Are you tired of your washing machine draining constantly, leaving you with a soaking wet pile of clothes? Don’t worry—this is a common problem that can be easily fixed.
A washing machine that continuously drains can be frustrating. It can disrupt your laundry routine and potentially lead to higher water bills. Understanding and addressing the root cause is essential for restoring your appliance to its proper function.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of common reasons why a washing machine may keep draining and offers step-by-step instructions on how to fix washing machine that keeps draining .
Whether it’s an obstruction in the drain hose, a malfunctioning pump, or a problem with the control settings, resolving the draining problem is often manageable with some basic tools and a little patience.
What are the Common Reasons for a Washing Machine to Keep Draining?
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to identify potential causes of why your washing machine may be constantly draining. Here are some common reasons:
- Blocked Drain Hose: Over time, debris and lint can accumulate in the drain hose, causing water to back up and continuously drain.
- Faulty Water Pump: The pump pumps water out of the machine during the draining cycle. If it malfunctions or gets clogged with debris, it can cause the machine to keep draining.
- Defective Pressure Sensor: The pressure sensor controls how much water enters and exits the machine during each cycle. A malfunctioning sensor can result in over-draining.
- Control Settings: Your washing machine may have a faulty control setting, causing it to drain continuously. This can be due to an error in the programming or a problem with the control panel itself.
These are just a few potential reasons for a washing machine to keep draining. It’s important to troubleshoot and identify the specific issue in order to fix it effectively.
What Will You Need?
Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Cleaning brush or pipe cleaner
- Replacement parts (if necessary)
10 Easy Steps on How to Fix Washing Machine That Keeps Draining
Step 1. Unplug the Machine
Before you start any repair on an electrical appliance, safety should be your top priority. Begin by unplugging the washing machine from the electrical outlet to avoid any risk of shock. This step ensures you can safely work on the machine without electrical hazards.
It’s a fundamental precaution that allows you to examine the components of your washing machine with peace of mind. Once unplugged, move the machine slightly forward if needed, allowing you easy access to the rear and bottom areas. This extra space will be helpful when detaching the fluid drain or examining internal components.
Step 2. Examine the Drain Hose
Once the washing machine is unplugged, locate the drain hose at the back of your machine. Ensure the hose is securely connected to the washing machine and the drainage system. Remove the hose and inspect it for any visible blockages or kinks causing the constant draining issue.
Use a cleaning brush or pipe cleaner to remove debris or lint buildup inside the hose. After cleaning, reattach the hose securely, ensuring no twists or bends impede proper water flow. This step can often resolve minor drainage issues without needing further intervention.
Step 3. Check the Water Pump
After addressing the drain hose, your next step is to inspect the water pump. The water pump removes water from the washing machine during the drain cycle. To check the pump, locate it within the machine, which often involves accessing the bottom or rear panel. Once you find the pump, assess it for any signs of blockage or malfunction.
Use pliers to remove any debris lodged within the pump’s components carefully. Be cautious not to damage any parts or hoses connected to the pump. If the pump appears broken or damaged beyond simple cleaning, it may be necessary to replace it to restore proper function.
Step 4. Investigate the Pressure Sensor
If the problem persists after checking the drain hose and water pump, the issue may lie with the pressure sensor. This sensor helps regulate the water levels in your washing machine. To inspect the pressure sensor, access it by removing your washer’s top or back panel, depending on the model.
Look for any visible damage or disconnection in its wiring or hoses. If you find any issues, such as cracks or wear, consider replacing the sensor. Even if no visible damage is apparent, you can use a multimeter to test its electrical continuity, confirming its functioning correctly.
Correcting any pressure sensor issues can help ensure your washing machine fills and drains water appropriately, resolving persistent drainage problems.
Step 5. Review the Control Settings
If the washing machine continues to drain after examining the previous components, it may be necessary to review the control settings. Start by checking the control panel for any errors or unusual settings. Ensure the machine isn’t stuck on a permanent drain cycle, which can happen if there’s a programming error or a glitch in the system. Resetting the washing machine can sometimes clear these issues.
To reset, unplug the machine for a few minutes before plugging it back in or refer to the user manual for specific reset instructions. If problems persist, the control board might need a professional’s evaluation or replacement. Addressing control setting errors can restore your machine’s correct operation and stop the continuous draining cycle.
Step 6. Clean the Filter
Before moving on, checking and cleaning the washing machine’s filter is important. The filter traps loose lint, fibers, and small objects, preventing them from entering the drain system. If it becomes clogged, it can affect the machine’s draining ability. To clean the filter, locate it, typically found at the front of the machine, near the bottom. Unscrew the cover, use a cloth or brush to remove debris, and rinse the filter under running water.
Step 7. Inspect the Drain Valve
Continuing with the troubleshooting process, examine the drain valve, which plays a pivotal role in controlling the water flow out of the machine. A malfunctioning drain valve can result in continuous draining. To access the drain valve, you may need to remove the back panel of your washer. Inspect the valve for any visible damage or obstructions. If debris is found, carefully clear it away.
Verify that the valve opens and closes appropriately during a test wash cycle. If the valve appears damaged or does not function as intended, consider replacing it. Properly functioning drain valves ensure water is efficiently expelled from the machine during the appropriate cycle stages.
Step 8. Test the Door Lock
A faulty door lock can also contribute to continuous draining issues in your washing machine. The door lock ensures that the door is securely closed during operation. If it malfunctions, it might send incorrect signals to the control board, causing drainage problems. To inspect the door lock, open and close the washing machine door to ensure it latches properly.
Check the wiring connections to the lock mechanism for any wear or disconnection. If the lock appears damaged or you suspect it’s not functioning correctly, use a multimeter to test its continuity. Consider replacing the lock if necessary. A properly working door lock is essential for your washer’s safe and efficient operation.
Step 9. Examine the Wiring and Connections
If the issue remains unresolved after checking all previous components, it might be time to examine your washing machine’s wiring and electrical connections thoroughly. Faulty or loose wires can disrupt the electrical signals necessary for normal functioning, potentially causing continuous draining.
Carefully remove the machine’s back or top panel to access wiring harnesses. Inspect each connection, looking for damage, corrosion, or disconnection signs. Tighten any loose connections and consider replacing damaged wires. Additionally, a multimeter will be used to test for continuity in the wiring.
Step 10. Consult the User Manual or Manufacturer
Suppose all the above steps have been completed, and the washing machine still exhibits drainage issues. In that case, it might be time to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer’s customer service for further guidance. The user manual can provide model-specific troubleshooting tips and instructions that may not be apparent in general guidelines.
Additionally, newer models may have unique features or error codes that can assist in diagnosing the problem. If the manual does not resolve the issue, contacting the manufacturer or an authorized repair service can provide professional insights into more complex problems.
Addressing these concerns with expert advice ensures that any underlying issue is managed safely and effectively, reducing the risk of further damage to your appliance.
Following these steps, you can troubleshoot and resolve continuous draining issues in your washing machine.
Conclusion
How to fix washing machine that keeps draining can seem daunting, but by methodically working through each step, most issues can be resolved without professional help.
Begin by inspecting basic components like the drain hose and filter for obstructions, and gradually progress to more complex elements such as the control settings and electrical connections.
Each component is vital in ensuring your washing machine functions correctly, and attention to detail is key. Regular maintenance and prompt resolution of minor issues can prevent more significant problems.
However, if the problem persists despite thorough troubleshooting, consulting the user manual or contacting the manufacturer’s support can provide the expert guidance necessary to restore your appliance to optimal working condition.