevents the washer from spinning or draining if the lid is open. If the lid switch is faulty or damaged, it may not properly detect when the lid is closed, preventing the drain cycle from starting.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Visually Inspect the Lid Switch:** Locate the lid switch or sensor. It’s usually located on the frame of the washer where the lid makes contact when closed. Visually inspect the switch for any signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks.
* **Test the Lid Switch with a Multimeter:** If you have a multimeter and are comfortable using it, you can test the lid switch for continuity. Unplug the washer from the power outlet. Disconnect the wires from the lid switch. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting. With the lid closed (or the switch manually activated), touch the probes of the multimeter to the terminals of the switch. The multimeter should show a reading of close to zero ohms, indicating that the switch is closed and allowing current to flow. With the lid open (or the switch released), the multimeter should show an infinite reading or a very high reading, indicating that the switch is open and not allowing current to flow. If the switch doesn’t behave as described, it’s likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
* **Check the Lid Strike:** Make sure the lid strike (the part of the lid that makes contact with the lid switch) is properly aligned and not damaged. If the strike is misaligned, it may not be properly activating the lid switch.
* **Replace the Lid Switch:** If you suspect that the lid switch is faulty, the best solution is usually to replace it. You can purchase a new lid switch from an appliance parts store or online retailer. Be sure to order the correct switch for your specific model of Whirlpool washer. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual or online videos to replace the switch.

6. Issues with the Water Level Sensor/Pressure Switch

**Cause:** The water level sensor (also sometimes referred to as a pressure switch) detects the water level inside the washer tub. If this sensor malfunctions, it may not accurately detect the water level, preventing the washer from initiating the drain cycle.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Locate the Water Level Sensor:** The water level sensor is typically located inside the control panel or near the top of the washer. It’s usually connected to a small air hose that runs to the bottom of the tub.
* **Inspect the Air Hose:** Check the air hose for any kinks, cracks, or leaks. Make sure the hose is securely connected to both the sensor and the tub. If the hose is damaged, replace it.
* **Test the Water Level Sensor:** Testing the water level sensor typically requires a multimeter and a service manual for your specific model of washer. The testing procedure involves measuring the resistance of the sensor at different water levels. If the sensor doesn’t show the correct resistance readings, it’s likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
* **Replace the Water Level Sensor:** If you suspect that the water level sensor is faulty, the best solution is usually to replace it. You can purchase a new sensor from an appliance parts store or online retailer. Be sure to order the correct sensor for your specific model of Whirlpool washer. Follow the instructions in your service manual or online videos to replace the sensor.

7. Control Board Problems

**Cause:** The control board is the brain of the washer, controlling all of its functions, including the drain cycle. If the control board malfunctions, it may not send the signal to the drain pump to start, preventing the washer from draining.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Check for Error Codes:** Many Whirlpool washers display error codes that can help you diagnose the problem. Consult your owner’s manual to see if your washer is displaying any error codes related to the drain cycle. The error code can provide valuable information about the source of the problem.
* **Visually Inspect the Control Board:** Access the control board and visually inspect it for any signs of damage, such as burnt components, loose connections, or corrosion. If you see any visible damage, the control board may need to be replaced.
* **Test the Control Board:** Testing the control board is a complex task that typically requires specialized equipment and knowledge. It’s usually best left to a qualified appliance repair technician.
* **Replace the Control Board:** If you suspect that the control board is faulty, the best solution is often to replace it. However, control boards can be expensive, so it’s important to be sure that it’s the problem before replacing it. Consider consulting with a qualified appliance repair technician to diagnose the problem and determine if replacing the control board is the best course of action.

8. Drainpipe Clog

**Cause:** The problem might not be with the washing machine itself. A clog in your home’s drainpipe can prevent the washer from draining properly.

**Troubleshooting Steps:**

* **Check for Obvious Clogs:** Look for any visible obstructions in the drainpipe or utility sink. Remove any debris or foreign objects that you find.
* **Use a Drain Snake:** Use a drain snake (also called an auger) to clear any clogs in the drainpipe. Insert the snake into the drainpipe and rotate it to break up or retrieve any blockages.
* **Check Other Drains:** See if other drains in your home are also draining slowly. If so, it could indicate a more serious clog in your main drain line. In this case, you may need to call a plumber.

When to Call a Professional

While many washer draining problems can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, there are times when it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Consider calling a professional if:

* You’re not comfortable working with electrical components.
* You’ve tried the troubleshooting steps and the washer still won’t drain.
* You suspect a problem with the control board or other complex components.
* You’re not sure what’s causing the problem.
* The washer is still under warranty.

Preventive Maintenance

To help prevent future draining problems, follow these preventive maintenance tips:

* **Clean the Drain Pump Filter Regularly:** Clean the drain pump filter every few months to remove lint and debris.
* **Use the Correct Amount of Detergent:** Using too much detergent can lead to soap buildup, which can clog the drain hose and pump. Follow the detergent manufacturer’s instructions and use only the recommended amount.
* **Avoid Overloading the Washer:** Overloading the washer can put extra strain on the drain pump and other components.
* **Check Pockets Before Washing:** Always check pockets for small objects, such as coins, buttons, and paper clips, before washing clothes. These objects can clog the drain pump and filter.
* **Use a Lint Trap:** Consider using a lint trap on the drain hose to catch lint and prevent it from clogging the drainpipe.
* **Run a Cleaning Cycle:** Periodically run a washer cleaning cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove soap buildup and other residue.

By following these troubleshooting steps and preventive maintenance tips, you can keep your Whirlpool washer draining properly and avoid costly repairs. A little proactive care can go a long way in extending the life of your appliance and ensuring it runs smoothly for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety by unplugging the washer and turning off the water supply before performing any repairs or maintenance.