Fix a Washing Machine That Won't Drain
The drain pump filter traps socks, coins, and hair. Clearing it fixes 80% of won't-drain errors.
Unplug and shut off water
Unplug the washer and close both hot and cold supply valves behind it.
Drain residual water
Most front-loaders have a small drain hose behind a bottom access panel. Put a shallow tray under it, pull it out, and let it drain.
Locate the drain pump filter
Behind the bottom access panel, next to the small drain hose. Have a towel ready — more water will come out.
Unscrew and clean the filter
Twist counter-clockwise to remove. Pull out lint, hair, coins, and debris. Rinse under hot water.
Reinstall and test
Screw the filter back firmly (hand-tight is enough), tuck the drain hose, replace the panel, restore power/water, and run a short cycle.
Check the drain hose if still clogged
If the filter was clean and it still won't drain, the drain hose behind the washer may be kinked or clogged. Pull out and rinse with a garden hose.
Sign in to save your progress across visits.