Top Reasons Your Washing Machine Won’t Drain and How We Fix It

A washing machine that won’t drain is one of the most frustrating problems you can face. You put in your laundry, add detergent, start the cycle, and expect clean clothes. But instead, you find your clothes sitting in a tub full of dirty water. Not only is it messy, but it also means you can’t wash more clothes until it’s fixed. At A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of customers in Los Angeles County, the Chicago Metro Area, and Montgomery County, TX get their washers back in action. Let’s go over the most common reasons your washer won’t drain and how our expert technicians can fix it fast.
1. Clogged Drain Hose
One of the most common reasons a washer won’t drain is a clogged drain hose. Over time, lint, dirt, and small objects like coins or hairpins can block the water flow. This prevents the machine from pushing water out during the spin cycle.
How We Fix It: Our technicians check the hose for clogs, remove any blockages, and make sure the hose is positioned correctly so water can flow freely.
Prevention Tip: Empty pockets before washing and clean the lint filter regularly if your machine has one.
2. Faulty Drain Pump
The drain pump moves water from the tub to the drain hose. If it’s damaged, clogged, or has a broken motor, your washer can’t remove the water.
How We Fix It: We inspect the pump for damage, clean it out, and replace it if needed. Our team carries parts for most major washer brands so repairs can be done quickly.
Prevention Tip: Avoid washing items with loose debris that can get into the pump.
3. Broken Lid Switch (Top-Load Washers)
If you have a top-load washer, the lid switch tells the machine when it’s safe to spin and drain. If the switch is broken, the washer might stop mid-cycle and leave water in the drum.
How We Fix It: Our technicians test the lid switch with special tools, then repair or replace it if it’s faulty.
Prevention Tip: Close the lid gently to avoid damaging the switch.
4. Drive Belt Problems
Some washers use a drive belt to help drain water and spin the drum. If the belt is worn, loose, or broken, your washer might not spin properly, which also affects draining.
How We Fix It: We check the belt for wear and replace it if needed. We also make sure it’s installed correctly to prevent slipping.
Prevention Tip: Avoid overloading your washer, as too much weight can strain the belt.
5. Control Board or Timer Issues
Modern washers use a control board or timer to manage each step of the wash cycle. If there’s a problem with these parts, the drain cycle might not start.
How We Fix It: We run diagnostic tests to check for electrical problems. If the control board or timer is damaged, we replace it with a new one that matches your washer model.
Prevention Tip: Use a surge protector to protect your washer’s electronics from power surges.
6. Blocked Coin Trap or Filter
Some washers have a coin trap or small filter that catches objects before they reach the pump. If it’s full, water can’t drain properly.
How We Fix It: We remove and clean the trap or filter, then test the machine to make sure the water drains smoothly.
Prevention Tip: Check and clean the coin trap every few months to prevent buildup.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Washer That Won’t Drain
If your washer isn’t draining, it’s not just an inconvenience — it can lead to bigger and more expensive problems. Standing water can cause bad odors, mold growth, and damage to the motor or pump. Plus, the longer you wait, the higher the risk that other parts will break.
That’s why we recommend calling a professional as soon as you notice the problem. Our team at A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance LLC offers same-day service in many areas, so you don’t have to deal with laundry piling up.
How We Fix Washer Drain Problems Fast
When you call us, here’s what we do:
- Quick Diagnosis – We use professional tools to find the exact cause of the problem.
- Upfront Pricing – You’ll know the cost before we start the repair.
- Fast Repairs – Our trucks are stocked with common washer parts so we can often fix the problem in one visit.
- Guaranteed Work – All our repairs come with a warranty for your peace of mind.
Brands We Service
We repair most major washer brands, including:
- Whirlpool
- Maytag
- LG
- Samsung
- GE
- Kenmore
- Bosch
- And more
Schedule Your Washer Repair Today
If your washing machine won’t drain, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Call A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance LLC at (800) 819-4195 or request service through our website. Our expert technicians will get your washer working again quickly, so you can get back to clean clothes and a smooth laundry routine.