How To Empty A Washing Machine Full Of Water: A Step-by-step Guide

If you’ve ever been caught with a washing machine full of water that won’t drain, you know the frustration it can bring. Whether it’s a clogged drain hose, a faulty pump, or a power outage, there are several reasons why your washing machine may be refusing to empty. But don’t despair! With the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can empty that water and get your laundry back on track.

Inspect the Drain Hose

The drain hose is the most common culprit when it comes to clogged washing machines. To check it, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
2. Locate the drain hose, which is usually a black or gray hose connected to the back or bottom of the machine.
3. Disconnect the drain hose from the drain pipe or standpipe.
4. Inspect the hose for any kinks, clogs, or blockages.
5. If you find any blockages, clear them using a wire or a straightened-out coat hanger.

Check the Drain Pump

If the drain hose is clear, the next step is to check the drain pump. The drain pump is responsible for pumping the water out of the washing machine. To check it, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
2. Locate the drain pump, which is usually located at the bottom of the machine behind a small access panel.
3. Remove the access panel and inspect the drain pump for any blockages or debris.
4. If you find any blockages, remove them and try to rotate the pump impeller by hand.
5. If the impeller doesn‘t rotate, the pump may be faulty and need to be replaced.

Try a Drain Cycle

If the drain hose and pump are clear, try running a drain-only cycle. This will force the machine to drain the water without going through a wash cycle. To do this:

1. Plug the washing machine back into the power outlet.
2. Select the “Drain” or “Spin Only” cycle on your washing machine.
3. Press the “Start” button and let the cycle complete.

Manually Drain the Water

If all else fails, you can manually drain the water from the washing machine. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
2. Locate the drain plug, which is usually a small, rubber plug located at the bottom of the machine.
3. Place a bucket or drain pan under the drain plug.
4. Pull out the drain plug and allow the water to drain out.
5. Once the water is drained, replace the drain plug.

Unplug and Wait

Sometimes, a simple power outage or surge can cause the washing machine to malfunction and stop draining. In this case, the best thing to do is to unplug the machine from the power outlet and wait for a few hours. When you plug the machine back in, it may reset itself and start draining properly.

Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your washing machine still won’t drain, it’s time to call a professional appliance repair technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and repair it quickly and efficiently.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If you have a top-loading washing machine, check the lid switch to make sure it’s not faulty. A faulty lid switch can prevent the machine from draining.
• If you have a front-loading washing machine, check the door seal to make sure it’s not torn or damaged. A damaged door seal can allow water to leak out and prevent the machine from draining properly.
• If your washing machine is making a loud noise when it’s draining, it could be a sign of a faulty bearing or seal. A faulty bearing or seal can cause the machine to vibrate excessively and make a loud noise.

Takeaways: Take Control of Your Washing Machine

With a little troubleshooting and a few simple steps, you can empty a washing machine full of water and get your laundry back on track. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself the time, hassle, and expense of calling a professional appliance repair technician. Remember, a well-maintained washing machine is a happy washing machine, so don’t neglect regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it running smoothly for years to come.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Why won’t my washing machine drain?
A: There are several reasons why your washing machine may not be draining, including a clogged drain hose, a faulty drain pump, a power outage, or a damaged door seal.

Q: How can I manually drain my washing machine?
A: To manually drain your washing machine, locate the drain plug at the bottom of the machine, place a bucket or drain pan under the plug, pull out the plug, and allow the water to drain out.

Q: What should I do if my washing machine is making a loud noise when it’s draining?
A: A loud noise when draining could be a sign of a faulty bearing or seal. If you hear a loud noise, unplug the washing machine and call a professional appliance repair technician for assistance.