RapidRepair

Washer won't drain? Check the drain pump filter

A front-load washer that stays full of water and hums often has something stuck in its drain pump filter. Coins, hairpins, lint and small items from pockets can catch there and slow or stop the draining.

On most front loaders, the filter sits behind a small door at the bottom front. Cleaning it is usually a job for towels, a shallow pan and a few minutes.

Before you start

  • Unplug the washer.
  • The water in the drum may be hot. Let it cool first.
  • Have a shallow pan or container and plenty of towels ready. More water can come out than you expect.
  • Don't force the door open if it is locked. Wait for the lock to release.

Steps

  1. Put towels and the pan on the floor in front of the small access door at the bottom front. Open it. On some models the filter is behind the soap drawer instead, so check your manual if you don't see a door.
  2. Some models have a small drain hose with a plug next to the filter. If yours does, put the container under it, pull the plug and let the water run out. Then dry the plug, put it back and tuck the hose into its clip.
  3. Put a cloth under the filter. Turn the filter counterclockwise slowly to remove it. Some water will come out.
  4. Pull out lint, coins and anything else stuck in the filter or the opening behind it. Rinse the filter under running water.
  5. Turn the filter back in clockwise as far as it goes. Whirlpool says to keep its handle close to vertical.
  6. Close the access door, or put the drawer back until it clicks.
  7. Look at the drain hose behind the washer. If it is kinked or pinched, straighten it.
  8. Plug the washer in and run a drain or spin cycle. Watch that the water leaves and that nothing leaks from the filter.
  9. Clean the filter about once a month. LG says coins, hairpins and lint can slow draining and can damage the drain pump.

When to stop

Stop and call a repair service if any of these happen.

  • Your washer has no access door, or the manual says you shouldn't clean the filter yourself.
  • The filter leaks after you put it back, or you can't get it out without force.
  • The tub is still full and the washer just hums after you clean the filter. GE says to call for service at that point.
  • Water won't leave a standpipe when you pour water into it with the hose off. That points to a clogged house drain, so call a plumber.
  • You see a damaged cord, sparks or a burning smell. Unplug the washer and call a repair service.

Sources

Steps based on manufacturer support pages; your model's manual comes first.