How to Drain a Washing Machine That Won't Drain

Save a bundle on appliance repair bills. We show you how to unclog your washing machine so it drains and replace the pump if you need to.

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If the water won't drain out of your washing machine, either something is stuck in the drain hose or pump, or the pump is broken. Both fixes are simple if you're even just a little bit handy with tools. We’re showing the repair on a Maytag washing machine.

Start by unplugging the machine and emptying the water. Bail the water out of the tub, or you can drain the tub using gravity by placing the drain hose on the floor near the drain or in a bucket. Clamp the hose to prevent any remaining water from running out. Once the washer's empty, support the front of it on paint cans or stacked 2x4s. Shows where to find the screws that hold the front panel in place. Remove the panel and you'll see the pump.

The pump has a translucent housing, so you might even see the offending piece of clothing wrapped up in the pump. Shows what to do if the pump is clogged. If you don't see the clog in the pump or in the hose near the pump, then it could be stuck in the outlet where the hose connects to the bottom of the tub. To find out, loosen the clamp that holds the hose to the bottom of the tub and remove the hose. Have a bucket and sponge handy, though. Any water that's left in the machine will run out. When you locate the piece of clothing, pull it out with needle-nose pliers.

If nothing is clogging the hose or pump, the pump could be shot, although in most cases you'll hear noise from a bad pump, and it’ll start to leak if you don’t replace it right away. Shows how to remove the pump. Buy a new one to match. You can find a new pump online or go to your local appliance parts center. You’ll need the brand and model number for proper part identification. Model numbers are usually stamped on a small metal plate located under the tub lid or on the top, side or back of the machine. Copy down all the plate information and use it to access online parts suppliers, or take it along to the parts distributor. Install the new pump by attaching it with screws and connecting the hoses, and then reinstall the belt.